Our City p1 16/11/11 17:46 Page 1

Stoke-on-Trent ISSUE 24: NOVEMBER 2011 Our City

Dancing Pull-out guide to city children’s centres Plates SEE CENTRE CITY’S DISPLAY WOWS THE CROWDS IN PAGES LORD MAYOR OF LONDON’S PARADE SEE PAGE 10 Our City p2 16/11/11 15:37 Page 1

2 Our City NOVEMBER 2011 Hoard treasure a tremendous springboard for promoting city jobs initiative

By City Council Leader Councillor MOHAMMED PERVEZ

MY trip to Washington to visit the Staffordshire Hoard exhibition and make some important connections was an important part of our drive to market Stoke-on-Trent to investors. The Hoard literally is a treasure and has drawn the world’s attention to our city and there will be many more opportunities for us to capitalise on that. During the trip I met the British A computer Embassy’s Trade and Investment Team generated artist’s who were impressed by our impression showing commitment to attracting investment the new bus station, with and creating jobs. the Victoria Hall in the They said the warm welcome and background, and City “can do” attitude we are promoting Sentral on the site of through our red carpet treatment was the current bus just what employers and investors station. were looking for. They also noted the positive way in which we support and nurture existing businesses, a factor which investors will seriously consider when relocating here. City centre regeneration turns a We are not the first local authority to be promoting itself in Washington, but it is a first for our city and is exactly what we should be doing to raise the area’s profile and attract new business. In the current global economic dream into a reality climate we need to shout from the rooftops, in the UK and around the ORK progressing on the retail and leisure destinations. city’s dreams into a reality. By hard work The development is the result of years of and perseverance by the council and private world, that Stoke-on-Trent is open city centre’s new bus hard work and negotiation by the council to sector partners we will see an investment of and ready for business. Wstation clears the way for the massive City Sentral attract a developer who will provide the hundreds of millions of pounds as the Congresswoman Marcia Fudge, who public transport hub and retail elements existing East West Precinct is demolished we met in the USA, was impressed by development at the former East including entertainment and food. and City Sentral is built. our Mandate for Change programme West Precinct. Birmingham-based Realis Estates will “We have often talked about the and our commitment to doing When the first buses pull into new bays pump around £350 million into the importance of transforming that part of the everything we can to create jobs and and boarding areas in Autumn 2012, long development, which will see a flagship new City Centre... now we, with our partners, bring in investment. awaited demolition work will start to M&S department store – three times bigger are delivering that plan, making our city’s Unless we continue to work hard transform the 1960s concrete old bus than the existing one – and a Vue multiplex main shopping area more attractive not only together, and push and push at every station into one of the UK’s most modern cinema surrounded by 80 stores, 11 food to local residents but also to people from half open door, we will not succeed. and drink units, an further afield who would previously have An important part of the council’s 80-bed hotel and gone elsewhere, attracted by a better offer.” business now is to generate the parking for over money we need to keep up the 1,000 cars. Back on the map momentum for change. Councillor Mark As work on the bus station gathers pace, The Government has made it clear Meredith, Cabinet Potteries Shopping Centre owners put there is limited additional money to Member for Economic forward proposals for their own extension Development said the enable councils to stimulate growth in called The Avenue, complete with an 8-10 appointment of the local economy. We are consulting screen digital cinema, six high quality contractors Vinci to on a total of £24million worth of build the new bus restaurants, attractive pedestrianised areas budget proposals to offset cost station was a and additional car parking. pressures, Government cuts and to landmark in the Councillor Meredith said: “A city of our invest in economic growth. regeneration of the size should be one of the top 30 retail We are identifying the services our City Centre. destinations in the UK, rather than outside citizens really need, removing He said: “The the top 50 as we are now. duplication and, by saving money, we progress on the “Developments of this quality will put will create funds to continue to grow. ground at the site of that right and put Stoke-on-Trent back on There is more information about the new bus station the map, where it should be, as one of the THE AVENUE... a proposed extension to the Potteries the choices we need to make and how means the process has top retail destinations in the region and you can have your say on page 13 of Shopping Centre complete with cinema and restaurants. started to turn the among the best in the country.” this issue of Our City. This is an important part of driving forward the accelerated development of our city to provide benefits for Live webcast of full council meetings Give us your feedback everyone who lives and works here. on this issue of MEETINGS of the full council can now be viewed online. To Our City is printed on Our City by emailing recycled paper.When see and hear the debates and decisions which affect life in you have finished with Stoke-on-Trent, visit stoke.gov.uk and click on webcasting. [email protected] this publication please A list of dates and times of council meetings and committee help the environment or write to: by passing it on to a meetings can be found on our website at FREEPOST Our City. friend or recycling it. stoke.gov.uk/meetingdates Our City p3 16/11/11 15:03 Page 1

NOVEMBER 2011 Our City 3 Volunteers Companies flock to city talks after needed for bloom plan VOLUNTEERS are being urged to come forward as a Potteries ‘let’s do business’call nature group prepares for next HE city’s dedicated year’s Britain in Bloom awards. investment development Friends of Trent Mill Nature Tservice is working with Mandate for Change Park at Joiners Square have more than 200 businesses on a plenty of imaginative ideas up their sleeves to further wide range of projects, with transform the park into a the potential to create winning entry for the Our hundreds of new jobs. Neighbourhood category. Since its launch in August 2010, But they need help as they the Make It Stoke-on-Trent Team work alongside council has fielded investment and development enquiries from Countryside Officers on the companies working in sectors such as site. Funding applications are light manufacturing, the automotive in as the Friends plan to supply chain and logistics. re-vamp the pond and build a Everything from planning support platform for pond dipping, and labour force costs, to purchasing plant a wild-flower meadow land and access to training and and construct an insect hotel. recruitment services has been Val Platt, who is Chair of the discussed. And if all the potential Friends and Manager of projects come to fruition it could see Eastwood Neighbourhood more than 1,000 new jobs created in Nursery, said:“The little the city. ones from the nursery The positive response is a major and children from boost to the work of the Make It Stoke-on-Trent Team, which Waterside Primary provides a one-stop-shop for inward are already investment and development. heavily involved And it ties in with the vision of the along with Mandate for Change initiative, which their mums aims to make Stoke-on-Trent a great and dads. working city by rolling out the “red “We have more carpet” treatment to potential working party days investors. planned between now and John Willis, Strategic Investment judging next July. Manager for the council, said: “The park is really bringing “These are positive, realistic the community together and enquiries which have the potential to be very good news for the city. that’s absolutely fabulous so SKILLS FOR anyone who would like to join A great place to invest THE FUTURE... in should get in touch.” “The Investment Development Apprentice Wiring ● For more information Team is working hard to provide Operative Aidan about Trent Mill Nature Park the kind of packages of support Rawlinson soldering and how you can help, call Val requested and draw on the precision connectors or Christine on 01782 283222 expertise available at the council in the training academy at or email enquiries@ and partner organisations to Tekdata’s new Festival eastwoodnursery.com tailor these packages to particular Park headquarters, needs. pictured below. “We are very enthusiastic about the kind of companies that have Woods mark approached us – including companies in the light manufacturing royal jubilee sector and in automotive parts. TWO woods are planned for “They are keen to take advantage of These include Tekdata Interconnections, All the relocation and expansion plans are Stoke-on-Trent as part of Stoke-on-Trent’s strategic location, with its which has moved to new state-of-the-art tailored to individual needs while small start excellent communications and connectivity premises at Festival Park and set up a new up business grants of up to £1,500 are celebrations for the Queen’s to the rest of the country, as well as the range training academy as part of the Reroot available to help fledgling firms. Diamond Jubilee in 2012. of development opportunities that are programme. The so called Diamond Woods available. Another example is Aerotherm, an For more information call the hotline to form part of the Woodland “The kinds of questions the team have industrial engineering group which expanded the city’s Investment Development Team Trust’s plan for 60 acres of new been asked to look into include enquiries into and relocated from Longton to a new base at 01782 234747 or visit stoke.gov.uk woodland across the country to receiving recruitment support through the Scotia Business Park, Tunstall. mark Her Majesty’s 60 years on award-winning JET programme, planning The move allowed the company to diversify the throne. support and advice and details on supply into three divisions and Aerotherm was The council plans to plant chains and labour force costs.” able to recruit and source native species like silver birch, He added: “The team is really getting the funding for new positions ash, hazel and oak on land through the JET message out there that Stoke-on-Trent and either side of Biddulph Road in its surrounding area is a great place to invest (Jobs, Enterprise Great Chell and Packmoor. and a great place to do business. and Training) “We have been attending conferences and programme. Another site has been chosen key business events across the country and off Fenpark Road in the Fenton are working with the local MPs and business East ward. support leaders to help generate interest. Both areas are currently open “We are also liaising closely with the space and mainly mown existing North Staffordshire business grassland. A two-month community because they have a big role to consultation earlier in the year play in banging the drum for the area too.” showed over-whelming On top of the new enquiries, many local support for the idea. businesses have also benefited from the kind The council has now applied of support packages that are on offer. to the Forestry Commission for These have helped many organisations to funding and plans community expand existing operations or to relocate to a bigger site in other areas of the city. planting events this winter. Our City p4 16/11/11 15:14 Page 1

4 Our City NOVEMBER 2011 Police thank public after crime raids OLICE have thanked residents whose vigilance and concern Pabout suspicious activity sparked a major operation which clamped down on criminals. Sixteen people were arrested during raids at 12 homes throughout the north of the city as part of Staffordshire Police’s enforcement day. The pre-planned operation involving 80 officers and support teams targeted people and properties believed to be involved in drug-related offences and crimes like burglary, robbery and vehicle theft. Police carried out the hard-hitting action as a result of community concerns about suspicious incidents taking place in properties in their neighbourhoods. Working with partnership agencies, they also targeted known drug users in a bid to get them into rehabilitation and “rat trap” vehicles were deployed in an attempt to catch thieves red- handed. Clamping down PC Jenny Dawson with evidence taken PC Anthony from one of the raids. Baddeley batters Inspector Martin Brereton, from Stoke-on- down a front door Trent North Local Policing Team (LPT), said: information. Without their support during the day of “This operation sends out a clear message to operations such as this would be enforcement arrests offenders that police are serious about tackling very difficult if not impossible.” carried out after drug-related and associated crimes like theft Detailed searches were concerns from and robbery and at the same time reassures carried out at each address the public. members of the public that we are clamping raided and high visibility down. patrols were carried out to “The enforcement day had a dual purpose. reassure local residents and keep them As well as targeting suspected drug dealers we informed with leaflets and have also arrested those we believe to be crime-reduction advice. involved in stealing or handling stolen goods. Warrants executed under the Misuse of There is a definite link between Class A and B Drugs Act were part of Staffordshire Police’s drugs misuse and this type of crime, which is Operation Nemesis, which is driving drug why both elements were targeted. crime out of the city. “The information we acted on was based on Inspector Brereton added: “This has been a the concerns of members of the public about very successful operation from the police’s suspicious activity in their communities. People point of view as well as the community’s. It drew up a wish list of their concerns – and we also sent out a message to criminals that their acted in a very positive way.” behaviour won’t be tolerated and enforcement PC Alan Inspector Brereton added: “I would like to days such as this will stop them in their tracks.” Woolridge take this opportunity to thank those members More enforcement days are planned for the posting flyers of the community who came forward with area as well as the rest of the city. to neighbours. Excitement mounts as lucky Torchbearers set to find out about their role in city’s Olympic dream ABOUT 20 lucky people chosen to carry the “This will go a long way to showing prospective Olympic Flame through the city in May will businesses just what facilities and infrastructure are find out they have been successful in the next already in place for them to make a success of few weeks. themselves in the city.” Local people nominated by friends, family The Flame will be kept burning all night at a secret and the community will take the Olympic location and will be guarded by officers from the Flame on its journey through Shelton, the City Metropolitan Police. Centre, Cobridge, Burslem and Middleport on Torchbearers will be contacted during December 30 and 31 May 2012. by the London Organising Committee of the The evening of 30 May will see a glittering Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) and celebration event with up to 15,000 people partners Coca-Cola, Lloyds TSB and Samsung. watching a stage show marking the Flame’s Sebastian Coe, Chair of LOCOG said:“We are passage through the city on its way to the thrilled to confirm that Stoke-on-Trent’s City Centre, London Games. Shelton, Cobridge, Burslem and Middleport will act Councillor Mark Meredith, Cabinet Member as host locations for the Olympic Flame, extending for Economic Development, said:“This route an invitation to people in Stoke-on-Trent to takes in five of our city’s wonderful communities welcome the Olympic Torch Relay during its journey and will mean residents, businesses and visitors around the UK. will get this once in a lifetime chance to see the “This is the UK’s moment to shine and I want to Olympic Flame alight in Stoke-on-Trent. encourage people across Stoke-on-Trent to start “The arrival of the Flame highlights Stoke-on- planning how they can be part of this once in a Trent’s ability to host events of international lifetime opportunity and show their support for the significance, galvanise public support for our inspirational Torchbearers chosen to carry the talented athletes and showcase Stoke-on-Trent on Olympic Flame as we count down to the start of the the national and international stage. Olympic Games.” Our City p5 16/11/11 15:12 Page 1

NOVEMBER 2011 Our City 5 Taking confident steps towards a better future for The Prince of Wales tries his hand at transferring with a little coaching from Transferer Bridget Dix, watched by our city entrepreneur John Caudwell, Ros Kerslake, Chief Prince Charles talks with Hand Dipper Executive of The Prince’s Regeneration Trust and Tim Christopher Kiff in the glazing Johnston of English Heritage. department. By City Council Chief Executive John van de Prince’s charities in talks over Laarschot

IT’S been three months since we launched our Mandate for Change and unveiled our vision to make Burslem regeneration Stoke-on-Trent a great working city by enabling and supporting ALKS are set to take passing the Wedgwood Institute. business. place between Prince Charles was taken on a Since then, as you will read Stoke-on-Trent City tour of the factory – the last T elsewhere in this issue of , Our City Council and The Prince of working steam-powered Victorian pottery in the UK – our Investment Development Wales’s charities including where he met many of the 40- Team are working with more than his Regeneration Trust strong workforce and tried his 200 businesses looking to base over new initiatives for the hand at delicate transfer work. themselves here or to expand regeneration of Burslem. The Prince said Middleport their current premises. Pottery was a “special and Trust officials have toured That work could lead to more unique” survival story and historic buildings in the Mother than 1,000 new jobs being created Town – including the iconic Burleigh was “incredibly popular in the short term, and is exactly Wedgwood Institute which is around the world”. standing empty and in urgent the kind of target we are aiming need of restoration. Expansion for. Incorporating the success of Councillor Mark Meredith, our existing schemes, like the JET He said: “I also want to try to (Jobs, Enterprise and Training) Cabinet Member for Economic see if we could use this Development, said: “We have remarkable place as a means of programme, we are creating an held preliminary discussions helping to gradually regenerate attractive landscape for potential with the Trust with a view to other parts of Burslem – and investors. involving them in projects in perhaps to spread things further Add to that the £2.5m we have Burslem and we would welcome into Stoke-on-Trent.” received from the Government’s the opportunity to take this Restoration and expansion Regional Growth Fund for forward.” work at the pottery will start transport improvements around The Prince’s Regeneration next year paving the way for the Etruria Valley, and we are rolling Trust has already invested £7.5 development of a visitor centre million to acquire and restore with the aim of attracting 30,000 out the “red carpet”to potential the Grade II*-listed Middleport visitors a year within five years. investors. Pottery and secure the It is envisaged the scheme could It will allow us to create a manufacturing future of the create around 100 jobs. development site with easy access current occupiers, Burgess, Ros Kerslake, Chief Executive to road and rail, meaning Dorling and Leigh – makers of of The Prince’s Regeneration manufacturers can guarantee easy the famous blue and white Trust, said: “We are very excited supply lines and that businesses Burleigh ware. about the prospects for are easily accessible for their staff And when The Prince of employees, suppliers and the and clients. Wales made a recent high-profile local community as a result of visit to Middleport Pottery to see this project. Middleport will act Couple that with the worldwide the work of one of his charities, as a catalyst for further acclaim that the Staffordshire his cavalcade made a detour regeneration in Burslem and Hoard gained during its stay in through Burslem town centre beyond.” Washington, and the links our Investment Development Team made whilst in the United States, and we have an ideal platform to bring the best to our city. We also had another royal visitor, HRH The Prince of Wales, who said, during his recent visit to Middleport Pottery, that he wanted business to be a catalyst for Stoke-on-Trent to regenerate itself. The Prince There is much more to do but chats with Prince Charles holds a Burleigh Dutch flower jug decorated we are certainly taking important Biscuit Ware with a Victorian blue bird pattern.The jug was one of two and confident steps towards a Selector presented to him during his visit to Middleport Pottery. better future for Stoke-on-Trent. Mary Adams. Our City p6 16/11/11 15:17 Page 1

6 Our City NOVEMBER 2011

Civic couple’s Costa coincidences prove again... it’s a small world A HOLIDAY trip to Spain by replied:“No. I live somewhere Stoke-on-Trent Lord Mayor better than here – Stoke-on-Trent!” Councillor Terry Follows and Lady Terry continued:“I said to him Mayoress Jacqueline Pearson ‘Well, in that case – I’m your Lord turned out to be proof of the old Mayor! And he said – you know, I adage “it’s a small world”. thought I recognised you.” On their first morning in the The angler and his wife – who resort of Benalmadena on the turned out to be Vic and Elaine Costa del Sol, the civic couple from Malcolm Close, Baddeley decided to head for the beach Green – were soon chatting away across the road from their hotel. with Terry and Jacqueline about Of hundreds loungers laid out all things Stokie. on the sands they choose two After a while, the two couples LITTLE conveniently placed in close left the beach together to stroll TREASURES... proximity to the beach snack bar. back to their hotels – or hotel, as it Year 2 pupils A few minutes had elapsed turned out, they were staying at Maddison Molloy, when a sun-tanned angler, fishing the same accommodation. Dennis Warr and Jalisa rod in hand, walked up the beach “We walked together to the Betton dressed up for from the sea and plonked on the hotel lift and – another their pirate themed lounger next to Terry and they coincidence – our rooms were on lessons. struck up a conversation. the same floor,”said Terry. Terry recalled:“I thought, as he “And then we discovered – was fishing, he was perhaps more would you believe it – our rooms permanently based in the resort – were next door to each other.That so I asked if he lived in set the trend for the week and we Benalmadena?” enjoyed a nice holiday To which the angler friendship with Vic and Elaine. School pirate crew scores Small world.” an ‘outstanding’ achievement WASHBUCKLING opportunities. Teachers have been and Kate’s royal wedding earlier pirates have given given more of a free rein to push this year.” young pupils the the boundaries and develop Glebe is one of many primary S programmes that really engage schools in the city which have cutting edge when it comes children and involve their parents. notched up early educational to the best possible start to “For instance,Year 2 children successes. their education. told us to they really wanted to St Augustine’s Catholic Children at Glebe Primary learn about pirates. Primary, Meir; Our Lady and School, in Fenton, have been So we set the question: “Are St. Benedict RC Primary, Abbey learning all about the escapades Pirates real” and wove it into all Hulton; St John’s CE, Trent Vale; of infamous seadogs and their aspects of the curriculum. Holden Lane Primary, Sneyd SignSign of of a a club club high seas adventures as a way of “All the subjects addressed Green; Carmountside Primary, making English, maths and issues around this. So, for Stoke; Crescent Primary, Meir; science lessons fun, as well as instance, in maths we worked on and St Gregory’s Catholic full of memories educational. compass bearings, directions and Primary, Longton are all full of memories Teachers devised a programme geometry. improving at Key Stage 1. IT’S not quite the Staffordshire ball that hung above the Chico’s that wove a pirates theme into the Push the boundaries The statistics are based on Hoard, but another treasure dancefloor. National Curriculum – and it has achievements in reading, writing, trove has been discovered Former DJ Ben Bowker played paid dividends. “It has made learning a lot of maths and science. which tells the story of a top alternative tunes at the The school has notched up fun while making sure the key colourful period in local history. club’s legendary Saturday night successes in the latest Key Stage 1 skills set down in the National Revellers with happy sessions. figures – which are based on the Curriculum are passed on.” memories of the popular Chico’s Ben, who runs twice-yearly achievements of five to seven year Nicky added: “Where possible nightspot – which enjoyed its sell-out reunion parties for olds. we really have tried to push the Make it swinging heyday between 1980 Chico’s members, said the sign And Glebe Primary was rated boundaries and make the work as and its closure in 2003 – have would be auctioned off and the as “Outstanding” by Ofsted relevant to the pupils as possible. and Inspectors, who said its innovative removed the old club sign from proceeds donated to charity. “For instance, part of the Click curriculum should be seen as a the building which will He added: “The treasures we programme is to study a famous flagship model for others to aspire person from the past. eventually be developed as part discovered when we went back Easy to. “Many schools will pick stoke.gov.uk of the City Sentral into the building for one last Deputy headteacher Nicky someone like Florence development. time brought back lots of Broomhill said: “Over the last Nightingale or William Report a While doing so they were memories. I’m glad we saved four years we have had a real Shakespeare but we went for housing repair: shown an old store room some of them and we’ll be overhaul of the curriculum and Princess Diana because it is stoke.gov.uk/ packed with reminders from the doing something special with we have introduced many more something the children can relate club, including the old mirror them in the future.” creative teaching and learning to, especially because of William housingrepair Our City p7 16/11/11 17:27 Page 1

NOVEMBER 2011 Our City 7 Powers used Hoard creates golden opportunity to reduce antisocial to forge US trade links behaviour

LITTERING gold from the POLICE powers to break up Staffordshire Hoard is groups of young people and Gproving a record-breaking even take them home have hit in the United States capital, slashed antisocial behaviour in and is helping Stoke-on-Trent to Fegg Hayes and Packmoor. forge US trade links. Since a Section 30 Dispersal One-hundred pieces have gone on Order was introduced in April display in Washington DC and became the this year, incidences of second most popular exhibition ever to antisocial behaviour fell by open at the National Geographic Museum almost 80 per cent. (second only to the Terracotta Warriors). Section 30 of the Antisocial Council leader Mohammed Pervez Behaviour Act 2003 contains headed a small delegation from the powers to disperse groups of council for the launch, and met key two or more people. business leaders to explain how the It also allows the police to council’s Mandate for Change is giving return a young person home if companies the red carpet treatment to they are under 16 years old invest in Stoke-on-Trent through and unsupervised in a public streamlined planning processes and tailored solutions for employers. place after 9pm. If they return Spencer Mahony, HM Consul director to the same place within 24 (south east) at the British Embassy in hours they can be arrested Washington said: “It was really useful to and prosecuted. hear from Stoke-on-Trent’s team face-to- The law applies if a police face. It is clear that Staffordshire has a lot officer has reasonable grounds to offer, and is the perfect hub for to believe that the presence or companies that don’t want to locate in behaviour of a group has London. It really helps having a personal resulted, or is likely to result, in visit because it gives me the confidence any member of the public MAN ON A MISSION... when speaking to US businesses to say being intimidated, harassed, Council Leader Mohammed that Stoke-on-Trent will look after you.” alarmed or distressed. Pervez on the steps of the Councillor Pervez explained Mandate In Fegg Hayes and Capitol Building in Washington for Change to Congresswoman Marcia Packmoor, police arrested DC, and below, Congresswoman Fudge in the House of Representatives. eight young people between Marcia Fudge tells Councillor She said: “Stoke-on-Trent is a great March and September this Pervez and Curator Deb Klemperer location for businesses to come into the year, seven of whom were that coming to Washington and UK community.Your city is doing referred to the council’s Youth everything it can to promote itself and promoting Stoke-on-Trent is exactly Offending Team. would seem like a natural fit to partner the type of profile raising work Fifty youths were taken with cities in the US. needed to attract business to the city. home with advice given to Landscape is changing them and their parents. In the “You are a progressive council.You have Staffordshire Hoard is a truly world class same period, 100 dispersal to be creative and innovative, in precisely treasure and the overwhelming response notices were issued, the ways you are doing, in order to keep from visitors in Washington mirrors that preventing groups of two or businesses because the landscape is here in Stoke-on-Trent. more people from gathering in changing so quickly.” “If we are serious about bringing jobs the area. The council delegation also met and investment opportunities to our city, Large quantities of alcohol representatives from the DC Chamber of then the meetings and contacts that we were also seized on three Commerce, which represents 1,700 have made in Washington are exactly the occasions from Tin Tunnel – a members, including Microsoft, FedEx and kind of thing that we should be doing. We popular meeting place. Google. As a result of the meeting, the have had a very encouraging response Inspector Martin Brereton North Staffordshire Chamber of Trade from the people we met in Washington, said Neighbourhood Officers will also be able to forge links with and we will be looking to promote our city had explained the reasons for chambers in Maryland and Virginia. The more and more, particularly to overseas the order to young people in markets, in order to show off the best team met the British-American Business schools and youth clubs and Association, which helps major companies Stoke-on-Trent has to offer.” develop UK-US business links. to local residents’ associations. During the four-day visit – which He said: “Together with our was paid for by National partners we have achieved Geographic, through an agreement Extra officers deployed on safer streets in excellent results and the to display the treasure – the team positive feedback we hear also met Destination DC, the run up to busy Christmas party season from the public is Washington’s tourism board to encouraging. promote Stoke-on-Trent’s world- EXTRA police officers are being deployed on the Up to four taxi marshals, also in high visibility vests “Local officers will continue leading ceramics companies and streets of Stoke-on-Trent over the festive period as and equipped with radios, will make sure people to patrol the Section 30 area explain how the Hoard is a global part of the latest Safer Nights operation. stay safe by using only licensed vehicles. tackling any issues and talking tourist attraction. Working with the city’s Nightlife Partnership, the Inspector Shaun Kerrigan, Deputy Commander for to young people to make sure Councillor Pervez said: “The police are leading an operation designed to help the Stoke-on-Trent Police Central Sector, said: “We’ve antisocial behaviour problems people stay safe while out having fun in the six been running these operations for about 10 years do not arise. towns over Christmas and the New Year. now and they are highly successful. “We would like to thank all Make it Officers will brief door staff and the managers of “The street pastors were really helpful last year members of the local pubs, clubs and nightclubs as they launch the and they’ll be out again supporting people who communities for working with 13-night operation from Monday, 19 December. need it and, if they have to, liaising with parents and us to reduce antisocial and They will check venues for underage drinkers partners and staying with people until they can get behaviour in Packmoor and Click while compliance visits are also planned to make them home. Fegg Hayes.” Easy sure licences are not being breached. Off licences “The aim of the partners involved in Safer Nights ● Neighbourhood Officers stoke.gov.uk will also be checked. is to reduce violence so we want to ensure people stage regular meetings for Street pastors, who took part for the first time last coming into town for a night out or to work are able residents to air their Apply for a local year, will be out again as they continue the work to do so in a safe and friendly way. concerns. Anyone unable to land search at: they have been carrying out on key nights all this “We’re here to help rather than hinder, we’re very attend the meetings can call stoke.gov.uk/ year.Two teams of four in high visibility jackets will community spirited but we won’t tolerate bad the local officers on 101 to offer advice and support to vulnerable people. behaviour.” searches arrange a chat. Our City p8&9 16/11/11 15:30 Page 1

8 Our City NOVEMBER 2011 Museums City centre hub provides the skills for bid for UK accolade jobs in retail industry THE city's four museums are NEW skills centre opportunities for local people.” looking for local people to vote has opened in the One of them is Jane Moss who for them as they bid to become A City Centre to train was offered a job as a receptionist the nation's favourite family people for jobs in retail. and customer advisor at The Store friendly museum. The Store in Tontine Street is after 20 years out of work while her The Potteries Museum & Art one of a growing network of daughter was growing up Gallery, Gladstone Pottery centres across the country offering She said: “I’d been looking for a Museum, Etruria Industrial training leading to national job for about four years. It was Museum and Ford Green Hall are qualifications and support for very disheartening. I felt like a second-class citizen because asking people to nominate them businesses. all I wanted to do was work. for the Kids in Museums award for Backed by TV shopping guru Mary Portas, it features conference I was in shock when I got encouraging and welcoming this job but it’s brilliant. families through their doors. facilities, two IT training suites and a mock shop. Its delivery partners This has given me my For the past two years, the life back.” Potteries Museum & Art Gallery are the National Skills Academy for Retail, Stoke-on-Trent City ● More information has been in the top six of the Council, Stoke on Trent College on courses and competition; being praised along and Jobcentre Plus. business support the way for its commitment to Councillor Mark Meredith, family learning and making sure is available by Cabinet Member for Economic calling 01782 children are still seen in Development, said: “This is a truly 238492 or going museums. exciting project in the heart of the The competition, sponsored by city. to www.the the Daily Telegraph, is now store.org.uk accepting nominations ahead of Thousands of new jobs next year’s judging. Nominations “Over the next few years the Jane must be in by Friday 2 December, retail sector in our city will be changing as developments like Moss, who 2011. visited the Store, ■ City Sentral bring thousands of To make a nomination, new jobs. The Store will be was helped to find a people can email helping to recruit staff for the job as a receptionist [email protected] high profile retail outlets that will and customer or post to Family Friendly fill the regional shopping centre. It advisor. Museum Award Kids in will provide a unique opportunity Museums, 49-51 East Road, for individuals to train and get the London, N1 6AH. skills to be able to secure retail jobs – creating local jobs and Our City p8&9 17/11/11 08:46 Page 2

NOVEMBER 2011 Our City 9

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www.flickr.com/photos/ stoke-on-trent/ Dr Chandra Kanneganti, the city’s Clinical Commissioning Group Lead for Thousands Non-Elective Care examines three-month-old Saira Khaiiq with mother Noren in touch on Akhtar from Cobridge at the Five Towns Surgery. social media THOUSANDS of web surfers are keeping in touch with the council through social media sites. As well as hearing up-to- Winter health advice helps patients the-minute news from big events like the Tour of Britain or a blow by blow account of full council meetings on Twitter, they can report issues and send feedback choose the right care which will be forwarded to the relevant council teams. From reporting a highways STOKE-ON-TRENT patients are medical staff and the patients themselves.” Street, Hanley, which is open from 8am to problem to having a say on He is reminding people that A&E is for 8pm, seven days a week, 365 days a year. No urged to get the right treatment in the council’s spending plans, the right place this winter. accident and emergencies only including registration is necessary and the centre can be conditions like choking, chest pain, loss of contacted on 0300 123 6759. Twitter and Facebook can be A wide range of NHS services are available a great way to send a point of in the Potteries which can often meet people’s consciousness, severe blood loss, broken Minor injuries can be treated at the bones, deep wounds or a suspected stroke. Haywood Walk-in Centre in Burslem. Call view right to the heart of minor needs and save them a wait in one of local Government. the busiest A&E units in the West Midlands. 01782 673500. Walk-in services NHS Direct on 0845 4647 is the place to The Facebook page has Doctor Chandra Kanneganti, the city’s For more minor issues like colds and go for health information and advice around links to news about council Clinical Commissioning Group Lead for coughs or medical advice and an the clock. Pharmacists can also offer advice services, as well as useful Non-Elective Care, said: “We get an average examination, patients should first make an on common winter illnesses and the best information from partners of 300 patients a day coming into A&E and appointment with their GP. If their surgery is medicines to treat them. that can rise to 360 during the winter. including Staffordshire Police closed, people should call the GP Out-of- People are being advised to keep a medical and NHS Stoke on Trent. “Of those, about 20 or 30 people will have Hours Service on 01782 719100 within 24 cabinet well stocked with cough and cold There is also a Flickr page minor ailments and they could go elsewhere hours. remedies, pain and indigestion relief and containing photographs for treatment. plasters so they can treat themselves for Walk-in services are available at the Hanley from council events and a “This would save a lot of time for both our Health and Wellbeing Centre in Stafford minor winter illnesses and injuries. YouTube channel which contains the video made to launch the council’s Mandate Free flu jabs advised for Anyone in one of the ‘at-risk’ for Change initiative in the groups is advised to visit Summer. their GP for a free flu jab. Web Editor Karen Steel people in ‘at-risk’ groups said: “We want as many HEALTH bosses are urging People can further protect people as possible to sign up “at-risk” people in Stoke-on-Trent themselves and those around as followers on Twitter or as to take up the offer of free flu them by practising good hand friends on Facebook so they vaccinations. hygiene with the “Catch it, Bin it, can use social media to keep Letters have been sent by GPs Kill it” technique, which involves in touch with what the to everyone over 65, pregnant covering coughs and sneezes council is doing. women and people with with a tissue, throwing it away “The sites are updated long-term conditions such as and then cleaning hands as soon several times a day and are heart problems, asthma, as possible with soap and water reaching out around the diabetes, multiple sclerosis and or an alcohol hand gel. world to give great publicity serious liver or kidney disease. Those not eligible for the free for Stoke-on-Trent. The offer is also open to those jab are being advised to contact “We welcome responses living in long-stay residential their local chemist as many are and feedback through social care homes or other long-stay offering flu vaccinations at a networks and the sites are care facilities. reasonable cost. monitored so we can try to The vaccination produces Anyone who believes they may respond as quickly as antibodies about a week to 10 have flu is asked to stay at home possible or pass the days after injection and protects if possible and call their doctor information on to relevant people for a whole year against for an assessment and advice on council teams.” similar seasonal flu viruses. what to do. Our City p10 17/11/11 08:51 Page 1

10 Our City NOVEMBER 2011 Dazzling display watched by millions OBBIE Williams, Sir signifying next year’s Stanley Matthews, visit of the Olympic Rchildren, our Lord Flame wowed Lord Mayor and even a lady the crowds on Mayor Terry the three mile Follows and Lady called Delilah gave a route round Mayoress Jacqueline “never-to-be-forgotten” the capital, Pearson are joined by vision of everything good and was Year 7 and 8 pupils from about Stoke-on-Trent when watched by a Trentham High School the city’s float took its place global TV for the Lord Mayor of in the Lord Mayor of audience. Graphics on London’s Parade. version of Stoke City’s negotiate their way round some parents were watching the parade London’s parade. the bus, which anthem, the Tom Jones classic surprises left by hundreds of and gave a rousing welcome, An open topped bus stylishly would be seen by Delilah to delight the crowds. horses in the parade. complete with flag-waving. decorated with city icons like Sir millions worldwide, promoted the Councillor Follows had been Councillor Follows said: “It Dancer Bekha Kilincarslan, said: Stan, Robbie, the Spitfire, world city’s business hotline telephone invited to represent the city in the was the most amazing day and we “It was such a great honour to famous ceramics and a flame number and the fact that parade by Lord Mayor of London were overwhelmed by the represent Stoke-on-Trent in such Stoke-on-Trent is a great place to David Wootton, who has a soft reception we were given by the an amazing event. It was and COVER PICTURE: dancers Melissa do business. spot for Stoke-on-Trent and crowds. always will be a truly memorable Potts aged 18, wearing a Lord Mayor Councillor Terry whose father lives in Burslem. “It was a day of smiles and experience.” Follows, who invited 12 students A dazzling display by dancers pride for everyone who took part, Moorcroft costume, and Kate ● from Trentham High School to from the Jill Clewes Academy, and the children from Trentham Councillor Follows was invited Sanders-Peppitt aged 19, whose join him on the bus, beamed with wearing costumes representing High School were tremendous back down to London two days plate shows an Emma pride all the way round the plates from the biggest names in ambassadors for the city.” later to attend the Lord Mayor of Bridgewater pattern. Both were three-and-a-half hour route. Stoke-on-Trent ceramics, was Among the many high points London’s glittering banquet in part of Stoke-on-Trent’s colourful The children, aged between 11 among the most photographed was when the bus drove past Whitehall. The dinner was display in the Lord Mayor of and 13 waved their city flags and performances of the day... even grandstands at St Paul’s addressed by Prime Minister London’s Parade. even started an impromptu though the dancers did have to Cathedral, where the children’s David Cameron.

Fostering and Do you have a child celebrating their third FREE Adoption in early education birthday between for three and four year olds Stoke-on-Trent September and December of this year? Making a If so, your child is entitled to receive up to 15 hours a week of FREE Early Education from January 2012. difference Early Education is part of the foundation stage and helps children to develop a strong basis for future learning. Early Education can help your child to learn through hands-on activities and play, supported by staff who understand how ☎ children grow, learn and 01782 develop. To find out more, including 234555 a list of local childcare settings who deliver Free Early Education, contact the

tel: 0800 015 1120 or 01782 232200

stoke.gov.uk/fostering stoke.gov.uk/adoption stoke.gov.uk Our City p11 17/11/11 09:05 Page 1

NOVEMBER 2011 Our City 11 Personal budget puts Charlotte in control of care Fire safety TOKE City fan Charlotte Mountjoy campaign Sis highly educated, loves the theatre, having steps up a laugh and making her own choices like any alarm drive independent young woman. The 34-year-old goes to watch FIREFIGHTERS are launching the Potters when she can, takes a new campaign to remind the train to Birmingham, people to test their smoke Manchester and London, and detector batteries every enjoys the cut and thrust of week. politics. The Jane Austen classic The lifesaving Push the Persuasion is her favourite book. Button campaign simply She has a degree from asks residents to check their Staffordshire University in alarms by pushing the test European Culture and Cultural button once a week. Studies and a Masters in Social If the batteries are OK the and Cultural Theory. She also has cerebral palsy and uses a alarm will sound – if not, wheelchair. they need replacing. Her condition can be limiting To follow on from last but it did not stop her moving the year’s launch – which 166 miles from Glastonbury to featured a fire safety-related the Potteries when she was 18. version of the Sugababes’ Charlotte has built her own life hit Push the Button – since then and now has added Staffordshire Fire and independence thanks to Rescue Service has even Personalisation – the Government launched a smartphone app policy which has given her which can be downloaded complete control of her own from the internet and will finances and budget. issue a weekly reminder. She is now paid directly each Fire safety officers month through social care and the Independent Living Fund launched the campaign administered by Stoke-on-Trent INDEPENDENT after it was revealed that City Council, an arrangement WOMAN... although nine out of ten that enables her to make her Charlotte Mountjoy households have smoke own care choices. pictured with one of alarms, a shocking seven out Charlotte, who has lived in her three personal of ten never test them. the same adapted flat in assistants, Pippa Staffordshire Fire and Fenton for 13 years, now Birch. Rescue Service asked the employs three personal assistants public to send in their tips and uses some agency care staff. on how to remember to She also has an advisor who Push the Button.The most supplies pay slips and helps with imaginative – which won a advertising if she ever needs staff. family day out at Alton A real inspiration Towers – was to tape a She said: “The traditional weekly lottery ticket next to system of care meant I had the alarm, and every time agency staff coming in every few I was worried about organising you renew it, to push the hours which meant I wasn’t “” button! always able to do what I wanted Risk Reduction Manager when I wanted. That’s not to my own cover at first in case of Dave Steele said last year’s criticise the agencies. It just pop song campaign had wasn’t right for me. emergencies but started off one day attracted tens of thousands “I was worried about organising of hits on YouTube and the my own cover at first in case of a week which helped me get used to fire service’s website, and emergencies but started off one this year the aim was to day a week which helped me get it. Now it’s much more flexible than build on its success. used to it. He said: “We want to ask “Now it’s much more flexible members of the public ‘How than it was before and I employ it was before and I employ people will you remember?’ in an people who I want to be in my house.” who I want to be in my house. attempt to encourage She now contacts her care team weekly smoke alarm testing to provide support at staggered CHARLOTTE MOUNTJOY to become part of a intervals seven days a week resident’s weekly routine. between 9.30am and 7pm. An “We want to ensure that agency night carer pops in around Janet lives in Northwich, she has by the council’s Physical Their individual wishes and the public are always as safe four brothers and a sister and is desires are actively promoted 9pm. One of her personal Disability and Sensory as possible from fire in their aunt to three nieces and a Impairment Team – a team of within their community care assistants, Pippa Birch, 43, said of own homes.” nephew. social workers who are committed assessments. Working with her employer: “She’s a real ● Staffordshire Fire and inspiration, just how confident she “Life is a lot more flexible for to providing the right services for Charlotte was a great pleasure Rescue Service’s is and how she lives her life. She’s me now,” said Charlotte. “I’m in people with disabilities while and it’s been so fulfilling for all of amazing to work for.” control so I’ve been to Stratford encouraging them to be us to stand back and see her do smartphone app costs 59p Charlotte now has plenty of to see A Midsummer Night’s independent. so well.” to download and all the time for her own interests and Dream and I went to Tutbury Social Worker Michelle For more information on money raised will go to the enjoys seeing her family, most of Castle near Derby for a special do Beaman, who worked with Personalisation, call Firefighters’ Charity. whom have moved to the to watch the Royal Wedding.” Charlotte for two years, said: 0800 561 0015 or go to To find out more visit www. Potteries and Cheshire. Her mum Her care package is monitored “Our team see the person first. stoke.gov.uk/socialcare staffordshirefire.gov.uk Our City p12 16/11/11 16:02 Page 1

12 Our City NOVEMBER 2011 City parents sign up to City’s Tour of Britain stage draws use online applications OVER half the parents applying record ITV audience for a September 2012 XCITING TV coverage secondary school place in of this year’s Tour of Stoke-on-Trent have made EBritain stage through their application online. Stoke-on-Trent attracted a Primary school, reception record-breaking audience. class and nursery class online Almost three quarters of a admissions have also already million people tuned in to ITV doubled at this stage, although 4’s coverage showing highlights the increase is expected to be of the 80 mile stage which began even greater by the time the at Trentham Gardens and application deadlines are finished with a dramatic sprint through the city centre. reached. A total audience of 719,000 The changes come following made Stoke-on-Trent the most- a continued push to reduce the watched stage this year, followed number of paper applications by the Welshpool to Caerphilly received and to help the stage, which attracted an process become more efficient audience of 649,000. and error free. The figures represent a record Using the online system for the four-year period the event means that data does not have has been shown on ITV4 and to be re-entered and applicants was 250,000 more than watched receive an instant receipt by the televised Stoke-on-Trent email. stage last year. Organisers are delighted with Parents can also amend their the statistics, released by the preferences online at any time Broadcasters’ Audience Research before the application Board, which indicate the UK’s deadline. growing fascination with cycling. Councillor Debra Gratton, Hugh Roberts, Chief Executive Cabinet Member for Children’s of the Tour of Britain, said: “The Services, said:“By submitting figures all over the country were an application via the internet vastly up on last year, with it allows for the whole process Stoke-on-Trent breaking records. to go through quickly and “Nearly three quarters of a efficiently while also allowing million is on a par with ITV4’s for changes to be made Tour De France figures. It is instantly if mistakes have been great news for everyone and shows that the event and the made. sport is growing rapidly in “On top of this it saves time popularity.” and money sending application forms by post. £3.5million impact ● Secondary applications have This year’s event was the fourth now closed. Nursery time the Tour of Britain has applications have to be back come to Stoke-on-Trent, Olympic by Friday 2 December, and with more and more favourite Mark reception applications need to local people coming out Cavendish, in gold be returned by Monday 16 to watch each year. jersey, leads the field In September Mark January, 2012. out of Trentham Cavendish took part in Applications can be made Gardens at the start online at stoke.gov.uk/ the race, using it as a warm-up event for the of the Stoke-on- admissions World Championships a Trent stage. week later – which he duly won. recognition after being many people tuned into our stage Our leg of the Tour Series has Young writers Since then Cavendish, a awarded a runner’s up place in a shows how popular cycling is in been judged a better event than favourite for Olympic Gold next competition run by sponsors this region and how good a job the one in Canary Wharf by celebrate city July in London, has joined Team Halfords for the Tour Series our team do in putting it on with sponsors. Sky which increases the chances Event back in June. partners. “This shows exactly what the YOUNG writers are being of the 20-times Tour De France The award was based on the “It is great to see Stoke-on- city is capable of and is reward encouraged to pick up their Stage winner taking part in his supporting events, promotion Trent setting records and that for everyone’s good work.” pens to celebrate their cultural home tour each year. and effort. Stoke-on-Trent was our Events Team has also been Mike Herbert, Regional heritage. Initial reports suggest that the judged second out of eight recognised for their excellent Director for St Modwen who Write the World encourages Tour resulted in a net economic venues. work is fantastic. own the Trentham Estate, said: young people to create a piece impact of over £3.5 million for Councillor Mark Meredith, “London has a stage of the “It is fantastic that so many inspired by documents the Stoke-on-Trent and Cabinet Member for Economic Tour of Britain and also a leg of people watched the stage on normally housed in the city’s Staffordshire region, with further Development, said: “All of this is the Tour Series and more people television – and a record too! archives department.These results expected next week. really good news. watched on TV to see our city’s “It was a wonderful day, it is a “This year’s cycle events have Tour of Britain stage than they great event and let’s hope we can will be on display at a special In further good news, the city council Event’s Team has won been better than ever. That so did for the one in the Capital. bring it back next year.” event for young people in the archives section of the City Central Library. The library service wants young people between the Changes to festive bin collections announced ages of 11 and 20 to join in. A prize of £100 will be awarded THERE will be no bin collections in not fit in the bin will be collected as long Both sites are open every day except for to the winning entry. People Stoke-on-Trent between Monday 26 as it is securely bagged. Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s looking to take part can December and Friday 30 December Residents can still take their waste to Day. Normal waste collections begin again contact Anne Mackey on 01782 inclusive. Bins due to be collected during either of the city’s two household waste on Monday 2 January, 2012. 238401 or anne.mackey@ that week will be collected on the usual and recycling centres at Campbell Road, For more information please log on to stoke.gov.uk for more details. day the next week. Extra waste which will Hanford and Federation Road, Burslem. stoke.gov.uk or telephone 01782 234000. Our City p13 16/11/11 16:10 Page 1

NOVEMBER 2011 Our City 13 Councillors face the challenge of proposing a budget which meets the strictest cutbacks imposed by the Government for decades while generating cash to invest in a city reinventing itself successfully as a great place to do business and create jobs. Here Our City reports on the council’s commitment to continue to transform Stoke-on-Trent while listening to the people and investing hundreds of millions of pounds in the services they need... Budget 2012/13

BIG NAME EMPLOYERS... the Vodafone complex at Festival Park, where more land will be opened up to create jobs through a £2.5million grant from the Regional Growth Fund to further develop the business park.

Council budget savings will help Cabinet tour city to hear drive city growth initiatives public views MEMBERS of the cabinet are out ILLIONS of direct government cuts and save attract inward investment and investing £75.6million during the and about in the city listening pounds worth of to invest proposals will generate create confidence that this city is current financial year in the to people’s views on how the savings achieved an additional £5million for a great place to do business. Building Schools for the Future savings can be made. M reinvestment in the city’s future “This is not an easy time for by the council for the next programme. A series of public meetings which will be used to lever in any local authority, but by Work on the new Reach Short are being staged to give people financial year will not only more money from partnerships working with elected members, Stay facility at Trent Vale started balance the books but will the opportunity to have their and the private sector. council staff, our partners and the on site in January 2011 and will say before final decisions are also provide the funding to In setting the budget, public we will deliver a budget be completed in February 2012. made. Councillor Pervez said priorities that people understand, and can continue the city’s This school will act as a hub for Meetings will take place will remain focused on the see why we have made certain transformation. students with behavioural, throughout the city and details As Government spending cuts services the public need, as well decisions, even if they do not emotional and social difficulties. as the drive to create jobs and agree with all of them. will be posted on the council continue to bite, and Whitehall To date work has started to website at stoke.gov.uk attract new employers and rebuild seven high schools and has made it clear there will only Ambitious programme Council Leader Councillor be limited additional funding to investment. before the end of March 2012 drive the regeneration of areas He said: “The Government “We are totally committed to construction will start at another Mohammed Pervez said it was like North Staffordshire, the gave us a two year settlement with an ambitious capital programme seven, with work starting at two important that the public council has set its stall out to find some deep cuts which we have and to spending hundreds of more in 2012-13. shared their views on the the cash it needs to see through been forced to implement. millions of pounds on services the Almost £8.5million has been council’s spending priorities its ambitious Mandate for “We recognise that moving people of our city need.” spent on providing new facilities and let councillors know the Change programme. forward with confidence we need As councillors work to put for 14 primary schools. services they used and valued. Council Leader Councillor to stimulate growth within our together a budget to take the city The CoRE Centre of Councillor Pervez said: “We Mohammed Pervez explained city and it is therefore important forward, growth initiatives Refurbishment Excellence at will listen to our customers and that the cabinet needed to find a that some of the savings we make included in last year’s budget are Longton opens its doors to its will also explain our priorities, further £24million for the year are used to reinvest in key coming to fruition. first students in January and will what we want to achieve and 2012-13, but that some of that projects to create much needed Work has now started on the create tradespeople with the skills how the decisions are made to money saved would be reinvested jobs and stimulate the economy. multi-million pound new bus required by local employers. set a budget which works for in vital initiatives to boost the “Things are going to get tighter station which will be a catalyst for The council’s partners have Stoke-on-Trent. city’s future. and tighter from a financial point the transformation of the city provided boosts with the opening “We know we cannot please The proposed £24million of view but on the other hand we centre. of the £350million superhospital, everyone, but our residents figure, made up of cost pressures, have started a programme to The council is committed to and health centres at Cobridge, should be assured we have the Tunstall and Meir. city’s long term interests at Councillor Pervez added: “It is heart and are striving to build a clear we need to make tough stronger future for us all.” Spending and saving proposals announced decisions to make the savings. We are committed to continuing to ● Please note that because of THE current budget adds up to a massive £656 million It is hoping to invest an additional £5million in its invest in our city and providing pre-agreed production and to be spent on the services people need including Mandate for Change initiatives through a combination more of the kind of landmark distribution schedules, some education, waste collection, social care, benefit of income generation, including council tax and savings developments already delivered households will not receive payments and regenerating the city. proposals. which will continue to improve this issue of Our City until after In spite of the cuts and difficult financial conditions The consultation proposes savings of almost quality of life. some of the meetings have the council is also investing almost £183.5million on £21million across the following departments: Adult and “All this will help us to sustain taken place. Anyone who capital programmes to provide new buildings and Neighbourhood Services – £5.8million; Children and and accelerate the Mandate for misses a meeting or is unable facilities across Stoke-on-Trent. Young People’s Services – £5.1million; City Renewal – Change initiative promoting to attend can make their In order just to stand still, the council needs to find £4.6million; Business Services – £4.2million; Chief Stoke-on-Trent as a great place to comments by writing to £19million but its ambitions are greater than that. Executive’s Office – £1.1million. do business, create jobs and Freepost Our City or emailing attract new investment.” [email protected] by Find out more: visit stoke.gov.uk or twitter.com/SoTCityCouncil 23 December 2011. Our City p14 16/11/11 16:15 Page 1

14 Our City NOVEMBER 2011 Figures show city’s adoption success story NATIONAL adoption figures published by the Government have highlighted two areas where Stoke-on-Trent City Council is succeeding. The city is rated 14th for percentage of children adopted and 8th for special guardianships achieved. It means the city is amongst the highest ranked in the country when it comes to placing children in permanent care. The figures, released by the Government as part of National Adoption Week, also show that the city council is reaching the top third for children being adopted within a set timescale. The city council has also increased its number of adoptions year on year. In Designer 2010-11 there were 35 and maker children adopted compared Ruth Spaak, left, to 30 the year before and with participant Kelly another 14 have been Rowley and their adopted since April 2011. ceramic artwork made There are also 20 children from found and currently living with their waste goods. new families awaiting their final adoption hearing. Councillor Debra Gratton, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People’s Services, said:“It’s good to see that we are doing well, particularly when it comes to getting children into permanent homes. Partners prove clay can be “It means that children who leave our care have a good chance of going into a stable environment and finding a family who will support them in the long term. “We do though; need to the best medicine acknowledge that there are many areas we can improve on. AMILY doctors’ patients can Patients taking part are being given the “Older children obviously have sign up to a series of ceramic chance to learn a range of ceramic different requirements than Fdesign workshops as part of a processes and skills, with the aim of creating younger ones and can be more pilot project to boost health a unique piece of ceramic work for the difficult to place, so we need people surgery. to come forward and say that they through art therapy. Techniques used are inspired by the local want to adopt. The new “clay on prescription” project is art of ceramic flower-making made famous “We also need more people to being trialled at the Willow Bank Surgery, by firms such as Aynsley China and volunteer as foster carers, as they Longton, throughout the Autumn. Gladstone Pottery. can often provide the grounding a Patients are given the opportunity to British Ceramics Biennial – a six-week Councillor Mark Meredith, Cabinet child needs before permanent enrol on a programme of creative classes festival which showcases the best of Member for Economic Development, said: adoption. with a resident artist. The objective is to see contemporary artists. “This is a unique and exciting opportunity “Overall, we must continue to try whether taking part will help to relieve Resident artist Ruth Spaak said: “This is for people to improve their general symptoms such as anxiety, stress or an exciting partnership and a fantastic and help as many children as wellbeing through art. depression. opportunity for the city. “The use of art therapy isn’t a new possible and we are firmly If successful the aim is to roll out the “Art is a very therapeutic process and I concept but this is a unique partnership for committed to making sure every innovative programme to other surgeries think patients find it an enjoyable and the city that uses one of our biggest assets – child in need of adoption in the city across the city. interesting healing process. It is certainly a ceramics – to provide natural benefits to gets the right care and support.” The project is being run as part of the different and unique treatment.” residents.” Building work starts at school Campaign to protect vulnerable adults WORK has started on another A CAMPAIGN has been launched as elderly people or adults with Commissioning, said:“Around 80 “Without calls from friends, school being transformed under the to better protect vulnerable learning difficulties.The training per cent of the calls we receive family and neighbours the city’s programme to provide 21st adults across Stoke-on-Trent is ongoing. about possible abuse come from problems might go unreported Century learning facilities. from physical, emotional and A Safeguarding Hub is due to professionals. and people will suffer. A £3million project will see a new financial abuse. be launched in December to “However friends, families and “We want to work together sports hall and refurbished It comes after a survey share information with partners, neighbours spend more time with the residents of Stoke-on- classrooms at Aynsley School in revealed people did not including the police, the county with vulnerable adults than Trent to make sure that Blythe Bridge as part of the understand the full extent of the council, NHS Stoke on Trent, professionals do. vulnerable adults are safe Building Schools for the Future problem, were fearful of raising private sector providers and the “Sometimes they notice wherever they live and whoever (BSF) programme. any concerns they might have voluntary sector. something which is not quite is caring for them.” Head Teacher Angela Hardstaff and did not know who they A campaign on Signal I and 2 right but they don’t recognise it ● To report any suspicions of said: “Pupils are following progress should contact. highlighted the range of abuse as possible abuse. abuse call the Adult Social Care and are enjoying making some of More than 1,200 council staff vulnerable adults can suffer. “We want to increase Centre on 0800 561 0015 or the decisions about what their have already been trained to Councillor Olwen Hamer, awareness about the signs of [email protected] school will look like.” spot possible problems involving Cabinet Member for Adult Social neglect, emotional abuse and For more information about people who may be at risk, such Care, Health and financial abuse. abuse visit stopabuse.info Our City p15 16/11/11 16:23 Page 1

NOVEMBER 2011 Our City 15 WARNING ISSUED TO DO-IT-YOURSELF ENTHUSIASTS AS OFFICERS UNCOVER CATALOGUE OF DISASTERS

A bedroom with no lights and no electricity supply... The ceiling in this loft conversion was about 3ft from the A staircase made out and no heating. It all adds up to an illegal DIY disaster. floor and the space had no safe stairs access. of spare bits of wood. Public asked for views on Householders urged to ensure bus passes MEMBERS of the public are being consulted over new plans for free bus passes. At the moment pass DIY work is lawful holders can take advantage of an enhanced scheme OUSEHOLDERS funded by the council, which considering DIY is above and beyond the Himprovements to their Government’s concessionary homes are being warned to fares scheme. It means they check thoroughly that they can access free travel 24 are not breaking the law. hours a day, seven days a Every year Environmental Health week. However, the council is Officers are called in to inspect considering adopting a dozens of properties where statutory only scheme, residents or landlords have made bringing it in line with illegal alterations – often national guidelines. inadvertently. This would allow residents Everything from unsafe, open to travel for free between plan staircases and faulty electrical the hours of 9.30am and wiring jobs to party walls or 11pm, Monday to Friday, and extensions without planning permission are spotted, and the all day at weekends and mistakes can cost the homeowner a bank holidays. lot to be put right. Following consultation However, by planning ahead and and approval by full council, discussing any changes with the new scheme will be planning experts people can avoid introduced on 1 April 2012 making mistakes in the first place. and all pass holders would The warning comes after a be affected, regardless of resident from Abbey Hulton was whether they have a senior banned from living in his own citizen pass or a disabled home after carrying out a persons pass. staggering range of potentially People can make dangerous and illegal alterations. comments about the Investigation proposal by writing to The man, who was renting out Concessionary Fares Scheme the house to a private tenant, was Officer, Safe and Sustainable successfully prosecuted following a Transport, Stoke-on-Trent City Council, Floor 3, Civic detailed investigation by council Senior Centre, Glebe Street, Environmental Health Officers. Environmental Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 1HH The inspection found the Health Officer house in Uplands Road had no Simon Anderson heating or fixed lighting, no kitchen provision, low headroom inspects a and not enough space to sleep in properly-built Bulbs set to a converted loft used as a staircase. bedroom. brighten park There was also no fixed form of stairs to the loft and no handrail or SCHOOLCHILDREN are guards on the ground floor stairs, planting bulbs in a city park all electrical sockets were moved to inspect. Often we deal with rails can be a hazard to a child or For more information on as more than 35,000 new one central downstairs location and properties being excessively cold older person. Electrical work carrying out DIY work, plants are brought into a chimney was unsupported after due to poor heating or insulation. should only be carried out by a homeowners are urged to Burslem to create a year of the breast column was removed. Another common problem is registered installer and the same speak to the council’s colour. Up to 30 pupils from Senior Environmental Health staircases. applies to fitting double glazing.” Planning Team on 01782 Mill Hill Primary, St Margaret Officer Simon Anderson said: “In these cases we not only have Simon added: “Even if these Ward, Jackfield Infant “Clearly this is an extreme case. 238947 or log onto the to take into account the health and problems are not picked up by an School and Moorpark Infant However we do find some of the safety of the homeowner but also Environmental Health Officer, the website stoke.gov.uk and underlying problems encountered visitors. For instance an open plan owners will have difficulties when search for building School have visited Burslem at this property at other houses we staircase without any protective they come to sell the house.” regulations. Park to plant bulbs ready for the new year. Our City p16-17 16/11/11 16:24 Page 1 PULL OUT GUIDE TO CHILDREN’S CENTRES ACTIVITIES NORTH LOCALITY CHILDREN’S CENTRES Families welcome to SOUTH LOCALITY CHILDREN’S CENTRES 01782 01782 01782 238989 take part in packed 01782 231096 231815 596421 Ball Green Primary School,Whitfield Road,Ball Green ST6 8AJ Vale Park,Hamil Road,Burslem,Stoke-on-Trent ST6 1AW Pinewood Crescent,Meir,Stoke-on-Trent ST3 6HZ activity programme Oakwood Road,Blurton,Stoke-on-Trent ST3 3AR MONDAY OTHER SERVICES MONDAY FRIDAY MONDAY THURSDAY EVERY family in Stoke-on-Trent ● family support MONDAY THURSDAY ▲ Stay and Play Drop-In 9:30-11am Toy Library Crèche 9:30-11am Lets Get Creative 9:30-11am ▲ Crèche Training,Volunteering Midwife Clinic 9-1pm ● Midwife Clinic 9-1pm Growing Together 9:30-11am (Messy play Drop-In,please bring a can make the most of a great specialist support for children and Respite 9-11:30am Crèche Training,Volunteering TUESDAY Volunteering Programme Maths Course 9:30-11am (0-5yrs,book at reception) change of clothing) range of services and facilities at with additional needs Jo Jingles (1-5yrs,£2 per family,term Parent Forum 9:30-11.30am & Respite 9-11:30am Jumping Beans (Ask at reception) Start Up Literacy 12:30-2:30pm Adult Learning 12:45-2:45pm the city’s children’s centres. ● outreach workers time,book at reception) 11:15-Noon Jo Jingles (£2,book) 10-10:45am Child Health Clinic 9-11am Tiny Talkers Stay and Play Drop-In 1-2:30pm Childminders Stay and Play Drop-In (Ask at reception) The teams reach out into their ● information for Growing Together 1-2:30pm Little Sunshine Group 1-2:30pm Job Club – Merit 1-3pm (Weston Heights Community Centre) (Childminders only) 12:45-2:45pm (Grange Children’s Centre 0-5yrs,Drop-In) Crèche 12:45-2:45pm TUESDAY local communities to support parents (0-5yrs,book at reception) Jabadao 0-12mths 12:45-1:45pm Numeracy 9:30-11:30am OTHER SERVICES ● Baby Club 2-3pm FRIDAY Crèche 9:30-11am families and give children the very activities to 1-2yrs 2-3pm Literacy 12:30-2:30pm Toy Library TUESDAY (Blurton Health Centre) Little Sprouts Stay and Play English Course 9:30-11am best start in life. help parents and carers TUESDAY (At The Community House) (Ask at reception) Volunteering Programme But anyone is welcome to pop get back to work. Baby Clinic 9:30-10:30am FRIDAY ▲ Gardening Group (0-5yrs) 1-2:30pm Midwife Clinic 9-1pm FRIDAY Growing Together 1-2:30pm Jumping Beans into their local centre and take Each children’s centre also (Hollybush Community Centre) Growing Together 9:30-11am Caudwell Children Family Support Crèche Training,Volunteering (Referral only) Tiny Talkers part in one of the dozens of delivers additional services (0-5yrs,book at reception) Service (Drop-In,22 Nov)9:15-11:30am activities featured on this pull out tailored to meet local needs. WEDNESDAY Birth Preparation 10-Noon and Respite 9-11:30am WEDNESDAY Play and Stay 9:15-10:45am Fitness/Zumba 9:45-10:45am and keep special feature. There are even opportunities Job Club 9:30-12pm (First Fri every month) (Weston Coyney Infants School) Stay and Play Drop-In 9:30-11am (Book at reception) Children’s centres provide a to volunteer and learn new skills (Hollybush Community Centre) Baby Signing 10:30-11:30am Child Health Clinic 9:15-11:30am THURSDAY range of services including: that could lead to qualifications, a Jabadao (4,11,18 Nov,ask at reception) Job Club – Merit 10-12pm Growing Together (0-5yrs) 9:30-11am (Weston Heights Community Centre) Tiny Explorers Baby Group ● childcare and children's learning job or career change. 0-12mths 9:15-10:15am Growing Together (Newstead Primary Busybodies 9:30-10:15am Growing Together 0-5yrs 1-2:30pm (0-18mths) 9:30-11am and development Contact details are included 1-2yrs 10:30-11:30am School,term time only) 1:30-3pm (Meir Park Playgroup) Baby Massage Drop-In ● health services with each centre’s calendar. Baby Clinic OTHER SERVICES Baby Club 10-11.30am OTHER SERVICES Blurton Children’s Centre 11-12pm 9:30-10:30am Outdoor Play Area (open every day) WEDNESDAY Baby Massage (Call 01782 596421) Blurton Health Centre 1:30-3:30pm ▲ Adult Learning 12:45-2:45pm Baby Massage Midwife Clinic 9-1pm Cook and Eat (Ask at reception) Start Up Numeracy 12:30-2:30pm Volunteering Programme Crèche Training,Volunteering Triple P Crèche 12:45-2:45pm CENTRAL LOCALITY CHILDREN’S CENTRES Parent Forum 1-2:30pm Parent Forum and Respite 9-11:30am Volunteering Programme

01782 01782 01782 01782 01782 01782 236333 231096 01782 238352 237650 233775 234024 232977 Greatbatch Avenue,Penkhull,Stoke-on-Trent ST4 7JU Eaves Lane,Bucknall,Stoke-on-Trent ST2 9AS Travers Court,Temple Street,Fenton,Stoke-on-Trent ST4 3FE Normacot Grange Road,Meir,Stoke-on-Trent ST3 7AW Jubilee Road, Trentham ST4 8EF St Nicholas Avenue,Norton,Stoke-on-Trent ST6 8JW MONDAY THURSDAY MONDAY OTHER SERVICES MONDAY WEDNESDAY MONDAY THURSDAY MONDAY OTHER SERVICES Bishop Road,Chell Heath,Stoke-on-Trent ST6 6QW Stay and Play (PICL) 9:30-11am Health Visitor Drop-In (0-5yrs)9:30-11am MONDAY OTHER SERVICES Start Up Crèche* 9:30-11:30am Toy Library Zumba Fitness Class 10-11am Literacy Course 9:30-11:30am Growing Together (0-5yrs)9:30-11am Jo Jingles 10-10:45am Priory Playgroup 9:15-11:30am Outdoor Play Area MONDAY FRIDAY Growing Together 1:30-3pm New Birth Registration Drop-In English Course 12:45-2:45pm Toy Library Time 4 You* 12:30-2:30pm Sensory Room (By request) Health Visitor Drop-In 9:30-11am Breastfeeding Café 10:30-12pm Midwife Clinic ▲ 9:30-2pm (£2 per family,book call 01782 233775) (Term time only) Volunteering Programme Stay and Play Drop-In 9:30-11am Growing Together 9:30-11:30am (Baby Stay and Play for 0-18mths) (Last Thur of every month) 9:30-11am (Ask at reception) Volunteering Programme Speech and Language Support* Growing Together (0-5yrs) 1-2:30pm Job Club 1-3pm Baby Club 11-12:30pm Jabadao Christmas Activities Adult Learning 12:45-2:45pm (Referral only) TUESDAY TUESDAY Every Child Matters 9:30-11:30am TUESDAY Crèche 12:45-2:45pm Jumping Beans Play and Learning in the Home* Crèche* Baby Massage/Yoga 10:30-11:30am Parents Forum (9,30 Nov) 1-3pm ▲ Little Sunshine’s Group 1-2:30pm 0-12mths 12:30-1:30pm (Ask at reception) Baby Weighing Clinic 9-10:30am Triple P (Booking) 9:30-11:30am Midwife Clinic 9:30-1pm Tiny Talkers OTHER SERVICES Kingsland Kindergarten Fenton Book Buddies 1:30-2:30pm (0-5yrs,Drop-In) 1-2yrs 2-3pm TUESDAY Crèche 12:45-2:45pm Babbling Babes 10:30-11:30am FRIDAY THURSDAY Busybodies 9:30-10:15am Toy Library (Day Care) Breastfeeding Café 10:30-12pm (28 Nov) Child Health Clinic 1:15-2:45pm Sweet Peas Baby Group 9:30-11am Every Child Matters 12:30-2:30pm Singing Sunflowers 9:30-10am & Jabadao 0-12mths 10:30-11:30am (Meir Park Playgroup) TUESDAY TUESDAY Volunteering Programme Additional Needs Group* 1-3pm (0-18mths) Crèche* Volunteering Programme (0-5yrs,Stoke Library) 10:15-10:45am TUESDAY 1-2yrs 9:15-10:15am FRIDAY Growing Together 9:30-11am Messy Monkeys Baby Group WEDNESDAY Jumping Beans Growing Together (0-5yrs) 9:30-11am Little Sunshine Group 1-2:30pm (0-5yrs) WEDNESDAY (0-18mths) 9:30-11am WEDNESDAY New Birth Registration Drop-In Jabadao Fathers Group Family Support Drop-In 1:30-3pm (Last Fri of every month,Stoke Library) Coffee Morning Drop-In9:30-11:30am (Grange Children’s Centre 0-5yrs,Drop-In) 0-12mths 9:15-10:15am Stay and Play Drop-In 9:30-11am English Course 12:45-2:45pm Stay and Play (PICL) 10-11:30am WEDNESDAY Transition Group* 1-3pm 11-1pm Bumps to Babies Antenatal Labour 1-2yrs 10:30-11:30am (Ask at reception) Stay and Play (PICL) 1:15-2:45pm FRIDAY THURSDAY Baby Massage 1:30-2:30pm Tiny Talkers* 1-2pm Sessions (1 Nov) Growing Together (0-5yrs) 1-2:30pm Crèche 9:30-11am Crèche 12:45-2:45pm (Abbey Hulton Primary) (Invitation) Cook and Eat 9:30-11:30am Childminders Stay and Play Drop-In Baby Massage (Invitation) 1:30-3pm Parent Forum 9:30-11am Health Visitor Drop-In 3-4pm Baby Jabadao 1-2:30pm OTHER SERVICES (Childminders only) 9:30-11:30am WEDNESDAY THURSDAY OTHER SERVICES Pandas Group 12-2:30pm (First Wed of every month,0-5yrs) SATURDAY Baby Massage (Call 01782 596421) Growing Together 1-2:30pm Stay and Play Drop-In 9:30-11am Ready Steady Learn 9:30-11:30am New Birth Registration Drop-In Toy Library Birth Preparation Classes THURSDAY (Referral only) Baby Weighing Clinic 1:30-3:30pm Fathers Dad’s Group (5 Nov) 10-12pm THURSDAY (Last Wed of every month,Trent Vale Sensory Room (By request) Crèche Growing Together 1-2:30pm (Abbey Hulton Clinic) OTHER SERVICES FRIDAY Maths Course 9:30-11:30am Health Centre) 10-12pm Speech and Language Support* Baby Club (0-5yrs) (Ask at reception) FRIDAY Play and Learning in the Home* Toy and Book Library Maths Course 9:30-11:30am Volunteering Programme Little Sunshine Group 1-2:30pm (Ask at reception) Crèche 9:30-11:30am Breastfeeding Café 10:30-12:30pm Family Support in the Home* Community Garden (Grange Children’s Centre 0-5yrs, Crèche 9:30-11:30am Tiny Talkers 1-2:30pm Baby Massage/Yoga* 10-11am Midwife Clinic Play and Learning Home Visits Drop-In) (Ask at reception) Messy Monsters Craft 1-2:30pm Volunteering Programme Volunteering Programme

01782 01782 01782 237500 01782 01782 234357 233670 THURSDAY 236655 Garth Street,Hanley,Stoke-on-Trent ST1 2DA 237100 Dawlish Drive,Bentilee,Stoke-on-Trent ST2 0HW Play and Learning Home Visits Buccleuch Road,Normacot, 9-11:30am MONDAY FRIDAY MONDAY THURSDAY Woodland Street,Tunstall,Stoke-on-Trent ST6 6AP Stoke-on-Trent ST3 4RF Breastfeeding Cafe 10:30-12pm Stay and Play (PICL) 9:30-11am Triple P Programme 9:30-11:30am Playspace and Café 9:30-4pm Playspace and Café 9:30-4pm Baby Clinic 1-3pm MONDAY THURSDAY College Road,Shelton,Stoke on Trent ST4 2DQ ▲ ▲ Health Visitor Drop-In 9:30-11:30am (Call 01782 425883) Midwife Clinic 9-3:30pm Midwife Clinic 9-3:30pm MONDAY Jabadao 0-12mths• 12:30-1:30pm Stay and Play 9:30-11am Stay and Play 9:30-11am ▲ Chill & Chat* 1-3pm OTHER SERVICES MONDAY FRIDAY Jabadao 0-12mths 12:30-1:30pm Fitness Group 9:30-11:30am Growing Together 9:30-11am 1-2yrs 2-3pm (Booking) (Booking) (Every Mon,Starting 21 Nov) 1-2yrs 2-3pm Play and Learning Home Visits Speech and Language Support* ESOL 9:30-11:30am Fun to Talk – Speech and Language Start-Up Drop-In Smile 10-12pm FRIDAY Crèche 12:45-2:45pm English Course 12:45-2:45pm 9-11:30am (English Speaking for Other Languages) (2yrs plus) 10-11:30am TUESDAY (Starts 28 April) Parent Forum 9:30-11:30am (Ask at reception) TUESDAY Play and Learning in the Home* Job Club 10:30-12pm Maths Course 12:45-2:45pm EYFS Crèche* 12:30-2:30pm Crèche/Behaviour Management Baby Club 1-2:30pm (4,18 Nov) Connect Community Group Family Support in the Home* Playspace and Café 9:30-4pm Child Development and Play,Level 2 (Ask at reception) Crèche 12:45-2:45pm Crèche* 12:30-2:30pm Growing Together 9:30-11am (Limited crèche places) 9:30-11:30am Parent Forum 1-2:30pm TUESDAY Growing Together 9:30-11am (Starts 7 Nov) 1-3pm Baby Massage (0-12mths) 10-12pm ▲ Growing Together 1-2:30pm TUESDAY FRIDAY Post-Natal Group 1-2:30pm (First Fri of every month,all welcome) Ready Steady Learn 9:30-11:30am OTHER SERVICES Midwife Clinic 9-3:30pm FRIDAY Twins and More Siblings 10:30-12pm Childminders Stay and Play Drop-In Busy Babies Group 9:30-11am Family Walking Group ▲ WEDNESDAY (Transition based group) Speech and Language Support* Speech and Language Therapy Playspace and Café 9:30-4pm TUESDAY OTHER SERVICES (Childminders only) 9:30-11:30am (0-18mths) Volunteering Programme 9-4pm Asian Ladies Advice Group Drop-In Arch The Freedom Project Growing Together 1:15-2:45pm Play and Learning in the Home* Moss Green Growing Together Post Natal/New Baby 10-11am Baby Massage Drop-In Growing Together 12:45-2:45pm ▲ (1,10,15,24,29 Nov) 11:30-1:30pm (Call 01782 683754) 10-11:30am (Baby Stay and Play for 0-2yrs) Family Support in the Home* Cook and Eat Weaning 11-12:30pm (Riverside Housing Office) 9:30-11am (0-9mths) 9:30-10:30am (Referral only) ▲ Soft Play Area Growing Together 10:30-12pm Volunteering Programme Health Visitor Drop-In 1:30-3pm STAR Project 10-2pm Busybodies 11:30-12:15pm Jumping Beans 1:30-2:30pm WEDNESDAY Baby Clinic 4:30-6pm Café (Mon,Thur,Fri) OTHER SERVICES (Baby Stay and Play 0-18 mths) Antenatal Group 1-2:30pm ▲ Little Stars 9:30-11:30am WEDNESDAY Midwife Clinic (18mths plus,booking required) ▲ (First Tue of every month,please book) Toy Library Mandarin Group 12:30-2pm (Additional Needs Group,referral only) Speech and Language Therapy OTHER SERVICES Crèche Training,Volunteering WEDNESDAY WEDNESDAY Volunteering Programme Babble and Speak* 1:30-2:30pm Stay and Play (PICL) 1-3pm 9-1pm Crèche (Mon,Wed,Thur,Fri) and respite Adult Learning 9:30-11:30am Cook and Eat (please book) 9:30-12pm Sensory Room Tiny Talkers THURSDAY (2-5yrs,held at The Shelton Centre) Parent’s Forum 9:30-11:30am Volunteering Programme ▲ (Ask at reception) Speech & Language Therapy 9-5pm Toy Library Teenage Parents Group Every Child Matters Crèche* Job Centre Plus 9:30-2pm Start-Up ▲ Crèche 9:30-11:30am THURSDAY Development Checks 9:30-1pm Volunteering Programme 9:30-11:30am Baby Massage 1-2:30pm Play and Learning Home Visits Family Support Mum 2 Mum Breastfeeding Café Dove Service* 9-11am Hands from Around the World (PICL) (0-12mths,book at reception) 12:30-3:30pm PACT Drop-In (3,17 Nov) 2-3pm Drop-In 9:30-11am 10:30-12pm Health Visitor Drop-In 1:30-2:45pm Walking Group 1:15-2:15pm Singing Group 1-2pm Training and Employment Support

* Referral Only. PICL – Parents Involved in Children's Learning. ▲ Appointments Only. • From 1 Dec,Thur Jabadao groups are being changed for 0-12mths,new time 1-2:30pm. Our City p18 16/11/11 16:26 Page 1

18 Our City NOVEMBER 2011 Site Manager Simon Walker, working foreman Dave Quinn, Cabinet New centre at Member for Regeneration Ruth Rosenau and Stoke on Trent College Co-ordinator for the CoRE project Ken the CoRE of Burgess. training boost NNOVATIVE training facilities at a hi-tech hub in a former pottery I factory will open to the first students in January. Around 300 students will enrol at the Centre of Refurbishment Excellence (CoRE) at the former Enson Works in Longton. The skills they learn will be tailored to meet the needs of employers and will be vitally important to the city’s regeneration They will also address the nationwide need for tradesmen and women to work on regeneration projects like modernising millions of ageing homes. The project is a partnership between the council, Stoke on Trent College and sustainable buildings specialist BRE, with funding from the Department of Education, the council, the European Regional Development Fund and the training students will receive at the CoRE, and Adding a new dimension to training, the private sector. will enable its graduates to go to work on major facilities will use living, working models to give Phase one of the £11.4m project, completed projects like the initiative to install photovoltaic all construction-related tradespeople hands-on in November 2011, will provide specialist solar power panels on thousands of homes in experience. Mandate for training facilities for students of all age groups Stoke-on-Trent. Councillor Ruth Rosenau, the council’s “” who attend the college and will complement Mr Briley said equipping young people with Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: “This Change is Stoke on Trent College’s other sites. the skills to match jobs would be a major step centre is as much about economic development Colin Briley, Stoke on Trent College’s forward for the construction industry. as it is about regeneration and is a reflection of about giving Executive Director of Finance and Information People with the right skills the council’s Mandate for Change commitment. Systems said the centre would create a new “It is about preserving the city’s past while the citizens the breed of multi-skilled tradespeople who would He added: “The construction workforce is building a future for citizens, giving people skills best city to live boost the efficiency and effectiveness of seen to be an ageing workforce, but there is a they haven’t got while moving the city forward. regeneration initiatives. growing demand for services and people with It will improve homes by driving forward the and work in... He said: “Where previously a refurbishment the right skills. retrofit and refurbishment agenda and green job would require separate tradespeople, like “The CoRE will help us to meet that demand agendas. CoRE is about bricklayers, plasterers, tilers, electricians and and provide employable people, ready for work, “Mandate for Change is about giving the plumbers, we aim to provide multiskilled people with the skills the job market needs.” citizens the best city to live and work in... CoRE giving them the who can not only turn their hands to different CoRE’s second phase, which is due to open in is about giving them the best facilities to learn trades, but also understand the overall process early 2013, offers a huge demonstration space and train in. best facilities which has a huge impact on the viability of a big enough for trainees to learn on house sized “We will market the centre’s facilities across project.” constructions, as well as special areas where new the UK and will also encourage links with to learn and Energy efficiency and renewable energy products and techniques can be showcased to similar centres across Europe and the USA as technology are important elements of the learners. part of the CoRE’s truly international outreach.” train in. Partners sign up to provide new safe havens throughout the city SAFE havens are being provided throughout impact on the lives of many people living the city for people with learning disabilities within our local communities.” who need support while they are out and The scheme ensures that when someone about. shows their ‘Keep Safe’ card at a place on the Anyone who needs help because they feel list, such as the Co-operative, they will be worried, upset or have lost their way or welcomed, supported and made to feel safe. belongings in the city will be able to pop To identify that they are a part of the into a participating shop or business. scheme, the premises involved will display a People taking part in the scheme will be sticker to clearly show that they are able to given a Keep Safe card which will have two offer help and support to individuals. contact numbers for the person and also the The places of refuge will also offer number of Staffordshire Police in case the awareness sessions about disability and adult initial contacts cannot be reached. protection training so that they are able to As well as the card, people will be provide the best possible help.They will also provided with a list of places that can offer educate people on how to offer support and help, which includes 19 Co-operative stores. assistance to someone with a learning Martin Ellis, Regional Operations disability who feels vulnerable in the city. Manager for The Co-operative, said: The scheme will run across Stoke-on-Trent, “Everyone within the company is and it will help people with learning committed to supporting people with disabilities feel secure, confident and valued in learning disabilities… it will have a huge their community. Our City p19 16/11/11 16:40 Page 1

NOVEMBER 2011 Our City 19 Police unveil non-emergency number:101 A NEW non-emergency telephone number – 101 – has been introduced to make it easier for people to contact the police. All calls to 101 are answered in local control rooms and do not go to a national call centre. Calls from landlines and mobiles cost a flat rate of 15 pence with operators able to patch someone direct to their local police office if they are available. Does The number should be used for sound travel less urgent crime and disorder, to through a vacuum? report minor traffic collisions or Danyal Aziz, 11, finds just to speak to the police about a out by completing an general enquiry. For serious experiment in one of incidents like a crime in progress or the school’s new when there is danger to life, use Eureka Zones. 999. Local and direct dial numbers are being maintained in Stoke-on-Trent and the new number replaces the 0300 123 Students celebrate £8.2 million 4455 number which will continue to work whilst everyone becomes familiar with 101. rebirth of high school Zest for life EARLY five years ago Phase one, which started in April and was Haywood Engineering College completed for the start of the new school year earns tribute was facing a bleak future. in September, included the creation of a 21st A CITY youth choir has received N praise from a prominent vocal Under plans to re-organise Century science area with specialist labs and judge after racking up two education, the secondary school an innovative discovery zone. Music, technology and performing arts winning performances. based on High Lane, Burslem, was blocks have also been remodelled to provide The City Youth Training Choir facing possible closure – despite exciting and interactive opportunities for was given special praise for being rated Good with Outstanding learning. their zest for life by renowned features by OFSTED and The second phase of work, which is vocal adjudicator, Dr Eileen consistently over-subscribed. currently underway, includes the creation of a Bentley MBE. But students, staff and the local community series of “super” classrooms and an iconic Rebekah Mohring, 11 and Ryan Callaghan, The choir, who are aged rallied around and the overwhelming show of learning tower as well as landscaping work to 11 in the science area. between nine and 11, scooped create outdoor learning spaces and a drama support helped to keep it open. Now the the Childrens’ Choral Classes amphitheatre. “The work has been phenomenally well- school is facing the brightest future possible. Laurence Pickstock Memorial received by pupils as well as teachers and It is part way through a £8.2 million ‘Super’ classrooms Shield and Youth Choral Classes transformation, which is reshaping classrooms there is a real enthusiasm for learning. “In George S. Finney Trophy. and learning facilities for pupils and teachers The final phase, which is set to be addition, approximately £1.5 million is being alike. The remodelling and refurbishments completed by June 2012, will see the invested in state-of-the-art ICT equipment form part of the £250 million Building construction of a multi-purpose sports hall and infrastructure, so pupils have the very Schools for the Future (BSF) programme, the and activity studio, which will be open to the latest technology and learning resources at biggest ever school building initiative in public during after-school hours. their fingertips.” Tile winners to Stoke-on-Trent. Work at Haywood has been Chris Chapman, Assistant Head Teacher at In total, nineteen school projects are being phased to minimise disruption to students’ Haywood, said: “The school is definitely delivered in the city as part of the BSF build Wonderwall programme. Work is due to be completed by education and halfway through the project the looking forward to a very bright future thanks A COMPETITION challenging developments are really taking shape. to the improvements being carried out. January 2014. children to design their own ceramic tile has been launched to create an Olympic themed wonderwall. Reading volunteers boost quality of life The winning designs will be hand painted onto the tiles by READING volunteers are already Development, said:“We already operate to get out of the house, and world famous skilled artists from enhancing the lives of housebound a Homelink service, where a member of visiting them to read gives Anita Harris Art Pottery. people in the Potteries as part of a newly staff delivers books and talking books to them companionship and Each winner will attend an launched library service. people who can’t get out of the house. helps them feel more involved. award ceremony where they will Six have been recruited so far to visit “We thought there was huge potential “As a library volunteer I find receive a limited edition tile people who may be visually impaired or to take it one step further and read to it very rewarding to open up valued at £350, a winners’ medal are isolated and would benefit from the clients as well.We recruited more the world for someone in this and art equipment. company and enjoy hearing a story. volunteers; the youngest is in her 30s way. Society needs people to The competition is open to all The clients choose a book, which the and the eldest is 79. help each other out and we children, schools, colleges, and volunteers pick up at libraries and bring “Our volunteers read for about half an need the community spirit we youth organisations.Tile designs along with them. All volunteers undergo hour each session and the rest of the used to have.” must be sized 30cm by 20cm. enhanced CRB checks, carry time provide invaluable company. It all Entries need to be returned by ● identification and always come at the helps reduce people’s isolation and Now the service is up and Friday December 9, 2011. same time so the client knows who is at loneliness so we’re delighted with how running, more volunteers are Further information contact the door. it’s going.” being recruited so if you have time to spare and [email protected] Anne Mackey, the city council’s Volunteer Julie Pennill said:“People would like to get involved, call Anne Mackey on or visit clients.cyberzia.org/arch Principal Librarian for Service can feel isolated when they are not able 01782 238401 or email [email protected] Our City p20-21 16/11/11 16:35 Page 1

20 Our City NOVEMBER 2011

Elizabeth Arevalo of Blurton said the service The council’s use of consultants frequently comes under the spotlight... to allocate a new home went smoothly and quickly. She said: “I gave the service a score of 10 here Our City reports on the next phase of a bold decision by the council out of 10. I am really happy with the service from start to finish. to bring in Vanguard Consulting which has paid off with massive “I requested a council house a couple of years ago and they were sending letters back and forth savings and service improvements... with the people of Stoke-on-Trent for proof of income and other evidence.Then I had a letter stating that customers are not seeing a difference to the services they receive. going to bid for properties anymore. “I responded to the letter to update my details and within 2 weeks, I had a telephone call to say that they had a Clare Waters of property for me to view. I am really Goldenhill was delighted pleased with the service and all with the service she the people I spoke to at the “” received when she council were very The standard needed help with her appreciative and of the work back door. helpful regarding She said: “Since the my situation”. and how it is new system, the standard of the work and carried out how it is carried out has improved by 200%. has also “I called about this Applications, lettings repair to my door on the improved Tuesday morning. I was and void properties going on holiday the by 200%. next day – and I wanted IN the previous system to any better.The process was to make sure my allocate council housing, complicated and costly, CLARE WATERS customers who and had an amazing 365 property was secure. I approached the council steps. was well pleased were encouraged to join Following a successful because it was the housing register. intervention, the new completed in just over 2 This meant people could system helps people to hours from the moment I be on a waiting list for stay in their homes, if they years and their housing want to, or identify more called, to the tradesman situation may never get appropriate housing. finishing the job. “This would not have happened in the old system. “I would rate it 15 out of 10.The tradesman Customers enj asked if anything else could be done and an internal door to the lounge was sticking and services as effi he did that repair too there and then. “Being a disabled person I found it an excellent service and the saves city young man was very polite, showed his ID PECIALIST council officers have been badge and and was very trained to continue the work started by tidy as he worked.” Sconsultants last year to make hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of cash savings by making the council more efficient. Responsive maintenance Already the savings achieved are totalling almost £600,000 against a cost of £228,226, with an estimated THE first area targeted by the The transformed service means Further cost benefits are being return of almost £3 million over the drive’s first five years. efficiency experts was the responsive customers can not only make a simple achieved by cutting out waste. As well as the financial savings, intervention by specialists maintenance contract run by Kier call to report the problem but can also By stopping sending out 1,350 has also led to major improvements to services in areas like Stoke. discuss any other issues they may letters each week to confirm a job has responsive repairs of council houses and benefits claims. The complex, old-fashioned system have. been logged the council aims to save Greatest benefits for customers was often inaccurate and led to delays. Customers are asked to choose an around £35,000 each year. Other interventions have led to more savings and some Changes have reduced the time it appointment time which is convenient The number of vans in the Kier which are currently in the pipeline are expected to start takes to report, log and complete a job to them. Wherever possible jobs are Stoke fleet will also be reduced to save bearing fruit soon. And the fact that the council’s own from an average of 20 days to 3.2 days. completed in a single visit. Customers cash. officers have been trained to carry out the efficiency drive Previously it could take as long as 20 are asked to score their satisfaction It is estimated these efficiencies means even more savings as the council becomes less minutes to report a problem. The with the job out of 10, and the current could save the council up to £175,500 dependant on outside consultants. average time is now four minutes. average is running around 9.6. before 2015/16. But the greatest benefits have been for customers using the services which have already been assessed. Residents now find it easier to report repairs needed in their homes, and the work is completed more efficiently. Elsewhere it now takes far less time to apply for benefits in Additional interventions have also taken place to boost efficiency and improve customer service in the city, with some people knowing the outcome of their the revenues and benefits service, finance and place, which includes highways and transportation, claim before they leave the council office. regeneration, environmental services (including waste services and neighbourhood management), Councillor Sarah Hill, Cabinet Member for Finance, said: “The savings and service improvements achieved regulatory services including car parks and markets, property services and housing. Our City p20-21 16/11/11 16:35 Page 2

NOVEMBER 2011 Our City 21

Multiple sclerosis sufferer Carol Bell of Hartshill needed special adaptations to her home to improve her quality of life. A ramp, special bathroom and vertical lift were installed at her Elizabeth home to enable her and Art to move around the Arevalo in their house better and new house in Blurton. make her more comfortable. Carol said: “I’m “” very happy with how The work has things have worked “”I am really happy out. I was initially made a big assessed because with the service life is difficult and difference within five months from start to finish. all the work had to my quality been completed. ELIZABETH AREVALO “It was a big job CAROL BELL of life. but the workmen s The Housing Solutions costly advertising process were very good.” Service aims to make sure for properties. Carol uses a that customers have a It is hoped by matching Adult Social Care wheelchair to get out and single point of contact for customers and properties about and a walker at their housing enquiries, more effectively there will and that the right be more sustainable WORK to improve the customer journey to the council from an average of 29 home. properties are matched to tenancies and fewer for Equipment, Aids and Adaptations is days to an average of eight days. She said: “The work has the right people. expensive and disruptive continuing, however initial results show Customer feedback has been very made a big difference to an improvement in key areas. positive about the changes made. One The service saved money neighbourhood my quality of life. immediately by ending the management issues. A process which used to take 63 relative said: “This has restored my faith steps, now takes only 18. Whereas eight in local government; the service was “It has made it easier for professionals were involved in the absolutely superb.” me to get around the provision of equipment, this is now only Lessons learned from this work are house and take a shower. four. The team reduced the time taken now being applied to other areas of “The adaptations have to deliver equipment after the first call Adult Social Care. njoying better made such a difference.” ficient approach How an intervention works Front-line teams act to ty money transform their services The financial benefits WHEN a council service is identified to go through the intervention process, teams of front line staff Cost to the Savings Projected savings over who do the job every day are taken council achieved so far the next five years away from their work for around three months to analyse what they do and how they do it. £228,226 £593,991 £2,969,955 They look at all aspects of how Strategy Manager (Transformation) Denise Grant trains a team they do their job, particularly from from Kier Stoke to analyse their service and act to improve it. a customer viewpoint. At the end of the first phase the bureaucracy and waste. Denise, who has completed staff involved in the intervention They then test the new way of training to drive forward the make a presentation to senior working in a few cases to see how interventions and has already management, outlining compelling successful it is, before bringing in facilitated major intervention work, reasons for redesigning the way more cases to increase the volume said: “There are more interventions they work to cut out waste and of the test. in the pipeline which will bring improve customer service. Once the team is happy that the about greater efficiencies, more already show that challenging how See the panels on these pages Strategy Manager new way of working achieves their savings and more improvements in we do things, reducing waste and for information on how (Transformation) Denise Grant said goals, the rest of the service is customer service. looking at new ways of working efficiency measures are saving the teams then started with a rolled in. Even at this stage of the “These include an intervention in “blank piece of paper” to look at process there is scope to continue planning which is currently being have paid off. the council hundreds of how the service can be redesigned the redesign by evolving the way trialled, and a future intervention in “It was important that we trained thousands of pounds while our own officers to take the process by only doing things that matter to things are done to carry on with customer access, including local forward and we will carry on using making services more responsive the customer and eliminating the improvements. centres and contact centres.” this approach across other areas.” to customers’ needs. Our City p22-23 16/11/11 16:58 Page 1

22 Our City NOVEMBER 2011 Stoke-on-Trent City Council – Summary Accounts 2010/11 FACTS AND FIGURES CouncilCouncil worksworks hardhard throughthrough The Housing Revenue Account The council maintains a Housing Revenue Account (HRA).This unprecedentedunprecedented spendingspendingcc account shows the income and expenditure associated with the provision, management and maintenance of council housing. The account is ‘ring-fenced’,which means that rents cannot be subsidised from Council Tax or vice versa.The council owns just over 19,000 properties and spent £51million on maintaining them, managing the service and meeting other costs, such as interest on loans to fund improvements. putput residentsresidents firsfirs At the end of the year, the Housing Revenue Account made a deficit of £806,000, which was met from existing reserves.The value HE 2010/11 financial Notable outcomes achieved during ● Uth Centres were refurbished of the council’s housing stock was written down by £173million year was 2010/11 include: and the Hanley centre opened. during the year to reflect the fall in house prices nationally. T unprecedented as the ● Pre-construction work impact of Government Financial Highlights 2010/11 completed to deliver 30 new ● Set a balanced budget for primary classrooms by spending restrictions on September 2011. Net worth local authorities like 2011/12 against the most challenging financial settlement ● Wide-ranging activities and The ‘net worth’ of the council is worked out by comparing everything Stoke-on-Trent City and economic climate ever. short breaks delivered for over that it owns (its assets) with everything that it owes (its liabilities). Council became clear. 900 children with disabilities – At the end of each financial year the council draws up a balance ● Produced a Statement of The council began preparations Summer programme, plus sheet.This shows how much the assets of the council are worth, what is Accounts for 2010/11 that was early for an expected, significant fully compliant with legislative weekend and weekday clubs. owed to the council, and what is owed by the council. A summarised reduction in future years’ funding, requirements and received a ● Children’s homes – all judged balance sheet is shown below. while retaining its focus to deliver positive independent opinion as good or outstanding. service priorities for 2010/11. Summary Balance Sheet 31/03/11 from the Audit Commission as ● Fostering service judged as Officers and councillors worked giving a ‘true and fair view’. £million together to prepare for the future outstanding. ● Land, Buildings and Other Fixed Assets 1,136.6 but the eventual funding cuts were Was commended by the Audit even harsher than expected. Commission for its ‘good Other Assets (including cash) 51.5 quality’ Statement of Accounts Corporate Services The council’s annual Statement of ● Money Owed to the council 46.0 and ‘comprehensive’ supporting Delivered Centenary events Accounts is a lengthy document including the 2010 Live Money Owed by the council (723.1) showing its complex financial working papers together with its generally ‘good arrangements to concert and finale in Hanley Net Worth (Total Assets less Total Liabilities) 511.0 activities for the year.The council Park. also produces Summary Accounts secure value for money’. ● Represented By which are more user-friendly and ● Achieved savings of £500,000 Delivered sporting events including the Tour of Britain Usable Reserves 97.8 present the same information in a against the General Fund simplified format. revenue budget. and Halfords Tour Series. Unusable Reserves 413.2 Broadly speaking the council ● Invested £97.2million on capital Total Reserves 511.0 spends money in two areas: projects within the city. Adult and Neighbourhood The council’s net worth at the end of March 2011 was, therefore, ● Revenue spend on day to day Services £511million which is represented by usable and unusable reserves. services such as housing, waste Children and Young People ● Returned over 100 empty Unusable reserves represent balances which cannot be spent such as collection, adult social care and ● properties back into use and those arising from changes in asset values during the year. education services. This is split Apprenticeship programme in children’s centres recognised as enabled the delivery of over The council holds several usable reserves, some of which are earmarked into expenditure on public 300 new affordable homes. for specific future use and some which are held as a general contingency sector housing services, mainly ‘Best Practice’ by Government. for unforeseen items of spend.The table below summarises the position the day to day maintenance of ● Best GCSE results ever in 2010 at the end of the last two financial years.The council reviews its usable council houses (accounted for and the sixth most improved reserves on an on-going basis to ensure any balances held are relevant for via the council’s Housing area nationally. the purpose for which they have been set aside. Revenue Account); and ● Lowest ever rates of young expenditure on other day to day people not in Education, Reserves and Balances 31/03/10 31/03/11 services such as teachers’ Employment or Training – £million £million salaries, waste collection and Winter 2010/11. Non-Earmarked Reserves leisure services (which are ● Better early intervention resulting accounted for via the General General Fund Working Balance 5.3 5.8 in no permanent exclusions for Fund Account). HRA Working Balance 8.3 7.5 any pupil with a Special ● Educational Needs Statement – Capital Receipts (long term asset sale proceeds) 7.8 5.5 Capital investment on items providing a service for a longer first time ever. Capital Grants 1.2 15.4 period of time such as vehicles ● 33 new foster carers were for transport and buildings to Earmarked Reserves approved in the year – more house council staff or elderly than twice as many as in the School Balances 6.0 5.4 residents, for example. previous year. Education PFI 31.5 14.8 Street Lighting 7.3 7.8 Insurance 6.7 5.8 Capital Expenditure 2010/11 (£97.2million) Investments s Revenue Grants 5.0 8.1 IT Corporate Assets CAPITAL expenditure is accounted for Housing Capital Reserve 3.9 1.8 £2.4m (2.5 per cent) £6.3m (6.5 per cent) separately from the cost of providing day Other Earmarked Reserves 12.1 19.9 to day services. Total 95.1 97.8 This type of expenditure generally represents investment in purchasing, The council has a duty under legislation to maintain a prudent level of Regeneration Initiatives upgrading or improving council assets reserves, including the General Fund working balance. Due to an underspend Housing £33.5m (34.5 per cent) such as land and buildings. of £500,000 against the budget during 2010/11, this reserve has increased £26.2m (26.9 per cent) The local community benefits from from £5.3million to £5.8million. capital expenditure over a longer period of time. If you would like more detailed information, the full Statement of In 2010/11 the council spent Accounts, including a glossary of terms, is also available on the council’s Children and Education £21.9m (22.5 per cent) £97.2 million on capital expenditure as website at stoke.gov.uk analysed in the chart on the left. Alternatively, you can contact: Corporate Financial Services, Stoke-on-Trent Budgetary pressures have resulted in a City Council, Business Services Directorate, Financial Services Division, need to re-examine our capital Civic Centre , Glebe Street, Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 1HH. Adult Social Care Highways and Transport expenditure plans, through careful scrutiny of the capital programme and Telephone: 01782 232615 Email: [email protected] £0.8m (0.8 per cent) £6.1m (6.3 per cent) prioritisation of investment within the city. Our City p22-23 16/11/11 16:59 Page 2

NOVEMBER 2011 Our City 23

FACTS AND FIGURES ghgh The cost of running council services The council spent £817.3million on providing day to day services such as ggcutscuts toto waste collection, street cleaning and leisure services, as shown in the following chart. Revenue Expenditure 2010/11 £817.3m Non-distributed Central Services Corporate £31.7m (3.9 per cent) rstrst £5.5m (0.7 per cent) £24.5m (3.0 per cent) rstrst Coroners Court INVESTING Adult Social Care £1.1m (0.1 per cent) IN THE FUTURE... £113.4m (13.9 per cent) Bethany Day, 5, Shane Culture, Environment etc. Housing Revenue £104.4m (12.8 per cent) Lawes, 11, and Danielle £51m (6.2 per cent) Bourne, aged 7, at Gladstone Primary School which was General Fund Housing completely rebuilt as part £119.9m (14.7 per cent) of the Building Schools Education for the Future £336.2m (41.1 per cent) programme. Highways and Transport £29.6m (3.6 per cent)

● Delivered around 100 ● Raised £3.285million to acquire ● Installed solar panels to 57 The income comes from various sources including specific grants such as Kickstart loans contributing to the Staffordshire Hoard. council homes in Chell Heath Private Finance Initiatives (PFI), fees and charges, such as car parking reducing the levels of non-decent ● Kept the city calm in a number generating a saving per year of revenue, leisure housing in the private sector 37 tonnes of carbon, £32,884 of of high profile potentially centre income, Funding of revenue expenditure 2010/11 £million from 60.6 per cent in 2004 to income and an average saving of dangerous situations. income from 49.4 per cent in 2010. £125 in bill payments for each Central Government Grant 48.9 ● Central ● Installed over 10,000 energy Creation of workclubs in home. Government, in the Non Domestic Rates 111.1 libraries to help people back efficiency measures into around ● Reduced the time taken to form of revenue Collection Fund/Council Tax 81.1 7,500 homes saving over 10,000 into work. repair potholes from an average support grant, Specific Grants 346.3 tonnes of carbon dioxide each ● Between 2005 and 2010, 36 days to 4 days. contributions from year. Energy performance of Fees and Charges 158.5 sporting participation rose from ● Building Schools for the Future the business rates properties has improved saving Capital Grants 71.1 15.8 per cent to 17.9 per cent, is now on six sites and major pool and from local £1.4million every year in fuel one of the best performances in residents in the bills for residents. Over 3,600 construction works underway. Use of Reserves 0.3 Staffordshire. form of Council Tax, school children educated in ● Total 817.3 ● Refurbished the Mitchell Arts as shown right. energy efficiency workshops. For More than 30 per cent of Centre. recipients of adult social care every £1 invested by the council ● the Warm Zone partnership services receive a personal Completed the £18million West levers in an additional £4.31 of budget increasing the choice End Village Extra Care Housing private sector finance. people have over the support Development. Feedback they receive. Stoke-on-Trent City Council is always striving to provide the best information ● The number of serious crimes Housing Services for its residents, and would welcome feedback on these summary accounts. involving taking something ● Achieved Government Decent continued to reduce through Homes Standard by December If you wish to provide feedback, please fill in the form below and return it to: interventions in areas identified 2010. Freepost Our City. as hotspots for burglary, vehicle ● Working with Homeworks PM Alternatively you can email your comments to [email protected] crime and robbery. A 28 per Training, 116 young people cent reduction was seen gained skills needed to move Please put a tick in the boxes, with 5 meaning you strongly agree with the compared to the previous year. into full time employment with statement, and 1 meaning you strongly disagree with the statement. The stylish apprenticeship. 12345 new frontage of City Renewal Services The above gives a flavour of some 1. I found the summary accounts informative ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ the refurbished ● The Jobs, Enterprise and of the successful outcomes that the Mitchell Arts Training Service (JET) helped council has achieved during the last 2. I found the summary accounts easy to understand ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ Centre. 1,189 people into work bringing financial year. It is hoped that you the total number up to over found the Summary Accounts to 3. The layout made the summary accounts easier to read ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ 2000 since their launch in 2009. be a useful source of information. 4. Do you have any other comments? Is there any other information you s score important successes would like to see included in the summary accounts? ...... Despite having to rationalise the capital programme a special schools and a pupil referral unit will benefit from number of key successes were achieved including: this investment carried out in five phases between 2011 ...... ● Building Research Establishment – (showcase for and 2014, to develop 21st Century education and learning sustainable technology) with the start of a new facilities...... education building (£2.1million) The capital programme is funded through a variety of ● ...... City Centre Bus station – site preparation has started sources as shown in the table below. ● Sixth Form College – completed and open ...... ● Regeneration initiatives for the City Centre £4.9million Funding of capital expenditure 2010/11 £million ● The ongoing development of a country heritage park ...... at Chatterley Whitfield funded by the Homes and Grants 52.1 Communities Agency £2.1million Major Repairs Allowance 9.0 ...... ● Continuing investment through the RENEW Housing Revenue 4.4 ...... Pathfinder programme £19.8million Other Contributions 4.8 ● Investment from the Department of Transport into the Capital Receipts 7.6 Cycle City and Local Transport Plan Projects £6.9million ...... Borrowing 19.3 ● Housing Capital Programme £2.9million Total 97.2 ● Building Schools for the Future -Thirteen secondary, four ✁ Our City p24 16/11/11 16:44 Page 1

24 Our City NOVEMBER 2011 The council’s Safe and Sustainable Transport team give advice for a safe Winter on the roads and pavements Get set Simple equipment can make difference in for cold weather driving murky winter conditions DRIVERS are urged to OP tips to stay safe on prepare for difficult the city’s roads have driving conditions on Tbeen issued for the cold Winter days and dark nights, mornings and nights by simply murky days of winter. following the Highway Council experts are sending out Code. advice to children and older The guide which should people, cyclists and motorists to be learned and help each do their bit to prevent accidents. understood by all drivers Parents can help children stay contains a useful, safe by making sure they wear common sense section on brightly coloured or fluorescent adverse weather clothing or accessorising with conditions. reflective strips, clip on reflectors As well as insisting that or arm bands and stickers on a headlights be used when school bag. visibility is reduced and Older children should make that all windows must be sure they do not take clear of snow and ice unnecessary risks and use safe before driving, the crossing places that are well-lit. booklet contains a series Older people are especially of practical tips on how vulnerable at this time of year and are urged to: to prepare for winter ● be attentive; weather. ● avoid crossing between In wet weather, parked vehicles; stopping distances will ● wear bright or reflective be at least double those clothing (where possible). required for stopping on When cycling in the dark or a dry road because tyres in poor visibility your cycle have less grip on the must have front and rear lights road. lit. It must also be fitted with a Drivers are warned to: red rear reflector. Wearing safety ● stay well back from the accessories such as a cycle vehicle in front; helmet and hi-viz jacket is also ● ease off the accelerator sensible. Motorists can do their bit by and slow down if making sure lights, washers and CYCLE steering becomes wipers are working properly, unresponsive because SAFETY keeping windows clean, Neil Donlan and his of water on the road; checking brakes and tyres, son Alfie, aged two, ● be aware that rain and driving within the speed limit spray might make it and road conditions and on their bike at Meir difficult to see; staying alert to see cyclists wearing the hi-viz Pick up free reflective kit ● take extra care around and pedestrians. jackets, snap on TO help road users stay safe this CHELL HEATH LOCAL CENTRE pedestrians; cyclists, Councillor Adrian Knapper, reflector bracelets winter, 300 high-visibility jackets – Cornhill Road, Chell Heath motorcyclists and Cabinet Member for Transport and keyrings. and reflective discs are available on horse riders. and Planning, said: “Now the BENTILEE NEIGHBOURHOOD a first come first served basis from Journeys in icy and clocks have gone back, darker CENTRE – Dawlish Drive, Bentilee mornings and afternoons can be a the council (one jacket and disc per snowy weather should be reflective discs are concerning time for vulnerable great for child and elderly person).To obtain your free road MEIR LOCAL CENTRE avoided unless they are road users. pedestrians to attach to bags safety kit pop into one of the local – Uttoxeter Road, Meir absolutely necessary. “The ‘Be Bright Be Seen’ and ensure they are seen this centres below: LONGTON LOCAL CENTRE Drivers who have to initiative is just one of many that Autumn and Winter. HANLEY LOCAL CENTRE – Commerce Street, Longton travel in frozen are organised to encourage safe “Motorists can also play a part – Old Hall Street, Hanley conditions are advised to: and sustainable travel in our city.” by driving to the conditions of the For further information on road ● take care and allow High-visibility waistcoats are road, making sure lights are in STOKE LOCAL CENTRE safety please contact the team on more time for their particularly beneficial for cyclists good working order and the car is – Church Street, Stoke 232164. journey; and motorcyclists while the completely roadworthy.” ● carry an emergency kit of de-icer, scraper, torch, warm clothing Revellers warned of drink-drive dangers Playing the and boots, first aid kit, jump leads and a A HARD-HITTING campaign will warn safety situation is made even worse by safety game shovel, together with a drivers it could be GAME OVER if they the fact that many young people ignore hot drink and food. drink alcohol and get behind the wheel. the law and repeated warnings and CHILDREN can learn road Before setting off in snow The potentially lifesaving promotion run refuse to wear their seatbelts. safety lessons through fun and ice drivers must be by the council and its partners will last Nationally, it is estimated drivers aged games on a Government able to see out of all from now until the New Year. 17-34 have the lowest seatbelt wearing website. windows and make sure A unique ‘Morning After’ calculator rates. 21 per cent of car occupants Tales of the Road is targeted lights are clean and features on the www.staffssafer killed in accidents were not wearing at six to 11 year-olds and is number plates are visible. roads.co.uk/gameover website, and seat belts. run by the Department of helps motorists to calculate how long it In the run up to the festive period Transport. For more information could take for alcohol to leave their police officers will be undertaking a Visit http://tales oftheroad.direct and advice please visit system. number of operations across the city .gov.uk direct.gov.uk and search Nationally one in five people caught to promote road safety and will take to find for the Highway Code. drink driving have been breathalysed enforcement action where the morning after drinking alcohol.The appropriate. out more. Our City p25 16/11/11 17:03 Page 1

NOVEMBER 2011 Our City 25 Derelict land transformed into healthy growing areas VOLUNTEERS in Meir are have been specially designed for spending the winter clearing a disabled gardeners. derelict site to create their own Association Chairman Brian community garden complete Jones said:“I’m over the moon with 10 growing spaces. we’ve got to this stage because With £5,000 previously the site was such a dump. donated from local councillors’ “Now the funding is confirmed ward budgets and £9,400 from we’ll have volunteers clearing the Big Lottery Fund, the the site and getting it ready for Woodfarm Residents’ early next year.We’ve given local Association is now transforming people first choice on the the plot off Harvey Road. growing spaces and most have The idea is to create a already gone.” memorial garden with benches The site will be named after and have residents growing their Brian’s wife Josie, who is PicturedPictured atat thethe HarveyHarvey Road Road sitesite are,are, left left toto right,right, gardener gardener RonRon own fruit and vegetables on the Secretary of the Association. If Mason,WoodfarmMason,Woodfarm Residents’Residents’ Association Association membermember PamPam Burton,Burton, site before next Easter. you would like to help prepare SecretarySecretary JosieJosie JonesJones andand ChairmanChairman BrianBrian Jones.Jones. Four of the 10 growing spaces the site, call 01782 333094.

Councillor Party season health warning scoops issued over dangerous glut of accolade SURGERY for a brain aneurysm prevented a city councillor picking up a top national award in person. Councillor Randolph counterfeit booze Conteh was recovering in hospital when he was UBLIC protection such big business that inevitably it Lead named runner up was linked to raising money to teams are fighting a Officer for Non-Executive Councillor fund serious organised crime like Pbattle to remove Investigations Neil of the Year for 2011 at the drug running and people hundreds of bottles of Horton with just a trafficking. Centre for Public Scrutiny potentially lethal counterfeit He said: “It’s a massive issue few bottles of the annual awards in London. booze before the Christmas affecting the whole country and we fake booze seized The Lord Mayor, party season. are determined to take as much of from shops in Councillor Terry Follows, Fake vodka produced from this illegal, counterfeit booze off the city. has since presented him industrial alcohol, containing twice the streets as we can. with his CfPS certificate. the safe level of methanol, has been “Unfortunately there is that The City Independent seized from certain shops across much of it about that it is Councillor for Penkhull the city. In Stoke-on-Trent 25 per not difficult to find. But and Stoke said:“I feel cent of shops visited by Trading we are concerned that extremely proud and Standards Officers had been selling people will end up privileged to be both counterfeit booze. with these bottles nominated and then to Problems mainly relate to vodka, in their drinks which is usually drunk with a cabinet and we receive a national mixer which masks any unusual do not want to runner-up award for my flavours. Counterfeiting normally see anyone city council scrutiny work happens in one of three ways: seriously ill or efforts. ● Genuine branded drinks are worse because “It’s nice to be relabelled to avoid payment of they have drunk recognised nationally for duty. counterfeit the local work I do for, ● Genuine bottles are filled with alcohol. and on behalf of, the poorly manufactured alcohol. “As a public communities of ● Totally counterfeit brands are protection service Stoke-on-Trent.” created which can contain we have mounted Nominations are now dangerous levels of methanol. special exercises being taken for next targeting illegal Convincing alcohol and tobacco years Local Government which could be risks Information Unit While expert officers have a to public health and Achievement Awards, number of ways of spotting which are used to which recognises the counterfeit goods, some of the fund serious organised contribution of fakes are so convincing it can be crime. But this is a councillors to their difficult for consumers to spot multi-million pound communities. them. business with an impact Three new categories Lead Investigating Officer Neil across the UK and we will include a Judges’ Special Horton said teams of council continue to focus on Award for Contribution to specialists had been visiting shops removing these items around Stoke-on-Trent to find and Local Government and an from sale.” Age UK Pride of Place seize counterfeit booze. Traders must ensure they award, to honour Shopkeepers trying to avoid buy from reputable paying duty are referred to Her wholesalers and if they want advice councillors who make a Majesty’s Revenue and Customs they should contact Trading difference to the lives of (HMRC) while those selling Standards on 232065. older people. counterfeit products face action ● To nominate your and potentially serious penalties. Anyone with information about councillor, go to Neil said as well as health risks counterfeit booze or cigarettes which could include blindness or can call the Fake Goods Hotline www.lgiu.org.uk and even death, the fake booze was on 01782 238444. follow the links. Our City p26-27 16/11/11 17:08 Page 1

26 Our City NOVEMBER 2011

Partners aim to make it an unhappy Service tops hundredth Hepatitis C Christmas for criminals Respect Action Day recovery has been planned for A the city centre in the A SPECIAL event has been organised to mark a key achievement in the build up to Christmas to treatment of Hepatitis C by a help clamp down on festive pioneering community based service. crime. The 100th person to be treated for The day of action will take place the disease has passed through the on Monday, 19 December and is doors of the Routes to Recovery aimed at everyone who uses the city centre in the build up to 25 service in Stoke-on-Trent. December, including shoppers, the Treating the disease as early as business community, partygoers possible can save the NHS hundreds and late night revellers. of thousands of pounds in more Organisations such as extensive treatment or liver Staffordshire Police, Staffordshire transplants and also helps to Fire and Rescue Service and the eradicate its spread. Safer City Partnership will be on This is why the Safer City hand to offer crime prevention Partnership, using money made and safety advice and hand out available by the Primary Care Trust, useful safety items. Staffordshire initially laid out more than £600,000 These include purse bells, which Police Force funding for the community-based can help deter thieves and pick Intelligence Manager service, which is unique throughout pockets, personal attack alarms Detective Sergeant the UK. and cycle marking kits. Rachel Joyce demonstrates In just over a year 100 people have Pro-active approach the Immobilise national been tested for Hepatitis C by the property register, which specialist team, who are backed by a There will also be the opportunity to register mobile will be available at the consultant at the University Hospital phones and other valuable Christmas Respect of North Staffordshire. electrical items on the national event. The milestone is being marked with property register, Immobilise, in a special achievement day to be held order to easily identify handsets if on 15 December at the Roots to they are stolen or lost. Recovery hub at Canalside, Festival Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Online registration helps return stolen kit Park. Key project partners will visit the Service will be offering Winter fire service and people will be able to ask safety advice. HUNDREDS of new students in North Staffordshire Partnership invested £2,500 in a new scanner and questions about the testing and Bill James, Respect Co-ordinator have signed up to an innovative crime reduction software, linked to the national register, to make it treatment process. for the Safer City Partnership, initiative which helps combat theft and reunites easy for people to sign up to the scheme. Lisa Durber, Clinical Nurse Specialist said: “This has become an owners with stolen goods. Partnership officers promoted the Immobilise for Hepatitis C, said:“Hepatitis C is established event in the city centre Through the Immobilise scheme, valuable scheme at Freshers’Week events at both known as the silent killer. It is four in the run up to Christmas and electrical items such as mobile phones, laptops, and Staffordshire and Keele Universities. times more infectious than HIV and gives us a great opportunity to iPads can be scanned and their details stored on a It went down a storm with new students – as people who have contracted it may target shoppers and members of national online property register. more than 350 signed up for it at Staffordshire’s the business community with basic not show any symptoms for years. Because each item has a unique barcode, police two campuses in Stoke and Stafford, and 293 more crime prevention advice. forces are able to use the register to identify the at Keele. However during this time it is “Taking this kind of pro-active owners of lost and stolen devices.This also helps to ● Immobilise was launched in March 2003 and continuing to do damage to their approach has helped to reduce liver and they may pass it on to others crime in general and prevent it simplify insurance sales, clamp down on the sale of has since grown to represent 24 million totally unaware. from rising at a very busy time of stolen property and enables police to prosecute members in the UK alone. For more details about “Drug users are susceptible the year.” offenders more easily. Earlier this year,The Safer City the scheme log onto www.immobilise.com because it is a blood borne disease, so sharing needles can put people at risk. But it can even be passed on by sharing a crack pipe, or snorting cocaine with a shared £10 note or, for Tests to beat link between drugs and crime that matter, sharing a razor blade. THOUSANDS of suspected criminals are being good opportunity for North Staffordshire to “Testing and treatment is available tested for drugs when they are arrested in a cut crime and improve people’s health. to anyone who feels they may have bid to combat the link between addiction “If we think an offence may have been contracted the disease from using and crime. triggered by drugs, the arrested person will drugs either currently or in the past People arrested on suspicion of burglary, be tested. and can be accessed through our shoplifting and fraud will be asked to “It will be an offence to refuse to provide a community hubs and GP surgeries undergo a mouth swab test for Class A drugs swab and it will also be an offence if the throughout the city. In this respect it when they are brought into police custody. person fails to turn up to their sessions.” is unique throughout the country as Anyone testing positive will be sent for Four new members of staff have been taken normally testing and treatment is assessments with drug workers; anyone who said:“The aim of the scheme is to improve on to provide cover at Etruria's Northern Area carried out at hospitals.The process refuses or fails to attend the sessions can be health, reduce crime and make communities Custody Facility between 7am and midnight. starts with a simple dry blood test fined up to £2,500 or even jailed. safer places to live. Councillor Gwen Hassall, Cabinet Member and it normally takes three to four The testing began at the start of November “By carrying out the tests we are hoping for Housing and Neighbourhoods, said:“The days for results to be processed. If following a £250,000 Government funding to encourage people who may have a ‘test on arrest’ system is designed to help required, treatment is then arranged.” grant.The latest figures show that more than problem the chance to engage with drug people who are using drugs to shake their ● For more details about Hepatitis 3,000 people living in Stoke-on-Trent during services, where experts can help them look habit and give them a chance to rehabilitate. C testing and treatment, people are the 12-month period up to July 2011 were at their problems and make positive “This is a national programme that has invited to attend the achievement arrested for offences triggered by drugs. behaviour changes.” yielded positive results in crime reduction in day. Alternatively, they can call the Vicki Yates, Adult Drug Treatment Sergeant Matt Bennion, from Stoke-on-Trent other parts of the country, and we want this service on 07500 118375. Programme Lead for Safer City Partnership, Safer City Partnership, said:“This is a really to happen in Staffordshire too.” Our City p26-27 16/11/11 17:09 Page 2

NOVEMBER 2011 Our City 27

Look out for older neighbours plea PEOPLE are being asked to look out for elderly neighbours and relatives this Winter, as they Support for might be at particular risk of a fire in the home. Statistics show that the number of fatal domestic domestic blazes rises considerably around the Christmas and Winter months’ period and that older or vulnerable people are most susceptible. abuse victims That is why residents are being encouraged to phone or pop in to see vulnerable neighbours to FUNDING from the Safer City make sure things are ok. Partnership is ensuring They are also being asked to encourage multi-agency support is available neighbours to take part in a free fire home risk in the city to help the victims of check and have life-saving smoke detectors fitted. domestic abuse. Donna Broadhead, Fire Partnership Officer with The Partnership has teamed up the Safer City Partnership, said:“We do see a with a wide range of organisations considerable increase in the number of home fire to provide all-encompassing help incidents in the Winter and around Christmas, and to women and men, who are elderly people are much more vulnerable. being abused, threatened or “Not only can their senses be more diminished, physically or sexually abused by a which can lead to an incident in the first place, but partner. also escaping a fire in their home can be more Research shows that domestic difficult because of mobility issues. abuse can happen in all kinds of “That is why, despite it being a very busy time relationships and for any reason, of the year, we are urging people to be good regardless of age, race, sex, neighbours and keep an eye on residents in their disability, wealth, geography and streets, and have a think about who might need lifestyle. As well as physical help.” violence it can also involve a wide She added:“The most proactive approach is to range of abusive and controlling encourage neighbours to have a home fire risk behaviours. check.This is carried out completely free of charge People in same sex by Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service and also relationships can encounter involves having smoke detectors fitted. Community additional problems – for instance “It is a peace of mind check that can prove to be Safety Officer Pete gay, lesbian, bisexual and invaluable in saving lives.” Hall advises 78 year transgender victims are likely to ● For more information, or to book a home fire old Olwyn Douglas face additional concerns about risk check, call 0800 0241 999 or log on to on fire safety at homophobia and gender www.staffordshirefire.gov.uk her home in discrimination. Cobridge. People who are disabled may be in the situation where their abuser is also their carer, while victims from black minority or ethnic backgrounds may also face religious and cultural pressures. Latest smarthphone ‘app’technology Nicky Jolley, Programme Lead for the Safer City Partnership, said: “No one should be abused and people shouldn’t have to put up with it, whatever their circumstances or background. There are a number of agencies catches car-theft crook people can contact who can offer varying levels of support. SMARTphone owners are “Inside the car was the victim’s Apple “They can also support victim’s being encouraged to look at iPhone and on it was the iGotya application, which was activated when children should they require it new security applications and very importantly the which can help catch the offender punched in an incorrect four digit code. information provided is strictly thieves who try to use “The local PCSO was able to identify confidential.” stolen mobiles. the person in the photograph sent to the Organisations that offer support The recommendation comes owner’s email address, as a result we include: from the Safer City Partnership were able to act quickly to recover the Arch North Staffs – practical and after police used the latest victim’s phone and car. emotional support to victims, technology to help catch an Chances of stopping theft including the BME community (if offender who stole a car containing English is a spoken language). the owner’s iPhone. The phone had “In addition, the stolen car was also Tel 01782 683763. the software installed which works used in a ram raid style attempted by taking a photograph of anyone burglary at a newsagents and off-licence Family Support Services – who incorrectly enters the device’s in Ball Green. Four suspects were offering a counselling service. security code. arrested for this offence and are Tel 01782 287902 It then sends the photo, along with currently on police bail pending forensic Refuge – a support and refuge the current GPS location of the mobile, evidence.” service specifically for South Asian to the owner’s email account. Jon Connolly, from the Safer City women.Tel 01782 822885. From this information Staffordshire Partnership, said: “These sophisticated Potteries Women’s Refuge – a 24 Police were able to track down the thief, apps are really proving their usefulness hour refuge offering a day or recover the stolen phone and vehicle – as in apprehending thieves. Combined with night admission service. well as make arrests in connection with a schemes such as Immobilise they can Tel 01782 822885. related attempted burglary. effectively secure people’s smart phones. Broken Rainbow – support for “We recommend people take the time Inspector Martin Brereton, Deputy lesbian, gay, bisexual and Commander of the Stoke North Local to look at downloading a security transgender people over the Policing Team, said: “This relates to a application for their mobiles – there are robbery of a car on Smithyfield Road, many on the market which vary from telephone.Tel 0300 999 5428 Norton, in August. being free to a small fee and can really Anyone in immediate danger is “A delivery driver was dragged from enhance the chances of stopping theft or urged to call the Police his car by an offender who then stole it. recovery after theft.” emergency number – 999. Our City p28 16/11/11 17:12 Page 1

28 Our City NOVEMBER 2011

Litter pick stops canal problems CHILDREN turned their back on antisocial behaviour to help clean up the city’s historic canals. A group of young boys, who got into trouble for cutting free or untying boats and throwing property into the water at Etruria locks, near to Etruria Industrial Museum, signed up for a restorative justice initiative through the Safer City Partnership. They teamed up with volunteers from the museum, Safer City Partnership, British Waterways and the Riverside Adult Training Centre for a big litter pick.They travelled on the historic motorboat Lindsay and managed to collect 20 bin bags of rubbish, fished out of the water Manager between Etruria and Harecastle on Steven Sanger the Trent and Mersey Canal. (left) with former client Steve Andrew Watts, Museum Volunteer Salt who now Co-ordinator said:“The police and the volunteers at the Safer City Partnership were a great Adsis centre. help and came up with a fitting restorative justice project.The lads worked hard all day and got the idea that the canal was something to enjoy, not to throw rubbish into.” Safer City Partnership Volunteer Chris Smith said:“We felt the day was a great success.The children were made to understand what problems their behaviour had caused. Achievement day staged to celebrate “They thoroughly enjoyed the event and learnt about the museum and the canal boat they travelled on. “Since the litter pick day, the community around Etruria Industrial Museum has not experienced any beating alcohol issues recurrence of the problems.” AN achievement day was held to Adsis, said: “This event was of great “They also help individuals who have been Team issues quad recognise the successes of 18 people importance and real significance to those through the treatment programme, who are who are on the road to overcoming that attended. It marked the journey they now on the next step of their journey, to serious alcohol addiction problems. had come on and helped them reflect on remain clear and focussed in maintaining safety warning what they had achieved so far. their goal.” THE Safer City Partnership has The event held by the Stoke-on-Trent The new integrated Community Alcohol teamed up with the council’s Youth Community Alcohol Service marked clients Abstinence Service – which brings together the work of Offending Team to highlight the coming to the end of their formal treatment “Most of those present had set their goals support services such as Adsis and North process. dangers of riding unlicensed quad as abstinence and others had been working Staffordshire Combined Healthcare Trust – is funded by the Safer City Partnership. bikes and mini motorbikes. They were presented with certificates in hard towards a sensible, reduced drinking front of their families, friends and other It provides seamless support for people Off-roading is not only illegal but is pattern. From our point of view these events treatment providers at the service’s new base referred for help in relation to alcohol misuse. also extremely dangerous – and has are crucial to help dispel the perceived at Balwant House in Shelton. ● For more information about the service led to a number of incidents in which stigmas surrounding alcohol use and Steven Sanger, Operational Manager for alcohol treatment. provided call Adsis on 01782 271096. young people have been injured while riding these vehicles. Working alongside Staffordshire Police officers, the Safer City Partnership and youth teams will be Should the ARZ go ahead? targeting hotspot areas with flyers, MEMBERS of the public are being any cans, bottles or containers of asking people to report incidents and consulted over a proposed new Alcohol alcohol. People who refuse to do so generally raise awareness of the Restriction Zone in the north of the city. face arrest and fines of up to £500. It dangers involved. If given the green light, the latest does not mean a ban on alcohol, and The flyer highlights the legal and Order will encompass a large part of will not affect people drinking cost implications of riding an off-road Tunstall town centre and the responsibly in licensed premises. bike, which may include being issued surrounding area and will aim to There are currently 12 Alcohol with an ASBO, being disqualified from reduce alcohol-related antisocial Restriction Zones throughout the city. driving or even being imprisoned. It behaviour. The boundary of the proposed zone also features a list of do’s and don’ts Hundreds of traders and residents in Tunstall is outlined in the adjacent about riding quad bikes or mini bikes have signed a petition backing the map and the full public notice has been safely and legally. creation of a new Alcohol Restriction published in the local press. ● Anyone who wants to report Zone. However, the proposed order does illegal activity or nuisance Now the council is listening to not include off licences and public behaviour can call the feedback from the public before the houses located within the zone during Stoke-on-Trent Antisocial application is considered by its licensing hours and for 30 minutes Licensing Committee. after. Behaviour hotline on 0800 561 ● 5610 or call Staffordshire Police Alcohol Restriction Zones provide For more details, or to make a on 101. Staffordshire Police with the power to comment, contact Jenny Lawson at ask people to stop drinking and give up the Safer City Partnership on 236103. Our City p29 16/11/11 17:16 Page 1

NOVEMBER 2011 Our City 29 New website offers pointers MONEY to support and advice matters Christmas on a tight budget CHRISTMAS can be a tough time for many households – and inevitably it is a season when money can matter even more. Making ends meet and staying within budget can be really difficult – especially for low- income families who want to enjoy the festive fun and may look at loans to supplement a tight budget. However, there are ways to stay in budget and still have a merry Christmas – often it takes a little bit of simple planning. Sticking to a plan and spending sensibly is the key – so here are some top tips from the Financial Inclusion EOPLE looking for national bodies such as the Money Group on making the best of it: budgeting and money Advice Service. ● Padvice can take Rachel Arulanantham, Student Plan early for Christmas. Be realistic and advantage of the brand new Money Adviser for Staffordshire budget accordingly.Work out how Chatterbox North University’s Money Doctors Service much you are going to spend on each and FIG sub-group member, said: person – and stick to it. Manage Staffordshire website. “The idea was to set up a central Rachel Arulanantham, Student Money Adviser for expectations as to what you – or Santa The website, designed by the website through which people Staffordshire University, and Student Engagement – can give. Financial Inclusion Group (FIG), is Assistant Ithsham Pevrez access the new Chatterbox site. wanting help and advice on money, ● linked to key local and national debt matters and benefits could Don’t forget the everyday bills. organisations, councils and money easily access help and relevant Remember that rent, the mortgage, experts. organisations. utility bills, food bills and other The key aim is to give members of existing debts still have to be paid. the public easy access to support and All walks of life Even though it’s Christmas, get your benefit advice, and to help them take “It is aimed at people from all priorities right. control of their personal money walks of life and all kinds of ● Don’t bank on an overdraft. If you do matters and make the most of their circumstances, so is as relevant to a need more money, don’t just run up an finances. young student as it is to an elderly People who log onto the website person living in sheltered overdraft without talking to your bank are first asked a series of simple accommodation. first – it will work out much more questions which helps to signpost “People accessing Chatterbox expensive. them to the most relevant help and North Staffordshire are asked a ● Keep things simple. If you can afford advice depending on their series of questions and are then to pay for your goods outright by circumstances. directed towards the most relevant cash, cheque, or debit card, don’t be Information is available on agencies or individuals. persuaded to take out extended banking, loans, welfare benefits, “In addition, all agencies taking credit agreements unless they really housing and tenancy support as well part are asked on a regular basis to do work out cheaper. as debt, fuel debt and energy advice. update their information and There are links to numerous contacts, so website users have the ● Shop around.Try as many different organisations including Staffordshire latest details at their fingertips.” places as possible to find the best price. Credit Union, Moneyline, Aspire For more information log on to Buy what you want and not what other Housing, Staffordshire University www.chatterboxns.com – people say you need. Also, be wary of and Stoke-on-Trent Citizens Advice alternatively, type “Chatterbox LOOK OUT FOR THE PIG: extended warranties. Bureau. There is plenty of self-help North Staffs” into an internet The Chatterbox logo is this piggy bank which ● information as well and links to Buy safe to be safe.Whatever the search engine such as Google. appears on the new website. deal, whatever the temptation, don't buy from unauthorised traders and don’t borrow from unauthorised Try a locally-based lenders. Credit union provides ● Read the small print. Check for hidden extras in any credit agreement.Work responsible lender out the total amount payable. Ensure RESIDENTS can take advantage of a affordable solutions that the monthly instalments are within locally-based service which provides your budget before signing. affordable loans as an alternative to loan THE Staffordshire Credit Union interest rate of 26.8 per cent and a ● If you are going to use a credit card, sharks and expensive doorstep lenders. (SCU) can provide residents with an weekly repayment of £6.59. This is affordable and ethical solution to much lower compared to the 1,000 per shop around and compare terms. The Stoke-on-Trent branch of Moneyline, money management. cent and £57.70 repayments of a Some cards charge high interest which is based in Cheapside, Hanley, also typical loan shark. rates, but provide interest free provides savings accounts and access to basic The SCU is a not-for-profit financial co-operative, which invites residents, However it is always worth checking periods or discounts. Budget for all bank accounts.The national organisation, who may not have access to high street whether a cheaper loan might be these costs and put the payment which is a social enterprise, completed more banking services or have been refused available from a high street bank or dates in your diary. than 10,500 loans in 2010 as well as opening another lender. credit to open a savings account and ● Be organised.There’s a lot to remember more than 3,500 saving accounts. It was also become a member of the Credit Union, The SCU does not pressure residents at Christmas. If you’ve borrowed money named as Responsible Lender of the Year – allowing them to borrow small amounts. into borrowing, or to borrow more than Short Term Loans by Credit Today. they can afford to pay back.The scheme don't forget that it won’t be long before Members are able to save up you have to make a payment. Make For more details or to apply for a loan or £10,000 and borrow up to £5,000, is available to anyone who lives, works, open an account, pop along to the offices or with the possible benefit of volunteers or studies in Staffordshire. sure you pay on time, even if it is only call 01782 206836 or log onto accumulating interest in the account. ● For more information on the the minimum, or you will be faced with www.mline.co.uk A Credit Union loan is low-cost – for SCU, call 0845 224 1215 or email additional charges. example, a loan of £300 has an [email protected] Our City p30 16/11/11 17:21 Page 1

30 Our City NOVEMBER 2011 City hygiene rating idea goes national PIONEERING work by the council Food businesses will also get a over four years has contributed to certificate and a window sticker so the introduction of a new national customers can check their rating. Food Hygiene Rating Scheme. Dawn Birkin, Compliance and The council’s own “Scores on the Health Protection Manager for Doors” award paved the way for Public Protection, said:“Our the Food Standards Agency scheme was highly successful in scheme, which will now rate all driving up standards and cutting outlets including food shops, food poisoning cases and we’re restaurants, takeaways, pubs and sure the national scheme will work OH BROTHER school kitchens. just as well.” IT’S TASTY… Establishments inspected to Ratings will be displayed on the Ben and Harry Ford, aged make sure they meet legal FSA website at www.food.gov.uk/ three and six, with catering requirements, will be issued with ratings. supervisor Julie Banks at scores ranging from zero for For more information about the St Theresa’s Primary,Trent urgent improvement to five scheme call the council on 01782 Vale, which scored top meaning very good. 232065. marks of five after its food hygiene inspection. Café serves up opportunities to enter the world of work ASTY dishes on of life of its service users. the menu at a new The café is open Monday to T cafe in a historic Friday in the Mother Town’s Burslem building are School of Art in in The Orangery, restored through the Burslem giving people with Townscape Heritage Initiative learning disabilities (supported by Heritage Lottery a step up toward Fund, Advantage West Midlands the world of work. and the Burslem School of Art Catering, serving the Trust). public and taking payment Director of Client Services Jim for food are giving people the Cullen said: “This is a real life skills and confidence they need to experience for our service users. Hayley live more independently, and “Being a part of something so Redgrift, a maybe even move out of exciting helps them to engage member of the Cafe residential care and into their with society and is highly Life team, serves up own supported housing. rewarding. It is a joy to see staff For all city council services another tasty meal at Everyone working at the cafe with learning disabilities making Burslem’s latest eatery. has gone through an interview such a positive contribution with The cafe has been and induction process, including great ideas and real enthusiasm. contact 234234 awarded a food hygiene training, and the initiative “The food is great too, and hygiene level is proving a very popular addition soon the café will be launching its five rating. to the Richmond Care Group’s executive menu, created by the YOUR HEALTH CENTRES programme to enrich the quality service users themselves.”

ABBEY HULTON (Main) 0300 123 0976 PACKMOOR 0300 123 0874 Children and Adolescents 0300 123 0987 Fire & Rescue contact numbers PICCADILLY CENTRE (Main) 0300 123 0985 Mental Health Service Sexual health helpline 0300 123 0970 EMERGENCY RESPONSE MANAGER LONGTON STATION MANAGER SANDYFORD NEIGHBOURHOOD BENTILEE 01782 425900 SMALLTHORNE 0300 123 0982 Wayne Bowcock Andy Leedham CO-ORDINATOR BLURTON 0300 123 0971 (Main) STOKE 0300 123 0986 01785 898894 01785 898765 Pete Hall Children and Adolescents 0300 123 0977 Out of Hours District 0300 123 0989 01785 898886 Mental Health Service Nursing Service PREVENTION AND PROTECTION SANDYFORD STATION MANAGER BURSLEM 0300 123 0979 MANAGER Glynn Luznyj RISK REDUCTION CO-ORDINATOR TRENT VALE 0300 123 0876 Rebecca Bryant 01785 898693 Rehana Iqbal FENTON 0300 123 0875 TUNSTALL (Main) 0300 123 0972 01785 898542 01785 898891 HANFORD (Main) 0300 123 0974 Dental Advice Line 0300 123 0981 HANLEY NEIGHBOURHOOD 0300 123 0988 RISK REDUCTION MANAGER CO-ORDINATOR SAFER CITY PARTNERSHIP Children’s Airway WHITFIELD VALLEY 0300 123 1453 Support Team Mick Daniels Mick Warrilow OFFICER 01785 898927 01785 898902 HANLEY 0300 123 0980 Donna Broadhead For more information and 01785 898904 LONGTON 0300 123 0993 advice on health issues please HANLEY & BURSLEM STATION LONGTON NEIGHBOURHOOD MANAGER CO-ORDINATOR LONGTON COTTAGE 0300 123 0975 call NHS Direct – 24 hrs a day Ian Read Tracey Cresswell HOSPITAL IN AN EMERGENCY CALL 999 AND 0845 46 47 01785 898591 01785 898951 ASK FOR THE FIRE SERVICE MEIR 0300 123 1452 or visit www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk NORTON 0300 123 1454 or www.nhs.uk To book your home fire risk check ring: 0800 0241 999 Our City p31 16/11/11 17:22 Page 1

NOVEMBER 2011 Our City 31

Abbey Hulton and Townsend

GWEN HASSALL ADRIAN KNAPPER Your (Labour) (Labour) (01782) 263166 07714 334453 07557 848765 adrian.knapper@ gwen.hassall@ stoke.gov.uk Councillors stoke.gov.uk Baddeley,Milton and Norton Bentilee and Ubberley

JACK BRERETON ANDREW LILLEY DUNCAN WALKER SHEILA PITT ALISON WEDGWOOD (Conservative) (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) 07855 916134 07717 714010 (01782) 912422 07957 948896 07968 477901 jack.brereton@ andy.lilley@ 07748 504149 sheila.pitt@ alison.wedgwood@ stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk duncan.walker@ stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk

Birches Head and Central Forest Park Blurton East Blurton West and Newstead Boothen and Oakhill

PAUL BREEZE MARK MEREDITH GLENYS WARD NEIL DAY ANDY PLATT (Unaffiliated) (Labour) (City Independents) (Labour) Labour (01782) 279684 07717 714020 (01782) 312670 (01782) 598844 07919 660221 paul.breeze@ mark.meredith@ 07922 909545 07796 040002 andy.platt@ stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk glenys.ward@ [email protected] stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk

Bradeley and Chell Heath Broadway and Longton East Burslem Central Burslem Park Dresden and Florence

GURMEET SINGH TOM REYNOLDS ALAN DUTTON JOY GARNER SHAZAD HUSSAIN KALLAR (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) 07850 828717 (01782) 824051 (01782) 768846 07899 771815 07900 604232 tom.reynolds@ 07982 231567 07986 442770 shazad.hussain@ gurmeetsingh.kallar@ stoke.gov.uk alan.dutton@ [email protected] stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk

Eaton Park Etruria and Hanley Fenton East Fenton West and Mount Pleasant Ford Green and Smallthorne

TERRY CROWE MAJID KHAN PAUL SHOTTON KAREN CLARKE MATT WILCOX (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) (01782) 269422 07989 441707 (01782) 434445 07917 270594 07810 825600 07818 044755 majid.khan@ paul.shotton@ karen.clarke@ matt.wilcox@ terry.crowe@ stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk

Goldenhill and Sandyford Great Chell and Packmoor Hanford and Trentham JANINE BRIDGES MARTIN GARNER (Labour) ANN JAMES TERENCE FOLLOWS PETER HAYWARD (Labour) (01782) 851842 (City Independents) (City Independents) (City Independents) (01782) 768846 07989 385631/ (01782) 836766 (01782) 318127 (01782) 644052 07759 863615 07717 714205 ann.james@ 07944 055379 07920 835839 martin.garner@ janine.bridges@ stoke.gov.uk terence.follows@ peter.hayward@ stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk

Hanley Park and Shelton Hartshill and Basford Hollybush and Longton West Joiner’s Square Lightwood North and Normacot

AMJID WAZIR SHAUN PENDER KATH BANKS ALASTAIR WATSON BAGH ALI (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) 07747 830461 (01782) 632104 (01782) 399759 07736 837822 (01782) 343246 amjid.wazir@ 07920 835836 07790 699379 alastair.watson@ 07973 848428 stoke.gov.uk shaun.pender@ kath.banks@ stoke.gov.uk [email protected] stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk

Little Chell and Stanfield Meir Hay Meir North Meir Park Meir South

DAVID CONWAY MUHAMMAD AUMIR RUTH ROSENAU ABI BROWN DEBBIE WHEELDON (City Independents) (Labour) (Labour) (Conservative) (Labour) (01782) 790922 07413 205979 (01782) 501940 07793 844169 (01782) 595043 david.conway@ muhammad.aumir@ 07870 503575 abi.brown@ 07870 777807 stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk ruth.rosenau@ stoke.gov.uk debbie.wheeldon@ stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk

Moorcroft Penkhull and Stoke Sandford Hill Sneyd Green Springfields and Trent Vale MOHAMMED PERVEZ RANDOLPH CONTEH OLWEN HAMER DEBRA GRATTON SARAH HILL (Labour) (City Independents) (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) (01782) 232468 (01782) 256869 07717 714207 07748 251695 (01782) 845044 07919 917632 07920 835902 olwen.hamer@ debra.gratton@ 07584 607624 mohammed.pervez@ randolph.conteh@ stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk [email protected] stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk

Tunstall Weston Coyney FORTHCOMING PUBLIC MEETINGS AT THE CIVIC CENTRE, STOKE: ● The Cabinet meetings are scheduled as ● The full City Council meetings are at LEE WANGER MATTHEW FRY follows at 5.30pm: 24 November 2011, 5.30pm on 8 December 2011, 2 February (City Independents) (Labour) 15 December 2011 and 26 January 2012. 2012 and 23 February 2012 (Budget). 07971 303729 07826 891801 lee.wanger@ matthew.fry@ For more information on your councillors go to stoke.gov.uk/councillors stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk Councillors can also be contacted through the Councillor and Civic Support Team who can take messages and forward them on.They can be contacted on 01782 231922 or 231924.

Information on city councillors was correct at the time of going to press. Our City p32 16/11/11 17:24 Page 1

32 Our City NOVEMBER 2011 Support for vulnerable residents IN TUNE... Peter Whitehead hopes to realise pays off his ambition of A DEDICATED team is becoming a funding services to help professional hundreds of vulnerable musician. people lead independent lives in their own homes. The Supporting People Team works with 30 organisations across the city to provide housing related services for a wide range of people. These include residents with mental health problems, older people with support needs, people with learning disabilities, single homeless people and homeless families and women escaping domestic violence. Through a multi-agency approach Supporting People funded services provide assistance in helping to find and set up a new home, access an alarm system or Telecare as well as access to training, employment, health and education services. They will also help with applying for benefits, managing money and filling forms as well as getting to know the surrounding area. The team is also ROM special school responsible for making sure to mainstream that there are services Feducation and violin Violinist eyes career available for vulnerable beginner to talented people in the city and that violinist – teenager Peter these services are of a good Whitehead has made huge standard. progress over the past two Chris Dale of the after falling for the Supporting People Team years. said:“Each service helps by The 14-year-old, who was assisting with a range of diagnosed with autism when he was three, is now dreaming of a practical things and the team career as a professional musician are responsible for making as his own hard work and the power of music sure that there are services support of both his family and available for vulnerable Stoke-on-Trent’s City Music full-time at Trentham High Biddulph Music Festival. instrumental and curriculum people and that they are of a Service pay off. School, said: “I like the violin The service also has a music music teaching as well as good standard. He first picked up a violin at because I do really well with it. technology suite complete with individual tuition. A significant “Each service has its own Abbey Hill School and I’m more confident and now have computers, electric guitars and a number of our older students go application process and Performing Arts College in 2009 a much bigger ambition that I drum kit. The suite is used for on to study at university or music eligibility criteria and people after his dad, Andrew Whitehead, did.” group and individual learning and college. looking to access them can approached the City Music He performs in the City Youth was very popular during the “Peter shows just what can be contact us.” Service looking for tuition. String Orchestra and the City school summer holidays. achieved so we’re proud of him The Supporting People Andrew, a former music teacher Youth Choir, while his 12-year-old Boosting self esteem and all the other young people programme is managed by a and violinist said: “His autism brother Tim – who also has across the city who love and enjoy commissioning body made means he finds some things autism – is a talented trumpeter Of the thousands of children their music.” up of partners from housing, physically difficult to do so I who achieved Grade 4 with who enjoy music lessons across Andrew Whitehead, who is also health, social services, thought the idea of him even distinction last year. the city, 200 sat instrumental chair of Governors at two city corporate resources and holding a violin correctly was too They have both benefited from practical exams in 2010-2011 and primary schools, added: “The probation. much of a stretch. City Music Service tuition. A staff achieved a 100 per cent pass rate City Music Service is of around 35 music teachers run phenomenal. The strides Peter A Supporting People “His teacher from the City while a further 213 won music Music Service has helped him go classes, workshops and one-to-one medals… an increase of 30 per has made are absolutely huge. service guide has been from zero to Grade 6 in two sessions for youngsters at 64 cent on the previous year. “The service has taken so much produced to help people gain years. It took me four years to do primary and secondary schools Music Service Acting Leader care of him, I’d say it’s excellent access to a full list of services the same so he’s done amazingly across the city. Harry Hitchen said: “Music gives and encourage more schools to available. well. I don’t see it as autistic They also organise choirs, children so much; they get a sense get involved.” ● For more details about the ability; he just works hard so orchestras and ensembles who of achievement, experience we’re really proud. Music is one performed a packed calendar of teamworking, develop socially and ● For more information on the services call 01782 232123 or of the things that helps him shine. events last year. The City Youth learn new skills whilst boosting City Music Service and the email supporting.people@ He’s loving it.” Training Choir of eight to 11 their confidence and self esteem. opportunities on offer please call stoke.gov.uk Peter, who is now settling in year-olds won two classes at the “We provide whole-class 01782 233794/233792

Our City is published by a partnership of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, NHS Stoke on Trent, Staffordshire Police, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue and Jobcentre Plus Contact us by mail at FREEPOST Our City or by email at [email protected] or telephone 01782 236703