A 4-star council Awarded top marks by the Audit Commission June 2008 THE BEE’S KNEESVISION ONLINE VIRTUAL VOICE What brought Ugandan Enter competitions and Youngsters helped by visitors to Lancashire? write to us online new technology Page 5 www.lancashire.gov.uk/corporate/vision Page 3 WANTED: FRIENDS OF LANCASHIRE New website to aid the fight against climate change LANCASHIRE as registering as a residents are Friend of Lancashire can make a difference being invited to and even save people get “online” and money on their house- help protect the hold bills.” county for future The new website is the generations. latest in a string of cli- This month sees the mate change activity launch of a new sec- carried out recently by the county council. tion on the Lancashire Other initiatives include County Council web- buying green energy for site - giving residents, streetlights, phasing out schools and local busi- polluting fleet vehicles nesses the opportunity and using renewable to join forces in the energy to power new fight against climate projects such as the change. Building Schools for the The site contains a Future scheme. wealth of information, A local grant scheme and will be the platform has also been estab- for a brand new scheme lished to kick-start activ- knownas“Friendsof ity at a grassroots level Lancashire”. By simply by encouraging groups registering on the site, to set up climate change anyone can become a initiatives in their own Friend of Lancashire communities. Grants and find out tips on tack- have already been ling climate change in agreed which will see their neighbourhood. better insulation in com- All registered munity buildings and “friends” will receive loan smart energy regular email updates meters. LOGGING ON: People can find out green hints and tips by visiting the new website in their own homes. from the county council Councillor Harding with useful tips and added: “We have seen advice on how, and just how effective cli- where, to get discounted mate change grants can environmentally-friend- be within local commu- County signs up to Carbon Trust ly products such as low nities, which demon- energy light bulbs and strates the importance becoming part of its everyday home composters. of giving residents ways THE drive to combat The announcement marks a other organisations that there work. County Councillor in which to act. climate change has victory for the authority after a are practical things we can all do to combat climate A five-step programme will Hazel Harding, leader of “Our new climate gathered pace with strict application process change and that it is possible see the council calculate the the county council, said: change website is requiring the council to prove news that Lancashire its commitment to a greener to save on heating, electricity effect of its activities on the “Many residents want to intended to build on County Council is join- Lancashire. and fuel while still environment and make a case play their part in the these roots in the com- ing forces with national County Councillor Hazel delivering the services people for change based on environ- fight against climate munity and give every experts on energy sav- Harding, leader of the need.” mental gains, cash savings and change. People often ask single resident, school county council, said: “We are The Carbon Trust will now any impact on frontline servic- how they can contribute and business a way to ing. already making changes to lead the county council on a es. to such a global problem. get involved and look The council has signed up to our buildings, vehicle fleets, journey which will start News that the council has “Something as simple after Lancashire.” the Carbon Trust, giving its bosses access to a huge staff travel and street-lighting. with the authority accurately joined the Carbon Trust comes To get involved, visit the website at: resource of knowledge and “As one of the county’s identifying its current after the launch of a climate http://www.lancashire.gov.uk/climatechange experience on how to curb biggest employers we are carbon footprint and end change strategy last year. carbon emissions. committed to showing with carbon saving Cont p2

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

The presence of promotional leaflets delivered inside Vision does not imply Lancashire County Council endorsement. YOUR LANCASHIRE: A PLACE WHERE EVERYONE MATTERS 2 June 2008 Providing • food safety • welfare advice www.lancashire.gov.uk

A full job description of all vacancies is available on our website www.lancashire.gov.uk/vacancies ASK THE EXPERT Pledge to ensure Questions answered dignity in care by your friend in PEOPLE who live in residential “Only by working together can we care homes or those who receive deliver what people want and give the know care services should be treated them what they deserve”. The charter is a public statement with dignity and respect. that care providers and service com- That was the unequivocal message missioners have agreed to, and under- Bullying worry from care chiefs following the official lines what a person can reasonably I believe that my son is launch of Lancashire County Council’s expect when they need and use care being bullied at school Dignity in Care Charter. and support services in Lancashire. and I do not know how A key focus of the charter is on cre- The charter was officially signed by to go about helping, as I ating a zero tolerance approach to a Councillor Cheetham, former cabinet believe something needs lack of dignity in the care of older peo- member for Adult and Community to be done at a higher ple. Services, and Ken Nolan, director of The charter is a joint initiative level. My wife and I are CONCERN : See Bullying worry the LCA; and recognised the good work considering home between the county council and the that has been going on between the schooling for him if this fouling on grass verges, would like to know of Lancashire Social Care Partnership, two organisations over recent years. carries on and I just parks, pavements and anygroupsorpeople which represents independent care The charter is based on the wondered how this gardens on my journey. who could take her out providers in Lancashire, and includes Department of Health’s Dignity in could be arranged. I It is such an eyesore for to socialise and make Lancashire Care Association (LCA) Care Charter, which was launched in would be extremely the public and causes friends if ever I needed a and the UKHCA Lancashire Forum. November 2006. grateful for any advice such a mess. day off. I love going to County Councillor Chris Cheetham Social care providers, including care you could give us for our Please can something be see my mother and the said: “There is a commitment from all home owners and managers, will be son’s welfare. done about this to clean joy it brings her even if care providers that people facing resi- asked to sign up to Lancashire’s Name withheld up our village for the we just go out for a cof- dential care, and their relatives, will be Dignity in Care Charter as part of responsible dog owners feeorIcantakeherfor treated with dignity. their agreement with the council. If you have concerns and the rest of the pub- a walk, and I wondered over bullying, you need lic who like to keep our if I could maybe join a to contact a teacher or village clean? group where I would be the headteacher at your Mrs T Griffin, Rishton able to help other elderly child's school and have people with activities Improving energy usage a discussion with them Dog fouling is a cleans- like this, as well as my Continued from p1 regarding your son’s ing issue and the foul- mum? welfare. If you are not ing of footways and Mrs Lawson, Lancaster Schools are also being encouraged to The county council is already a key satisfied with the greensisdealtwithby start “energy clubs” to look at how they member of the Lancashire Climate school’s response you your district council. Lancashire County can contribute. Change Partnership, a group of public can write to the school Please contact your local Council does have a Councillor Harding said: “The and private sector organisations which governors and also con- council and request to Volunteers Service Carbon Trust will help us to look at have joined forces to coordinate action tact your area speak to the cleansing which recruits and what we are doing to cut carbon, how to cut carbon and prepare the county Education Welfare department regarding trains volunteers to sup- we are doing it and whether we are for the effects of global warming. Office for advice and the matter and they port people who access achieving our aims. The county council is one of the guidance at any time should be able to help social care services. “Monitoring and reducing energy largest organisations ever to join the via 0845 053 0000. you keep your village Volunteers can provide and fuel use is not easy, especially for Carbon Trust. Don’t know who With regard to home clean. 'befriending' support a large organisation, and I’m very glad The Carbon Trust was set up by the to contact when schooling, in the first and assist service users we have won the backing of this Government in 2001 as an independ- you need help? instance you will need By the board and carers with day-to- scheme which has proven success. ent company. Its aim is to accelerate to inform the head Some of the local shops day living activities. “On top of the environmental bene- the move to a low carbon economy by Baffled by teacher of the school have started to put their Volunteers can provide fits, this is a good investment as the working with organisations to reduce bureaucracy? attended by your child, fruit and vegetable stalls vital support to vulnera- county council stands to make signifi- carbon emissions and develop commer- who will in turn inform out onto the street due to ble people and reduce cant savings which will have ever more cial low-carbon technologies. Over 100 Ring Shirley on the education authority thelongerdaysand feelings of social isola- impact as energy prices continue to local authorities are currently working rise.” with the trust. 0845 0530000 or email in writing. summer weather as they tion and loneliness. Shirley on enquiries@ For comprehensive do every year. However, This can be as simple as css.lancscc.gov.uk advice and an informa- in recent years these a coffee and chat with tion pack on Elective stalls are so far out onto an older person, to more Write to: Home Education please the pavement that peo- intensive support, for Ask Shirley contact 0845 053 0000. ple are having to walk example enabling an Customer Service Centre on the road and I do not adult with a learning The Red Rose Hub Foul mess feel that this is safe for disability to access com- Bluebell Way Everyday I take my dog pedestrians anymore. munity activities such as going to the cinema, Preston on a walk through my Are these shops allowed to block the footway like shopping, or swimming. PR2 5PZ local area and without fail I see several this? If you would like more dogs Mr Mcdonald, Ribchester information on either how you go about Some shops do have pri- becoming a volunteer, or vate forecourts and dis- indeed any other servic- plays may be permitted es your mother may be there. However if the entitled to please con- display is causing an tact 0845 053 0000 obstruction on the pave- or e-mail ment then this is indeed volunteer.services an offence and is not @ssd.lancscc.gov.uk allowed. To report a pavement obstruction, please call our highways DON’T section on 0845 053 0011 who will be able to FORGET report the problem for Your county councillor you to the local high- will be keen to help. ways inspector. Contact details are available on Help for people 0845 053 0000 or at: I would like to know if www.lancashire.gov.uk the council runs any vol- unteer groups with You can also try your regard to helping the area’s County Information elderly. I go to see my mother daily who fre- Centre where staff are quently says that she trained to help the public www.lancashire.gov.uk Providing • adult education • libraries June 2008 3 Writing about Gaining a voice their county New technology is helping youngsters to communicate PRIDE: Pupils Angus Young (11) and Sarah Elliot (10) CHILDREN with complex carry out specialist assessments. with Wendy Dwyer, county council chair. Kate Fallon, a senior adviser with communication needs across CHILDREN across reminded of how things Lancashire are being given a the strategy and inclusion team, said: “We now have a wide group of people Lancashire are being look from someone else’s voice, through a new scheme right across Lancashire who are able asked to write about perspective. which provides access to the to assess children to a specialist level “The purpose is to get Lancashire, their children thinking about right communication aids. in order to make recommendations for town, or even their The “Augmentative Communi- what they value, and them to have augmentative communi- street in a bid to cations” scheme was introduced after cation aids.” then getting those boost literacy. thoughts on paper. the Government’s £21m Communi- So far, staff from 13 special schools  cations Aid Project (CAP) ended. This TOUCHING: An example of the technology that is The Red Rose County “Literacy is one of the have been trained to undertake assess- helping youngsters to communicate in innovative ways. project had been intended to supple- ments of children with complex com- has some fascinating most valuable skills they history and an can learn. It will last a ment provision from local and health munication needs. More widely, 13 puter systems that can be used by people with a wide authorities across the country. specialist support staff from the coun- excitingfuture-soa lifetime for them. range of physical difficulties. child’s eye view of what “Children can write Lancashire’s response to the end of ty council and eight staff from three Jo Heywood, a speech and language therapist from the CAP was to embark on this scheme Lancashire PCTs have been trained. adults sometimes take about Lancashire’s coun- East Lancashire PCT, who works with children at a for granted is being tryside, its streets, its to ensure that Lancashire County Using appropriate communication number of special schools, said: “A lot of the children Council staff and workers from aids can transform lives. Such aids can sought. sights and sounds, or we work with have physical difficulties which limit Each pupil will be even about their family.” Primary Care Trusts (PCTs) across the range from low-tech letter boards and their capacity to express themselves verbally, so the county had the necessary skills to charts, through to sophisticated com- asked to write about The competition will, communications aid acts as their voice.” their local area. Winners it is hoped, run in all will receive prizes of 600-plus primary sch- books for themselves ools with the judging NEWS BRIEF and their school. duetobedoneon Learning from Lancashire Young people’s clubs County Councillor Lancashire Day in IN our last edition, Although the group did Wendy Dwyer, county November. council chair, said: Details are being sent council policy-making. we incorrectly stated apply for a grant to the LESSONS learned in Lancashire that a grant of £89,000 county council it was not “Children see the world out to all Lancashire about older people are being Councillor Westell said: “There is had been made to the approved. in a different light to the schools. spread across the nation. interest from all over the country in Lancashire Association We apologise to the rest of us. Details are also avail- Councillors from Cambridgeshire what services should be provided for of Clubs for Young group for this error and any “Adults become jaded able from Paul Moran on County Council came to Lancashire to older people in the future. People. inconvenience this caused. anditisatonictobe 01772 531 064. learn of the county’s plans for older “People are now just as likely to need peoples’ services in the future. advice on sport or their finances as Lancashire County Council has one they are to need the things traditional- of the first Champions for Older People ly associated with old age.” in the country. Lancashire already has a Strategy Councillor Dorothy Westell, who for an Ageing Population - devised holds the position, is charged with with organisations in the Lancashire ensuring that older people are Partnership - and the visitors are considered at all stages of county studying it before producing their own. 4 June 2008 Providing • bridge maintenance • paths www.lancashire.gov.uk Smiles per hour VISION readers are being asked • What is your favourite journey? Snappers delight what makes them smile while • Who is your dream passenger? driving in a bid to help the Road • What is your favourite music to lis- Safety Group tackle road rage. ten to whilst you are driving? Top-of-the-range bike up for grabs in our Whether it is the journey home on a • What kind of driving tips you Friday or listening to a favourite tune, would like to hear more about from us? one lucky reader could win a £20 (e.g Tips for long journeys, speed lim- new summer photography competition voucher. its, laws, eco-driving etc) To enter, send your answers on a CYCLISTS are being For a chance to win simply answer these questions: postcard with your name and tele- asked to get snap- • How do you stay calm on the phone number to: Smile competi- ping in a competition roads? tion, Road Safety Group, Guild to win a top-of-the- • What makes a stress-free drive? House, Cross Street, Preston, range new bike. • When travelling with children, FREEPOST PR 844 or send an email All cyclists have to do how do you keep them happy on long to: [email protected] is find an interesting view, point their camera and journeys? The closing date is Friday 27 June. with just a click they could win a new bike. Leading cyclist Chris Jackson is saddling up to judge the competition and the East Lancashire- based shop On Yer Bike is offering a £250 voucher Express your bus ideas for a new bike or bike equipment for the winner. Caroline Holden, Lancashire County Council’s cycling officer, said: “Cyclists see so much when they are on their trips - and we want them to share what Views wanted on rapid bus they see. It could be beautiful scenery, or it could be children playing on their bikes in the street. “It could be cycling in the city, going to the shops transport plans for East Lancs or even of a group of friends on a ride. Everyone has their own idea of what is inspiring. PEOPLE are being asked for “I’ve seen some great pictures of daredevil bikers their views on plans which could SHARE in skateparks and mountain-bikers in the country.” lead to state-of-the-art public Although pictures must be cycling related, transport coming to the area. YOUR VIEWS photographs do not need to feature bikes. PennineReach is a proposed dynam- With more than 160 miles of off-road cycleway Send entries to: Cycle Photo Competition, PO ic, new bus service designed to improve available - and thousands of miles of roads and Box 9, Guild House, Cross Street, Preston PR1 the public transport network between Consultation events: tracks - cyclists have plenty of scenes to snap. 8RD. Alternatively send your images by email to: Accrington, Blackburn and Darwen; Judge Chris, a member of the Board of British [email protected] via Rishton, Great Harwood and • Great Harwood Library: Tuesday 17 Cycling, said: “Cycling is good for your health and Entries to be submitted on the understanding that Oswaldtwistle. June, 6pm-8pm great fun. It is amazing what you see from a bike they may be used in Lancashire County Council The network could include new high • Clayton Civic Hall, Clayton-le-Moors: when you would never have seen them from a car. publications. quality buses travelling on dedicated Wednesday 18 June, 6pm-8pm “I’m backing this attempt to get people out and For more information on cycling routes, bus lanes, bus priority at traffic lights • Rishton Library: Thursday 19 June, about in the beautiful Lancashire countryside.” including online maps and guided rides for and other measures to shorten journey 6pm- 8pm With hundreds of bikes, including racers, all abilities, visit the website at: times and improve service reliability. • Hippings Vale Community Centre, mountainbikes, BMX and children’s bikes for sale, www.lancashire.gov.uk/environment/cycling Passengers could also benefit from Harvey Street, Oswaldtwistle: Tuesday 24 Burnley and Blackburn-based On Yer Bike has improved waiting facilities, real-time June, 6pm-8pm something for everyone. The shops’ trained staff also The winners of last month’s Booths’ competition bus displays showing up-to-the-minute • Ernest Street Baptist Chapel, Walmsley sell cycling gear, tools, lights and training equipment are Ronnie Bootle from Walton-le-Dale, Tracey information and innovative “smart Close, Church: Thursday 26 June, 6pm- in large showrooms. Hall from Lancaster, Brian A Reeves from card” ticketing technology. 8pm The competition’s £250 voucher can be spent on a Fleetwood, P Summerfield from Tarleton and Mrs The multi-million pound scheme has • Accrington Town Hall, supper room: bike - or other cycling equipment from On Yer Bike. Carol Dixon from Freckleton. Winners will be con- been put together by Lancashire Tuesday 1 July, 6pm-8pm The contest will run over the summer with a tacted shortly about receiving their prizes. County Council and Blackburn with closing date of Friday 29 August. Darwen Borough Council, who will bid for Government funding later this 9 June to Friday 4 July in Accrington year. Hyndburn Borough Council are Town Hall, Accrington Market Hall also closely involved in the scheme. and Oswaldtwistle Mills. Celebrating good school health A major consultation exercise will be Leaflets are available at: held during June and July 2008. www.transportforlancashire.com, PUPILS at a Nelson primary Healthy Schools Programme tored by play leaders from each Residents living along the route and by sending an email to rapidtrans- school are looking forward to team. class and attended the School in the surrounding areas will be receiv- [email protected] or by writ- a healthy future, thanks to After attending the weekly Council meeting where pupils dis- ing details of the proposals and asking ing to: FREEPOST PR844, lessons learned at school. whole-school celebration assem- cussed plans for new outdoor play for their feedback. Lancashire County Council, Lomeshaye Junior School bly, where pupils receive a variety equipment. Public exhibitions are also being Environment Directorate, Public recently celebrated its national of awards and certificates, Councillor Patel said: “This is a held locally across Hyndburn allowing Transport Policy (PennineReach), Healthy Schools status, which Councillor Patel joined a parents’ model school. The good practice people to view the plans first hand and PO Box 9, Guild House, Cross shows that messages about eating healthy eating cookery session to should be disseminated to other share their opinions. Street, Preston, PR1 3BR. well, getting exercise, being safe see a roast chicken dinner being schools. There are high standards Details and plans of the proposals For general information call 0845 and looking after each other are prepared. and high achievement. They are will also be on display from Monday 053 0000. finding their way into all areas of He also observed the “Big happy, well-motivated and well- the curriculum. Write” sessions held each Friday - mannered pupils County Councillor Vali Patel, part of the school’s success in rais- “Lomeshaye has wonderful Cabinet member for schools, spent ing writing achievement. facilities thanks to the high stan- a morning at the school to see for The visitors also toured the tuck dard of gradual refurbishment himself what had been achieved, shop where pupils sell fruit, that has taken place over the past along with two members of the watched playground games moni- four years.”

Pride in our heroes which they believe. www.lancashire.gov.uk/envi They surely deserve ronment/countryside/events recognition. or telephone 01772 534 709 - EVERYONE should recognise MRS D A DANIELS editor. the bravery and sacrifice that a Little Hoole section of true Lancastrians reg- ularly display. Under a cloud I refer to the many soldiers School’s out that come from the area and who A SHOP near where I live sells have served, and are serving, in With the school holidays fast cigarettes “under the counter”. Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq, Afghan- approaching, I am trying to find It’s obvious that it is not istan and the Gulf. days out and activities in entirely legal. Who deals with We should be proud of them. Lancashire to keep my nine year this, is it the police or customs? My son is one of them. old and five year old entertained CONCERNED RESIDENT I wonder why those who are without it costing too much injured do not get a special money, can you help? HM Revenue and Customs medal in addition to the cam- MRS LAWRENCE paign medal. Garstang have a hotline on 0800 595 Many of these soldiers come 000 to report VAT and excise back with horrific injuries, some Lancashire Countryside tax evasion. You can also have to bury comrades, while Service organise family fun contact the county’s Trading others suffer from mental trau- days during all school holi- Standards team on 08454 40 ma that forces them to leave the days. For further informa- 05 06 to report sales of fake jobs they are proud of and in tion visit the website at: cigarettes - editor www.lancashire.gov.uk Providing • information centres • hotlines June 2008 5 Council Cabinet Waste: from bin to bench changes THE new council  year will see a new TOUR: (left to look for the county Ugandan visitors right) Jose Jola Acire, James council’s Cabinet. Two new members are look at innovative Ocaka and joining the Cabinet, to Catherine Oryem- replace two departing Oringa from the members, and three exist- waste disposal and Gulu community in ing members are to change Uganda with David their portfolio. Stowe from TEG The total number of Environmental in members stays the same. recycling schemes Councillor Janice Han- Preston. son (Morecambe West) A PIONEERING environmental partnership comes into the Cabinet and takes over the highways has been launched with African leaders visit- and planning portfolio ing Lancashire to gain advice on green issues. (previously environment Lancashire County Council’s top experts on waste, and transportation) from recycling and conservation welcomed visitors from Matthew Tomlinson, who the Gulu region of Uganda to help them establish changes to sustainable their own community projects. development. Members of the group visited waste and recycling Councillor Jennifer plants in Preston and Accrington, agricultural facili- Mein (Preston South East) comesintotakeovercom- ties at Myerscough College, wetlands at Leighton munity planning and part- Moss and a beekeeping workshop in Arnside.  nerships from Jean Battle. Schools, councils and voluntary groups in SUSTAINABLE: The Ugandan group met Roger Walton and John Walker of Lancaster Councillor Anne Brown Lancashire have longstanding links with Gulu, exchanges resources and which were first established in the early 1990s. This Bee Keepers Association at a beekeeping performance for adult and relationship is maintained by a Preston-based chari- workshop in Arnside. community services; and Councillor Tony Martin ty called the Lancashire-Gulu Link Association.  The county council has launched a new scheme to PROSPERITY: The group visited Prosperity moves from sustainable help Gulu leaders develop their region in an environ- Recycling in Accrington, a company which development to resources and performance. mentally sustainable way. Six projects have been turns waste plastic into usable products. agreed including tree plantations, wetlands conser- Left to right: Jose Jola Acire, Catherine vation and waste management. Oryem-Oringa, Graham Chadwick of County Councillor Matthew Tomlinson, Cabinet Prosperity Recycling, and James Ocaka. Shadow member for sustainable development, said: “The Gulu Municipal Council have come up with a very three years to initiate projects in Gulu. The commit- tree plantations will supply firewood to local homes Cabinet clear and detailed plan of how we can use our knowl- tee will receive regular progress updates from the and schools; and prevent unauthorised tree felling in edge and experience to support them to protect their Lancashire-Gulu Link Association. woodlands which naturally store water. A NEW Conservative group leader has been cho- environment. The project, billed as the Lancashire Carbon Better waste management will keep drains and sen following the group’s “A little help from the county council in areas such Compensation Scheme, acknowledges the impact culverts free from rubbish. Annual General Meeting. as waste and recycling, and managing natural that developed regions such as Lancashire have on Another scheme will look to create economic oppor- County Councillor Geoff resources will go a very long way in a community other areas of the world - due to our higher carbon tunities from the natural environment by establish- Driver (Preston North) where many people lack basic necessities.” emissions - and aims to compensate for them. ing beekeeping projects. This will allow farmers to takes over from County The Cabinet Committee on Climate Change and One aim of the project is to prevent flooding by pro- produce honey for sale while protecting local plants Councillor Michael Welsh the Environment agreed a £47,000 contribution over tecting and restoring natural defences. Sustainable and trees. (Preston North East). 6 LOOKJune 2008 Providing • youthLIVELY services • tourism www.lancashire.gov.uk Voice of Let’s read together! CHILDREN and families The campaign will be officially opportunity to meet beloved chil- foundation for children’s develop- across Lancashire are being launched on Saturday 7 June dren’s character Maisy the ment. at the National Football Mouse, who will be attending the “Early exposure to books invited to take part in a fun- Museum in Preston, from 11am launch and visiting local libraries improves learning, education packed programme of read- to 3pm, where football throughout June. attainment and social interac- ing events, story sessions author Tom Palmer, poet Paul The National Year of Reading tion. and competitions this sum- Cookson, and local author is backed by the Government and “This campaign is an opportu- mer, as part of the National Damian Harvey will talk about local authorities. It aims to build nity to bring fun and enjoyment their work. a greater national passion for to reading and motivate the Year of Reading 2008. The free family day will reading and encourage people to wider community to read more. The summer campaign kicks also feature lots of activities read more. “Let’s develop a positive read- off this month with “Shout About including crafts, book signings County Councillor Anne ing culture here in Lancashire Books” - a series of events run by and a t-shirt design competition Brown, Cabinet member for and celebrate reading together.” the county council in local ickinson for seven-11 year-olds and a adult and community services, For more details contact local James D libraries where children can meet colouring competition for under said: “Reading is a crucial skill libraries or visit the website at: well-known authors and take six year-olds. for life, work and social cohesion. www.lancashire.gov.uk/ Conservation officer part in a range of fun activities. For toddlers there will be an In particular, reading is the libraries and taxidermist

Animals - great and small - can tell us a lot about our environment Dancing to a new beat and history. ACTIONS speak loud- used to support record Rob’s record shop on Here James Dickinson explains er than words - unless shop owner Rob Kearney Blackburn Road in Great the importance of conservation the words are spoken and pal Ciaran Wells in Harwood. and uncovers the mysterious their quest to help young- CHART topper: Hyndburn to a rap beat. sters learn about music. work of the taxidermist. Young people in Hynd- MP Greg Pope (left); Susan With recording equip- Shorrock, County Councillor What does your job involve? burn can learn to rap for ment, decks and mixing free, thanks to a £1,000 gear, the duo are helping for Great Harwood (centre); I conserve old natural history items such as grant from the county young people to make and County Councillor Sean pre-historic bones and prepare items for pub- council’s champion for their own CDs. Serridge (right) with some of lic display in Lancashire museums and young people. Sessions are being held the staff and owners of record across the country. I work on a variety of The money has been across Hyndburn and in shop. species for taxidermy including birds, rare parrots, insects and other wildlife.

How did you become interested in taxi- dermy? Rural I used to collect bones, feathers and insects ever since I was a boy at school. Ribble During my A-levels, in the 1960s, I saw an advert in a newspaper about a bursary for a taxidermist training course run by the Roamer Museums Association. I am one of only five dedicated museum taxi- A PILOT project in the dermists in the country and accredited to do Ribble Valley has shown work for the National Trust. how people in rural areas can have better access to What are you currently working on? children’s services. Under the Ribble Roamer - a I’m working on re-assembling an Irish deer pathfinder scheme which has skeleton which will be displayed at Leeds now finished - Ribblesdale Museum. It stands roughly 5½ ft high and 7ft Children’s Centre in Clitheroe long, although almost 13ft across with its extended its services into antlers. I will soon start on some hippo bones Ribble Valley’s rural areas. which are over 120,000 years old. Fiona Owen, extended serv- ices manager at the centre, What is the most unusual or interesting said: “Families in rural areas item you have worked on? didn’t have equal access to services, so the project aimed I’m looking forward to working on the bones to take services out to villages of a Dodo, which became extinct around in the Ribble Valley.” 1680. It is the icon of distinction and intrigue Under this project, the for many people. children’s centre reached out to six villages: Gisburn, Where can we see your work? Chipping, Chatburn, Slaidburn, Dunsop Bridge, I work on items for different Lancashire and West Bradford. museums and across the country. I’m due to Support services included begin work for Clitheroe Castle. We are look- health and nutrition courses, ing to display wildlife including birds of prey health visitor services, toddler and mammals found in the Forest of groups and play sessions. The Bowland - such as the peregrine falcon, the project also helped families short-eared owl and otters. travel to and from venues. Cheryl Morris-Barrow, a Is taxidermy becoming more popular? mother of two who lives near There are few dedicated museum taxider- Slaidburn, said: “One of the mists now. There is a big commercial market services we’ve been using is a for taxidermy. Most taxidermists these days Weeny Workout, aimed at are small independent businesses, or individ- children up to four years old. uals who do it as a hobby in their garden The scheme is invaluable.” shed. The pilot scheme has now ended. The viability of contin- What is your motivation? uing the services is being explored. Work is also under- There is a real sense of achievement when way to see how the lessons you see items on public display for scientific from the project can be used to and educational purposes. improve access to services in rural areas across the county. www.lancashire.gov.uk Providing • youth services • tourism June 2008 7 Modern update for Life A green letter day nursery rhymes TRADITIONAL nursery tales are being lost to chil- Top tips at environmental event rhymes and folk tales dren.Thisisanewtakeon have entered the techno- traditional verses and stories that relate to modern life, but logical age, with a little without losing the good old- in ON DISPLAY help from Lancashire fashioned appeal of nursery County Council. rhymes. THE Red Rose On display from the county for you, and have any questions that Now children can hear old “The main aim is to make you might have answered. favourites such as Incey County will be going council at the event: them accessible and relevant Lancashire green later this For the garden On the move Wincey Spider and Jack and to under-fives, even if they How to be TravelWise; find out the Beanstalk at the touch of month for a special There will be an opportunity to see don’t have English as a first different sorts of home composters more about walking, cycling, car a ‘pen’ on the page. language or if Mum and Dad environmental event and find out more about how people sharing and using public transport Known as Sing, Sign and don’t know the words.” at Samlesbury Hall. can turn their rubbish into a to get out and around in Lancashire. Rhyme, the project uses bar- Sing, Sign and Rhyme will Lancashire County resource at home. Our advisors will be on hand with code-scanning and MP3 tech- be available to nurseries, Council has teamed up For the home maps and timetable information and nology to pick up invisible reception classes and other with the Lancashire Low energy light bulbs now come some practical advice to help you get codes on the page using a children’s groups throughout Telegraph newspaper in all shapes and sizes. See what is from A to B. Talking Pen. This high-tech the country. and other organisations available for your home, collect a free On two wheels piece of equipment, disguised The project was partly to host a high-profile bulb and find out about discounts Make your own smoothie using as a child’s chubby crayon, developed to help meet the public event known as available through Friends of pedal power and cycle against the then plays English nursery needs of children who have “Green Day”, taking Lancashire. clock on computer generated tracks. rhymes, as well as their for- different home languages. place on Sunday 29 Recycling is now a hot issue for Find out about local cycle routes and eign equivalents. The books and posters that June from 11am-4pm. people and this is an opportunity to pick up free leaflets to help get you Marion Bamford, the coun- can be used with the Talking The doors of find out more about what it means out and about. ty council’s Early Years Pen also include children Samlesbury Hall will Resource Centre manager, using sign language, to be thrown open for peo- said: “People often worry that encourage other forms of com- ple to find out how to Visitors can get free the county council’s emissions, that a tiny the lovely old rhymes and munication. reduce their energy advice, take part in fun Climate Change team, effort can make a big bills, save time and activities and pick up a said: “The event is difference. money on transport, number of green goodies about showing people, “Even for those that Maths Challenge adding up make their own free to help start making a who think that they have made a start, compost or reduce their difference at home. can’t do anything to there will be plenty to THE Mathematics The competition involves all household waste. Fiona Cruchley, from reduce their carbon learn.” Challenge 2008 has got of Lancashire’s 84 secondary off to a strong start with schools. The broad aim of the four schools in the final. Mathematics Challenge is to Tarleton High School, engage pupils in mathematics Tarleton; West Craven High at an early age and raise the Top of the shops in Kirkham Technology College, Colne; profile of mathematics both All Hallows Catholic High as a core business skill and as School, Penwortham; and an essential life tool. Albany Science College, The theme for this year’s Chorley; beat off tough oppo- challenge is ‘famous people in sition to win a place at the the world of mathematics’ grand final which takes place which encourages pupils to in June at the Woodlands consider possible careers Centre in Chorley. using mathematics. Lancashire County County Councillor Niki Council’s economic develop- Penney, chair of LCDL, said: ment department Lancashire “Every event gives me the County Developments opportunity to see how enthu- Limited (LCDL) sponsors the siastic the pupils are to take events which are organised part and their parents and and run by the council’s schools are rightly proud of BEFORE: An example in St Anne’s before the changes. AFTER: A new shop frontage following the work. Schools Effectiveness Service. them.” SHOP fronts could be revamped in a contribution to reducing the number of Fylde market town to boost the attrac- vacant units in Kirkham and adding to the tiveness and appeal of local shops and appeal of the market town. businesses. County Councillor Niki Penney, chair of Through a new project in Kirkham, land- LCDL, said: ‘’Strong interest has already lords and tenants will be able to access a been shown by retailers. I am confident that grant towards up to 50% of the total cost of the investment, importantly from both the updating their shop fronts, refurbishments public and private sector working together, or even expanding their premises. will result in worthwhile and beneficial Lancashire County Council’s economic improvements being made over the next cou- development company, Lancashire County ple of years - and the results will be evident Developments Limited (LCDL), has teamed for all to see to further enhance this beauti- up with Fylde Borough Council, the ful part of the county.’’ Kirkham and Wesham Business Group and This project is based upon the similar the private sector on the grant scheme. award winning St. Anne’s-on-Sea scheme. Any new improvements or developments This focused on improving shop frontages, will be encouraged to also be ‘green’. providing business support and enhanced The scheme aims to make a significant paving, planting and seating in public areas. Disability living allowance Disability Living Disability Living Allowance is Allowance is a tax-free paid on top of most other benefits and will not reduce any Income cash benefit of up to Support, Housing Benefit, £113 a week from the Council Tax Benefit, Pension Department for Work Credit or Tax Credits you may and Pensions (DWP). get, in fact it may even increase You can claim it if you are under these benefits. 65 years of age and have some And you can spend the money in long-term physical or mental dis- the way that suits you best, you ability which means you find it do not have to pay a carer to look difficult taking care of yourself or after you. have difficulty getting around. For more information get our Jim Dickson, For instance, you may have diffi- leaflet ‘Disability Living culty getting out of bed, dressing Allowance and Attendance head of Lancashire or undressing, taking your Allowance’ from your local tablets or medicine, remember- library, County Information County Council’s ing to do routine things, or Centre, Welfare Rights Office or Welfare Rights preparing and cooking a main Advice Centre or write to meal for yourself. Lancashire County Council, Service, may be You may be unsteady on your Welfare Rights Service, feet, have had a fall or have poor FREEPOST, Preston, PR1 able to help vision or hearing. 8BR or ring 01772 533 504. 8 June 2008 Providing • food safety • welfare advice www.lancashire.gov.uk New youth Success for home service created THE new Lancashire County Councillor Young People’s Serv- Marcus Johnstone, ice offers 11-25 year- Cabinet member for children and young peo- olds the support they ple, explains: “Bringing need as they enter these services together the adult world. gives us the opportunity From windsurfing to to concentrate our rehab scheme DJing, film-making to resources on the front yoga, the Young People’s line, where young people Service offers access to can benefit.” Six-week plan helps people activities and informa- Young people will still tion and guidance on be able to access the important issues. services they are used to regain their independence Created by the inte- to, such as Connexions gration of Lancashire and What Now?, along County Council’s Youth with new services. A NEW home care care and support in the keeping their independ- and Community Service For more information rehabilitation service home. ence after a period of ill- and Connexions Lanc- on the new service and that helps older peo- The aim is to help the ness. ashire, young people can the planned launch ple and people with individual regain their “There is nothing now access a huge range event on 8 June, visit: confidence and skills, so worse than feeling of services within the www.lancashire.gov. disabilities is proving that they can continue to alone, trapped in same organisation. uk/yps a huge success fol- live independently in your own home, so this lowing its launch in their own home. service gives people April last year. The service is offered contact with the The Reablement to new clients and is free outside world and gives Raising awareness families and carers a CARE: (Left to right) Care worker Vicky Carr and County Service, run by for up to six weeks. ence librarian, said: Since the service was break.” Councillor Tom Burns with Mrs Davis. ASPECTS of Burnley Lancashire County “Schools, parks and Council, provides inten- launched in April last have been recorded chapels, for example, are sive rehabilitation in a year over 1,000 people CASE STUDY for future genera- person's home for up to across the county have tions in a new series in the booklets - as well six weeks. received support A couple of weeks after Mrs She said: "I get help getting of booklets at the as photos of houses, fac- Patients are referred through the service. Sandra Davis from Preston dressed and some domestic help like tories and people going making the bed. Vicky and the staff town’s library. about their daily lives. to the service by social Following a visit to see underwent a major life-saving Planners and librari- are wonderful. We have a laugh. “These booklets are workers, care homes or how Mrs Davis was operation, she couldn’t have ans worked together on the NHS after an indi- recovering, County They gradually build my confidence landmark publications imagined she would be back on to do things for myself, but at my Heritage Appraisals vidual is discharged Councillor Tom Burns 2004-2007 - six volumes that will be referred to from hospital following a for Preston North West, her feet so quickly. own pace." endlessly by people in Mrs Davis, mother of four, has that will guide the fall or illness. said: "This is a fantastic The service also gives her husband been receiving support from the Elevate regeneration the future. Following an assess- service and since it was a break from his caring role and Reablement Service for three weeks. scheme in the town. Areas covered in the setuplastyearhas enables him to do the weekly food ment, a care worker pro- A care worker has been visiting The booklets have booklets include Stoney- vides a rehabilitation made a real difference to shop while staff sit with her. seven days a week - two hours in the Mrs Davies said: "If you're used to won a commendation in holme, Daneshouse, care programme tailored people's lives - by morning and evening - assisting her the annual Alan Ball Padiham, Burnley to the person's needs helping people regain being active it can be quite frustrat- with personal care. ing being dependent on people." History Awards. Wood, Trafalgar and and helps with personal their confidence and Susan Halstead, refer- Burnley West.