SPECIAL REPORT ON THIS YEAR’S FINANCIAL PLANS Pages 4 to 7

SPRING 2015

thewww.southlanarkshire.gov.ukrepor ter

WORKING FOR YOU MEET SOUTH LANARKSHIRE’S MEN AND WOMEN DELIVERING YOUR SERVICES

8-PAGE PULLOUT INSIDE: 25 WAYS THE COUNCIL HAS SAVED £72 MILLION adoption in South Lanarkshire

South Lanarkshire Council need to recruit adoptive families for a range of young children and babies who need lifelong families. We are particularly interested in hearing from you if you could parent a child in the age range 0-3 years.

If you are interested in finding out more please contact the Family Placement Team on 0303 123 1008 or email [email protected]

2 the reporter Balanced Back to work programme is just Budgets in the job 36&37 Tough Times... your council Enhanced warden service on the working for you streets at heart of communities 4-7 38&39 p4-7 600 new Welfare council houses Reform boost 8&9 update – helping PLAY THE Joint primary school campus is people in ACE CARD uniform success 10&11 crisis 41 IN SPORT ART AND Kilbryde Hospice is a haven of help Glittering and tranquillity to the end 12&13 cast of DRAMA real life Changes to bin collections 15 stars take centre stage in p20 older people’s film42&43 Driving forward roads investment p10-11 16&17 Annual Performance Report goes interactive 44 You’re hired! Sprightly centenarian joins care home interview panel Living history in our museum 18&19 inside collection 45 Leisure and Culture membership is your Shout out about noisy neighbours simply ACE 20 reporter 46&47 25 ways we’ve p30-31 saved £72 million 8-page pullout P ages 21-28

Communities cash in on grants support 29

High hoops for innovative basketball project 30&31

Animal Welfare Officer’s unique role 32&33

Growing skills through horticulture 34&35

Editor Tom Little News Editor Margaret Barr 01698 454959 Cover Photo Anne-Janine Nugent

Publisher Corporate Communications, South p16-17 Lanarkshire Council, Council Offices, Almada Street, Hamilton ML3 0AA p18-19 www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk the reporter 3 we are all working together a budget elcome to The Reporter, which we put together and deliver to your door to make sure that you know how South Lanarkshire Council is services working for you. WThis edition is packed full of examples of exactly by DUNCAN JONES Working for you that, with articles which highlight the services we deliver, day in, day out – educating our children in funding deal the best schools in Britain, investing in our 1,400 Allison miles of roads, looking after older residents in top means local quality care homes, and building 600 new houses for Duncan local people. people can I’m particularly pleased that the following pages home care worker celebrate those who deliver that work on the continue Allison Duncan is one of South Lanarkshire frontline – care workers, a school support assistant, to rely on Council’s home care workers. a benefits adviser, a roads worker and a refuse The Home Care Service collector. These are just some of the people who work key council operates seven days a week for you all, and without them we could not offer the services to help people remain as vital support needed by so many, especially the old, independent as possible in the young and the vulnerable. UNDING arrangements their own homes. These are some of the most important services we have been agreed which Key duties include provide but, as these pages show, your council also will secure vital services helping a person to wash, delivers a diverse range of other services: we help across South Lanarkshire. dress or get ready for bed. people into work, we provide community grants, we Some home care workers, FDespite growing pressure tackle anti-social behaviour and noise nuisances, like Allison, are also trained on public sector finances, local we look out for animal welfare, and we work with to give more personal councillors approved plans for the Leisure and Culture Trust to provide the likes of assistance, such as help with the area’s £677 million revenue medication. sporting facilities and museums. budget for 2015/16. Even that doesn’t tell the full story of the A to Z But it’s the personal The budget outlines how touch that often makes the of council services. But, of course, it costs money money will be spent in key to provide them and, as readers will understand, in difference. areas including schools, roads, “Many of our service users these tough economic times the council’s budget is care homes, refuse collection, under pressure with increased demand for services are older people who have recycling and council housing. been recently discharged at a time when our income from government and Details have also been from hospital,” explained Council Tax is down in real terms. released of a £172m capital fitness fanatic Allison, who How we’re dealing with those pressures is outlined investment package covering cycles between appointments in the following four pages, and in the centre of this the next two financial years in East Kilbride. publication you’ll find an eight-page pullout which – money which will be used “In those situations details ways the council has already saved £72m in to improve the lives and life there can be feelings of earlier years. chances of local people of all helplessness and isolation, The budget for 2015/16 required almost £18m ages. especially if that person is in savings, and there are more to come. It was one At their meeting on 19 living alone. of the toughest budgets to put together in many February, councillors also “Providing basic years, but I believe officers and Elected confirmed that the area’s reassurance – which is often Members worked well to make it Council Tax will be frozen for through a good chat – is a as fair as possible and protect key the eighth consecutive year. vital part of my role.” frontline services wherever we Council Leader Eddie Home care is a key could. McAvoy hailed the budget component of the Integrated Community Support Team I hope you enjoy reading this agreement, saying residents (ICST). publication, and I hope you across South Lanarkshire agree that it highlights would benefit as a result. some excellent local He said: “Every year it seems “It’s been more difficult than services. the money available to provide ever to balance our budget this our services gets tighter. year. “At the same time, as a result “We’ve had to make some By Eddie of our ageing population and tough choices, but I believe McAvoy, because so many families are we’ve done everything we struggling in difficult economic can to protect our most Council conditions, local people need vital services and our most our services more than ever vulnerable residents in these Leader before. times of austerity.”

4 the reporter which secures services in tough times

is working together, in a Working for you coordinated and structured way to help the person,” continued Allison. Lisa Markey “Overall I get a great sense school support of satisfaction being in a team where the person being assistant cared for is at the heart of With her own children out everything we do.” at school all day Lisa Markey Mum-of-five Allison thought it was time to return to added: “I also love a good work but perhaps surprisingly blether with service users so that decision saw her following the job’s also fantastic from her children on the route back to that point of view!” school. Mary Liddell, known The 34-year-old had as May, is 91 and lives in previously worked in different South Lanarkshire Council jobs but after volunteering on Sheltered Housing in East a high school paired reading Kilbride (pictured with Allison on the cover). She says Allison and the home care service provide a lifeline. “I had a stroke last year so I need to take a lot of medication. Allison and her colleague help me with my medication and it’s a huge programme Lisa found she had reassurance to have their a talent for working with and Allison is one of regular visits. supporting young people in their education. the stars of the I’m very independent and “I just needed an extra nudge Reshaping Care for do all my own washing and cooking. My daughter and along the way and that came Older People film. granddaughter regularly visit from a friend who saw how much and help with shopping. The I was enjoying my volunteer Read all about it on warden at the complex here work and suggested I find out pages 42 and 43. is always on hand to help if I about opportunities for Support ever need it.” Assistants in schools,” said Lisa. May added: “What’s That “nudge” eventually The ICST was piloted in As well as Home Care, the abundantly clear about the led Lisa to a post working in St. East Kilbride and Strathaven ICST combines the expertise home care staff like Allison John’s Primary, Hamilton, as part under the Reshaping Care of SLC social workers and is their commitment and their of a 14-strong team of support for Older People programme, occupational therapists with passion. You can see it’s more assistants. which aims to provide more staff from NHS Lanarkshire. than a job. Allison cares and Lisa said: “I have been at St. support and care to older “There’s a huge range listens – and that’s a fantastic John’s for about a year now and people in community settings. of expertise but everyone support to me.” I absolutely love it, I wish I had done it years ago. “I work mainly with our Education, especially The council’s primary school and Enterprise Resources to supported pupils and seeing the schools, remains by some modernisation programme will deliver services in areas such children learning and advancing distance the council’s biggest continue, with £114m more as roads and lighting, leisure is just so rewarding it gives me financial responsibility, with over the next two years. and recreation, cleansing and a feeling that I am really making more than £300m allocated the environment. Nearly £25m All 19 secondary and ASN a difference there is something towards it from the revenue will go towards Housing and schools have already been new every day which makes it a budget. rebuilt, meaning the area’s Technical Resources. wonderful environment to work 19,000 local secondary pupils More than £140m has These sums to run services in and the school community is are learning in an attractive been earmarked for services do not include the £172m so inclusive it is great to see how modern environment. provided by Social Work, while capital expenditure programme the pupils all support each other.” £109m will allow Community covering 2015/16 and 2016/17. turn to page 6 the reporter 5 from page 5 Working for you More than 100 of South Lanarkshire’s primary schools Stephen McCourt have been renewed too, with work on completing the project roads operative secured as part of this year’s REPLACING road surfaces across budget. South Lanarkshire is something Stephen A total of 129 primaries are McCourt has been doing since he was a now in that programme, and an teenager. additional £2.4m is to be spent And it is something he is just as on ICT in schools in the next passionate about now as when he started two years. with the council 10 years ago. The local authority will Stephen, 29, is part of the dedicated also continue with its roads Working for you team who work out of the Hawbank Depot investment programme, with in East Kilbride. £24m to be spent in the next Victoria Mitchell There are three other large depots in two years improving the South Lanarkshire, at Larkhall, Carnwath 1,400 miles of roads for which care assistANT and Lesmahagow. South Lanarkshire Council is Victoria Mitchell (19) is a Care Assistant Stephen responsible. working in McClymont House in Lanark. said: An additional £5m will Her responsibilities include washing, dressing “When I go towards replacing street and, if required, helping to feed residents. first started lighting columns. “Over and above the general personal care with the Half a million pounds aspect of the role it’s absolutely crucial to build resurfacing is available for care up a good relationship with residents,” explained squad I did home improvements and Victoria. a variety replacement, and a similar “Each resident here is nominated a key worker, of jobs sum will be invested in which is often a Care Assistant. behind the cycling, walking and the machine, “It’s our job to get to know the residents inside local authority’s safer streets generally out, the lifestyle and choices that person has and initiatives. raking and how they want to have things within the home. Mr McAvoy said: “The grant rolling. “We cover everything from food tastes, television the council receives from the “Now likes and dislikes to spiritual beliefs and needs. Scottish Government has not my main kept up with inflation in recent “From there, we devise a support plan so we job is years, and funding changes make sure everyone is treated individually.” usually agreed last year mean there has As part of her work, Victoria, along with fellow making been an actual cut of £3.5m in Care Assistant Liam Kerr, 17, have been helping sure the our 2015/16 grant compared to resident Margaret Hamilton (96) retrace her history material what we could have expected – through the wonders of YouTube. comes out to receive. “Margaret has always had an interest in the back of “Overall, we’ve had to caravans and camping,” continued Victoria. the machine at the correct level, otherwise target around £18m of savings “Her family used to caravan every year and, the surface would not be smooth.” this year, and that’s on top of in the 1950s, often met up with one well-heeled And it’s not just a case of throwing it the £72m we’ve already found family who also towed a caravan – using a Rolls down and moving on to the next job for in efficiencies and savings in Royce.” Stephen and his team. recent years. Considerable Victoria and Liam actually managed to find He said: “We do take a lot of pride in further savings will be needed footage of this particular family on YouTube our work and always make sure it keeps to in future years too. which brought all the memories flooding back for a high standard. “Because the council Margaret. “We also have a lot of work to complete is already well run, every “As much as we saw the thrill Margaret got from and for several months of the year we have time we have to find further learning about YouTube, that relationship is a two- a 7am start with a 5.15pm finish. savings there is a danger they way street,” she added. “On an average day I would say we will bite deeper into the work “Liam and I were able to learn a lot about how maybe get through around 100 tonnes we can do. holidays have changed and the differences in how of material a day, that’s probably the “But we will continue to do people communicated, then and now. equivalent of laying around 1000 square everything possible to protect “Working in a care home is not just about metres of new road surface.” essential frontline services, delivery of service, it’s very much personalised.” particularly looking after our most vulnerable residents, and especially the young and When councillors approved As shown on pages 8 and 9, which was also approved on the old.” this year’s budget they also investment is continuing to help 19 February, included £42m of South Lanarkshire Council approved plans to pay local people get a foot on the housing capital spending for the year has led the way on the Living authority employees in South ladder, with plans now in place 2015/16. Wage, paying above the Lanarkshire at least £8 an for more than 600 new council This year council house minimum rate to employees hour, which exceeds the sum homes to be built over the next rents will rise by 3.5 per cent, and encouraging the companies recommended outside of five years. and the council will continue to it does business with to do the London by the Living Wage The Housing Revenue harmonise rents to help tenants same. Foundation. and Capital Account budget, hit by historically higher costs.

6 the reporter Working for you she finds that a tenant can be classed as exempt from the deduction in their benefit. Margaret Dollochin Those affected by the under- Benefits are occupancy charge (often referred to as the ‘bedroom tax’) can be helped Changing Officer to apply for a Discretionary Housing Modern technology allows us to get Payment (DHP) in touch with one another in such a Margaret: and Margaret wide range of ways… but for Benefits “We can also makes are Changing officer Margaret Dollochin appointments with it is the oldest form of communication only help, Money Advisors for that works best. however, if tenants with health Margaret is a member of the issues to look at specialist Benefits are Changing Team people let whether there are who support council tenants affected by us know any other benefits Welfare Reform changes. they would be about their entitled to. And although she is happy to contact tenants by letter, phone, text and e-mail, situation” Margaret has she has found that visiting tenants in an abundance their homes and talking to them face-to- of assistance at face is the most helpful method, gaining her fingertips, including advice on an affinity with each person’s individual House Exchange, fuel debt, Scottish situation. Welfare Fund, dealing with anti-social behaviour and Homefinder applications, Margaret said: “There is a range of allowing her to offer help for almost any ways a tenant can be helped, but very situation. often they are not aware of the full extent of this. However, talking through difficulties in their lives.” Margaret added: “We can only their situation can help me discover Whenever she is contacted by a help, however, if people let us know additional problems that the tenant may tenant, Margaret’s first task is to fill out about their situation, and they not have otherwise thought to mention. a Welfare Reform Questionnaire with can contact us on 0303 123 1012 or benefitsarechanging@southlanarkshire. “It is about getting to know people the tenant to find out the best form gov.uk.” and understanding where they have of assistance for them. In some cases, Working for you of charge, every week of the year. delighted and in tears of joy “Although it’s often hard when we called to return the and unpleasant work,” said jewellery which had precious Billy Dolan Billy, “it can also be rewarding. memories for her of her mum. Refuse collector On one such occasion, a lady “It’s things like that had sadly passed away and which make you feel good Our workforce is out there in while clearing her house her about getting up early in all all weathers providing services daughter accidently threw her weathers – it makes our job so to ensure the needs of our jewellery out. worthwhile.” community are met. “Luckily the waste bin had In 2013/14, 146,000 tonnes Waste collection been uplifted earlier that day of household waste was operative Billy Dolan and many so when the lady contacted collected or left at our civic others like him, ensure your us we raked through the 10 amenity sites with 58,892 domestic waste and recycling, tonnes of waste from our tonnes recycled, which is even your garden waste, is vehicle at the recycling centre thanks to everyone doing their collected from your doorstep, free until we found it. She was bit to help our environment.

Council Tax frozen for the eighth year. £2202.00 £1835.00 £1590.33 £1345.67 £978.67 £1101.00 £734.00 £856.33

Band A Band B Band C Band D Band E Band F Band G Band H Council Tax Bands 2015/16 (excluding(excluding thethe ScottishScottish WaterWater SewerageSewerage Tax)Tax)

the reporter 7 “The council is committed to increasing the number of homes to rent across South Lanarkshire” Ann Gee, Executive Director of Housing and Technical Resources

building towards 600 new Council homes

by Andy Livingstone housing: Catacol Grove (above), Eastcroft Gardens ore than 600 new council homes (left) and Skye Road (below) are to be built in South Lanarkshire to help with the shortage of Maffordable housing in the area. South Lanarkshire Council’s proposals to deliver the 600 new council homes for rent were highlighted in the council’s latest Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) 2015-2020. The SHIP is a five-year plan that is used by the Scottish Government to help inform the allocation of its funding to the council in December 2015 on 22 properties at for investment in new affordable housing. Belmont Drive, East Kilbride, and 70 The council has committed to building in Fernhill, Rutherglen, with 52 of the 500 new homes by 2020 but, in addition Fernhill properties being council homes. to these, work is already underway this Ann Gee, Executive Director of year on developing 102 additional council Housing and Technical Resources, said: properties on three sites across South “The council is committed to increasing Lanarkshire. the number of homes to rent across South Construction started on 28 homes in Lanarkshire. These 600 new properties Baird Hill, East Kilbride, in September, will be a major boost to our work to while it is expected that work will start address the shortage of affordable housing 8 the reporter 1

under way: 1 Fernhill 2 Baird Hill 3 Belmont 2 Drive

3 building towards 600 new Council homes Jack is at ease in his new-build house

Former soldier Jack McCutcheon is Happy finding that home life is anything but a home: Jack battle in his new-build council house. McCutcheon Jack (78) moved into the ground-floor with Millie property in Neilvaig Drive, Fernhill, outside his with his dog, Millie, a year ago and has home, built been delighted with every aspect of his as part of the new home. regeneration work in He said: “It was getting too much for Fernhill me with the stairs at my last house so being on the one level is perfect. There soldier and 14 years with the Territorial in the area. are little aspects of the design that make Army. “Demand for homes to rent continues a big difference to pensioners, too, such Military life is a great example of to grow and these new homes will help as the plugs being raised so you don’t the importance of having good people meet local needs. have to bend down to reach them. around you and Jack is glad to be able “The three developments that are “The heating is really good and to say that this is still the case in his starting this year are in areas where there is efficient, and the back garden is a great current situation. particular pressure for social housing, and size, which is perfect for Millie.” “This is a great house,” he said, they will add to the 105 new council homes Jack enlisted with the Royal Ulster “but people are so important to your that have been built since 2012, making a Rifles to go to Korea and served in happiness and I have to say that my real difference in our communities and in Germany, Hong Kong and at the Suez neighbours have been really friendly. meeting the challenges that we face.” Canal, spending three years as a regular That makes all the difference.” the reporter 9 SHARED PRIMARY SCHOOL CAMPUS IS UNIFORM SUCCESS The council’s flagship modernisation programme is creating arguably the best schools estate in Europe. Under the Schools Modernisation Programme our pupils are now learning in state-of-the-art schools. Here we focus on the inspirational shared campus at Greenburn and Maxwellton primaries in East Kilbride, where working together, children and staff bring inclusive- ness to life. Pupils from both schools are reaping the benefits of the partnership approach and in the process are building a strong sense of community and belonging.

by Andrew Thompson

he two primaries in East Kilbride’s Calderwood area have a long-standing, close and successful relationship but Tbringing them together in a purpose-built new building is allowing staff and pupils to take that to the next level. Maxwellton Primary has a roll of 270 pupils, including a morning and afternoon nursery class while Greenburn School caters for a total of 53 pupils with Additional Support Needs. It is testament to a shared vision of inclusiveness that, apart from different badges, the schools share a uniform and pupils frequently join forces. All that working together does not mean the schools lack strong, individual identities or that a “one size fits all” benefit from the opportunities they get they are able to put it to good use in ways strategy has been pursued, but what to work in partnership with each other. like this. has been achieved under Schools It brings new learning opportunities and “What’s really clever about the design Modernisation is such a seamless builds a really strong sense of community is, amid all this integration, teachers from integration that inclusiveness seems built and belonging. both schools still have the space they need into the fabric of the building. “One example is that some of our to concentrate on the learning appropriate Maxwellton’s head teacher Jan pupils have the opportunity to learn to the age and stage of their pupils.” McLaren said: ”We feel very lucky to have Makaton sign language when they are Head teacher of Greenburn School, the unique set-up we have, sharing our working with their Greenburn friends. Helen Nicol, said: “Visitors have campus with Greenburn School, and I “Children in Maxwellton love learning commented on the fact that the schools believe pupils of both schools genuinely and using it and are very pleased when share the same uniform and if it weren’t 10 the reporter SHARED PRIMARY SCHOOL CAMPUS IS UNIFORM SUCCESS

“What’s really clever about the design is amid all this integration teachers from both schools still have the space they need to concentrate on the learning appropriate to the age and stage of their pupils.”

for the badges you could not tell which “Away from the formal joint projects Lanarkshire benefitting from the school an individual pupil was from. that the two schools work on there is Modernisation Programme – bright, “What has been created through the also a lot of shared social activity from natural light in classrooms, colourful and design of this campus is an opportunity playground play upwards and that inspiring design, integrated IT designed to let children develop in an environment contact is a great opportunity for all the for learning, and common areas that make where inclusiveness has been designed in pupils to be part of a wider society that it easy to move around the building or and where specialist facilities such as the encourages involvement and inclusion.” come together as a community. hydrotherapy pool, sensory room and soft Many of the features which make But in all those schools, just as in play area are as much an everyday part of Greenburn and Maxwellton’s shared Greenburn and Maxwellton, it is the the school as classrooms and the dining campus seem like such a special case people that add that little extra touch of hall. can be found in schools across South magic. the reporter 11 HOSPICE IS A HAVEN OF HELP AND TRANQUILLITY TO THE END

by DuncaN JONES inspired by personal experience. “I am passionate about palliative care and he last place you want to helping people live and die well,” he says, be is in here. But for many adding: “I am from a family of 11 kids and it is also the best place to when my sister died at the age of 43 she be, so we want it to be as did so at home with the help of her family. “Twelcoming as possible.” But that option simply isn’t available to So says Gordon McHugh as he proudly everyone.” tours Kilbryde Hospice, newly-opened in The desire to help people at the worst the grounds of Hairmyres Hospital in East time of their lives is evident throughout the Kilbride. new building, which has been shaped by The hospice is already helping people learning from hospices across the country come to terms with terminal and listening to patients. illness and preparing them Most strikingly, it feels and their families for what To less like a hospital than lies ahead. It is also a support a modern, small hotel. stunning testament to Kilbryde Hospice The furnishings are what a community designed to feel can do when it sets please call 01355 202020 homely and light its mind on meeting for a direct debit form or other floods in at every a collective need. ways to donate. Alternatively, point from large Because the text ‘HOSPICE’ followed by the windows. that have gone into the hospice, a special £4 million building Day services amount you wish to donate ‘Palmis’ toilet for people with serious is the result of 13 are already being mobility issues. It was a late addition years of fundraising, monthly to 70080 provided on the first which the architect designed for free and including contributions eg ‘HOSPICE £5’ floor, where the hub is was put in by workers over a weekend on from local businesses an activity room with a their own time. and individual donors, kitchen area and a retractable The ground floor will mostly provide and cheques from sponsored wall which means it can open up as in-patient care when it starts later this year. activities by local organisations and sports a function room. Although originally conceived as a six-bed clubs. Consulting rooms and therapy rooms facility, the accommodation was doubled The campaign to bring a hospice to are complemented by some special thanks to support from donor Lady South Lanarkshire began with Tony features, including a hairdressing salon to Susan Haughey and the Donna Mortimer McGuinness, who was diagnosed with help patients feel good about themselves, Ballantyne trust. cancer at the age of 76, and his doctor John not least if they need wigs fitted as a result Four rooms will offer intensive in- Richards. Others have picked up the baton, of their treatment. patient care, with their own nurses’ station. notably Gordon. A soundproofed music therapy Like all 12 rooms, they are en-suite, with A Supported Employment Team Leader room allows counsellors to work with windows and patio doors. Eventually all with South Lanarkshire Council, Gordon service users and kids affected by death, rooms will open out into private outside was vice-chairman of the charity and is letting them express themselves without areas, screened by greenery. now its Chief Executive – a post funded by disturbing others. There’s also a reflection “When we were designing it we really local firm City Refrigeration Holdings, and area, an overnight room for use by visiting thought about use of light,” says Gordon. one he’ll split with his council job. relatives and a large elevated patio. “I remember my sister saying she wished Gordon’s commitment has been Another facility typifies the efforts she could get outside. Sometimes people 12 the reporter dedication at HOSPICE IS KKilbrydeilbryde HHospiceospice THE HOSPICE became a reality because so many people selflessly supported it. Now that services are being delivered, volunteers continue to A HAVEN OF give their time and money. Here, we introduce just a few of them... (1) Mae Cleary - Mae has been with the hospice team as a dedicated volunteer for the last HELP AND six years. She gives her time three days a week working in the centre’s retail store on the shop floor, sorting donations, TRANQUILLITY serving on the till and welcoming customers.

(2) A Supported 5 Employment Team Leader TO THE END with South Lanarkshire 6 Council, Gordon McHugh 7 was vice-chairman of are too sick for that, so instead we’ve the charity and is now Hospice supporter Gerard Welsh, his daughter Erin brought the outside in. That’s why there planning to take on the (right) and Cara, Gordon’s daughter. are so many windows.” role of Kilbryde Hospice (5) The ground floor also contains Chief Executive – a post (4) John Rae - John Gerard Welsh – Gerard is involved in consulting rooms, the main nurses’ station, funded by local firm City has been volunteering Refrigeration Holdings, with for three years now. organising the annual a secure drug-preparation room, a dressing Bobby Murdoch room, a laundry room and the kitchen, and one he’ll take on in On a Monday John is addition to his council job. Memorial football cup which is being fitted out with money one of the group leaders within the Walking Group in Rutherglen in aid provided by South Lanarkshire Council (3) Maureen Fitzpatrick which meets up from the of Kilbryde Hospice. through wind farm contributions. - Maureen is one of Red Deer and invites all This brings together 80 Two massive bathrooms have been built the hospice’s volunteer patients along on park players to take part in big enough so beds can be wheeled straight ambassadors. Since 2012 walks. He also works as a the competition. in and patients can be helped straight into Maureen has raised a volunteer driver for patients computer-controlled baths. phenomenal £21,000 for attending appointments. (6) Cara McHugh - Kilbryde Hospice through In the summer he cuts Cara helps arrange In short, it’s a magnificent facility which the Margaret McHugh has been designed to meet real people’s her knitting stall at grass and donates his fee Hairmyres Hospital every Miller annual memorial needs. But the work is in many ways just to hospice funds, raising Tuesday. £800 last year. ball. Cara sends all the beginning. It will cost about £2.5m to run letters out to potential the hospice annually, at least half of which donors for raffles and needs to come from fundraising. auction prizes, and A Kilbryde Hospice Advisory Council helps on the night by has been established which includes bringing in all the raffles. Council Depute Leader Jackie Burns and She also attends all Harry Stevenson, South Lanarkshire’s fundraising functions with her dad, helping out Chief Officer of Health and Social Care. with raffles and prize- Gordon is grateful to the hundreds of giving ceremonies. Cara people who have helped make the hospice has grown up with the a reality. He says: “So many gave their hospice. time to help out with raising the hospice profile and with the fundraising. People (7) Erin Welsh – Erin such as South Lanarkshire’s Provosts, past runs a sweet and cake and present, Mushtaq Ahmad, Russell stall at Trinity High Clearie and Eileen Logan. School raising funds for the hospice and “Council Leader Eddie McAvoy has other charities. She also given support to the hospice since its gets involved in the inception as an appeal some 13 years ago raffle selling at hospice and hosted one of the very first fundraising fund-raising functions in dinners at the Council Headquarters. We 1 3 Rutherglen. Erin’s efforts are so grateful also to many councillors, 2 4 supported the funding including hospice director Joe Lowe, and of the sponsored Pictured (left to right) are: Mae Cleary, volunteer, brick from Trinity High the council’s Chief Executive and Corporate Gordon McHugh, chief executive, Maureen in Tony’s Path at the Management Team, as well as all the staff Fitzpatrick, volunteer ambassador, and John Rae, hospice. who have donated many thousands of volunteer. pounds through fundraisers.” the reporter 13 Remember to pay the rent!! x

Just a reminder... Rent must be paid. You can’t opt out. If you’re behind in your rent payments, please contact us – we can make arrangements for affordable payments to help you clear your arrears. If you don’t pay – we will take action Contact your local housing office on 0303 123 1012 www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk

1440 the reporter rolling out a greener future Wd aste an recycling changes mean an eco- friendlier South Lanarkshire

ew bin collection arrangements Government recycling targets of 60% by are set to roll out across South 2020,” added Councillor Stewart. “The move is Lanarkshire. A phased distribution of food waste NLike every council in the caddies and new bins starts in Hamilton, good for the land South Lanarkshire has a statutory Ferniegair, Stonehouse, Larkhall, Ashgill, obligation to provide a food waste Quarter, Blantyre and Uddingston areas in collection service. the summer until December. environment, A widespread information and publicity All households in the East Kilbride area campaign will be launched soon will receive the new service between helping us to explaining and promoting the new waste January and April, 2016, moving on to collection. Full calendar details will be Rutherglen and Cambuslang between widely publicised in advance of meet Scottish the new arrangements. Around 133,000 Government households will get a small food waste recycling kitchen caddy and a fourth, new outdoor bin. targets “Feedback of 60% by on the new New recycling 2020.” May and August, then service timescales are: Clydesdale from September is vital to n Hamilton area – to December. June to December 2015 “Feedback on the new service is vital to success. success.” During the initial Hamilton n East Kilbride area – phase customer satisfaction January to April 2016 and participation surveys will The roll-out will be take place as will tonnage and handled in four phases, n Rutherglen and waste composition analysis. starting in the Hamilton area in All this information will help June 2015, with all households Cambuslang – further phases in the roll out included in the new scheme by May to August 2016 of the new collection service,” the end of 2016. stressed Councillor Stewart. “We know this will take a n bit of getting used to, and Clydesdale – we’re asking for everyone’s September n The Scottish co-operation and patience to December 2016 Government as we introduce the introduced The changes,” said Councillor Waste (Scotland) Hamish Stewart, Chair of Full calendar details Regulations 2012 the Community Services will be widely publicised Committee. in advance of the new which requires all councils to provide a separate food waste “Not only are we obliged by arrangements law to do so, but the move collection service to every is good for the environment, household from January 2016. helping us to meet Scottish the reporter 15 by James Davitt on the right track with innovative investment scheme

OADS across South Lanarkshire have benefited from around £19m of investment during the last year. Launched in 2008, the council’s Rinnovative £126m Roads Investment Programme is designed to improve 80 per cent of the council-controlled South Lanarkshire road network. Although originally scheduled to last for eight years, the scheme was extended to 2019 in 2011. Among the roads which have been improved is the A724 Hamilton Road in Cambuslang. Around £190,000 was spent resurfacing this road from the Drumsagard roundabout towards Blantyre this year, following on from previous resurfacing in 2013. In Rutherglen, the resurfacing this year of the A730 Blairbeth Road completed a significant programme designed to provide a good driving surface over the whole length of this important A-class route. Costing £272,000, it followed on from resurfacing undertaken the previous year. “Surface dressing is a relatively DRIVING A number of roads were also improved in East Kilbride, including the A726 low cost treatment to address Strathaven Road. deterioration of a road surface, Almost £260,000 was spent on the partial reconstruction and resurfacing of putting on hold the need for the section from Calderglen Country Park to Torrance Roundabout. much more expensive repairs. It More than £200,000 was also spent on prolongs the life of a road” FORWARD ROAD the A71 at Gilmourton in the Strathaven area. Again, partial reconstruction and resurfacing improved this road and while the closure was in place the opportunity was taken to invest £88,000 on preparatory patching and surface dressing on more than two kilometres of the A71 exiting IMPROVEMENTS Strathaven towards Darvel. Surface dressing is a relatively low-cost treatment to address deterioration of a road surface, putting on hold the need

for much more expensive repairs. It process than traditional resurfacing prolongs the life of a road. methods. In the Hamilton area, the A724 Bryan Street and Kenmar Road in Burnbank Road was improved, Hamilton were also resurfaced in a scheme with more than £180,000 spent costing more than £150,000. resurfacing the road using In the Clydesdale area, a substantial the “Repave” process. investment was made to improve New “Repave” is a road Lanark Road. The seven-week project, recycling technique which cost £680,000, presented many which reduces CO2 challenges, primarily because it is the only emissions, waste and road in and out of the World Heritage energy consumption. Site. This resulted in night-time working It also tends to be a quicker and complete closure of the road, all done 16 the reporter DRIVING FORWARD ROAD IMPROVEMENTS

For more information on roads, lighting and pavements go to: www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk/roads while attempting to have minimal impact Programme continues to deliver for anyone resurfaced when needed, but many of on the New Lanark site. The project was using roads across South Lanarkshire. the complaints we continue to receive are completed on time and on budget. “Of course we appreciate there is still a about residential roads, so we hope people The A73 at Symington was improved lot of work to be done, but no one can deny will begin to notice a difference over the thanks to carriageway resurfacing in a there have been significant improvements coming years. project which cost £223,000. This major since the programme began six years ago, “We really appreciate the public’s route is an important link between many especially when it comes to our main roads, patience when we are carrying out of the more rural locations in South as for the first few years that has been our improvements and we always do Lanarkshire. main focus. everything we can to minimise disruption. The Chair of South Lanarkshire Council’s “A high percentage of them has now “It’s important to remember that Enterprise Services Committee, Councillor been improved which means we can now although there can be some short-term Chris Thompson, said: “I am delighted at look at focusing more on residential roads. inconvenience, a resurfaced road has long- the improvements the Roads Investment “Of course main roads will still be term benefits for everyone who uses it.” the reporter 17 HE Apprentice boardroom may be YOU’REa fierce crucible where candidates HIRED! come of age. But it has nothing on a Scots Centenarian NAN Tcare home where residents – including a sprightly centenarian – have presided over the hiring process. is care home’s McClymont House in Lanark, which is run by South Lanarkshire Council, was own Lord Sugar recently recruiting for a new Social Care Worker. Responsibilities include personal by Euan Duguid care of residents and administering medications. Yet there were no sugar-coated questions from an extraordinary interview panel that put six candidates through their paces. “We sometimes watch The Apprentice and know that it can get rather heated,” explained 100-year-old resident and interviewer Nan Henderson. “But that’s not the way we do business here. “Thankfully none of our candidates was arrogant or boastful, as they can be in the show. We wouldn’t have put up with that for a second,” Nan, a former saleswoman for Baxters Soup, asserted. “No one knows the qualities that make a caring, effective member of staff better than the residents themselves.” Nan, who worked in London representing Baxters in the 1950s and who in later life became a model for a Lanark fashion store, assisted McClymont House manager Charles Delaney as they whittled down the hopefuls. “Charles asked a lot of the practical questions, like what the candidate would do in a certain situation,” continued Nan, enhance quality of life in care homes. My Charles Delaney was one of 15 South originally from Lanark and who’s been at Home Life Scotland, led by the University Lanarkshire care home managers, from McClymont House since June this year. of the West of Scotland, has been funded local authority and independent sector “Myself and two other residents, who by the Reshaping Care for Older People care homes, who undertook a year-long took turns in assisting with the interviews, (RCOP) programme. My Home Life leadership support and wanted to get a feel for the personality of In South Lanarkshire, RCOP combines development programme. the candidates.” the expertise of NHS Lanarkshire, South “One of the key messages of the course Also assisting Charles on the panel Lanarkshire Council, the voluntary and was to work with other partners and was 96-year-old Margaret Hamilton and the independent sectors. individuals, to listen to their thoughts and Alison Coleman, also 96. The partnership aims to make positive their expertise to shape the way things are The formation of the panel was inspired living a reality to growing numbers of done,” explained Charles. by a national movement which seeks to older people by providing more support “That, of course, extends to the residents and care in the community, at home or in themselves and we have a glittering and homely settings. incredible array of experience and expertise 18 the reporter YOU’RE HIRED!Care and support is tremendous

Laura Morgan (22) was the successful candidate who secured the vacancy in the home. Laura, whose appointment was internal, has now been promoted from a Care Assistant. She explained: “Like any interview there were butterflies but the panel really put me at ease. They were very McClymont House Manager Charles Delaney with residents and interview interested in how I would work with panel (left to right) Alison Coleman, the other residents. I’d say they were 96, and centenarian Nan Henderson. meticulous, thorough but friendly.” Successful candidate Laura Morgan Professor Belinda Dewar, Director (above) shares a laugh in the of My Home Life Scotland, said: boardroom after her “I’d like to congratulate Laura on appointment. her appointment and, indeed, the interview panel at McClymont House. “We’re aiming to make living in care homes a very positive experience, where the homes themselves are places that are cherished and valued by local communities. My Home Life promotes quality of life for those living, dying, visiting and working in care homes.” Harry Stevenson, South Lanarkshire Council’s Executive Director of Social Work Resources and Chief Officer,S outh Lanarkshire Health and Social Care Partnership, praised the interview panel’s efforts. Harry said: “Through partnership working, we are fully committed to supporting older people and here to tap into. That’s been invaluable in Alison’s CV boasted being the staff ensuring South Lanarkshire is a this instance.” (personnel) officer at Edinburgh Castle great place to live and grow old in. Charles continued: “Each resident from 1944 to 1946 and assisting in her late “This case exemplifies how older was an enormous help, tabling succinct husband’s pharmacy in Carnwath from people themselves are also making questions during the interview process 1950 to 1980. tremendous contributions to ensure and offering their sage counsel afterwards. Alison said at the time: “As with any they receive the support they want, “Nick Hewitt and Karen Brady have walk of life, whether it’s modelling, sales from the people they want!” nothing on my assistants!” or running a business, how you get on with people is crucial. That’s especially true Sadly, Alison Coleman passed away as n For more information on My here, so we wanted to draw that out of the the Reporter was going to press. However, Home Life visit http://myhomelife. her family said she was immensely candidates by asking questions like ‘how would your best friend describe you?’ org.uk/ For more information on proud of taking part in the interviews at RCOP visit www.rcop.org.uk McClymont House and asked that her role “All of the candidates were lovely, should still be acknowledged. which made the final choice very tough.” the reporter 19 so many new things. It’s a great way to make by Lynne Carstairs friends, and even do activities with your outh Lanarkshire Leisure and brothers or sisters. I really love it and want to Culture’s ‘ACE’ card has been a hit keep learning more.” with young people of all ages. Councillor Hamish Stewart, SLLC Chair, And as it marks its second said: “The ACE card allows young people Sbirthday, there are more than 1,200 members across South Lanarkshire to access a wealth of on its books. arts and cultural opportunities and in many cases it is their first try at certain art forms. The unique membership scheme offers unlimited access to sports, culture and “Feedback we have had so far is that the libraries for under-16s for little more than £22 ACE card is a huge hit with all age groups, as per month. it opens the door to such a variety of activities. The young people enjoy the chance to learn Members essentially get an ‘access all new skills, swim, run and so much more, areas’ pass to sport, art, drama and more in a PLAY THE while parents are happy with knowing their way that has never been done before. monthly payment covers it all. The list of activities on offer includes “The costs and discounts available make popular favourites such as tennis, gymnastics, ACE CARD it one of the most comprehensive, value for netball, athletics and football, along with money schemes of its kind in the country.” hockey, dance, triathlon and spinfit. Holiday activities under the ‘Game On’ IN SPORT banner are also included, as are cultural Further discounts on activities like drama, arts and crafts, guitar, ACE membership: drums and games. ART AND n 50% concession for Leisure for all If this isn’t enough, golf, racquet sports cardholders and the use of swimming pools, gyms, fitness n 20% discount for the siblings of one classes and crèches are also included, as is DRAMA full paying child access to the hugely popular ‘Minecraft’ clubs n across South Lanarkshire libraries. try a class to see if you liked it, because your 20% discount for a child already a ACE offers unparalleled value for money mum and dad had to pay all the money first. swimming lesson member and choice of classes, making it an undoubted Now, I can try lots of stuff for my monthly hit with parents and kids. membership. I think my mum likes that too!” n For more information visit Twelve-year-old Emily admits she Eleven-year-old Clara wholeheartedly www.slleisureandculture.co.uk/ace wouldn’t have had the opportunity to sample agrees: ”For me, ACE stands for Amazing, or like ‘children’s activities in so many activities had it not been for ACE. Cool and Excellent. It’s great, whether you South Lanarkshire’ on Facebook. She explains: “Before, it was difficult to just are young or a teenager. I have taken part in

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Tuesday 31 March to Friday 3 April 2015 New College Lanarkshire present Getting Rutherglen Town Hall is a premier location for weddings and civil partnerships. We Hitched? are licensed to host ceremonies conducted by either a Registrar, Humanist or Minister. Written by Jon Conway Script associates Shane Richie Our stunning baronial Grand Hall coupled and Terry Morrison with the contrasting modern Mezzanine Bar area provides a unique setting for your special day. In addition, our flexible accommodation offers a bespoke package ranging from small intimate functions up to a maximum of 150 for your wedding meal and reception. Whatever the size of your event our fully trained staff will be available to deal with your every need.

The Town House, Hamilton www.slleisureandculture.co.uk Box Office: 01698 452299 South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture Limited is a recognised Scottish Charity, No. SCO32549 www.sllcboxoffice.co.uk 20 the reporter Balanced Budgets Toughfor Times

The difficult decisions facing councils and 25 ways we’ve already saved £72 million 8 page pull-out

the reporter 21 Introduction In the last few years global economic difficulties have had an impact on every sort of budget, and the public sector has been hit more than most. In South Lanarkshire, like elsewhere in Scotland, the grant from government has been largely static at a time when demands on councils are on the increase due to demographic changes and more people needing access to our services. The Council Tax has also been frozen for several years. All of this continues to put huge pressure on local authorities, and pages 4 to 7 of this edition of The Reporter detail how South Lanarkshire Council is balancing its budget for 2015/16. This 8-page pullout outlines 25 ways that the Council has responded to these pressures already, saving £72 million in recent years. These savings have largely been achieved by making sure we secure the best possible value for money and that the council is run as efficiently as possible.

Changing Care for Looked After Children

As more children and young people are placed within a family setting in their own communities, there is a consequent reduction in the number of residential care places required.

no. 1 £1.7m saved

Supporting Your Independence

Working more closely with service users has meant that Social Work Resources were able to secure better outcomes for individuals and achieve financial efficiencies as a result of less reliance on home care services.

no. 2 £6.2m saved

Loan Charges

Savings on loan charges were made through attaining better interest rates and consideration of how the council borrows funds.

no. 3 £4.3m saved

22 the reporter Generating Income

The council has been innovative in using benchmarking and looking at cost-recovery reviews to establish fair pricing structures across many areas of the council.

no. 4 £10.6m saved

Changes to Procurement and Improved Contract Management

Through considering the way that the council buys goods and services, and the way that contracts are managed, council-wide savings have been achieved.

no. 5 £1.9m saved

Reduction in IT Costs

Negotiating new contracts for IT support, changing the way the council prints documents, reducing costs of software licences and reducing IT infrastructure costs has meant an overall reduction in IT costs.

no. 6 £0.8m saved

Better Use of Technology

Using IT across the council has meant more efficient use of people’s time and therefore reduced costs for the council. An example is the increased use of online training across the council.

no. 7 £0.2m saved

the reporter 23 Sustainability

As part of the commitment to the Climate Change Declaration, reviews were undertaken to establish a more efficient management of council fleet vehicles and also to make our buildings more energy efficient. These projects have enabled the council to become more environmentally sustainable as well as reducing our costs.

no. 8 £0.4m saved

Alternative Delivery Method of Cultural/Library Services

Through changing the way that Culture and Library Services are managed by including those services in the Leisure Trust, there are reduced overall costs of service provision. This has meant no changes to the way services are delivered.

no. 9 £1.2m saved

New Approach to Accepting Council Payments

The council identified new and innovative approaches to allow council payments at 202 council-wide pay points and Post Office facilities along with telephone and internet payment services available.

Post Office no. 10 £0.3m saved

Reduction in Back-Office Support Services Costs

The council has become more efficient through mergers and redesign of staff teams which has allowed for a reduction in back-office support costs.

no. 11 £2.5m saved

24 the reporter More Efficient Working Practices

Savings have been made through changes to working practices across the council’s departments and by being more efficient and effective in how the council goes about its business, while minimising any impact on the services delivered.

no. 12 £2.6m saved

Review of Learning and Mental Health Provision

The council has changed its approach to mental health services through redesigning services and using technology to better meet the needs of service users.

no. 13 £0.7m saved

Review of Transport Arrangements

A review of the school transport arrangements, working with SPT and Fleet Services, has meant reduced costs in transport for the council.

no. 14 £0.8m saved

Improvements to Methods of Service Delivery

Service delivery methods have been scrutinised and areas of efficiencies identified. Where appropriate, alternative service delivery methods were chosen to reduce costs. For example, the way roads are resurfaced or the way in which the homeless service is provided.

no. 15 £2.9m saved

the reporter 25 Streamlining Staff Reporting Structures

Through a number of staffing structure reviews, management and other grades across the council were analysed, identifying a saving. The number of managers has reduced across the council.

no. 16 £21.2m saved

Reduction in Supplies and Administration Budgets

Reviews of supplies and administration budgets across the council have resulted in savings whilst still ensuring services are delivered.

no. 17 £2.8m saved

School Provisions

The council has reviewed its spend on provisions in schools and has managed to secure savings. The focus has been on maintaining spend on the essential areas of learning.

no. 18 £1.1m saved

Targeted Approach to Additional Support Needs Placements

The council employed a targeted approach to placement for children with Additional Support Needs in local authority and independent schools and has realised cost reductions.

no. 19 £0.3m saved

26 the reporter Review of Secondary School Budgets

Consideration of the budget within secondary schools has resulted in cost reductions. The focus has been on maintaining spend on the essential areas of learning.

no. 20 £0.9m saved

Targeted Support to External Organisations

The council has managed to rationalise the payments it makes to external organisations through targeting priority areas.

no. 21 £2.3m saved

Rationalisation of Property and Reduced Property Costs

By reviewing the use and location of properties, the council has reduced the number of properties used to deliver services. This has enabled property-related savings to be realised.

no. 22 £3.7m saved

Class Sizes

Through focus on quality of teacher, and targeting where lower class sizes were required, efficiencies have been made.

no. 23 £1.4m saved

the reporter 27 Review of In-House Adult Day Care Opportunities

The delivery of adult day care opportunities has been reviewed and the redesign has resulted in a reduction in costs.

no. 24 £0.5m saved

Targeted Environmental Maintenance

Considering the service provision and the approach to maintaining the external environment, including grass cutting, has allowed savings to be made.

no. 25 £0.7m saved

total £72m saved

If you need this information in another language or format, please contact us to discuss how we can best meet your needs. Phone: 0303 123 1015 Email: [email protected]

www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk 018678/Jan15 28 the reporter Communities cash in on GRANT SUPPORT by Lynne Carstairs HE council’s £180,000 a year Community Grants Scheme is helping to support the hard work and commitment of groups Tand volunteers across South Lanarkshire. Grants are administered through four area committees, where decisions are made at a local level by the councillors elected to serve those wards. Over the last financial year, grants ranging from a couple of hundred pounds to £1000 have been handed out to a wide variety of groups from across South Lanarkshire The money has been spent on items including play equipment, specialist transport, office supplies and outings to the theatre. Former Provost Councillor Russell Clearie is current chair of the Cambuslang and Rutherglen Area Committee. He explained: “It is a huge privilege for me to preside over decisions that directly affect the communities I serve. In many ways, it is one of the most important roles I have held in a long career as an elected member, and I treat it with that level of respect. “It never ceases to surprise and amaze me just how hard communities will work for each other. Every group we have visited to hand over a ‘big cheque’ URNSIDE in Bloom picked up Gordon Bow, Administration Manager, has given us an example on generosity, £1000 to help them to continue said: “The Community Grants scheme in patience and commitment. And the their award-winning work of South Lanarkshire has three main aims gratitude for the money we are able to brightening up their local area. – bringing people together, increasing hand over is heartfelt.” BExplained the group’s Lucille MacNab: community involvement, and improving Councillor Clearie wants as many “We come together to improve our quality of local life. We seek applications groups as possible to be aware of the environment and increase community that meet at least one of these aims. scheme and avail themselves of its togetherness and pride. This takes time, “We also seek to support local projects undoubted benefits. effort and, of course, resources, and we that improve opportunities, welfare or He concluded: “The Grants Scheme is are fortunate to have so many volunteers, environment, and where possible, can one we are very proud of, and I for one across all sections of our community, reach those most disadvantaged in our am keen for it to be as inclusive as we who are prepared to give of their time so communities. can make it. I would urge all and any willingly. “As with any such scheme, there are local groups to consider it as a source of “The £1000 grant from the area certain criteria on who can apply and what support, however small, and make that committee is a huge boost as it allows us to for, but I know, from the years I have been involved with the process, that we have first step to get in touch.I know from plan ahead and make sure we can continue managed to help a huge number of diverse experience what a difference it can make.” to fund projects year after year. It is also a great morale boost to know that our local organisations.” councillors are on board with what we do.” Any properly constituted, non profit- Meanwhile down in Leadhills the Silver making group based in South Lanarkshire Band now has a glockenspiel to add to their can make an application for a community collection of musical instruments, courtesy grant of up to £1000. of a £350 grant from the Clydesdale Area Committee. n Full details, online forms and guidance Band conductor Teresa Brasier said: on how to complete an application ”The Youth Band is particularly keen to are available on the community advice promote our percussion section but until pages of the council’s website “Every group we have visited to now we have only had the bits of drum kit www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk hand over a ‘big cheque’ has given we managed to beg or borrow. Having a Alternatively, please call one of the glockenspiel will allow tuned percussion for following numbers: 01698 454818; us an example on generosity, the first time and this will really enhance the 454822; 454012; 454761 or email patience and commitment.” musical range available.” [email protected] the reporter 29 Lynne Carstairs visits a school where pupils jump to it

T’S one of the world’s most watched sports, fielding highly-paid athletes and courting A-list celebrities. Yet, outside of the USA, basketball is still Iconsidered a niche sport with few Scottish youngsters aspiring to slam dunk their way to a career – until now… East Kilbride’s Calderglen High School has just opened the country’s first “school of basketball” aimed at promoting the sport, nurturing young talent and serving up a new form of learning outside the classroom. The programme focuses on S1 pupils who receive up to five hours of coaching a week, during the school day and after. Pioneered by basketballscotland – with support from CashBack for Communities, Reach for the Sky and South Lanarkshire Council – the “academy” She explained: “There was an existing interest handpicked 19 of the current S1 year group to become in basketball in the school and previously we have its first entrants. had some very successful senior teams. It has always Ross Hutton, school of basketball co-ordinator, been a sport that has captured the imagination of the toured Calderglen’s 10 feeder primary schools in pupils here and in which we have had a measure of January 2014, introducing the then Primary 7 groups success. to the sport and scouting for those who showed not “There are so many who have benefited in just talent, but interest and commitment. different ways. I know of a young person whose He explained: “There was a minority who had confidence has been boosted or who may have been played before, and even one or two who had taken it tempted by other distractions. But their commitment to the next level and were in competitive teams but, and interest in this is so strong that they know that to in the main, most had never picked up a basketball. be part of it, they have to toe the line. That is a very Although the selection process was tough for us, powerful tool in any school.” there was a core group who stood out. And I’m As well as the younger pupils who participate in delighted to say that all of them have proven with the programme, a number of senior pupils have also their commitment to the programme that the choices become involved. From mentoring and coaching we made were the right ones.” to scoring and umpiring, the involvement of those Calderglen Head Teacher Liz White has welcomed on the brink of adulthood is also welcomed by the the “school of basketball” wholeheartedly and school. echoes Ross’s sentiments. In fact, she credits access Sixth years Sarah Tolland, Eilidh Dolan and Zoe to competitive sport with boosting more than just Gibb, all aged 17, play basketball competitively at physical fitness. national level. Each came through the previous senior 30 the reporter squad and were quick to volunteer to do their bit for the school of basketball. Sarah said: “This approach is much more intense and focused and I really think it could produce some stars of the future.” One such name to watch for is 12-year-old Valentina Palli, a current member of the Scotland Under-15 squad. Having played competitively for a number of years, she was over the moon to discover that Calderglen High would play host to the country’s first school of basketball. She spent her early childhood in Greece, and first got a taste for basketball aged just eight when her uncle took her along to a local club. Added Valentina: “I never looked back and I have now played in tournaments across Europe at Under-13 level. When we returned to live in Scotland two years ago, one of the first things we did was look for a club and since then I have been playing with the St. Mirren club in the West of Scotland league. “I was so happy when I heard about the basketball academy starting up at Calderglen High, here in my own town. It is amazing to be able to combine what I love doing with my schooling. And I really hope one day to make a career out of it.” Locally, Calderglen’s school of basketball has close ties with East Kilbride basketball club the Colliers which came into being in September 2013. A number of pupils already play for both. Liz White went on: “The crossover from the school team to the Colliers is a fabulous initiative as it means that we are keeping the momentum going “Although the selection process was tough for us, there was a core group who stood out.”

within the local community. The partnership between the basketball coaches and the school is so strong with both parties working seamlessly to ensure both sporting and academic achievement, as well as increased confidence, for young people who are benefitting significantly.” Another budding “globetrotter” is 13-year-old Deen Ahmad who sees the school of basketball as a key stepping stone to a career on the court. He said: “I have loved basketball since I was about nine, and by the time I got to S1 I really wanted to take things to the next level. The fact that I can play basketball in such a focused way at school is fantastic and I feel really lucky to have been given this opportunity.” Not every member of the “school” wants to make a career out of sport, but all love the experience for the many other opportunities it brings. Twelve-year-old best friends Kyla Pettigrew and Emma Huey are inseparable in most things, including their love of basketball. Both were handpicked by Ross and the team from their P7 group at Hunter Primary School. Said Emma: “Ross came to the school and taught us the basics. I really had no idea about basketball If you’re interested in playing before but I loved it so much. I have always been or getting involved with basketball sporty and athletics was my thing. When the try outs locally or would like details of regional came up we both were really excited and practised so and national fixtures, check out hard for it. I couldn’t have imagined even this time www.basketballscotland.co.uk last year that basketball would be such a big part of our lives. But now all I focus on is basketball.”

the reporter 31 LOVE OF ANIMALS IS JACQUELINE’S STOCK IN TRADE by Lynne Carstairs Did EW people can claim you know... to hold a unique role EVERY horse in the ownership, more an within an organisation. UK – from the purest-bred identification document racehorse or donkey at the which should remain with Far less so when seaside to zebras in a zoo – needs the horse and, in particular, that organisation is Scotland’s F to have a passport. should accompany the horse fifth-largest local authority, when it is moved for the purposes boasting more than 14,000 The purpose is to prevent horses of competition or breeding, out of employees. which have been administered with medicines not authorised for use in food- Scotland, on to the premises of a new However, for 52-year- producing animals being slaughtered for keeper or for the purposes of receiving old horse-lover Jacqueline human consumption. veterinary treatment. Murray this is an honour Much like our own passports, the The passport must accompany the horse she can rightly call her own document is a small booklet that contains a at all times, though exceptions include when as the sole Animal Health unique ‘life’ number and microchip. It also moved for emergency veterinary treatment, and Welfare Officer working details the horse’s age, its breed and type and foals at foot, or when being exercised. The within Consumer and Trading a silhouette or image of the animal. passport must be produced immediately, or Standards. Since 2009 all horses must be within three hours. Although not proof of To put this in context, microchipped before a passport can be ownership, horse passports are similar to Jacqueline, working in issued, and therefore some passports issued V5 in a car – each new owner must register partnership with organisations since 2009 won’t have a silhouette or the passport in their name and notify the such as the Scottish description, just a chip number. issuing organisation (PIO) of any changes Government, the Animal, Plant It must also detail any medications it in name or address. The passport and Health Agency, Police has been given and whether or not it is remains the property of the PIO and Scotland and the SSPCA, has “intended” for the human food chain. must be returned on the death of the a responsibility for the health horse. If an owner doesn’t make the and welfare of livestock on Passports last the animal’s more than 1,000 farms. declaration in the passport, it’s assumed the animal is intended lifetime. Anyone found to be On the surface it appears a for human consumption at keeping or moving horses mind-boggling task and one had its own the end of its life. without a passport could that could only be embraced face a fine of up to Highland A horse passport Lanarkshire by someone for whom farming £5000 per animal, cattle fold and is not proof of where her and animals is more than just per offence. flock of pedigree role is vital a job. Cheviot sheep. to each and every Jacqueline perfectly suits However, it was at home, consumer. that description. Her history helping her husband tend She explains: “Essentially in the industry and personal their flock of blackface sheep for Jacqueline to ‘harness’ her what I am here to do is to affinity with the work she does that she really found her skills and experience and take prevent and control disease, bears plenty of scrutiny. vocation. up her first post in Animal and prevent contamination of Now returned to South Buoyed by this Welfare with Hertfordshire the human food chain. That Lanarkshire, where she was determination to make her County Council. means I spend a lot of time born and raised, she has lived living doing what she loved, Down south, she also working closely with farmers, and worked the length and Jacqueline moved to England picked up front line experience hauliers and vets at our local breadth of the UK. in 1998 to pursue a career in of some of the UK’s most livestock market in Lanark. Engaged at 21, she moved farriery, during which time significant disease outbreaks “It’s the only market in west- to the Isle of Skye where she she was given the opportunity including foot and mouth, central Scotland and is very married a crofter and worked of working with the Queen’s bluetongue and ‘bird flu’ or busy all year round. It’s my first as a legal secretary, and horses in her private forge at Avian Influenza. task to develop good working then in the tourist industry as Windsor Castle. It’s a decade of work relationships with everyone PA to the CEO of the 60,000- While living on a beef farm and experience that she has associated with helping it run acre MacLeod Estate, which in 2004, an opportunity arose since brought back to South efficiently and hygienically. 32 the reporter LOVE OF ANIMALS IS JACQUELINE’S STOCK IN TRADE

You can find out about upcoming auctions at Lanark on www.lawrieandsymington.com The welfare of all protected animals is provided for under the Animal Health and Welfare Scotland (Act) 2006. Comprehensive detail about this legislation is available at www.scotland.gov.uk

“There is a raft of legislation to add unnecessarily to that through the sale. The markets sound, years of experience covering animal health and burden. However, for all of which are held on Thursdays have taught her just what to welfare, increasingly so in our sakes, it is crucial that are for ‘pigs and poultry’, look out for and her regular the wake of outbreaks in farmers and traders keep up to but have also included goats, attendance at market has the last 10-15 years, and I speed with legislation and do alpaca, horses, ponies and reminded farmers of the need need to ensure that every it by the book. And I am here rabbits. to keep standards high. one operating in and out of to help them to do that.” Jacqueline has to be vigilant Despite the demands, that market knows how that On an average Monday at as to the condition of each one Jacqueline happily admits applies to them.” market approximately 2700 of these. she enjoys her job, which is Since taking up her post at sheep and 150 cattle will go Daunting a task as it may undoubtedly more of a life the end of 2013 Jacqueline is choice than a 9 to 5 role. fast becoming a ‘well-kent’ face She concludes: “I really in farming circles at the market. enjoy meeting people and She reveals: “The legislation have a natural affinity with the is ever-changing and can be farming community as well as hard to keep up with so I a love for animals. I’ve owned want people to know that they horses myself for more than can come to me and discuss 30 years and can put myself concerns or seek advice and firmly in the shoes of those I support. The line between Beautiful: work alongside. diplomacy and enforcement Jacqueline “I take my enforcement and can be a thin one, but I with her horse protection role seriously but would much rather have a “Famke” can empathise and work with difficult conversation than be farmers at the same time. To preparing a prosecution. me it is the perfect combination “I empathise with the “Essentially what I am here to do is to and I am grateful to be able to farming community, I know prevent and control disease, and prevent make a living doing something the lows and the hardships so vital and worthwhile which I it has faced and I don’t want contamination of the human food chain.” really I enjoy.” the reporter 33 Students create their own pathway to work by Mhairi Anderson “And it didn’t stop there – they were out and 64 of the 76 pupils who have taken in all weathers throughout the autumn and part in the programme have achieved an winter, learning different skills including SVQ 1 in horticulture. Four have achieved ome gardeners do more than cutting back, clearing the dead plants and an SVQ 2 in horticulture, six progressed just grow plants; they cultivate preparing for winter planting. And they onto a modern apprenticeship, and two of the skills of our young people have also spent time learning to make and the six are currently working through our preparing to enter the world of paint the wooden planters, adding still Apprenticeship Programme.” Swork. further to their skills. The Council’s Vocational Development At the David Livingstone Centre “I am really proud of their achievements programme, Work It Out, introduced an in Blantyre, under the watchful eye of and it’s gratifying to see them develop their apprenticeship programme in 2012, funded Horticultural Supervisor John Canning skills and their confidence as they work in partnership with the David Livingstone many youngsters from additional support through the programme and, at the same Trustees and Central Scotland Green needs schools across South Lanarkshire, time, enjoy and take satisfaction in the work Network. This funding not only benefits have been reaping the rewards of an they have done.” the students but it has also improved access exciting training programme. Horticultural student Christopher to the centre’s green space by reinstating Since the programme began in 2008, McKerrell, 16, said: “I started here after the traditional pathway routes and creating 76 pupils have learned skills which have summer holidays last year and it’s been new ones to allow local people and visitors not only left the grounds surrounding the great. I don’t care what the weather’s like to explore the area surrounding the David world-famous centre looking spectacular either. I don’t even mind the rain and the Livingstone Centre. but also helped as they prepare to leave wind. I’m just happy learning and doing John Canning added: “Our three-year school and look for a job. the job. In fact I should have been taking pathways programme has seen many John Canning said: “Our students have part in a school talent show recently but challenges for the students which, in been great to work with. Not only have didn’t want to miss my work so gave up the the main, were due to the need for hand they gained a wide range of skills but also a chance so I could come here instead. digging most of the pathway network to great deal of self-confidence. “I love learning about all the gardening protect the tree line around the park. “They have worked hard, learning how stuff and working with the guys and I’m “All of the apprentices were given to look after the ground and plants all happy I’ll be here until the summer. After training on health and safety but to ensure year round. From preparing the ground that I hope I’ll get a job doing gardening.” that everyone could work safely each area in springtime and bringing on seeds and The programme encourages the of the pathway, and other horticulture nurturing the young shoots, to planting students to develop a great number of work, had to be broken down into small out and tending the beds throughout the skills to enhance their chances of future manageable chunks to allow a way of growing season, the students have excelled employment in grounds maintenance, learning that suited each individual in their dedication and love of the job they with three of them already getting seasonal apprentice’s additional support needs. are doing. gardener work with South Lanarkshire “It’s difficult enough working through “It was really satisfying for me to see the Council. an SVQ 2 in horticulture itself but doing so pleasure on their faces as their flower beds Paula McGinty, the council’s Vocational with additional support needs is nothing sprang into life and how they watched as Programme co-ordinator, said: “The short of amazing. This is what makes me the colours changed with the seasons. Horticultural Programme runs for 38 weeks want to come to work every day. Being involved in such a rewarding programme Groundforce: that supports the development of others is Working hard, very special indeed.” (left to right) And the architect for the pathways Paula McGinty, development, Felicity Steers of Landscape John Canning, Architects ERZ, said: “The finish to the Christopher pathway network gives a sense that the McKerrell paths have been here for many years. I have and Craig Macpherson been involved in designing many projects and the finish here is up there with the best I’ve seen.” And heaping more praise on the fantastic work of the students, Gordon McHugh, the team leader for South Lanarkshire’s Work It Out programme, said: “All of my team are immensely proud of the work they do with our young people. 34 the reporter Students create their own pathway to work “The employment outcomes throughout our programmes have never been higher which clearly shows that the preparation our students get whilst still at school really does give them the best chance of getting a job. And it also gives employers access to a new, diverse and talented bunch of young people with skills to match their labour needs.” n For more information go to www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk/SLW4U

“I started here after the summer holidays last year and it’s been great. I don’t care what the weather’s like either. I don’t even mind the rain and the wind. In fact I should have been taking part in a school talent show recently but didn’t want to miss my work so gave up the chance so I could come here instead.”

thethe reporterreporter 35 BACK TO WORK PROGRAMME IS

by James Davitt JUST THE JOBEnterprise Services ELPING unemployed Committee, Councillor people back into Chris Thompson, said: work or training “We are determined to do His one of the key council everything we can as a priorities. council to help as many Through the council’s people as possible back into delivery organisation – work or training. South Lanarkshire Works “We recognise that 4 U – more programmes there are many people, and training opportunities particularly young people, are available for people who need help and support. struggling to find work than “I would encourage even before. anyone who is out of work Some of them are and looking for help to get specifically aimed at people in touch with us as soon as with a particular set of possible.” barriers which may cause For more information them difficulties when it on the range of services comes to finding a job or available, call the free training opportunity. phone number 0800 731 Several programmes are 0444 or go to http://www. Cambuslang Training and also targeted specifically at southlanarkshire.gov.uk/ BRENDAN Enterprise Centre (CTEC) helping young people who info/200201/slw4u building in Cambuslang. are out of work, another key Here we highlight some of PRENTICE He said: “The whole council priority. the people who have done Struggling at school due experience has helped Chair of South exactly that – and their to attendance issues and me realise what I want Lanarkshire Council’s success stories. a shy personality meant to do – move into a craft Brendan Prentice never apprenticeship.” reached his full potential. Brendan’s project But thanks to his work worker, Laura Sloan, with SLW4U’s Ready 2 Work programme, from Ready 2 Work, said: Brendan’s confidence has “Brendan worked hard on soared and his progress the project for a full four has been remarkable. months before he started The programme enabled work in a job he enjoys. Brendan, from Hamilton, “He now acts as a to develop interview, work mentor for Ready 2 Work, and public speaking skills. speaking to other young He said: “I thoroughly people who are starting the enjoyed attending the programme and acting as a Ready 2 Work project. It role model.” was great to be treated Brendan’s employer, as an adult and get Fraser Nelson, Facilities experience working. Officer at CTEC, said: “I’m a lot more confident “Brendan is an excellent now and have gained employee who is keen and certificates in Fire Safety always willing to assist. and First Aid.” I’m sure he will achieve In August 2014, his goal of securing an “I really enjoy the work and I’m Brendan started a job as a apprenticeship in a craft facilities assistant at the trade.” experiencing new challenges every day”

36 the reporter DOUGLAS ADELE McKECHNIE KILPATRICK At the age of 51, Low confidence meant Adele transport worker Douglas Kilpatrick found it difficult to McKechnie was given communicate with others when the bombshell news she was at school. This is in turn that he was being made led to poor attendance in her redundant. final year. Having spent most of BACK TO WORK After getting in touch with his working life in the Marie Battersby, Adele signed up logistics industry, it was for an Activity Agreement. a devastating blow but Through Marie, she was given one he was determined to the opportunity to gain work bounce back from. PROGRAMME IS experience in a hair salon. Douglas, of Cambuslang, Adele said: “It has always been made the brave decision my dream to be a hairdresser to try to retrain in an like my big sister, but I wasn’t industry where there confident, I never thought I would be less of a threat of would be able to do it. redundancy. JUST THE JOB “Working with my Activity He said: “I realised Agreement Advisor really helped that I had to retrain in a me believe in myself and what I growth sector where work could achieve. would be more plentiful. “Although I was very nervous “Although I knew I had at first, my boss and work transferable skills which colleagues were very friendly would serve me well in a and made me feel welcome. new job, it was a challenge “I would recommend the returning to study. programme to any young person “The Rebuilding project who needs help.” supported me in gaining Adele’s employer, Graham “It has my qualification and I’m Dignal, said: “Adele was very enjoying my new role. shy when she first started in the always been “The change in career salon. my dream has definitely been a “She has now come out of her positive move for me.” shell and works well with the to be a Douglas’s project other staff members. worker, Kirsty McCabe “Adele is a delight to have hairdresser of Routes to Work South, in the salon and is progressing said: “Douglas worked and really well.” like my big studied hard to gain a City Adele’s Activity Agreement sister” Advisor, Marie Battersby, said: “This is a great opportunity in an exclusive hair salon.”

pushed myself to complete the course. CATHERINE “This led on to a work placement and McENROY after three weeks my manager said she was After being out of work for 20 years, it was really pleased with my work and asked me understandable that Catherine McEnroy to apply for a part-time position. was nervous about taking the first steps “This boosted my confidence and I was back into employment. delighted to be approached but I really She had a clear idea about the career needed full-time hours.” path she wanted to go down, having spent Catherine was supported in her job and Guilds qualification in much of her time caring for relatives. search and, in September 2014, started in Green Deal Assessment. Despite her personal experience, the 3 Bridge Care Home. “He passed all of his Catherine, from Rutherglen, needed help She said: “I really enjoy the work and I’m qualifications quickly gaining professional experience and skills. experiencing new challenges every day.” because he was keen to Through her contact with South Catherine’s project worker, Sharon pursue a career as an Lanarkshire Works 4 U, Catherine managed Boyle of Inclusiveness, said: “Catherine had energy assessor. to get a place on the Inclusiveness Project, very low confidence because of her lack of “Douglas moved into Gateway to Social Care course at South qualifications and the fact she had been out work quickly and has Lanarkshire College. of work so long. been working with She said: “I was really nervous and didn’t “It has been tremendous to see her grow HELMS UK Ltd since have much confidence at the start but and believe in herself.” February 2014.”

the reporter 37 wardens are on the beat at heart of communities ublic opinion has helped 1 “It is a great example of partnership andy to reshape the council’s working and both organisations being Livingstone Community Wardens into a able to use their experience and finds more effective service. knowledge to tackle a problem that The wardens have become a needs to be taken very seriously. We Pfamiliar sight on the streets of South stepped up our patrols in known trail out how new and Lanarkshire in recent years, and have bike hotspot areas as well as targeting proved valuable in addressing a host locations where bikes may be stored. improved of local situations. Also as part of this initiative, the service Over time, feedback from residents council’s mobile CCTV units were had suggested ways that the service able to gather information about has could work even more effectively where and when this type of offence helped and a review was carried out that was happening.” identified changes and improvements Elsewhere, the team joined that would provide an enhanced, with Police Scotland and Glasgow quality service with greater flexibility Community Safety Partnership to to respond to community concerns. help tackle cross-boundary issues The new and improved service has Last summer the team supported between Fernhill and Castlemilk. A been put in place with the wardens the Quad Bike Initiative launched mobile CCTV unit was deployed in now divided into two distinct roles, in Larkhall in partnership with the area with additional support from Investigative Support Wardens and Police Scotland and the council. The the CCTV vehicles, which enabled Estate Wardens. These cover a variety campaign highlighted that it is illegal Police Scotland to take appropriate of shift patterns over seven days a to ride any petrol-driven machine on action against individuals. week, including working until 3am on the road unless you have a driving These steps had a positive impact Thursday to Sunday nights. licence and helped to promote the safe in the area, helping to increase public The Investigative Support Wardens use of quad and trail bikes. re-assurance – with one resident provide support by gathering Inspector Louise Skelton, of Police saying that he slept better knowing evidence in relation to anti-social Scotland Q Division, said: “We were that the vehicles were in the area late behaviour, with the assistance of two delighted to join forces with the at night carrying out their patrols. CCTV vehicles. council in this joint initiative. Meanwhile, the Estate Wardens

38 the reporter wardens are on the beat at heart of (1) Mobile intelligence: The Investigative Support Wardens are able to use CCTV vehicles to target hotspots for anti-social 2 behaviour. (2) On the spot: Estate Wardens are on hand to deal 3 with local issues, such as graffiti or drinking dens. continue to be the eyes and ears of the This proactive environmental tackle anti-social behaviour. community and patrol ‘hot spot’ areas role will help create safe and (3) On patrol: The service as a whole is reviewed Estate Wardens across South Lanarkshire. attractive communities across South continually, with residents being Lanarkshire, and complement Tam McHugh Warden Vicky McGinty said: “It consulted every year at Positive and Vicky is so important that we are on the the service already provided by Communities events where local Environmental Services. McGinty see the ground in the local communities. Not people are invited to attend to give value every day only do you get to know the areas and In addition, the team actively their views on the various services of working in the people, and the issues that affect engages with local communities by available to tackle anti-social the heart of the them, but you are on hand if they attending a variety of events and fun behaviour. communities need to speak to you. You get so much days to promote the services available they serve. more understanding of these sorts of to tackle anti-social behaviour and n If you would like more situations when you talk to people discuss any concerns people may information about these events (4) On the face to face in their own area.” have. or about the Community Warden right road: Additionally, Estate Wardens have The team meet with the public Service, or would like to report Working in been now been given powers to issue at various locations across South a complaint about anti-social partnership fixed penalty notices for littering Lanarkshire such as sports centres behaviour, please contact Joanne with Police and dog fouling and these powers and local shops, providing an Thomson 0141 584 2608 or Scotland enabled will be used in a targeted approach opportunity for local residents to say alternatively the ASB Hotline on a campaign to be based on specific information that is what problems there are and where 0800 389 1105. Anti-social behaviour run to encourage received. To assist this, the wardens they take place, as well as giving their can also be reported online through the safe use of are equipped with body-worn CCTV views on council services, and this a form on the council’s website, quad bikes and in order to gather information and information is then used to help set www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk. trail bikes. evidence. specific local priorities for each area to

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thethe reporterreporter 39 Tackling Child Sexual Exploitation

When it was published in August 2014 the Rotherham Report highlighted the need for concerted and co-ordinated work to protect As far back as 2006 South Lanarkshire’s children from sexual exploitation residential care service for children signed but if any comfort can be taken it is a partnership agreement with Police that put in place a system of alerts and actions from the knowledge that continuous when young people go missing from care. improvements in Child Protection arrangements are already in progress. That close working relationship with Police Scotland is reflected across the The predatory adult male as abuser acting range of South Lanarkshire Council alone, as part of an organised group services involved in Child Protection. or online, is probably the predominant Independent Chair of the South public image of where the problem Lanarkshire Child Protection Committee lies with Child Sexual Exploitation but Norman Dunning said: ”There has been those working in the field will tell you and continues to be lot of good work it is a far more complex issue in terms going on in South Lanarkshire to ensure of scale and nature and that complexity we are doing everything possible to is reflected by the range of protection keep children and young people safe but work underway in South Lanarkshire. the Rotherham Report underlines that While the victim is never to blame there when people don’t act the effects can is an important emphasis being placed be devastating and we must all continue on education to help young people and to recognise that it is never right to parents and carers recognise where assume someone else will do the right dangers might lie ahead and the growing thing.” There are plans to consider the sexualisation of childhood through images report and any further actions required and messages in the media, exposure to by South Lanarkshire. Go to http:// pornography, sexting and the internet. www.rotherham.gov.uk/downloads/ file/1407/independent_inquiry_cse_in_ Child Exploitation was a year long theme rotherham to read the full report. from September 2013-14 for North and South Lanarkshire’s Child Protection If you are worried that a child is Committees – launched with a being harmed: multi-agency event focusing Call on Child Trafficking. Social Work Following on from that initiative a 0303 123 1008 group of secondary school teachers received specialist training to help them Police Scotland work with pupils and raise awareness Emergency - 999 of threats and risky behaviour. Non-emergency - 101

4014 the reporter When money is tight… hand ome people have always 01355 224375 helphad to get by on a very iCrissis and Co mmatunity A food bank also operates in the low income, while others Care Grants Clydesdale area. are struggling because of The council can award crisis grants and community care grants for people in need, Sa change in their circumstances. who are on benefits or a low income and are Fuel Poverty The first port of call for anyone troubled Here ANDY LIVINGSTONE looks having difficulty because of an exceptional by fuel debt is the Home Energy Scotland at some of the support available in situation or in meeting one-off expenses. Hotline, 0808 808 2282, where you can South Lanarkshire, with further Call 0303 123 1007 for more information. explain your situation and be pointed information available in the When A crisis grant may be available to help towards the most appropriate help. with costs after a disaster or emergency or Money is Tight booklet available to keep you and your family safe from harm. free of charge in most public offices, Community Care Grants may be available Information for Carers including Q and As and libraries if you are about to leave care to live on your You have the right to a Carer’s Assessment own; you face going into care because you if you provide a substantial amount of don’t have the things you need to continue care to someone on a regular basis. More Help to find work or training living at home; you are struggling to provide information is available from Social Work South Lanarkshire Works 4 U on 0800 a safe and secure home for your family; or on 0303 123 1008. 731 0444 – advice on schemes available you need help to buy essential household locally to help people back into work. items like a cooker or washing machine. Concerns about rent payments Department for Work and Pensions or housing circumstances Universal Job Match service, at www.gov. Food co-ops and food banks Pgayin your rent is vital to being able to uk/jobsearch. provide a home for you and your family. If A FOOD CO-OP is an ideal way of making you are behind in your payments, please money go that bit further. Co-ops are open contact your local Housing Office on0303 Benefits and tax credits to all and provide a range of basic food . We can help with advice and Make an appointment with Money 123 1012 items at cost price. Several operate in can make arrangements for affordable Matters or Citizens Advice Scotland and South Lanarkshire – find out more from payments. request a benefits check to make sure Community Links on 01698 827583. you are claiming what you are entitled to. If you are affected by the under- Advice on keeping food costs down and occupancy Contact the council’s Money Matters team eating healthily can be found on the British at your local Q and A office or call0303 rules (“bedroom Heart Foundation’s website www.bhf.org.uk tax”), contact 123 1008, or find information on Citizens’ or eatbetterfeelbetter.co.uk. Advice through their website at www. our Benefits are FOOD BANKS collect food for free Changing Team cas.org.uk/bureaux or by calling 01698 distribution to people facing crisis. They 283447 (Hamilton); 01355 263698 (East on benefits are changing@southlanarkshire. provide emergency food parcels until gov.uk or 0303 123 1012. Kilbride); 0141 646 3191 (Rutherglen/ circumstances improve, and also advice Cambuslang); 01555 664301 (Clydesdale). If you find yourself homeless or on other support and services. To access threatened with homelessness, call your a Food Bank you may need a referral from local Housing Office or, if Support to deal with debts a frontline worker, care professional or a our offices are closed, the Money advisers at Money Matters and voluntary organisation that offers support emergency freephone Citizen’s Advice Scotland help people who or advice. number is 0800 242024. are in debt or who realise they can no Find out more about how to access a food longer pay bills when they are due. They bank at: give honest, impartial help that is free of Hamilton District Food Bank: charge and can be contacted as above. They also give general advice in budgeting. 07884 451512 Clyde, Avon and Nethan Food Bank: Help from Credit Unions 07591 104027 Credit Unions provide accessible savings, Rutherglen and Cambuslang Food Bank: low-cost loans and other financial services 07706 052442 in local communities. It is a great way to East Kilbride cope with expensive times like Christmas Community Food or sudden, unplanned expenses like Bank: 01355 repairs, and you can avoid pay-day loans 247660 and door step lenders who usually charge Loaves and Fishes massive interest rates. East Kilbride: Contact your local credit union at: Help to go online Cambuslang 0141 641 0888 Going online (using the internet) is now a Rutherglen 0141 647 4756 necessity, but not everyone has the skills or Blantyre and South confidence to do so, or the means to pay for Lanarkshire an Internet connection at home. 01698 711112 If you are confident in using computers Hamilton 01698 282200 and accessing the internet, your local Burnbank 01698 307334 library or Digital Jobcentre offers FREE access to a computer with online East Kilbride 01355 224771 connection. Scotwest 0845 634 7634 For those who need a bit more support, Food donors: Residents at or have little or no experience in IT, Lorne Street and Barncluith sheltered SELECT Hubs offer informal, volunteer- housing donated food to Hamilton led training on a drop-in basis. For more District Food Bank, where Home Carer information on your local SELECT Hub, call Gary Lyon does voluntary work. Community Links on (01698) 827583. the reporter 41 lightS, camera and action for South Lanarkshire by Duncan Jones poignant film charting an older man’s journey back to independence after hospitalisation has brought together a glittering cast of real-life starsA from across South Lanarkshire. Every Step of the Way is a new and exclusive film documenting the Reshaping Care for Older People (RCOP) programme in the region through the story of David, played by actor Bill Findlay. RCOP aims to help growing numbers of older people live positive and independent lives in their own homes, homely settings and community. And the seven-minute movie features many of the actual people who are working together to make that very aim a reality in Lanarkshire today. The film’s writer, Euan Duguid, Communication Officer for RCOP in Lanarkshire, explained: “A huge network of health and social care practitioners, volunteers, third sector and independent Glittering sector organisations are working together to make Lanarkshire a great place for people to live and grow old in. “Family members, friends and unpaid carers are also playing a crucial role in cast of real providing more support in community settings. The aim of the film is to illustrate, in real-life terms, how all of these individuals and groups are, together, making a real life stars difference to older people’s lives.” The plot sees David, who’d required treatment after a fall, feeling lonely and isolated after hospital discharge to becoming fully independent and reconnected to his takeS centre community. Crucially, although the Many in the character is played stage in older by an actor, the actual choir script and his experiences are are currently representative living with the of the real life people’s film testimony of early stages various older support team, which was piloted in East to link back into the community via the many people who have of dementia. Kilbride and Strathaven, played a key role supports created through RCOP, David hits been supported by Others are in the film as David strives to get back on the high notes in the film alongside members RCOP partners. his feet after being discharged from hospital. of Hamilton-based Musical Memories choir. That realism close family The Integrated Community Support Many in the actual choir are currently is heightened by and friends who Team (ICST) aims to prevent unnecessary living with the early stages of dementia. the supporting hospital or care home admissions, reduce the Others are close family and friends who cast – around have adopted length of stay in hospital and support those have adopted a full-time caring role. 45 people – who who have been discharged by combining the Originally formed as a pilot project turned out simply a full-time expertise of health and social care staff from by Alzheimer Scotland in 2011, the choir to play themselves, caring role. NHS Lanarkshire and South Lanarkshire became independent and constituted in 2013 ranging from the Council respectively. through vital work, led by Voluntary Action health and social NHS Lanarkshire physiotherapist South Lanarkshire (VASLan), as part of the work professionals, volunteers and the older Melissa Murray and South Lanarkshire nationwide RCOP programme. people featured who are benefitting from the Council home care worker Allison Duncan Euan added: “We see David grow in many community-based supports in place. played themselves as they helped David strength and confidence as his journey For example, members of a South regain his mobility in his own home. links him to many other vibrant, real-life Lanarkshire community-based care and As his journey progresses and he begins community-based supports. There’s a sub-

42 thethe reporterreporter A foundation stone for joined-up working RCThe film’s releaseO has comeP as partnership to develop services that are more flexible, working enters a crucial phase. available out of hours and with a focus on A new Act requires health boards and allowing growing numbers of older people local authorities to integrate their adult to live positive and independent lives in health and social care services. In April their own home or homely setting. 2015, integration comes into effect in local “RCOP has brought different areas, led locally by the respective South professionals from different agencies and North Lanarkshire Health and Social together and, with the partnership working Care Partnership (H&SCP). to a common purpose, the spirit of co- Integration will continue much of the operation that has been long established in good work established by RCOP, which South Lanarkshire has been consolidated. has tested and developed many projects to This joined-up collaborative ethos will be support growing numbers of older people. used as a foundation stone for integration. Harry Stevenson, South Lanarkshire “The H&SCP will continue to provide Council’s Executive Director of Social proactive care and support in people’s 1 Work Resources and Chief Officer, own homes and homely settings, where South Lanarkshire Health and Social appropriate.” n For more information on Care Partnership (H&SCP), said: “RCOP the integration of health and social care, has provided the opportunity to look at visit: www.northlanarkshire.gov.uk/index. Walking Football/Motherwell doing things differently and the chance aspx?articleid=31104 Steel Game FC, an over-65 football team, grabbed national headlines last year when they were 2 formed in Motherwell’s Fir Park. The team are open to residents across Lanarkshire. 3 The cut and thrust of walking football – which is played to the (1) Bill Findlay, who plays the part of David, warms up for his walking football same rules as the normal game but debut. (2) NHS Lanarkshire physiotherapist Melissa Murray of the Integrated with a running ban – is shown as Community Support Team. The ICST play a crucial role in David’s recovery. (3) David gets back on his feet and joins David hits the high notes with Musical Memories choir of Hamilton. (4) Motherwell the actual squad for an afternoon’s brother and sister Ross and Leah Duguid play the part of David and his sister Muriel training. when they were young. (5) David’s life is brought full circle through a chance The team is part of a raft of meeting. But what’s he revealing? Find out by watching Every Step of The Way. supports that’s been established under RCOP to help older Children play a helpful role people remain connected to their Twelve-year-old Ross and six-year-old Leah Duguid, community. For more information from Motherwell, play the roles of David and his sister, on training sessions and how to join Muriel, when they were children. contact Motherwell Football Club Find out how childhood memories – and a fateful Community Trust on 01698 239926. photograph – help steel David in his battle back to full 4 health by watching the film. plot woven in and, without giving too much resources and backing to enable them to take away, David’s recovery is boosted by a trip a leading role in developing and contributing down memory lane which comes full circle to the support and services their community at the end of the film.” needs. Majorie McGinty, RCOP Programme Every Step of the Way showcases some Manager for South Lanarkshire, said: “In vibrant examples of the many initiatives both North and South Lanarkshire RCOP and projects set up at local level to prevent partnerships we are very proud of the many isolation whilst also highlighting the expert excellent initiatives and projects that have health and social care supports available in been set up. people’s own homes. “At their very core is person-centred “The take-home message of the film is care and partnership working. This film that no one should feel alone and there is captures how many people, from different help and support available to them.” professional backgrounds and groups, are RCOP partners include NHS Lanarkshire, working together to make a real difference North and South Lanarkshire Councils, the to older people’s lives.” voluntary sector and the independent sector. Marjorie continued: “A key aim of RCOP n Watch the film at NHS Lanarkshire’s 5 is to give people and community groups YouTube site here http://bit.ly/1pLcVVk

the the reporter reporter 43 Performance facts and figures Living history on show in online at your fingertips museum collection

by Andrew Thompson the second year we included a feedback form in the report. t has been a real case of practise what you “After the second report, we listened to preach for the team charged with collecting, what Audit Scotland had to say about how we publishing and reviewing information on reported the council’s performance, and asked South Lanarkshire Council’s performance. ourselves exactly how we could go the extra The annual report of facts and figures is the mile to make our performance reporting as I clear and useful as it can be.” most accessible and easily understood to date, and goes interactive on the council’s website A lot of work has been put into how from April. information in the report is presented so that There is a statutory duty on all Scottish instead of simply presenting charts and tables local authorities to make public a wide range of of facts and figures their meaning is clearly information, known as Performance Indicators. Information: Improvement and explained. Community Planning Manager Neil Reid Neil added: “It is important to emphasise This data allows councils to see how they are and his team aim to make information doing by comparing results to previous years on South Lanarkshire Council’s that all the information is still there, nothing has and how they measure up to others. performance easy to understand and been taken out and everything that has been Performance Indicators can be used as a easy to access added is aimed at improving clarity, ensuring benchmark to ensure standards remain high information is not just available to people but and priorities identified and to test whether presenting that information – tracking our own also makes sense.” innovations and changes to practice are performance to see how interesting, useful and The 2013/14 Annual Performance Report will bringing the hoped-for benefits. understandable people find all that data. be online from April as an interactive document Improvement and Community Planning “Following the first report, we held a which has automatic response options built Manager Neil Reid said: “Our March 2015 consultation with the South Lanarkshire into the pages to give instant feedback and can Annual Performance Report is the third we Citizens’ Panel to hear their views on how be viewed in the performance section of the have published and there has definitely been a the information was presented, how it was council’s website www.southlanarkshire.gov. rapid evolution over how we have gone about explained and how relevant they felt it was, and uk/performance

UK Parliamentary General Election takes place on Thursday 7 May 2015 ✗ Your vote counts Vote using a

Make sure you are registered to vote Deadlines: Postal Vote - If you wish to If you need help or further information All you need to do is make sure you are apply for a postal vote or make changes to please don’t hesitate to contact us. your existing postal or proxy arrangements registered to vote. If you returned your To register to vote, check the completed voter registration form then you you must do this by 5pm on Tuesday should be on the electoral register. If you 21 April 2015. register or arrange a postal or have moved recently, contact the Electoral Proxy – If you wish to appoint a proxy to proxy vote contact: Registration Office. vote on your behalf you must do this by Electoral Registration Office, 5pm on Tuesday 28 April 2015. North Stand, Cadzow Avenue, Deadline: If you are not registered to Hamilton ML3 0LU vote, you must register by midnight on Interested in standing at the UK Phone: 0800 030 4333 Monday 20 April 2015 to vote at the UK Parliamentary General Election? Email: [email protected] Parliamentary General Election. If you wish to stand at this election Website: www.lanarkshire-vjb.gov.uk What’s next? simply contact the Election Office for your You will receive a poll card telling you where nomination pack and more information. For information on to go to vote, alternatively, if you are on Deadline: Nomination papers must be voting arrangements at this holiday on polling day, or you are working, or submitted to the Returning Officer by election contact: 4pm on Thursday 9 April 2015. prefer not to go to the polling station, do you Election Office, 21 Beckford Street, know you can: Preparations are already underway to ensure Hamilton ML3 0BT that the best possible arrangements are in • vote by post Phone: 0303 123 1019 place for you to vote. Please be aware that • ask someone to vote on your behalf Email: [email protected] the deadlines may change in the event of (ie by appointing a proxy) Website: www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk days being appointed for public thanksgiving or mourning.

vote

44 the reporter Living history on show in museum collection

by Mhairi Anderson it belonged to a Covenanting ancestor, David Hackston of wo compelling new Rathillet, near Cupar. The pistol pieces have been added features an engraved letter ‘R’ on to South Lanarkshire’s the stock and my family believe Tmuseum collection. this stood for Rathillet. Fitting and poignant during the “I’m delighted the pistol has 100th anniversary of WWI is the found a good home where acquisition of a bronze miniature it will be preserved for future statue of Private John McAlpine, generations.” the first soldier from Cambuslang Hackston commanded forces killed in the conflict. of Covenanters at the Battle of Private McAlpine, of Hamilton Drumclog on 1 June, 1679, and Road, was serving with the 1st again at the Battle of Bothwell Battalion The Black Bridge on 22 June Watch Regiment when of that year. He was he was killed near captured and executed Ypres, Belgium, on 11 in Edinburgh on 30 November, 1914. He July, 1680. was 37, and married Following research with six children. by the SSLC Museums After the war officers, with help ended, the memorial from senior curators statue was made in at Glasgow Museums his honour and to and the Royal commemorate all the Armouries in Leeds, men and women from it was confirmed the the area who had lost pistol is Spanish. their lives. It was crafted in 1922 “However, establishing when by Alexander Proudfoot, graduate the pistol was made proved a of and lecturer at Glasgow School bit more difficult,” said Assistant of Art. Museums Officer Barrie Duncan. The statue was acquired by “The earliest expert suggestion for South Lanarkshire Leisure & date of manufacture is late-1600s. Culture Museum Service with Although it hasn’t been possible to assistance from the National Fund confirm the Covenanters link, the for Acquisition. A full-sized version pistol is a rare example of its kind tops Cambuslang War Memorial in with a long-standing connection to Cambuslang Park. this area.” A rare 17th century Spanish Both acquisitions can be seen pistol has also found a new at Low Parks Museum, Hamilton. home in the collection thanks to The bronze miniature statue of John McAlpine, the first n For more information man from Cambuslang killed in the First World War Bothwell man Douglas Steedman. on South Lanarkshire (above), full-sized figure on top of the war memorial in “This pistol has been in my Museums please go to www. Cambuslang Park (middle) and Douglas Steedman (top family for generations,” said slleisureandculture.co.uk/ right, left) with SLLC General Manager Gerry Campbell Douglas. “Tradition has it that SLLC/info/204/collections the reporter 45 SHOUTABOUT NOISY NOUTEIGHBOURS by Mhairi Anderson

obody likes excessive noise so please don’t keep quiet about it. NThe council’s environmen- tal officers can help you with all kinds of noise – from loud music, barking dogs, noisy washing machines and anything else that just isn’t acceptable from your neighbours. None of us can avoid being noisy some of the time but all of us can be considerate Common to those around us, especially late at misconceptions night or early in the about noise, the most morning. common being: In 2013/14 the The Council can’t stop me from playing The council received my music because I own my house. orce applies equally to more than 2,800 legislation we enf complaints – 1,600 everyone. I can make as much noise as I of them related Not the case, the noise like before midnight. shire to noise coming South Lanark resolution adopted by from a next-door neighbour. Council applies at all times of the day, seven “ Environmental days a week. I’ve told my neighbour I’m going to be having a party so they shouldn’t be Health Officers While it is good manners to don’t just work office complaining hours,” says EHO advise your neighbours - or even invite Gavin Neilson. “Some them - it doesn’t mean that you can make as much noise as you of these complaints are like. investigated by our night team which operates seven Although most to highlight awareness of days a week from 6pm until neighbourhood complaints noise problems and how to 3am. If Environmental Health to local authorities are about reduce the impact of noise “A lot of excessive noise Officers witness excessive unwelcome noise, research and encourage everyone to complaints occur late into noise from a property they has found that certain noise consider how they can avoid the evening and the early can issue a warning notice is important to everyone’s disturbing people living hours of the morning so that to the householder. However, happiness at home. nearby. is when we investigate to if they fail to reduce the But statistics also show Gavin says: “Although help make things better for noise, on-the-spot fines of that half-a-million people we are always available all our residents. £100 can be imposed and the move home each year for advice we also actively “The job does have its equipment causing the noise because of problems with promote The Noise Annoys interesting side though,” can be taken away. noise. message each year during admits Gavin. “It’s not “Imagine how you would Therefore, as well National Noise Action week. unknown for complaints of feel losing an expensive as enforcing the law “And we highlight the constant humming noises sound system just because regarding noise pollution, fact that noise can play a to result in the discovery of you wouldn’t turn it down a a big part of environmental significant role in our health cannabis farms!” bit?” Gavin asks. enforcement officers’ job is and wellbeing. 46 the reporter SHOUTABOUT NOISY NOUTEIGHBOURS Noise is a common cause of neighbour disputes but if you follow the advice below this could help avoid such disputes and allow everyone to enjoy life in their own way

try to run the machine at a Car and intruder alarms Loud music time when it will least disturb should have a 20-minute cut With amplified sound, neighbours; and remember the out. keep the volume down, final spin is the noisiest bit. especially the bass which Register a key holder for Do the vacuuming at a can be more annoying than your intruder alarm with reasonable time – especially higher frequencies. Don’t put your local authority who can if you live in a flat or terrace speakers on or close to shared be contacted if you are away if – and avoid early morning or walls, ceilings or floors. the alarm misfires. late night cleaning sprees when If you have a bedroom families could still be asleep. TV, keep it quiet at night – In the kitchen, try to avoid especially if your bedroom Environmental banging pans and cupboard adjoins someone else’s. Health If playing an Services across the UK instrument, practise have been dealing with where and when it will noise complaints for more have least impact on than 50 years applying neighbours. Play without legislation, including the amplifiers if possible noise provisions which and use mutes for wind were brought in by the instruments and pads and Antisocial Behaviour etc brushes on drums. (Scotland) Act 2004, If you really want which streamlines the to play loud music use handling of residential headphones – but be noise complaints. aware that turning it South Lanarkshire up could damage your Council’s Environmental hearing. Services lead on tackling all types of noise, from Barking Dogs late night DIY to barking Dogs do bark – but they dogs. only bark a lot if they Their expertise, are not content. If you advice and enforcement have to leave your dog options can help find alone, make sure it’s resolutions to a whole well exercised and fed. range of noise issues, from Some dogs like a radio for noise insulation testing company, or could you to noisy neighbours, “While noise is often get a friend or neighbour entertainment noise to sound that disturbs, irritates to look in? If your dog workplace noise, and continues to bark could you doors and avoid using much more besides. or annoys us, some sounds maybe consider dog training? blenders/grinders on surfaces If you are suffering from a can make us feel better, for attached to party walls. noise problem or wish advice instance our favourite music, Avoid putting your phone, 08457 40 60 80, natural sounds like birdsong Household refrigerator or freezer against email customer.enquiries@ a party wall – vibration from or the sound of the seashore. appliances southlanarkshire.gov.uk or, these can pass through the for further information log on “Understanding the When buying new appliances, try to buy a quieter model. structure. Vibration can to www.southlanarkshire. impact that noise has on our Not all models have a noise also pass through floors gov.uk health and learning that a rating – if they haven’t, ask – if you live in a flat avoid healthy noise environment why. If manufacturers make placing your fridge above a neighbour’s bedroom. If you need to make contact or a positive soundscape claims about noise they must after office hours please can make us happier and display an EU Energy or CE phone: 0800 24 20 24. conformity label. Alarms help improve health, is For washing machines, Ensure you choose a reliable n important.” More information at if possible, place on an even product and make sure www.southlanarkshire.gov. concrete floor; don’t overload alarms are installed properly uk/ASB it and spread the load evenly; and serviced regularly. the reporter 47 You can’t book flights on our website... but you can pay your rent or council tax

www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk The routine stuff is important too, so if you have internet access, please use our online payments for rent, council tax, parking fines and more. It’s available at anytime day or night. Don’t have internet access? Refuse, grounds maintenance Here’s a handy list of our main contact numbers and street cleansing 0303 123 1020 Payments 0303 123 1005 Conference and banqueting 0303 123 1009 Housing repairs 0303 123 1010 Bereavement services (cemeteries and crematorium) 0303 123 1016 Council tax and benefits 0303 123 1011 Parking 0303 123 1006 Council tax arrears 0303 123 1014 Customer Services Centre - Housing enquiries (except repairs) 0303 123 1012 for other enquiries 0303 123 1015 Crisis and Community Care grants 0303 123 1007 Out-of-hours emergency repairs Social Work and Money Matters 0303 123 1008 and homeless 0800 242 024

48 the reporter