Our City p1 15/9/11 13:27 Page 1

Stoke-on-Trent ISSUE 23: SEPTEMBER 2011 Our City

Victory

dash Hotline rolls TOUR OF BRITAIN STAGE ANOTHER out red carpet TRIUMPH FOR CITY for business SEE BACK PAGE SEE CENTRE PAGES Our City p2 15/9/11 09:35 Page 1

2 Our City SEPTEMBER 2011 Council will roll out the Green energy vision boost for red carpet to attract new homes and business ground-breaking vision to in a carbon neutral city. Energy sharing works in investment generate Stoke-on-Trent’s own other parts of the country, and we are one of Apower and slash energy bills for only three places in the UK which have the homes and businesses has captured the geological conditions to pump hot water from Hot advice By City Council Leader deep beneath the ground. The Chatterley Councillor nation’s imagination. Whitfield link has a lovely irony – giving for home National newspaper coverage hailed the city’s Stoke-on-Trent a carbon free legacy out of its MOHAMMED PERVEZ bold idea to become carbon neutral and reduce fossil fuel history.” its reliance on gas and electricity utilities as She added that everyone could play their part warmth “Power to the People.” in reducing the amount of energy the city uses, NORTH Staffordshire NEWS that Stoke-on-Trent and North And a website giving details of 16 schemes and it was hoped the Staffordshire will not have their own Warmzone can offer advice from other councils saw Stoke-on-Trent’s exciting plans for the Enterprise Zone was received by and assistance to help imaginative ideas soar to the top of the leader future would spur the many as another kick in the teeth for board for the most hits. people make their homes public on to do their affordably warm and the city from Government. Under the scheme, energy efficiency measures bit. Of course it was disappointing, and innovative ways of heating and powering energy efficient.The five- Jane said: “We year partnership which especially since David Cameron had homes and businesses would remove the impact hope the vision we includes Stoke-on-Trent raised the area’s hopes during his of fluctuating and rising energy prices, tackling are announcing visit to Stoke-on-Trent earlier in the fuel poverty and attracting companies to invest will inspire and City Council has access to year. in the city. encourage funding and grants for loft But the fact remains that – with or Ways it would help citizens and businesses in members of the and wall insulation, without an Enterprise Zone – we are Stoke-on-Trent include: public and draught-proofing, heating the ones who must sell our city and ● Tapping into national initiatives like Green employers to systems and tank jackets. we are the ones who must do all we Deal which help people insulate their make their To find out more visit can to attract the investment and homes and install new boilers, paid for by homes and www.nswz.co.uk or jobs which will drive our city the savings they make in their bills. businesses telephone 01782 479099. forward. ● more energy We outlined this commitment Innovative projects to share surplus heat power from big buildings. For instance, efficient.” when we launched our four year heat and power that Michelin does not Mandate for Change programme to need could be used to power the Civic the business leaders and employers, Centre, Penkhull flats and developments at and I am delighted to say the the former Spode site. feedback has been positive, with many public and private partners ● Using tens of thousands of pounds worth of joining our efforts. organic waste currently made into compost Together we will make to make environmentally-friendly biogas. Stoke-on-Trent an even greater place ● Using dried wood chippings from trees to live and work, with a stronger which fall down, have to be cut down or economy and better prospects for may even be specially grown to heat and our children and young people. power a care home and a sports centre. Our city has selling points and ● Further investment in renewable energy strengths that some of the UK’s new sources like solar panels. A massive array enterprise zones could only dream on the roof of the Civic Centre is of... tremendous communications generating power for the building, feeding through the road and rail network, surplus energy into the National Grid and prime sites of land available for will pay for itself within 10 years and is development, a hard-working already performing 30 per cent above population and of course you: the target. A new initiative has already been people who have made our city launched to install solar panels on 4,000 great. council homes in the city. Hundreds of millions of pounds ● Ambitious plans to pump warm water invested in new schools, training and which could be as hot as 45 degrees skills are building a workforce ready centigrade from deep beneath the former to fill new vacancies for new Chatterley Whitfield pit which could be employers. Our city has so much to used to heat buildings. offer, and we are doing all we can to attract the investment it needs. A move to become a carbon neutral city We have also outlined how we will would lead to training and employment roll out the red carpet to attract the services, especially since a major part of kind of investment we need to create the initiative would be to refurbish new jobs, build businesses and boost people’s homes with better our economy. insulation and heating, or even This includes offering: renewable energy like solar power. ● A single point of contact for Jane Forshaw, the council’s investors. Assistant Director City Services, ● Streamlined planning processes. said the city’s power generation ● Tailored solutions for business needs were around 600 megawatts growth. a year – the equivalent of half the ● Guidance on funding. output of a large coal-fired power HISTORIC MINE WITH A 21ST CENTURY USE: ● Access to supply chains, labour station, but energy efficiency measures could Councillor Mark Meredith, Cabinet Member of Economic Development, and markets and networks. bring this requirement down, making self Councillor Gwen Hassall, Cabinet Member for Housing and Neighbourhood, We can deliver big solutions for big sufficiency a more realistic goal. at the former Chatterley Whitfield coal mine which is a centre of ambitious businesses and provide local support She said: “We want to offer people living in plans to pump warm water which could be as hot as 45 degrees centigrade for local companies.Then we can let Stoke-on-Trent, existing businesses and new from deep beneath the pit – which could be used to heat buildings. the private sector get on with investors an opportunity to benefit from being creating the jobs and wealth that will make Stoke-on-Trent thrive. ● See Mandate for Change Feature Live webcast of full council meetings Give us your feedback on pages 16 and 17. 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 or write to: help the environment 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 14/9/11 16:48 Page 1

SEPTEMBER 2011 Our City 3 Evening meetings open up council to more people COUNCILLORS have voted to move their council meetings from the afternoon to early evening to allow more members of the public to engage in the democratic process. Bev Harding, The proposal was brought of Blurton, with the forward to move full council new photovoltaic panels meetings outside of normal installed on her home working hours to make the by the council in the decision-making process more initiative which is cutting accessible. residents’ fuel bills and The move is also intended to creating jobs. attract high calibre candidates with diverse backgrounds to local Government. Leader of the Council Councillor Mohammed Pervez said: “This is an opportunity to get more people in the city involved in local democracy. “By broadening access to local politics we hope to attract more young people to take an interest in council decisions and possibly even stand for election. “I believe this is a positive step forward as we continue to look at ways to make our decision-making process more open and transparent. If local decisions are more accessible to people they can get more involved in the council services that matter to them.” ● A list of dates and times of council meetings can be found on the council website at Solar power green energy drive stoke.gov.uk/meetingdates Prosecution warning issued creates 100 new jobs to fly-tippers NE hundred new jobs are people enrol on the programme and train and “It’s about making sure people who have a BUSINESSES who illegally dump equip them with the new skills they will need. certain set of skills can increase that breadth being created across the city waste have been warned they face Councillor Mark Meredith, Cabinet of knowledge and increase their chances of Oto install environmentally- prosecution and large fines if friendly solar panels in thousands Member for Economic Development, said: employment in the future.” “This project gives our local workforce the The council has signed an agreement with found guilty of fly tipping. of homes. chance to learn new skills and take part in E.ON which will see the utility company The council’s Environmental The council and its partners – energy one of the most exciting and innovative invest up to £24 million to install the solar PV Crime Unit announced the blitz on provider E.ON and Kier Stoke – are carrying projects the city has to offer. We want to train panels on council and privately-owned houses. rogue traders who litter the city’s out the recruitment drive as part of a green people with existing skills to broaden their As well as the panels, houses in Northwood, roads, open spaces and energy scheme to install photovoltaic (pv) experience – for example, electricians who Birches Head and Middleport have also been pavements, or who do not have a panels on up to 4,000 properties. have no experience of working at heights will given external wall insulation and offered proper waste disposal contract. The JET (Jobs, Enterprise and be trained to do so as the panels are installed energy saving measures. Illegal fly tipping cost the city Training) scheme will help on the property’s roof. Kier’s Managing Director for Maintenance almost £300,000 last year and Peter Brynes said: “Kier is committed to officers were called out to deal identifying and delivering energy saving with just over 3,000 incidents. solutions for our customers’ commercial and Now team members will be domestic needs through green energy checking with local businesses to generation. make sure they have a proper Well-received by residents arrangement to dispose of “Our existing important relationship with commercial waste. Stoke-on-Trent City Council and E.ON Councillor Janine Bridges, enables us to understand the needs of our Cabinet Member for City Services, customer base and tailor our service to their said: “Every business has to have requirements ensuring they gain maximum proper waste disposal benefits from available renewable technology arrangements in place. funding.” “Most businesses do, and the Councillor Gwen Hassall, Cabinet Member Environmental Crime Unit is for Housing and Neighbourhoods, added: determined to deal firmly with “The solar panels we have installed so far those that choose to ignore their have been well received by residents and are duty. Fly tipping must stop if we part of a larger plan to increase fuel efficiency are to attract investors and make in the city and ensure we are less and less Stoke-on-Trent a great working reliant on fossil fuels. We have a strong city again.” commitment to using sustainable energies as ● part of our Mandate for Change policy, to To report fly tippers in confidence please call THE POWER OF SUNLIGHT... Kier Stoke Operations Director Jane Spellacy, left, and make Stoke-on-Trent the place to bring 01782 234234 or email Training Manager Jenny Donkin check a hi-tech monitor at the Civic Centre which business. Reducing fuel bills not only boosts shows exactly how much energy is being generated by solar panels on the building’s the existing local economy, but encourages environmental.crime@stoke. roof.They are similar to those being installed at 4,000 homes across the city. people to come to Stoke-on-Trent if they feel gov.uk they will be benefiting from the scheme.” Our City p4 14/9/11 17:27 Page 1

4 Our City SEPTEMBER 2011 Service provides language link for communities New parents wake up to A DEDICATED team of professionals offers support to public services across the city with a translation and interpretation service in 45 different languages. babybaby safetysafety callcall The service, based at Stoke Town Hall, was established in 1992 and ARD-hitting radio consumed alcohol or taken drugs. provides much-needed help to ads have been All agencies involved with new members of the public, council H used as part of a parents offer advice about safe officials and partner agencies campaign aimed at sleeping or co-sleeping but sadly whenever its services are needed. some parents don’t heed it so hammering home safe we’re targeting those people with From attending meetings to sleeping messages to provide face-to-face interpretation, this campaign. to translating anything from legal Stoke-on-Trent parents “Some people may have found letters to promotional material, the with new babies. the ads upsetting but it’s really important that we do all we can self-financing service provides a vital Two different ads aired during to keep children safe and link between the city’s communities a one-week run – one featuring the Brahms lullaby and the other hopefully this hard hitting and public services. campaign will help us to get this Waqas Butt, head of Translation with a cooing baby, a heavily breathing parent and then total very important message across. and Interpretation Services, who is silence. Posters carrying the Safe also a translator and interpreter Radio presenters have also Sleeping message remain on explained that around 95 per cent of given their support to this display in prominent places its translators and interpreters were campaign and have recorded throughout the city where locally-based, which saved money further commercials for a second parents are likely to gather. which would otherwise be spent on week. The striking posters remind bringing in specialists from other Carole Preston, the parents that for the first six areas. Safeguarding Children Board months of their lives babies He said: “We also boost the local Manager in Stoke-on-Trent, said: should always sleep – ● economy by providing work to the “The Safeguarding Children On their backs with their SAFE 120 interpreters and translators who Board is committed to doing feet to the foot of the cot AND SOUND... are on our register and live locally.” their best to promote the safety of ● In their own cot or crib three-week ● The team makes a charge for its babies and children in our ● Never with a parent or old George Smith services and offers commercial community. carer in their bed, on a correctly positioned in work as well as helping members “National figures show an sofa or armchair his cot, watched by his of the public and partner increase in the number of babies Most important of all, it is mum Taryn, right, and agencies.They can be contacted who have died while being put in NOT safe to be caring for a Health Visitor on 01782 235088, or email risky sleeping situations and the baby/child if ether parent or Janice Frost. translation.interpretation@stoke. risk is even higher for babies carer have consumed alcohol gov.uk or fax 01782 235090. where a parent or carer has or taken drugs.

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SEPTEMBER 2011 Our City 5

PC Darren POLICE CLAMP McGrath with the Everyone can kind of scrap metal being targeted by play their part thieves who often put DOWN ON their own and other people’s safety in making the METAL THEFT at risk. city a place for business

By City Council Chief Executive John van de Laarschot

THERE is no doubt that the Government’s decision not to base an Enterprise Zone in Stoke-on-Trent was a massive blow to everyone in the city, especially considering the work that had gone into the bid and the encouragement at Government level for our proposals. In this issue of Our City, Council Leader Councillor Mohammed Pervez outlines our future vision for bringing business to the city and supporting our existing business network, but I wanted to tell you about two projects that are already underway, which are in line with our Mandate for Change. In the past month, we have seen a partnership between ourselves and Kier Stoke create 100 new jobs for skilled tradesmen across the city to install new solar panels on up to 4,000 council properties.This is exactly what our Mandate for Change has been designed to achieve. Spot the The joint project, along with E.ON, will provide training for those with existing skills to broaden their experience.The council’s JET (Jobs, Enterprise and Training) scheme will help people enrol and provide relevant training. Around 70 people, as well as 14 trainees, plus an estimated support team of 15 will be employed. This is exactly the type of project we want to copper replicate and build on across the city, creating jobs, giving a skilled workforce the chance to gain employment, and as a result, boosting the local economy. You can help Powering the city Anyone with information about hard-hitting a dedicated initiative – 18 and 19 have metal theft is urged to report it to Attracting businesses to the city is also a key campaign to tackle Operation Amalgam – to been charged Staffordshire Police on part of the Mandate for Change.This month, the council has been chosen by NESTA (the the rising number combat the problem and is with burglary at a A working closely with Western Power 0300 123 4455 National Endowment for Science,Technology of metal thefts has been partners to identify Distribution or Crimestoppers anonymously on and the Arts) and the Local Government launched by police in potential targets. substation off Group as one of 17 local authorities to take Stoke-on-Trent. And they have warned Wilding Road, 0800 555 111 part in the Creative Councils programme. Anything from electricity cables that criminals involved, Ball Green, after The council’s plan, which gained national to radiators are being targeted by from thieves to dealers, face being arrested at Chief Inspector Adrian media attention, could mean using surplus thieves cashing in on the rising having their assets seized if the location on the evening Roberts, commander of fuel generation capacity within the city, from worldwide price of copper, lead they are caught. of Monday, 25 July. Stoke-on-Trent North businesses and industry, to power and other non-ferrous metals – all In Stoke-on-Trent alone Local Policing Team, said: for the sake of their scrap value. police have dealt with a Burglary offences “Metal theft is a problem Stoke-on-Trent, reducing a reliance on Staffordshire Police has launched wide range of metal thefts Also in July five men that affects local externally provided energy, attracting such as radiators torn from were charged with burglary communities and it is not a investment by cutting fuel bills, giving new the walls of empty houses offences following two victimless crime. We are businesses an incentive to base themselves in and even properties that are separate break-ins at determined to target those the city, and safeguarding existing businesses. Make it occupied, and metal items properties in the city – and responsible or involved in NESTA, along with the Local Government from yards and gardens. both incidents are being metal theft, including Group, will provide expert advice to the In other cases thieves linked to the theft of metal anyone receiving stolen council to help develop its idea on how the and have broken into houses from the premises. goods.” city can fuel itself in years to come. Click and commercial buildings Western Power He added: “Offenders are These are just two examples of what we are Easy to rip out water pipes – Distribution is also helping taking huge risks when they already doing to create a great working city, causing flooding to to fight metal crime by break into electricity but we need your help to ensure that vision stoke.gov.uk adjoining properties – and substations. These buildings using SmartWater to mark becomes a reality. they have even put their the metal components of are full of live electricity Report a lives at risk by stealing electricity substations, cables and extremely Take a look at the Mandate for Change on housing repair: metal from electricity making the stolen metal dangerous to people who stoke.gov.uk – see what we are trying to do to stoke.gov.uk/ substations. traceable and worthless to are not experts in this make Stoke-on-Trent the place to bring housingrepair Three teenagers aged 16, thieves. field.” business and help us make that change. Our City p6 14/9/11 17:00 Page 1

6 Our City SEPTEMBER 2011

Daisy Pearson and Ethan Lewis, both Star Trek android a big fan aged nine, from Norton Primary School pond-dipping at of city vampire movie saga Whitfield Valley. FILM-maker Chris Stone is boldly series at the recent London Film going where no director has and Comic Con festival to gone before with his internet congratulate him on his movie hit Blood and Bone Potteries-based vampire drama. China… and has picked up a Star Chris is currently working on Trek celebrity fan in the process. the 12th and final episode and Star Trek actor Brent Spiner – said: “Brent told me the Activities showcase our who blazed a trail as android Lt. cinematography was fabulous – Commander Data for seven years like watching a movie – so that on TV and in four films – walked was fantastic.” up to Chris as he showcased the Once the award-winning freelance has finished filming, he’ll sink his fangs into marketing amazing the series and is hopeful a partnership deal with You Tube will help it go viral. He said: “We’ve had 45,000 hits so far for Blood and Bone China and now we have this environment partnership deal I’m hoping we can smash the 100,000 mark.” UNDREDS of their eyes, and inform their and a length of wool, which “This deal is brilliant and great schoolchildren teachers, about the wealth of flora children use to attach leaves, throughout the city and fauna living often yards from flowers and other things they are promotion for Stoke-on-Trent. H their schools and homes – at the challenged to find during a nature The series is really going down are learning about heart of a former industrial city. walk. This created a visual well and we’re the only British Stoke-on-Trent’s amazing The aim is to spread the word reminder of their journey around entry at the Marseilles Film environment by rolling up about the city’s natural resources the nature reserve. Festival in October.” their sleeves at nature and encourage more and more Helen Meharg, of the reserves on their doorsteps. schools to use the nature reserves Countryside Team, said: “Schools Fun days organised by the as part of the curriculum. might not be aware of what is on council’s Countryside Team invite One day staged at the Whitfield their own doorstep but the a number of schools on to a site Valley Local Nature Reserve – up feedback we are getting from the Refurb reveals a piece of history to take part in a fun day of until the 1970s the site of coal sessions is that pupils and staff BUILDERS renovating one of and murdered his wife. He was activities to mining operations – showed just think they are absolutely brilliant. Burslem’s oldest pubs proved the tried for the killing and hanged. open how far Stoke-on-Trent has Pride in the future history of our great city is never On the day of his execution, it come in reclaiming and regenerating industrial “As well as giving the young very far below the surface of 21st is said 3,000 Boslemites lined the wastelands. people an insight into the wildlife Century Stoke-on-Trent. streets to watch an empty coffin Seven schools took and habitats in our city, the A wooden sign removed from carried from the George Hotel to part in a rotating sessions give them a pride in the the front of the Huntsman in St John’s Churchyard. programme of future of the reserves, which will Wesport Road revealed a Horry’s friends eventually paid seven activities hopefully deter antisocial brickwork frieze with the for a granite obelisk to be placed run by the behaviour. Countryside “We are working on an autumn hostelry’s original name,The above an empty grave in his programme which will involve seed White Hart. memory. Team.These included pond gathering on the sites, and Few would remember the encouraging schools to grow moniker, which dates back to dipping, a geology seedlings which they can eventually Victorian times and was covered trail, tree plant in copses at the sites.” up in the early seventies, identification, Environmental education although historian Fred Hughes hunting for mini activities are also held at Park Hall had a story to tell when quizzed beasts, identifying Country Park and Berryhill Fields. about the pub. In 1872 The White birds and story To find out how your school Hart was the scene of colourful Troy Littleton, 11, from Holden Lane Primary telling. They also could take part, call the hotelier Fred Horry’s last drink School with Countryside Team Leader created a journey Countryside Team on 01782 stick – wooden stick 331889. before he took a train to Lincoln Helen Meharg looking for mini beasts. Our City p7 14/9/11 17:02 Page 1

SEPTEMBER 2011 Our City 7 Hunt is on for Soccer link-up helps citizens rise nominees to be city’s next Young up the health league Poet Laureate ORT Vale Football Club YOUNG Poet Laureate Dan Tatton, pictured, has signed a three-year has challenged Pdeal with the NHS to students across the promote healthy lifestyles. city to pick up their The partnership will see the Valiants pens and try to team up with public health staff to become his improve fans’ health and fitness by successors. raising awareness about a whole range Entries have of issues like smoking, obesity, alcohol misuse and mental health problems. been received Fans will see more NHS information in a libraries in and around the club and a series of competition to health promotion events are planned at find the next Vale Park and in the community. young person The agreement builds on an excellent from relationship NHS Stoke on Trent already Stoke-on-Trent to be given the role has with the club, where half-time of promoting poetry in schools. healthy snacks are provided for children Since winning the competition on match days and a stop smoking Dan has started his own blog on group holds meetings. the libraries website and also won The club’s Chief Executive, Perry a regional poetry competition. Deakin, said: “We are delighted to have Dan said: “The past year has signed this deal. We already work very closely with the NHS locally but we are been an amazing experience for keen to build on this and do more me and has really helped me to together going forward. We are keen to broaden my horizons as a poet. do all we can to make health “I hope now that I can pass the information available to our fans and baton on to someone else who the wider community.” can take the role to new heights.” Councillor Gwen Hassall, Cabinet Ideally placed Member for Housing and Sharon Taaffe, Head of NHS Stoke Neighbourhoods, said: “This is a on Trent’s Health Improvement Team, wonderful opportunity provided said: “Port Vale are ideally placed to for our young people and we work with our Health Improvement should continue to nurture that Team to help us address the health creative spark which has been so related issues that face this city. evident in Stoke-on-Trent for so “By working with Port Vale and using many years.“ their branding, and the networks and ● Look out for details of the contacts they have, we can reach people new Young Poet Laureate in we wouldn’t normally be able to. “We hope the partnership will November’s Our City. increase the number of people using services they wouldn’t normally access including smoking cessation classes. We Inspectors’ report are really looking forward to working with Port Vale to help get our messages backs improving across.” More signings are on the horizon as care services NHS Stoke on Trent talks to Stoke City about further health promotion STOKE-on-Trent’s most vulnerable initiatives involving the Premier children are receiving improved League club. services according to an Around 1,000 people have A PICTURE OF independent Government report. already taken part in match HEALTH... Inspectors from Ofsted day walks at Stoke and Vale Port Vale players Ben announed safeguarding after the NHS worked closely Williamson, left, and arrangements and services for with the Federation of Mike Green, right, and looked after children in the city Stadium Communities. Stoke their colleagues are were good in 14 of 22 categories. City also hosts its own stop helping to promote The report – which focusses on smoking group. healthy lifestyles to the 432 looked-after children in supporters.They are To find out more Stoke-on-Trent – also found that pictured, left, with Sharon about healthy living capacity for improvement is good. Taaffe, Head of NHS Stoke on initiatives contact NHS Councillor Debra Gratton, Trent’s Health Improvement Team. Stoke on Trent on 01782 298002 Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “It is a key aim of this council and our partners that our children and young people Our City: are protected and safe. It is crucial give us your views and you could win a £50 voucher that vulnerable young people are £50 worth of vouchers to spend in But in a bid to make the Send your answers by email to given the most appropriate and the city’s popular markets are up for magazine even better, and help it [email protected], or write the timely care and support. grabs for people who help the reflect what the city’s people want answers on a postcard including “We are pleased with the council to improve Our City. to see, Our City wants readers to your name and contact details Ofsted report and it highlights The magazine, which was named answer the following questions: and send to Freepost Our City. many good aspects of our work.” the UK’s Best Council Publication in ● What do you like best about All answers will be entered The services inspected by 2008, aims to include as many people Our City? into a prize draw and the first Ofsted are provided in as possible in promoting everything pulled out of the hat on 28 ● Is there anything you don’t like? partnership by the council, NHS good about Stoke-on-Trent and October will receive vouchers to Stoke on Trent, Staffordshire telling residents how they can access ● What would you like to see more the value of £50 to spend in the Police and a number of other the public services they need. of in the magazine? city’s markets. agencies. Our City p8&9 15/9/11 10:05 Page 1

8 Our City SEPTEMBER 2011 FALLING CRIME AND HIGH-PROFILE POLICING MEAN IT’S NEVER BEEN SAFER TO Senior police officers are moving quickly to reassure the people of Stoke-on-Trent that Government cuts will not damage the good work being done to cut crime and reduce antisocial behaviour, making Stoke-on-Trent a safer city year on year. Here,Our City reports on the round the clock policing efforts ROUND THE which are sending clear signals to CLOCK POLICING: Residents in criminals and law-abiding citizens alike... Stoke-on-Trent can be confident they will see high-visibility policing around the city, day Crimefighters promise to stay and night. tough on the streets ROUND-the-clock reduction of 10 per cent. line presence have been a policing is making At the same time over 91 per major factor. A Stoke-on-Trent a cent of crime victims said they Chief Superintendent safer place to live than were happy with the service they Bernie O’Reilly said: “We received from the force, rising are absolutely committed ever before. from 88 per cent for the same to neighbourhood policing, Despite budget cuts, highly quarter in 2010. to effective and swift visible front-line officers are Violent crime with injury has response policing and continuing to patrol the city’s been significantly reduced too, carrying out detailed streets and effectively fight with a county-wide fall of 24 per investigations into major crime. crime. cent in the first quarter of the “The public values a The latest figures show that financial year compared to the significant police presence on the crime is continuing to same time in 2010. streets and we will continue to fall year on year – while And serious meet that demand as effectively crime and antisocial acquisitive crime – as ever before. However, we are behaviour victims are which includes not in a bubble and are very increasingly satisfied burglary, robbery aware of the financial constraints with the service they are and vehicle crime – but I understand the importance getting from fell to 2,131 from that people place on a frontline Staffordshire Police. 2,247, a drop of five police presence and I will There were nearly per cent. continue to endeavour that this is 2,000 fewer crimes Behind the maintained and that we continue between 1 April 2011 statistics, the man in to reduce crime and antisocial Be a fan on facebook/staffordshirepolice and 30 June compared charge of policing behaviour across the board. Chief Superintendent to the same period the the city says He added: “The latest figures Follow us on Twitter@policingstoke Bernie O’Reilly previous year – a teamwork and front show that we are continuing to See our videos on YouTube/staffordshirepolice head in the right direction and even though it is inevitable we will shrink as an organisation, we will continue to prioritise on what is important to the public – and that is having officers on Neighbourhood policing to be m the streets, cutting down on A MULTI-FACETED team of Police Community Support Officers theft and burglary and neighbourhood officers and (PCSOs) add to the visible presence, preventing antisocial behaviour. specialist support staff is delivering which helps to proactively deter “Despite the improvements, policing in the city. crime as well as rapidly react to it. we cannot be complacent. For From the people who take the Sergeant Sean Clerk, who is a instance, the national disorder emergency calls in the Northern member of the Local Response illustrated how criminals were able to mobilise at Area Control Room to the local Team and heads up a shift of 15 READY TO HELP: great speed through the response team officers who are the officers who patrol the city centre Experts at the Northern use of social networking. first to attend an incident, and from area, said:“From the uniformed Area Control Room are It is up to us as a police the CID detectives to the scene of officers on the streets’ point of view there 24/7 to take the force to make sure we crime officers that carry out we want to reassure the public that public’s calls and send the stay one step ahead and detailed forensic investigations, it is we are out there proactively right resources when develop tactics that are as a 24 hour-a-day operation. combating crime and reacting to and where they are flexible and as agile, and Neighbourhood beat officers and their needs. needed. that will give us the edge.” Our City p8&9 15/9/11 10:06 Page 2

SEPTEMBER 2011 Our City 9 O LIVE IN THE CITY READY TO ANSWER THE CALL: Hanley-based response team PC Alison Birtwistle, left, and PC Julie Pointon.

Partners join forces HOT ON THE TRAIL: in crime clamp-down When crime does occur police forensic officers are PARTNERSHIP working between occurring in the first instance, by on the scene, gathering the police and other organisations providing positive activities. For the evidence that leads is a key ingredient in combating example, we have continued to to arrests and crime. vigorously pursue appropriate convictions. Within Stoke-on-Trent the legal sanctions against the police work alongside other minority of people responsible for agencies, including the city the most serious and persistent council, under the umbrella of the antisocial behaviour. Safer City Partnership.This helps “There is clear evidence to link to proactively clamp-down on the obtaining of antisocial antisocial behaviour before it behaviour orders with the becomes more than a nuisance. reduced levels of incidents being Meanwhile, campaigns such as reported and we are confident Operation Safer Nights, which is that residents welcome these the force’s approach to tackling most pleasing outcomes.” alcohol fuelled violence, and dedicated antisocial behaviour VISIBLE POLICING: units patrolling streets are having a big impact. “”We have continued to PCSO Scott Holland is part of the front line On top of these, seasonal vigorously pursue appropriate team who are available, campaigns aimed at crime legal sanctions against the day and night, to protect prevention in the home or in the public and listen to vehicles are helping prevent minority of people responsible residents’ concerns. serious acquisitive crime. Chief Superintendent Bernie for the most serious and O’Reilly said:“Partnership is key – persistent antisocial and our relationship with the city council couldn’t be better. At a behaviour. time when it is more important e maintained to boost community safety than ever how we spend the “Our own team works around and protecting evidence. Fenpark and Fenton East public pound, combining , the clock to deal with incidents “However, our role interlinks neighbourhoods, said: “I act as a resources, campaigns and ranging from someone reporting with the rest of the team and link between the community and strategies is the way forward.” a lost dog to a murder. From the everyone has a role to play to the police. Councillor Gwen Hassall, public’s point of view we are their ensure frontline policing is “Over the years I have seen the Cabinet Member for Housing and first port of call and a visible effective around the clock.” problems we have aimed to Neighbourhoods, said:“We remain presence on the streets. Scott Holland, who has been a tackle reduce and respect for my committed to working in “Even if we attend a serious Police Community Support role and that of the police grow. partnership with Staffordshire incident which is then referred to Officer (PCSO) for nearly five “I have a great relationship Police and other agencies within our colleagues in CID, that initial years, says the challenge of the with Rob and also with the the Safer City Partnership and role is vitally important in job and solving major problems community and we have worked communities to continue to COUNCILLOR GWEN gathering eye witness evidence give him real satisfaction. hard to drive down antisocial reduce antisocial behaviour. HASSALL while it is still fresh in their mind Scott, who works with PC Rob behaviour and make people feel “We are also doing our utmost CABINET MEMBER FOR HOUSING and in preserving a crime scene Mountford and patrols the safer in their own homes.” to prevent such incidents AND NEIGHBOURHOODS Our City p10 14/9/11 17:11 Page 1

10 Our City SEPTEMBER 2011 Book now for entrepreneur advice scheme BUDDING entrepreneurs are being given advice on setting up a business thanks to a new council service. Stoke-on-Trent Libraries are working with HM Revenue and Customs to provide free workshops allowing people to receive professional advice about working for themselves. The workshops, entitled Newly Self-Employed – The Basics, will be held between 10am and 12:30pm on Friday, 30 September, and then repeated at the same time on £29.5m health centres Friday, 28 October, 2011 at City Central Library, Hanley. Visitors will be offered guidance on how to register bring care facilities with HMRC, the basics of record keeping, how and when to submit tax returns INVESTING IN THE FUTURE... pictured outside the and payments and other closer to where new Cobridge health centre are family doctors Uday useful advice. Pathak, left, and Hrishi Pathak, Marilyn Marathe – from Councillor Gwen Hassall, the Apsley House Surgery which is relocating to the Cabinet Member for Housing centre – and chair of the Patient Participant Group for and Neighbourhoods, said: people live Cobridge Surgery, local resident Bernard Wragg. “Getting people to think of ways to create industry in this city needs to be encouraged HREE new NHS health access centre and offers specialist and district save patients a trip to the University Hospital at all times.We want people centres costing £29.5 million nursing, health visiting and blood tests. of North Staffordshire site. who may not know how to are revolutionising patient There is a community pharmacy next door. Meir Primary Care Centre is the third T Next to open is Cobridge Community centre to open its doors and will welcome its make those first steps into care across Stoke-on-Trent. business to consider the Health Centre, which begins treating the first first patients at the end of November. Built on One of them, Cobridge, will offer library as a starting point to of 8,000 patients currently registered with the the Weston Road and A50 roundabout, the outpatient services as part of the North two GP practices transferring to the facility in new centre brings together six GP practices becoming your own boss.” ● Staffordshire-wide Fit for the Future late October. and incorporates a wide range of health Places are limited and programme, which is designed to better services including physiotherapy, booking is essential. support patients outside hospital with a range State-of-the-art contraception and sexual health services. To book a free place of testing and treatments in state-of-the-art Costing £14 million, two state-of-the-art Nick Pritchard, Head of Premises telephone 01782 238455. community facilities. buildings on the Elder Road site bring Development for NHS Stoke on Trent, said: For further information The transformation began on 19 September together a full range of services – one is a “Although the services delivered from the contact Janet Garner on when the new £4.5 million Tunstall Primary three-storey centre featuring a pharmacy, new buildings are most important, having 01782 238493 or email Care Centre in Scotia Road went operational. chest clinic and x-ray services while the other clean, pleasant and accessible health centres [email protected] Bringing two GP practices together, the is an integrated sexual health unit. Outpatient will benefit communities directly and help in two-storey building is now home to a dental services are also being provided, which will the regeneration of the city.”

Looking for FREE Childcare support and Childcare? advice for Fostering families Your local Family Information Service provides free, friendly and impartial information, advice and assistance to find a solution that meets your childcare needs. A career that ● Childcare – information on availability, facilities, types, school pick-ups, inspection changes lives outcomes and much more. in Stoke-on-Trent ● Childcare costs – options to support the cost of childcare, including advice about child tax credits and childcare vouchers.

● FREE Early Years Provision for 3 and 4 year olds – information about when, where and how to access your free entitlement.

If you are looking for childcare call the Family Information Service on 0800 015 1120 or 01782 232200 01782 234555 or email us at [email protected] stoke.gov.uk/fostering stoke.gov.uk Our City p11 14/9/11 17:14 Page 1

SEPTEMBER 2011 Our City 11 Residents Twin city visitors’ praise for warned over fake whisky regeneration progress TRADING Standards officers have issued a warning after a EVITALISED links between batch of illicit whisky containing cleaning Stoke-on-Trent and its twin chemicals was discovered in RErlangen are planned after the the city. German city’s partnership officer A resident complained paid glowing tributes during a that drinking fake Highland two-day visit. Glen Scotch Whisky had Peter Steger was in the Potteries to help made him feel ill. promote and renew trade and investment Tests on the drink opportunities between the two cities. The conformed it was unfit for extension of collaboration and consumption. exchanges between schools and universities was also on the agenda. Councillor Gwen Hassall, He met the Lord Mayor, RLANGEN university Cabinet Member for Housing Councillor Terry Follows, on his Egraduate Nicole Eichenseher and Neighbourhoods, said: first day and they discussed low is in Stoke-on-Trent on an “Thankfully the complainant carbon issues before meeting internship with the city council. is ok. He was given the officers from Keele University. The 24-year-old’s month-long whisky as a gift from a Peter was shown the city’s exchange was organised by friend; it has not been Mandate for Change plans Erlangen’s partnership officer seen in shops. But there before touring Stoke-on-Trent might be other examples Sixth Form College and Peter Steger ahead of his recent visit to the Potteries. of this product out there. visiting the construction site of “The whisky is not a Nicole, who is about to start the Centre for Refurbishment genuine brand. It has a Excellence (CORE) – the the second year of her master’s black and gold label with national centre for best degree in management of practice in refurbishment. ‘Highland’ and ‘Glen’ in global companies at the white letters. It is not The Stadt Erlangen University of Nuremberg, is partnership officer said: “This labelled with details of visit has highlighted to me the spending time with the council’s the producer – genuine potential benefit that can be felt investment development and products will always have by both Erlangen and Stoke-on- culture and tourism teams. She details of the producer. Trent by renewing the links is pictured with Stoke-on-Trent’s “We are urging residents between our two cities. city crest at the Civic Centre. to be wary of this product – Forward-thinking city if you think you have bought or been given a bottle do not “I have seen a great deal of promise drink it, and call the public from Stoke-on-Trent, which is a protection service on 01782 tremendous city with a great deal to offer 232065.” and I feel that, in return, we can help ● improve the lives of people here with what If you know someone we can bring to the table. selling fakes, call the fakes “This is a forward thinking city and that has hotline anonymously on been made clear to me during my visit and I 01782 238444 or visit look forward to many years of trade and stoke.gov.uk/fakes education links to come. “Finally, I would like to extend my thanks to the Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent, the the hard work we Trent investment Chief Executive and everyone in the city for all know goes on here. development team, said: 2012 grassroots making this such a fruitful trip.” “I hope we can now take “There are many positives to renewing The Lord Mayor, Councillor Terry Follows, forward some of these ideas and ensure that our partnership and developing long term said: “It has been great to meet with Peter and the future of Stoke-on-Trent is as bright as we economic benefits for our cities. Encouraging sports boost get his thoughts on the future partnership of know it deserves to be.” and creating more opportunities for our two cities. He has given a glowing Karen Tsang, an Investment Development businesses to work together is just one SPORTS clubs across the city will reference to our city, which is a testament to Officer with the council’s Make It Stoke-on- of them.” be able to advertise volunteer opportunities and seek new volunteers through a Sport England initiative linked to the 2012 Olympic Games. The Sport Maker programme will recruit thousands of new sports volunteers aged 16 and over to organise and lead community sporting activity. The council is supporting Sport Across Staffordshire and Stoke- on-Trent deliver Sport Maker to inspire people to make sport happen at a local level. It aims to recruit, train and employ the next generation of sports volunteers. ● Individuals wishing to volunteer and clubs interested in recruiting new volunteers should register at www.sportmakers. co.uk or contact Ben Hollands, tel. 01785 619317, email bhollands@ staffordbc.gov.uk or Vanessa Erlangen’s Partnership Officer Peter Steger, Darlington, Stoke-on-Trent right, took in Stoke-on-Trent’s new 6th Form 2012 Co-ordinator, tel. 01782 College,above,and work on the CORE Centre 236156, email vanessa. of Refurbishment Excellence in Longton, far darlington@ stoke.gov.uk right, during his visit. Our City p12 14/9/11 17:16 Page 1

12 Our City SEPTEMBER 2011 Public urged to act now over funeral Firefighter Tim Chan outside the new arrangements station at BEREAVEMENTS can be even more Bethesda Street, distressing if there is no money to Hanley. pay for the funeral or the deceased has not left a will. In cases like these the council may be responsible for arranging the funeral if there are no relatives or friends able to do it. They may arrange a Welfare Funeral and take steps to recover the cost from the deceased’s estate where possible. Burials take place in an unmarked shared public grave. But this procedure, which can be an upsetting experience for family or friends, can often be avoided if people make a will or leave written instructions to ensure their wishes are carried out. The law applies to the council 21st Century fire area where the person dies. It means that a person from another part of the country who happened to be in Stoke-on-Trent (for instance in hospital) at the time of death stations open could be put to rest far from home in a public grave without a headstone. The Department for Work and Pensions has issued guidance called “What to do after death” to help the bereaved deal with the formalities community of registering a death and to give advice about financial assistance that may be available and how the deceased’s estate may be accessed to pay for the funeral. Uncertainty avoided facilities Sometimes a payment from the Social Fund which helps people on HE city’s latest community North Staffs Cancer Support, Workers’ happen to be fire stations. We hope Hanley low incomes pay for one-off events fire stations have opened in Education Association, Foster Carers’ and Burslem will be as popular as can be made to relatives on low Hanley and Burslem to offer Support Group and local schools who all Sandyford. It’s fantastic to open another income to help towards the funeral T first class amenities for local use the free facilities on a regular basis. two community fire stations on time, to costs. The city’s fourth community fire station quality and to budget. Relatives or friends who have no groups and residents as well as 21st will be built at Longton and will also come “We would encourage local people to means of paying for a funeral must Century bases for Staffordshire complete with community facilities. start using their new facilities.” first contact the Coroner’s Office Fire and Rescue Service. Group Manager Wayne Bowcock said: ● Community and partner groups who will put them in touch with the This brings the total number of “Our old stations were designed to keep interested in booking free facilities at the city council’s Public Protection community fire stations in Stoke-on-Trent members of the public out. stations should email northerncommunity to three after the opening of the one at These new buildings are exactly the [email protected] or phone division. Officers will try to locate a Sandyford, which has proved to be hugely opposite – they are community facilities that 01785 898897. will or relatives that may be able to popular. carry out the funeral arrangements, Both of the latest state-of-the-art stations and there can often be a delay come complete with community facilities Firefighter before the funeral is held. such as meeting rooms and the larger Zahir Khalifa in Dawn Birkin, Compliance and station at Hanley also has a partnership the community Health Protection Manager, said: area, gym and training building. area of Hanley As well as the firefighters, the Hanley “It’s never too soon to make a will or Fire Station. put in writing your wishes for your Community Fire Station is also home to the funeral arrangements. Many people Risk Reduction and Fire Safety Team for put off making a will believing that the North Staffordshire area. their assets will go to relatives or Free facilities friends, but this may not be the Work is continuing at both stations to case.We make a lot of effort to carry complete landscaping and parking facilities, out the deceased’s wishes with and once this is done they will open their regard to burial or cremation, but if doors to the public, with Hanley holding their wishes are not known we have drop-in sessions on: to arrange a burial in a public grave Sat 15 October – 10am-4pm without a headstone. Mon 17 October – 10am-12pm “Sometimes we are able to Thurs 20 October – 10am-12pm arrange cremation at Carmountside Thurs 20 October – 3pm-7pm Crematorium and we can arrange Burslem will invite the public to visit the for the ashes to be scattered on the station later in the year. rose garden there or to have them The drop-in sessions will provide visitors collected by a friend or relative. with a tour of the building and the chance However all this uncertainty can be to chat with their local firefighters about the work they do and the facilities on offer. avoided if there is a will or written Sandyford Community Fire Station is instructions.” already taking over 40 bookings per month from organisations as diverse as Age UK, Our City p13 15/9/11 10:23 Page 1

SEPTEMBER 2011 Our City 13 Grants and expert advice support help create new jobs NEW businesses and entrepreneurs could Development, said:“Supporting and ● Social Enterprises support social benefit from a new grants pot being developing businesses in Stoke-on-Trent objectives and re-investment of profit dished out by the council and a partner. is a priority for the council. into social and economic outcomes that Investment grants and business “These grants will provide a boost to benefit people who are disadvantaged, Our City reports back on support and mentoring are available for individuals looking to set up a social produce environmental benefits, and add new social enterprises. enterprise which will not only benefit the value to community well being. convictions secured to make In 2010 the initiative handed out over city but create extra jobs. ● To find out more about the programme Stoke-on-Trent safer for us all... £75,000 and created 14 new jobs. “I would encourage people thinking of contact Amanda Locke at VAST on SAMURAI SWORD Councillor Mark Meredith, Stoke-on-Trent setting up a social enterprise to get in 01782 683030 or via email on ATTACKERS JAILED: City Council Cabinet Member for Economic touch as help is available.” [email protected] Two men have been jailed for seven years each after using a sword and a dog in a sustained attack on another man in his own home. Dean Benson’s Staffordshire Bull terrier ripped the man’s lip off while Colin Sutcliffe nearly took their victim’s hand off by repeatedly slashing him with an ornamental Samurai sword, shattering his fingers. Benson, 47, of Walton Grange, Stone, and 43- year-old Sutcliffe, of Campbell Road, Stoke, were convicted of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. CRACK COURIER LOCKED UP: Johann Carty is behind bars for three years. Carty, 26, of King William Street, Tunstall, has been sentenced to three years after police Michelle caught him with crack Plant of Nails cocaine. He pleaded guilty to with Attitude who possession with intent to supply on the basis that he was a courier. is looking to expand her business after a WEDDING DAY ASSAULT: Lea Stanley successful first lost his job and ended up with a one-year prison sentence after year. attending his employer’s wedding reception and attacking the man’s father.The 27-year-old from Lyme Road, Meir, had been drinking Nail beauty business when he bit his victim’s eyelid. Stanley appeared at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court and admitted assault occasioning actual points to more success bodily harm. CANNABIS FACTORY RAID: Police XPANSION is get her business off the ground. experience student qualify in “It’s friendly and inviting with found cannabis with a street value of already on the cards The former car saleswoman beauty and nails and is now plenty of passing trade. My £8,000 when they for Michelle Plant has not looked back since planning to take on her second clients are like family now, raided Wesley Gwilt’s E re-training at night school and work experience student. friends more than anything, it’s Smallthorne home. just a year after she making a career switch to give She said: “It was my dad’s not like a job. I wouldn’t do Officers discovered 76 launched her first nail and herself more time with her son idea to set up in the market but anything else now. I’m thinking plants, dried and drying pedicure venture at Rhys, aged nine. I wasn’t sure it would work. I about expanding next year so I cannabis,heaters,fans, Hanley indoor market. Her Nails With Attitude spoke to Gaynor and she helped can offer tanning and do false an irrigation system The 35-year-old is manicure and pedicure bar is me with all sorts of advice, the eye lashes and I know I can turn and timer units. contemplating expanding to a now open six days a week and legal things and advice on to Gaynor for more support.” Electricity worth nearly £690 had double stall so she can offer has gone from strength to staffing. Enterprise Coach Gaynor, who been unlawfully used from the more services and she credits strength. ;Situated just 100 yards “I’ve just celebrated my first is based at Bentilee Local Centre by-passed meter. Stoke-on-Trent Business Enterprise Coach away from her dad David’s sweet birthday at the market and my (see contact panel below), said: Crown Court heard Gwilt, 32, of Gaynor Parkinson with giving stall, Michelle now has 80 dad had his 35th anniversary. I “I met Michelle in July and by Moorland Road, had set up the drug her the belief and confidence to regulars, has helped a work love it. August she had started her factory to help pay off his debts. He business in Hanley Market. admitted producing cannabis, possession of cannabis with intent to Stay positive supply and abstracting electricity. He was jailed for 16 months. Coaches offer monthly drop-in sessions “It was her dad’s idea to try the business there as he has had PROLIFIC BURGLAR STRIKES AGAIN: A MONTHLY enterprise support club is now at the Unity union’s offices on Garth Street in businesses in Stoke-on-Trent’s Thief Scott Barclay had been out of helping even more people launch their own Hanley with the next scheduled for 18 October. markets for many years. prison less than a month when he stole cash and tobacco from a flat businesses in Stoke-on-Trent. The team, launched in 2009 and funded by “She was not sure at first but above a workingmen’s The city’s three Enterprise Support Coaches Stoke-on-Trent City Council, has already helped now 12 months later the proof club as the stewards organise free drop-in sessions with experts on around 100 clients become their own boss. of the pudding really is in the slept.The 40-year-old hand to give advice on human resources, tax ● If you think you could benefit from the help eating. Michelle is an example of was homeless and back issues, banking, insurance, printing, graphic of an Enterprise Coach call Gayle Jessiman on how you can be successful if you on heroin at the time. are prepared to put in the work design and IT. The coaches are also available for 07969 557915 or email gaylej@enterprise Barclay admitted and stay positive. It has not been one-to-one practical support as they talk support.org, Gaynor Parkinson on 07834 burglary and was given easy for Michelle but she has not budding entrepreneurs through business plans, 657828 or email gaynorp@enterprise a 32-month jail lost sight of her original goal, funding applications and problem solving. support.org, and Lisa Davies on 07866 807134 sentence.The court heard he had 22 which was to run her own Sessions take place between 10am and 1pm or email [email protected] previous burglary convictions. business.” Our City p14 15/9/11 10:41 Page 1

14 Our City SEPTEMBER 2011 Public urged to help city clampdown on housing fraud

INVESTIGATORS at Stoke-on-Trent properties but also by taking HI-TECH City Council are at the forefront of criminal proceedings, where JOBS... tackling housing tenancy fraud. appropriate, against those Aerotherm involved. And a citywide project launched Fabricator “The Audit Commission has in March this year is bearing fruit Mark Dilk confirmed that we are one of a with what are believed to be the testing a first prosecutions in the country very few local authorities outside London who are pneumatic outside London already pending diverter. and associated benefit fraud tackling this issue in such a totalling £74,000 identified. positive way. The Audit Commission is closely “Not only are we helping to monitoring the council’s work as it ensure that only those in pays particular attention to those genuine need are able to obtain who obtain council tenancies and council housing, we are also then sub-let for their own financial recovering properties from gain or just leave properties unlawful tenants who are causing unoccupied while living elsewhere. antisocial problems, which More co-ordinated working by obviously improves the lives of the council’s Fraud Investigation neighbours in the immediate Officers and Housing Team means vicinity. intelligence is now shared and “This work is crucial from both a officers are identifying housing moral and financial viewpoint and tenancy issues and associated will benefit genuine tenants. It is housing, council tax and other therefore very important that if benefit-related offences. members of the public suspect housing tenancy fraud offences are Pro-active stance being committed, that they inform Make it Stoke-on-Trent team helps Tenancy fraud investigations look the council of their concerns. into areas around housing “It’s also worth pointing out that applications, tenancy succession tenants have a legal requirement to and unlawful sub-letting and have report changes in their so far resulted in the recovery of 16 circumstances as per their tenancy properties, which the council has agreements so I would advise business to grow been able to re-let to those on the anyone whose situation has waiting list who are in genuine changed to notify their Local Centre N industrial need. immediately, as failure to do so may engineering A further six properties have result in action being taken against A group has moved been served with notices to quit them.” premises, expanded and while authorisation has been given diversified with the for three prosecutions for alleged support of the Make it tenancy and benefit offences.There REPORT IT Stoke-on-Trent are 71 on-going cases and the Investment Development £74,000 in benefit fraud identified You can report suspected Team, which encourages as a direct result of tenancy fraud housing tenancy fraud by companies to do business investigations is being recovered. calling 01782 236800 in the city. Paul Bicknell, the council’s during office hours. Through the service, Corporate Fraud Manager, said:“Our An out of hours message Aerotherm and its 50 work to date on this project machine is also in employees relocated from highlights the council’s zero Longton to Scotia Business operation. COUNCIL SUPPORT... Aerotherm’s new, bigger premises at Scotia tolerance approach to fraud as we Park in Tunstall. As well as take a pro-active stance against You can also email taking on new staff, the move Business Park,Tunstall have helped the company stay in the city and create jobs. those people committing housing the council on to a bigger base of operations tenancy fraud by recovering the [email protected] has allowed the company to diversify into three divisions. all areas of the business and we looked at potential property for Chris Bramhall, Group will be looking to hire a City the company and helped them Marketing Manager at further five.” relocate to the bigger premises council Aerotherm, said: “We had The team was set up last at Scotia Business Park. investigators have reached our absolute limit in August with the aim of “We also looked at adopted a zero the previous premises in attracting companies to recruitment and through the tolerance approach Longton, and to meet with our relocate to the city, to support council’s JET scheme helped to to housing growth plans we needed to growth by raising its profile as a fund new positions.” tenancy fraud. increase capacity in terms of good place to do business. So far around 300 jobs have manufacturing, office and The scheme is co-funded by been created by companies storage space. the city council along with the moving to Stoke-on-Trent, “Yet we wanted to stay in European Regional while nearly 600 more have North Staffordshire as it is Development Fund (ERDF). been saved due to expanding such a good location to do Karen Tsang, the council’s businesses being persuaded to business. Investment Development stay in the area. “Since moving to Scotia Officer, said: “We worked with Councillor Mark Meredith, Road Business Park we have Aerotherm to ensure they Cabinet Member for Economic increased our staffing levels in could remain in the city.We Development, said: “The Make It Stoke-on-Trent investment development team is providing a red carpet service for Mandate for Change potential investors to the area.” For more information on how the council For more details about is rolling out the red carpet to new and business support in the existing businesses, see pages 16 and 17 city please call 01782 234747. Our City p15 15/9/11 10:35 Page 1

SEPTEMBER 2011 Our City 15 TV hit Who Do You Think You Are? boosts interest in City Archives

Huge records store preserves stories that bring history to life

VERY year thousands of the police or more personal insights people visit the third floor of into the past with items such as a E Stoke-on-Trent City Central collection of diaries kept by Library in order to make a journey farmers in Burslem and Abbey Hulton during the first half of of discovery in the City Archives. the 20th century. It may be to delve into their ancestry or The city’s industrial heritage uncover a piece of local history. Either way, is reflected in the archives with visitors can count on the expertise of City records of major ceramic Archivist Chris Latimer and his dedicated names like Spode as well as staff. the British Ceramics The team is responsible for thousands of Federation. Every issue of historical documents, many of which The Sentinel since it first chronicle pivotal moments in the area’s published in 1854 is on past going back hundreds of years before microfilm along with Stoke-on-Trent became a city. several other Staffordshire OUTSTANDING While helping the public to find out what newspapers. ARCHIVE... they want to know, the archivists are also City Archivist Chris busy in the background carefully Family trees Latimer inspects cataloguing present day facts and figures records which paint for the benefit of future generations. Records currently a picture of They also provide one-to-one advice being collated for future Stoke-on-Trent’s use include those of all of sessions at community libraries and put on rich history. small exhibitions around the city. Stoke-on-Trent high Importance. In terms of performance it is Chris, who has Chris said: “Contrary to what some schools that are becoming academies. rated 10th in the whole country, while user previously worked at people may imagine, the archives With the popularity of TV’s Who Do You surveys consistently rate the service as very Walsall and Greater department is not a dry and dusty Think You Are? in which famous people good or good. Manchester, added: “It’s a fascinating job environment. The documents and files we explore their family trees, the number of Chris said: “We never know who is going for someone interested in history and keep bring our heritage and family history visitors seeking information about their to visit. It could be a professor doing putting large collections of paper files in to life.” ancestry has increased. academic research or a private individual order.You also need to enjoy dealing with Run in conjunction with the Some have come from as far away as the wanting to trace their ancestry. people and steering them towards the Staffordshire County Council Archives United States and New Zealand! Last year “We are a very people focused and user information they are looking for.” service, the city’s archives department role 7,500 people visited the city archives. friendly service. We are not like a museum is to identify, preserve and make available The city’s archivist service is making a or library where people can instantly find The City Archives are open to the public material that tells the stories of name for itself at national level. what they want. Our role is to help people on Wednesday from 10am to 7pm and communities around the city. It is one of only three archive services in in an unobtrusive way by providing them on Thursday, Friday and Saturday from They may be official records of the country to gain the distinction of with the means to find out things for 10am to 2pm. Booking advisable: tel organisations such as schools, councils and Outstanding National and International themselves.” 01782 238420. Respect action pays off EFFECTIVE Respect Action Respect Action Weeks have been Weeks – which give residents the operating for more than three years opportunity to take action in their and bring together the council, neighbourhoods – have been Staffordshire Police, NHS Stoke on Trent refined and improved. Funding and Staffordshire Fire and Rescue has been secured for a series of Service to target issues like antisocial Respect Action Days, which behaviour, fly tipping, drug abuse and target communities throughout litter.The Respect Action Week held in the city but with the opportunity Sneyd Green earlier this year highlights to cover more neighbourhoods. the effectiveness of the scheme in It means more areas can be reducing crime and helping the effectively covered by agencies which community feel safer. co-ordinate the events under the Working together, the council, umbrella of the Safer City Partnership. Staffordshire Police, Staffordshire Fire Respect Week Co-ordinator Bill James and Rescue Service and a host of other said:“The extra funding means that groups are targeting issues like Respect Action schemes will continue antisocial behaviour, drug abuse and throughout the financial year, and at litter, rubbish and fly-tipping. least up until next March. Initiatives included free dance “Residents respond well to these sessions for over 11s, free blood popular events, which give them advice pressure checks and healthy living NEIGHBOURHOOD ACTION... left to right, Sophie Ashton, 10, resident Deborah Fawcett, Chair on combating crime and health and advice and home fire safety checks. of the Holden Lane Community Association, John Reynolds, and residents Denise Ashton and welfare issues, as well as helping them Residents also worked to clean up litter Marion Lee pictured at the Pleydell Street Garage site where members of the community joined carry out clean ups of their and fly-tipping blackspots and make public services in Respect action which removed six skips of waste. environment. the area more pleasant. Our City p16-17 15/9/11 11:00 Page 1

16 Our City SEPTEMBER 2011 SEPTEMBER 2011 Our City 17

A month after Stoke-on-Trent City Council launched its Mandate for Change vision to create a great working city, it unveiled a package of actions pulling out all the stops to attract new investment, new business and new jobs while supporting and developing existing companies in the city. Here, Mandate for Change Our City reports on the initiative establishing Stoke-on-Trent as a great place to do business... Partners praise City targets jobs council initiative BUSINESS leaders and partners attending “We are convinced this new approach and investment the launch of the city’s red carpet inward which outs business needs first will speed investment package welcomed the up the process and give Stoke-on-Trent a initiative. national and international reputation as a city that wants to do business. Maitland Hyslop, Chair of the Staffordshire “I know of one developer who is Local Enterprise Partnership spoke of the praising the council’s new approach by rolling out the need for the whole city to join together in a because they have already benefited from positive spirit to make the drive succeed. it, with planners making decisions quickly He said: “This is a very practical and to facilitate development rather than deliverable initiative and Councillor Pervez holding it back.” and the city council Chief Executive John van de Laarschot should have everyone’s Stoke-on-Trent North MP Joan Walley support in what they are doing. praised the council for taking the initiative red carpet “It is a real red carpet treatment with a to attract investment. She said: single telephone point of contact, a “Regardless of whether or not the one-stop shop for anyone who wants to Government chooses to support OUNCIL chiefs will leave ● Support and solutions which are supported by representatives of the invest, start a business or expand a Stoke-on-Trent we will create the no stone unturned to tailored to business growth. private sector in our city. business in the city, delivering tax breaks environment where investors want to Cattract new investment ● Help to signpost businesses to “Together we will deliver big where possible and a super-fast come to the city and create jobs. and jobs to the city. funding which may help them solutions for big businesses while broadband network better than the rest “Whoever I talk to, from young people in An ambitious plan to go out and create more jobs. providing local support for local of the country. education or training to older people find employers who would benefit ● Access to supply chains, labour companies to survive and grow during “We need to put the negativity of the concerned about the effect of cuts, the from being in Stoke-on-Trent and markets and networks. these difficult economic times.” past behind us – no more talk about one thing they are all concerned about is Councillor Pervez said the red offer them an attractive package to Hundreds of local businesses have ‘forgotten Stoke’.We have all got to get job creation. locate here. carpet launch would be followed by a behind this city and make sure it takes its “This coming together of business already backed the council’s Mandate huge campaign to target local and At the heart of the initiative is the for Change initiative which includes place in a global market and believes in partners with the council is sending out a pledge to roll out the “red carpet” national businesses who want to grow creating a great working city. and create jobs in Stoke-on-Trent with itself. We have got to get real and clear message that it will help businesses, treatment to any employer looking at Now Stoke-on-Trent will showcase encourage developers sitting on pockets from supporting start-ups to attracting providing or creating jobs in the city. the council’s help. its strengths to thousands of local He said: “We are going to reach out of land to start releasing them. big employers, tapping into the green The package includes: businesses, as well as potential “Do not allow the gainsayers to talk our environmental technology revolution ● to investors by identifying companies A golden number – 01782 234747 investors and employers throughout who will benefit from what city down – there is no time for failure. that’s going to be here. - which is a single point of the UK and further afield. Stoke-on-Trent has to offer, making Everything in this package links together “Nothing is more important for our city contact – a direct dial link to the Council Leader Mohammed Pervez sure they know that we are here and to create the right environment for than people having a secure future city’s Inward Investment Team. said the council and cabinet had a will roll out the red carpet service to business.” knowing that there are jobs for them to ● A streamlined planning process clear mandate to drive the city forward attract them. do. We have to show that we mean which responds to business and they had wasted no time in needs with less bureaucracy. making job creation their number one Clear mandate to deliver Bryan Carnes, Chief Executive of North business and this is the start.” priority. Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce and “Stoke-on-Trent is a great city with He said: “We Industry said the council’s new approach to excellent connectivity with the road The Investment Development want to make open doors for business was already and rail network, an available Team is there to support Stoke-on-Trent a The council’s Mandate workforce and suitable sites for a range having an effect. He said: “This is about great place to do businesses. So any employer for Change was of job-creating development. the city council responding to the express business so we looking to expand, or who wants unveiled to set out “This is coupled with the fact that needs of business who for a long time have developed a to invest in the city, can contact its priorities for we are producing the red carpet have seen planners creating obstacles, range of services improving life in treatment package of services which have seen difficulties where businesses them on the golden number... to make our city Stoke-on-Trent. can help businesses set up and needed quick decisions and bureaucracy competitive and prosper. has taken an unnecessarily long time. 01782 234747. attractive to “In the past there has been a potential perception that bureaucracy has put investors. people off coming to the city. Our city “We are GOLDEN has been through some turbulent times standing up for but we now have a clear political I ‘‘’’know of one developer NUMBER: ‘‘’’ Valley plan will attract new jobs our city and mandate to deliver.” Do not allow the taking the lead Holding up the telephone ETRURIA Valley has been named the positively to who is praising the number of the hotline to the gainsayers to talk our city’s first Accelerated Development Hi-tech For more information on Mandate production at change our city’s Investment Zone (ADZ) to make it easier for for Change and the council’s council’s new approach Wade Ceramics’ economic future. Development Team are, back city down – there is businesses there to succeed. red carpet approach visit new factory in “But we are row, left to right, Chief The 69.8 hectare (172.4 acre) site – stoke.gov.uk and click on the because they have no time for failure. Etruria Valley. not standing Executive of North which is already home to major alone. We are Mandate for Change button. already benefited from Staffordshire Chamber of Everything in this employers like Bet 365 and Vodafone – Commerce and Industry Bryan will offer financial incentives, access to it, with planners making Carnes, Kier Operations package links super-fast broadband and fast-track decisions quickly to Director Jane Spellacy, council planning decisions, making it attractive Delegates back vision to boost city’s economy Director of Place Hardial together to create to new and growing business. The council is working to reduce ALMOST all the 200 delegates who attended the launch Positive comments suggesting ways these objectives facilitate development Bhogal, and, front row, left to the right environment business energy costs by tapping into sure problems accessing finance do not of the council’s Mandate for Change vision agreed with could be achieved are being considered by the council, right, Stoke-on-Trent North local energy sources, renewables and hinder growth. its primary aim of doing everything it could to attract and there will be regular updates and further meetings rather than holding it MP Joan Walley, Council for business. other green energy solutions. Councillor Mohammed Pervez said: “It business. to report back on progress. Leader Councillor Mohammed back. And it has even proposed to share is simple. We need jobs and to create Delegates from across the city also backed the Deputy Council Leader Councillor Paul Shotton said: Pervez and Chairman of Bryan Carnes Maitland Hyslop certain financial risks with big businesses jobs we need to do everything in our council’s plans to make Stoke-on-Trent a great working “We would like to thank everyone for their contributions Stoke-on-Trent and wishing to make major investments to power to attract businesses looking to city and 78 per cent said the local authority was right to and hope we can rely on ongoing support as we move CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF NORTH STAFFORDSHIRE Staffordshire Local Enterprise CHAIR OF THE STAFFORDSHIRE LOCAL create the jobs the city needs, making invest.” support and develop existing businesses too. forward on this important agenda together.” CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY Partnership Maitland Hyslop. ENTERPRISE PARTNERSHIP Our City p18 15/9/11 11:19 Page 1

18 Our City SEPTEMBER 2011 City homes Potteries hosts six week spotlight on world’s best ceramics

meet high A SIX-WEEK programme of events drop-in activities, a potter-in-residence and a showcasing Stoke-on-Trent as the home of festival tearoom – The Factory Refectory – standard the very best contemporary ceramics starts offering brunch, lunch and afternoon tea at STOKE-on-Trent City at the end of the month. the original Spode factory site in Stoke. Council has exceeded the The British Ceramics Biennial, BCB, returns Major shows will also be exhibited at The Decent Homes standard after attracting 35,000 visits to the city in Potteries Museum & Art Gallery and AirSpace set by the Government 2009. Gallery in the city centre. after a six-year renovation This year’s line-up – from 30 September to Barney Hare Duke, Co-Director of BCB, programme involving 13 November – includes exhibitions, events, said:“The programme for the British thousands of properties. Ceramics Biennial mixes new talent bursting When work first began, CONTEMPORARY STYLE: onto the scene alongside established 33 per cent of the work entitled Blue Multi Loop – a BCB international artists, and a thriving ceramic council’s housing stock award nominee by ceramicist Merete industry. It is very exciting to be able to was classed as not decent Rasmussen. launch our 2011 programme announcing 40 – a total of 6,900 flats, graduates in the Fresh exhibition and 24 houses and bungalows in leading UK based artists breaking new the city.The work ground in the Award show. included improving “We are also delighted to welcome a kitchens and bathrooms, number of sponsors from the city replacing front and rear including Spode, part of the Portmeirion doors in hardwood, Group, Steelite International, Emma replacement roofs and Bridgewater, Johnson Tiles and new heating systems. Staffordshire University.” In the final year, the Everyone can get involved – as visitors, council replaced 617 volunteers, to pick up an early Christmas kitchens, 603 bathrooms, gift or simply to take afternoon tea. TRADITIONAL SKILLS: Simon Stamatiou, BCB installed central heating ● For more information visit Artists’ Studio Manager throws a pot. in 243 properties, www.britishceramicsbiennial.com over-hauled 109 roofs, replaced 90 chimneys and fitted external doors on EMBERS of the 391 homes. public are being M warned that Quit smoking violent or abusive Parking officers protected by SMOKERS are being behaviour will not be urged to join the 8,216 tolerated towards civil people who kicked the enforcement officers – who habit in Stoke-on-Trent make sure the public are and Staffordshire safe by enforcing against between April vehicles parked hi-tech security 2010 and irresponsibly. March 2011. The 22-strong team covers we have a difficult job to do and fast police response. on the uniform, and can be used to To find the whole city, and as well as behave in a civil manner. Incidents “The city council will not record visual and audio evidence. out more enforcing parking restrictions, of physical and verbal abuse are tolerate abuse of any sort towards Lucas added: “After a successful about your operate a camera car to monitor fortunately few and far between, its employees who are just doing trial, we may buy some cameras. local stop smoking bus lanes and also remove untaxed although they do occur. their job and legal action is taken Not only can the recordings be services contact vehicles. “My officers are supported by where necessary.” used as independent evidence but 0800 085 0928 for Civil Enforcement Team radios, mobile phones and The civil enforcement officers have already been shown to deter NHS Stoke on Trent. Manager Lucas Ford said: “Most extensive CCTV coverage around have also been trialling a new and prevent abuse in the first members of the public understand the city and we are glad we get a miniature camera, which is worn place.” TESTING YOUR SMOKE ALARM EVERY WEEK COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE

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tontine street, phone number 01782 238492 For advice on home fire safety and web thestore.org.uk to arrange a Home Fire Risk Check Call 0800 0241 999 www.staffordshirefire.gov.uk /pushthebutton Our City p19 15/9/11 12:53 Page 1

SEPTEMBER 2011 Our City 19

Seven arrested in drive against drugs trade SEVEN people were arrested by SMOOTH police in the latest Operation OPERATOR... Nemesis raids in Stoke-on-Trent. Charanjit Singh As a result of community power floats the concerns about suspicious activity concrete floors as work taking place in the area, police progresses at the carried out extensive behind- new Co-operative the-scenes work resulting in the Academy. arrest day. Five men and two women were arrested in Normacot, Meir and Weston Coyney. Detailed searches of nine properties and five gardens were conducted by scenes-of-crimes officers, together with specialist search dogs. ‘Class act’ Detectives also carried out inquiries at each address and neighbourhood police officers undertook high visibility patrols to construction on reassure residents. Chief Inspector Peter Hall, policing commander for Stoke South, said: “This operation has targeted people we believe to be involved in the supply of Class A drugs in this city. 18 new schools “Drugs misuse will not be tolerated in Stoke-on-Trent and ONSTRUCTION the £213 million Building Schools respectively. worked closely with our main once again we have acted on work has now Schools for the Future (BSF) Environmental improvement contractors Balfour Beatty and information received from Cstarted on all 18 programme. schemes, funded by the Thomas Vale/Wates to ensure this concerned members of the public projects that form the Three new academies – Department for Education, have happens. about suspected drug dealing in Ormiston Horizon, in Chell, been carried out at all these “Approximately 50 per cent, their streets.We are committed to biggest ever school Discovery, in Bentilee, and St schools to change the look and £100 million, of the work is taking action against those we building programme in Peter’s, on the former Sixth the feel of the buildings and all going to local companies – believe are involved in such criminal Stoke-on-Trent. Form College site, Fenton – also pupils at the new academies have safeguarding jobs in activity and the antisocial behaviour Earlier this month, contractors opened in September, using the new uniforms. Stoke-on-Trent for the which comes with it. moved onto site at Aynsley existing buildings at James Meanwhile demolition works immediate future.” “Operation Nemesis is the force’s Special School, Thistley Hough Brindley, Mitchell High and began at the Willfield (Discovery Tracy added: “As well as the commitment to tackling major drug High School and St Margaret Edensor Technology College and Academy) site and Fenton construction work, most dealers and bringing them to Ward Catholic College as part of St Peter’s and Berry Hill High Manor (St Peter’s Academy) site, secondary and special schools justice. But we cannot continue to have now started engagement while phase 2 of refurbishments do this without the help of our with RM, our ICT provider to being carried out at Haywood, partners and members of the public. Trentham and Birches Head receive staff training and development and to choose new By working together we will CENTRAL Foundation Schools also started in September. teaching and learning improve life for the communities FEATURE: we serve.The message to drug It follows a busy summer technologies and equipment dealers is clear and simple: we are A computer-generated during which classrooms and available through the BSF impression of the learning facilities continued to be programme funding.” not going away and we will bring striking forum area at transformed throughout the city. The Co-operative Academy you to justice.” the new St Peter’s project, at the former Brownhills The operation was captured live Academy at the On track to deliver High School site in Burslem, on social media pages (see page 8) Fenton Manor demonstrates the commitment to and you can watch a video of the site. A ground-breaking ceremony local investment. raids by visiting www.youtube took place at Ormiston Sir Stuart Scrimgeour, who is .com/staffordshirepolice or by Stanley Matthews Academy site Balfour Beatty’s Project Manager scanning the code at the bottom of in Blurton, while work is also for the Co-operative Academy, the column with your smartphone. well on the way to completion at said: “During the construction ● the Reach Pupil Referral Unit works, the site targeted the use of Anyone with concerns about where the new building is due to local labour and the local spend drug misuse is asked to contact open in February 2012. has a high priority. Staffordshire Police on 0300 123 BSF Project Director Tracy “To date 54 per cent of the 44 55 or Crimestoppers Penrose-Gould said: “While project money has been spent anonymously on 0800 555 111. pupils have been on holiday locally while the 240 operatives during the summer the BSF represent 48 per cent of the project has continued quickly, workforce.” and to date, we are on track to Meanwhile, contractors deliver all 18 school projects by Thomas Vale/Wates have to date January 2014. All projects are in spent 32 per cent of the project various stages of construction. money for Aynsley School on “The programme is also very materials from local suppliers much committed to generate and the 11 local workers on site employment opportunities for represent 69 per cent of the the local workforce and we have workforce. Our City p20 15/9/11 11:34 Page 1

20 Our City SEPTEMBER 2011 Free fruit and vitamins give healthy start PREGNANT women on low incomes and their children are being reminded they may qualify for free healthy food, milk, infant formula and vitamins. The package of support provided under the Healthy Start initiative aims to improve mums’ and children’s health at the most crucial stage of their lives. The scheme provides families with vouchers which can be exchanged for frozen or fresh fruit and vegetables, cow's milk and infant formula and free vitamins for pregnant women, new mums and children aged under four. NHS Stoke on Trent Health improvement worker Sue Marshall said:“Healthy Start vitamins contain the vitamins CITY which are vital for strong bones, ON STAGE... healthy growth and the immune Mitchell Arts Centre system. Executive Officer Ian “The vitamin tablets for Hutchinson watches women also contain folic acid rehearsals in the which is vitally important before auditorium which was and during early pregnancy.” part of a £4.3m ● Anyone wanting to find out revamp. more about the Healthy Start scheme can do so by visiting www.healthystart.nhs.uk Alternatively they can talk to their health visitor or midwife. Social media Theatre scrutiny raises curtain on used for good in our city THOUSANDS of residents used new line-up of reviews the latest social networking sites to get the latest information from detailed look at how Theatre, Victoria Hall and the purchasing power for buying and people. Many reviews will seek the newly-revamped Mitchell Arts commissioning goods and views of relevant people as part of police during last month’s theatres benefit the Centre. services can best be used to developing recommendations to disorder in London, Birmingham, Acity is being carried out this Autumn as part of The review – led by Councillor support local businesses and help the Cabinet for the future. and Manchester. create a great working city. “For example, the procurement a new programme of Matt Wilcox – will also compare As a result of a great the provision on offer here to The third review – led by review will be giving local community effort there were no councillor reviews that of other cities of similar size Councillor Andy Lilley – will businesses an opportunity to let incidents of violence in launched to help improve – such as Nottingham and Derby look at how the council can them know how the council can Stoke-on-Trent, although police the city and services for – in looking at the role that improve its collection rate of do better business with them.” did receive more calls than local people. theatres can and could play in council tax and support people The review teams will be active normal from people concerned The theatre review, carried out the regeneration of the city and to become more financially over the next three months and about rumours of disorder. by a special team of councillors, city centre. independent and leave debt will report their findings and Staffordshire’s Assistant Chief will look at the existing and Two other reviews will also be behind. recommendations to Cabinet at Constable Nick Baker said: “There future role of theatres in the city carried out over the next three John Ross, Overview and public meetings in November. were lots of visible police patrols in creating a great city to live in. months. One – led by Councillor Scrutiny Manager said: If you would like to know on duty throughout the evenings It will include investigating the Joy Garner – will look at “Councillors choose and carry more about any of the and officers spent time speaking cultural and economic benefits of procurement and test how the out the review topics based on reviews please contact to our communities.” venues such as the Regent council’s multi million pound priorities for the city and its scrutiny@ stoke.gov.uk Many thousands of Staffordshire residents are now receiving regular updates from across the county via social Volunteers needed to help out at the refurbished ‘Mitch’ media. “The sites give updates of what VOLUNTEERS with an interest in theatre new challenges, learn new skills and be Also scheduled is Beauty and The Beast is happening in communities to and the arts are needed to help out at the part of the thriving arts community in by Rooftop Studios and the Christmas tackle local issues,”added Mr newly refurbished Mitchell Arts Centre. Stoke-on-Trent. pantomime Sleeping Beauty, which is Baker. Re-opened after a £4.3 million “We want to encourage people from all being presented by Christian Paul ● Anyone who wants to keep transformation, the centre has day and backgrounds to join us.The only Productions. evening opportunities for front-of-house requirement is to be enthusiastic, reliable, up-to-date with the very latest ● news from Staffordshire Police duties on reception and in the box office, welcoming and dedicated in making the Information on all events being should visit facebook.com/ for ushers and also for people to Mitchell Arts Centre great.” staged at ‘The Mitch’ including, dates staffordshirepolice or follow volunteer in the café and behind the bar. People willing to lend a hand could be and times are on www.mitchellarts @staffspolice on Twitter. Chief Executive Officer Ian Hutchinson contributing to the success of a packed centre.co.uk. If you would like to play said:“Volunteering at Mitchell Arts Centre autumn season, which includes If Dreams a volunteering role or would like is ideal for those with a passion for the Were Wishes by Caversmill Drama Society more information then please email arts and who have time to spare, for those and RENT the Musical, presented by Stage [email protected] or call who want to meet new people, take on Productions. 01782 409307. Our City p21 15/9/11 11:55 Page 1

SEPTEMBER 2011 Our City 21 Millions to watch our city’s

TOKE-on-Trent’s branding, as well as positive images proud traditions and showing everything that is best Sregeneration will be about the city. promoted to an audience of Councillor Follows said appearing in the parade was a tremendous millions when the city takes opportunity to show the country, part in the Lord Mayor of and the world that Stoke-on-Trent London’s prestigious parade. means business and is a great place The capital’s incoming Lord to live, work and enjoy life. Mayor David Wootton invited our He added that the bus display city to join in as he has a special would also promote important soft spot for The Potteries and his initiatives like the council’s father still lives in Burslem. Mandate for Change programme, Plans are underway to make sure and its hotline initiative to roll out Stoke-on-Trent makes a big impact the red carpet to support existing during the three mile parade, which businesses and attract investment. is broadcast live by the BBC and He said: “It was a tremendous takes to the streets of London on honour that London’s Lord Mayor 12 November. David Wootton wanted me there to Lord Mayor Councillor Terry represent our city as his father came Follows will lead the city’s team on from Stoke-on-Trent. the day and will be dressed in full Great working city civic regalia for the parade. An open top bus will carry flag “I will be riding on our float in waving students from Trentham the procession and it will be a great High School – which is in opportunity to promote our city. Councillor Follows’ ward – and the “We hope the open top bus idea Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress will be different from the rest of the along the route from Mansion floats and really make us stand out. House in the City of London to the “The decoration of the vehicle, Royal Courts of Justice. promotion of our world famous They will be joined by the ceramics and the happy, smiling costumed Anglo-Saxon warriors faces of the children from Trentham who promote the world famous High will all go to show what a Above, an official photograph Staffordshire Hoard, and walking vibrant, diverse and friendly place taken to record Terry Follows’ alongside will be characters wearing our city is. inauguration as Lord Mayor in special costumes in the shape of “It will also promote Stoke-on- May, and right,Terry and Lady plates and showcasing the very best Trent as a place to do business, and Mayoress Jacqueline Pearson of ceramics produced in the city. the council's commitment to help attend a civic engagement at The bus will be decorated with create jobs and secure investment in Trentham Parish Church. the Make it Stoke-on-Trent a great working city.” People are the real stars of busy first few months SINCE his inauguration as Lord Mayor in May Councillor personal tragedy which prompted Terry to choose the Dot Terry Follows has been soaked in gunge, sung karaoke to Griffiths Cancer Appeal, a local charity, as the chosen shoppers and even been asked if he has a lie detector... as charity. During his term as Lord Mayor,Terry is being well as meeting hundreds of members of the city’s public. supported by his Lady Mayoress Jacqueline Pearson, who The veteran councillor, who represents the Hanford and is a close friend. Trentham Ward, is lapping up his civic duties and is all set He said:“I’ve really enjoyed the job so far. I’ve met for even more as his year in office progresses. celebrities like the Lord Lieutenant and High Sheriff, but Sadly his wife Christine, a councillor for the Meir Park the real celebrities have been the people – such as the and Sandon Ward, died from cancer in 2009, a special needs children I met at the Special Olympics.” Safety advice helps couple escape TV fire IT wasn’t the shock result that footy fan home fire risk check at the Blurton home of “Fortunately the TV did not burst into Joseph Taft had expected when he turned Joseph and his wife Patricia. flames, but the smoke was thick and choking on his television to watch two of Europe’s “What they told me just kicked in and I and I remembered being told that smoke top teams in action. followed their advice,” said Joseph who inhalation can often be more dangerous The pre-season international switched off the faulty TV, unplugged it and than fire. I just followed the advice I had friendly between AC Milan and closed his bedroom door to help stop the been given when the fire officer checked our Bayern Munich had reached half smoke spreading through the house. house.There was no damage but it took a time when a pall of grey smoke Then Joseph went downstairs, phoned long time to get rid of the smell of smoke.” started to billow from the back 999 and he and Patricia left the house by the He added:“It could have been a lot worse of Joseph’s bedroom TV. back door to wait outside until the arrival of and I’ll always be thankful I asked the fire However the 71-year-old firefighters who carried the still smoking TV service to carry out a safety check.” pensioner was not caught out of the house to dispose of it safely. Station Manager Mick Daniels said: offside by the drama off Joseph, who was watching football “Thanks to the advice given to Mr Taft the pitch. upstairs on an ageing TV set so Patricia during our visit he knew exactly what to do He kept calm and could enjoy her favourite soap downstairs, in order to ensure the safety of him and his remembered the advice said:“During the home visit two years ago wife and we had also made sure the couple’s of Staffordshire Fire and the fire officer fitted an additional smoke home had working smoke alarms.” Joseph and Patricia Taft used advice given during a free home Rescue Service when alarm and advised us on an exit route in the ● To book a free Home Fire Risk Check fire safety check to escape a fire at their house in Blurton. they carried out a free event of a fire. phone 0800 0241 999. Our City p22 15/9/11 09:15 Page 1

22 Our City SEPTEMBER 2011 Adult learners pick up the skills they need to find work NEW-style adult learning courses designed to give Stoke-on-Trent people the skills to help them find jobs and make money are being offered through the city council. Funded by the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE), the free courses in ceramics and photography are being delivered by professionals in their field. Mark Meredith, Cabinet Member for Economic Development, said: “These are unique stand-alone courses, funded by NIACE, which are being delivered with Burslem School of Art and renowned, locally based film maker Chris Stone.The courses are a new and exciting way of giving people the skills to help them into work and they’re entirely free.” The eight-week Great Wall of Stoke-on-Trent China programme involves training by some of the best potters, artists and tutors in the city. Those taking part will be taught how to make saleable pots, photography for selling and how to sell on Ebay. The 10-week Stories Without Words project will help people develop skills in taking, editing and exhibiting professional standard photographs. ● For more information and to register on the ceramics course, call Leva Alksne on 01782 810808 or visit www.greatwallstoke.com To find out more about the photography project email digitalmediachallenge@ Pre-School gmail.com or phone 01782 Room Leader 234775. Charlotte Whitehead reads with four-year-old Lucy Jean Hammond at the Early Days Nursery, Park Hall, which is taking part in the Communicate with Confidence awards scheme. Good communication

Art and Events Manager at Burslem School of Art Leva Alksne who is helping deliver “making is sessions” for the ceramic course.

Learner forums help shape HE city is blazing a trail socially and emotionally. And the latest communication, said: “In the city we nationally when it comes figures show that one in 10 children in have been leading the way on this kind future course programmes Tto ensuring children start the UK (approximately one million) of work and many local authorities life with the best possible have a speech or language difficulty. come to us for advice on best practice THREE learner forums are being staged across In Stoke-on-Trent a pioneering and to study the kind of techniques we Stoke-on-Trent as the Adult and Community Learning communication skills. approach to developing language skills employ. At the heart of what we do is Service encourages feedback to help it shape future Through a multi-agency project has been paying dividends. When the the motto ‘communication is provision of courses. called Stoke Speaks Out, youngsters project was launched seven years ago, everyone’s business’. The first takes place on Thursday, 6 October from and their families are provided with it was found that 64 per cent of three “It means that everyone who lives or 6.30-8pm at Meir Community Education Centre. specialist support to encourage and year olds had a language delay. By works with children is responsible for The next is being staged at Tunstall Library on develop speech and languages skills 2010 this figure had dropped to 39 per encouraging them to develop their from an early age. Wednesday, 12 October between 2–3.30pm whilst the cent – and is still falling. speech and language skills.” Project specialists have also trained final one happens between 10-11.30am at the Hanley Two events organised by the more than 4,000 people who have Confident with language Stoke Speaks Out team to tie in with Community Fire Station on Monday, 10 October. professional contact with children, Janet Cooper from Stoke Speaks national campaigns are taking place on ● To reserve a place at one of the sessions, such as teachers, psychologists and Out said: “Communication skills are 28 September. please call Tracey Clarke on 01782 234775. nursery staff as well as officers from essential throughout life and Firstly, a nursery rhyme-themed Staffordshire Police and Staffordshire developing them and being confident event aimed at pre-school children and Fire and Rescue Service. with language at an early age is also a promoting communications For information on dozens of The project also runs a Communicate absolutely essential. event to tie in with National No Pens with Confidence awards scheme giving “Good speech skills will help a child Days. Both events will be held at adult learning courses organisation certificates marking their get the most out of education and will locations around the city centre. available at community venues successes. also stand them in very good stead for It has long been recognised that later life. For instance job interviews For more information about Stoke throughout Stoke-on-Trent children who start school with speech, are all about communicating.” Speaks Out and the upcoming please turn to pages 30 and 31. language and communication Janet, who is on the National events log onto their website difficulties will be disadvantaged both Steering Group for developing child www.stokespeaksout.org Our City p23 15/9/11 09:29 Page 1

SEPTEMBER 2011 Our City 23

Tackling night time nuisance PEOPLE facing orders banning them from specified areas, because of alcohol related incidents, are being offered the opportunity to attend an alcohol awareness course. The Safer City Partnership has worked with the Business Crime Initiative, Staffordshire Community Police and the Payback Supervisor community alcohol Alan White oversees service, Adsis and are work being carried out now able to offer an by Dan Heath, 22, at St alternative to those Paul’s Church in facing a 12 month ban Blurton. from licensed premises. Previously, the ban came into force when OZENS of projects members of the public and organisations received a second Section Dhave benefited from 27 (direction to leave) the work of offenders Thousands benefit from offender notice. Using the new under the Community initiative, people will be Payback Scheme. given an option to avoid the ban by attending an Teams of people of all ages, who have been ordered by the courts to alcohol awareness serve community hours as part of programme at Adsis. their sentence, carry out a wide Safer City Partnership variety of manual labour tasks, payback schemes Alcohol Programme Lead, including sprucing up city parks, Suzie Kelly said:“We restoring church halls and working Midlands Probation Trust found work that is being done is always because we link in with the local currently have 100 repeat with charity organisations. that 98 per cent of the nearly 300 useful to the community. colleges. Section 27 offenders The participants – who wear people or organisations in “From the offenders point of “In short, the Community every year. distinctive orange vests so they are Staffordshire who had projects view we are equipping them with Payback Scheme is not only about “By choosing to take easily identifiable – work in teams worked on by offenders sentenced skills that will be useful for the punishing people but reducing the part in the sessions we of eight, usually with one to Community Payback had a future and providing them with risk of them re-offending.” hope they will gain a supervisor. ‘good experience’. work experience which will help ● better understanding of Recent projects they have worked Neil Keeling, Deputy Unit them find a job. Any organisation or project on in Stoke-on-Trent include Manager at the Hanley Community “The days are structured so they co-ordinator that thinks they could the negative impact restoring church halls and church Payback Unit, said: “There has get used to working to deadlines benefit from working with the alcohol has had on their grounds in Middleport and been a great deal of positive and timetables and there is an Community Payback scheme can behaviour and what they Blurton, transformation work in feedback for the scheme and the educational aspect to the scheme call Neil on 01782 213324. can do prevent it from Tunstall Park, work with happening again. Adsis organisations including the can also identify those Douglas Macmillan people who are at higher Hospice, the North Sessions help drug-users become drug-free risk of alcohol-related Staffordshire Caribbean THE Adult Community Drug Service is harm and, where Association in Hanley, running a series of groundbreaking peer necessary, refer them on gardeners at the Hartshill for further support.” allotments and the Disabled support sessions to help users overcome Anglers Association in their drug use. It is hoped that Abbey Hulton. The informal hour-long meetings, Government legislation After clearing the five-acre which take place every Friday afternoon, will change later this year site, they put up duck revolve around service users discussing to enable the scheme also houses made in the Hanley their recovery and what resources they to be offered as an Community Payback need to help them become drug free. alternative to people who workshop. Each session starts with an open have been served with an Community Payback has discussion about how everyone’s week £80 penalty notice for been a big success among has gone. At the end they make a goal for alcohol-related disorder. both offenders and the week ahead. Suzie added:“This organisations which have CRI Project Manager Debbie Arnold scheme has been benefited from the work. said:“We have been running the sessions developed to help change A survey carried out by for more than two months now. At one the Staffordshire and West the behaviour of people point we had five people attending and at risk of committing two became drug free, with one alcohol-related crime and For more information subsequently finding a job.” disorder and to improve from the Safer City ● For more information about the the experience of people sessions which take place at CRI Partnership turn to Project manager Debbie Arnold running the Peer Support Stimulant accessing our nightlife Community Service building on Hope page 24. Group at the Adult Community Drug Service. economy.” Street, Hanley, call 01782 219777. Our City p24 15/9/11 12:37 Page 1

24 Our City SEPTEMBER 2011

How safe do you feel in the city?

The Safer City Partnership is responsible for creating a safer, stronger and healthier city by reducing crime, disorder, substance misuse and associated problems.

Please help us to prioritise future work by completing this survey.

Day Night 1. How safe do you currently feel living ■ ______Very safe ■ Very safe in your neighbourhood? ■ Safe ■ Safe Please tell us ■ Unsafe ■ Unsafe your post code: ■ Very unsafe ■ Very unsafe

2. How does this compare with six ■ Much safer ■ Much safer months ago? Ashley ■ Safer ■ Safer Scaife, 10, ■ Same ■ Same litterpicking at the skateboarding area in Please tell us your age ■ ■ Less safe ■ Less safe Burslem Park with Safer City Partnership Officer Jennie Lawson and 3. Do you have any community safety concerns about ■ Yes ■ No park keeper Gary your neighbourhood? Bickerton. If yes, please tick the items that concern you most (maximum of three)

Crime and Disorder Drugs and Alcohol ■ A) Distraction burglaries/ ■ J) Alcohol misuse bogus officials ■ K) Drink or drug driving ■ B) Home burglary ■ L) Discarded needles ■ C) Domestic abuse ■ M) People using drugs ■ D) Sexual violence ■ N) People dealing drugs ■ E) Racist and other hate crime ■ O) Underage drinking or buying ■ F) Violence alcohol for underage drinkers ■ G) Street robbery (mugging) ■ P) Alcohol-related violence/ street drinking Youngsters make ■ F) Theft of or from vehicles ■ I) Sex workers or kerb crawling Alcohol amends in park service at ASB and Environmental ■ Q) Criminal damage ■ U) Litter or rubbish hospital (including vandalism, graffiti and ■ V) Nuisance vehicles causing deliberate damage to cars THE Safer City or property) ■ W) People starting fires Partnership has funded deliberately (arson) clean-up the appointment of an ■ R) Dog fouling Alcohol Liaison Nurse ■ ■ X) Nuisance and noisy EENAGERS were invited to join the S) Fly tipping who got into Junior Park Ranger Scheme at the area’s biggest neighbours hospital. ■ trouble after which encourages young T) Individuals/Groups of people T people to take responsibility The specialist will causing nuisance in the street spraying a park for their local area. support medical staff at building with graffiti Safer City Partnership the University Hospital have learned the error Officer Jennie Lawson, who of North Staffordshire Day Night of their ways through accompanied them, said: by helping to screen 4. Thinking outside of your ■ Very safe ■ Very safe a restorative justice “The day worked out very patients for alcohol- well. The boys were very neighbourhood, in areas of the city ■ Safe ■ Safe scheme. misuse or to advise on The eight boys, all aged enthusiastic and learned a you visit, do you feel? patients admitted with ■ Unsafe ■ Unsafe 15 or under, worked with lot about maintaining the alcohol-related park as well as the ■ Very unsafe ■ Very unsafe Safer City Partnership conditions. consequences of their Officers to carry out clean- The nurse will also up work in Burslem Park. actions and how much it costs to remove graffiti. help patients who need If you feel unsafe/very unsafe in any area please tell us where. Armed with brushes and post hospital treatment e.g. town centres, parks, entertainment venues etc. gardening tools the eight “They were proud with youths spent a day the work they had done on for their condition, including arranging ...... gardening, litter picking the day and developed good and generally maintaining links with the park keeper. community ...... the site. Many of them also said detoxification. They also discussed the they would enrol on the More than 5,000 ...... graffiti incident with park Junior Park Ranger patients are admitted keeper Gary Bickerton and Scheme, which is also very to the hospital each ...... learned how much work encouraging and helps year with alcohol- goes into keeping the park them to take extra related problems or Please return to FREEPOST OUR CITY by Friday 7 October 2011 neat and tidy for the public. responsibility in their conditions. community.”

✃ Afterwards, all the boys Our City p25 15/9/11 10:11 Page 1

SEPTEMBER 2011 Our City 25 Parents Close-knit happy family shows praise social worker’s benefits of adoption ‘amazing’ ORE Stoke-on-Trent support families are being HOWARD and Karen Murged to consider adopted two children adopting a child. through the council – About 50 children in the city a brother and sister need families each year – many are aged four and six. brothers and sisters – so the council is particularly looking for Karen said: “We’d people open to adopting siblings been trying for aged two to six and above. children but The council’s Principal Adoption unsuccessfully and, Manager, Lyn Bugarski, said: “The after doing some children all need safe, secure, research, decided loving homes. adoption was for us so “They also need families who we contacted the can understand the extra help and council. support they are going to need “The support from because of their early experiences. our social worker has “We help prepare people for this been amazing and we as they go through the assessment were kept informed and preparation process and then we offer support and advice at the every step of the way. matching stage and through to “When the panel adoption and beyond.” approved us we both Carol Collins, 64, and her came out and cried.We 69-year-old husband Derek have were ecstatic when we four grown-up children – two of were told. them are adopted. Clare, who “It’s something we’d arrived as a six-month old baby, is dreamt of and for it to now 33 and Jamie, now 29, was come true after adopted when he was 11. everyone’s hard work Dual heritage CLOSE was fantastic. It was FAMILY... “Our birth children, Sonia and amazing when our Derek and Carol children finally came Gavin, were five and three when we Collins with their first decided we wanted to extend to live with us.They adopted children said ‘it’s our new mum our family. Clare and “We felt we were in a position to and dad’ and we cried. Jamie. offer other children a chance, so we Our lives are now fostered and then adopted,” said complete. Carol. “It’s like we’ve all “We made a real effort to reflect such close relationships. Both returned from Ibiza after a couple If you are interested and known each other Clare’s dual heritage and made Derek and I would like to think of months behind the decks. want to know more about forever and our sure she was able to have people will follow in our footsteps Clare said: “I was given the adoption, call the adoption children have settled friendships in the Afro-Caribbean and adopt. It’s such a rewarding opportunity to do what I wanted duty line on 01782 235020, in very, very well.We’re community, which was enriching experience.” with my life and I grew up feeling email duty.adoption completely family for all of us. It took a bit more time Clare, who graduated with a that I wasn’t any different to @stoke.gov.uk or visit the before Jamie felt secure. He was degree in Community Arts in anyone else. orientated now. I’d say close to his Caribbean granddad 2000, now works as a care “My friends knew I was adopted council’s web page to anyone thinking but he did settle down. co-ordinator near Derby but is but they didn’t hold it against me! stoke.gov.uk/adoption. about adopting, just “All four children now see living at home while she buys a My mum and dad are brilliant, The council provides an go for it. It’s the most themselves as part of the same new house. Jamie lives at home and amazing people, I information pack and also amazingly rewarding family so we’re really works as a self-employed kitchen couldn’t wish for holds information meetings thing you can do.” pleased we all have fitter. He loves DJing and has just anyone better.” every two months.

Community spirit helps newly-formed team to promotion in first season NEWLY formed Chell Heath “They’re a great bunch of lads Rangers are champions in who represent Chell Heath well. everything but name as they They’re willing to work for each prove community spirit counts other and for them it really is all for a lot. about the team.” Friends who enjoyed a kick The side, newly kitted out about turned to Jim Gibson, thanks to funding from Partners chairman of Chell Heath Assuring a Safer Staffordshire Residents’ Association, last year (PASS), are targeting promotion Chell Heath and he soon organised them again this year. Residents’ into a promotion-winning outfit Association Chairman who now play in the Coors Let us know if your Jim Gibson with one of Sunday League, Division Three. Residents’ Association the soccer shirts Jim, who now manages the has a story to tell. Email sponsored by Partners squad of about 25, said: [email protected] Assuring a Safer Staffordshire. Our City p26-27 15/9/11 10:15 Page 1

Monday Wednesday Thursday th th th Donna, 17October 19 October20 October Hanley Fire Arch City Central Station Resource Library HANLEY Centre HANLEY ST1 3RP HANLEY ST1 3RS 3.30pm-7pm ST1 3LL Noon-3pm 6pm-8.30pm Our City p26-27 15/9/11 12:22 Page 2

SEPTEMBER 2011 Our City 27 FIREWORK FACTFILE

Firefighters hope their warnings will lead to everyone enjoying a safe bonfire night... with ■ A sparkler reaches a temperature no need for them to of up to 2,000 degrees Celsius – attend dangerous, that’s 20 times the boiling point badly organised of water. fires. ■ Sparklers get five times hotter than cooking oil. ■ A rocket can reach 150 miles an hour. ■ A firework shell can go as high as 200 metres. ■ The most common injuries from fireworks and bonfires are to hands Firework safety followed by eyes and faces. ■ Fireworks are safer now thanks to the safety standard BS7114 – you should never buy or use a firework warning aims that does not show on the label that it complies with this standard. Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service have also issued advice that parents to prevent can pass onto their children.They are: ■ Never give sparklers to someone under the age of five. ■ Fireworks will scare pets so keep bonfire them safely indoors. ■ If you are given a sparkler, always wear gloves and hold it at arm’s length. ■ Only adults should handle and light fireworks. tragedies ■ When a sparkler goes out DON’T TOUCH IT – it could still burn you so put it in a bucket of water hot end down. IRE safety officers are warning their children of the dangers of playing with display, where the public’s safety is of ■ Never go near a firework when it of the dangers of fireworks in a fireworks. paramount importance. has been lit – even if it hasn’t gone Fbid to prevent bonfire night Firefighters and Staffordshire Fire and Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Risk off it could still explode. accidents... or even tragedies. Rescue Risk Reduction Officers will be Reduction Manager David Steele said: “We ■ When you are watching fireworks doing the rounds to dozens of schools want everyone to enjoy Bonfire Night but always stand well back. An astonishing checklist of firework facts across the city in the run up to the big night we urge people to stay safe by following the ■ Remember – you have to be 18 highlights how hot a sparkler burns, how to deliver the bonfire night safety messages. firework code and attending displays which fast a rocket is propelled and how far a And in the run up to 5 November officers are well organised. years old before you are allowed to firework shell can actually travel. out and about will be alerting bonfire “Children for example should always be buy fireworks in the shops. The statistics might come as a shock for organisers if they see any risks. As usual, the supervised when using sparklers and they ■ Never play with fireworks – they concerned parents, and mums and dads best advice is to leave the organisation to should never be given to children under the are dangerous and can hurt you. across the area are being urged to warn someone else and go to a properly-run age of five.” History society pays tribute to Register for much more than voting

American Civil War soldier RESIDENTS of Stoke-on-Trent Freephone, internet or text (SMS) – HISTORY buffs visited a city in an arm and a leg being should make sure they are details are on the form.When cemetery to pay tribute to amputated. He returned entitled to vote – by taking part changes need to be made – for a Stoke-on-Trent man who home but died in 1867. in the annual canvass for example, new owners or fought in the American Councillor Mark inclusion on the electoral tenants, changes of name, Civil War. Meredith, Cabinet Member register. additional electors or removal They took time out from for Economic It is a legal requirement to of electors – the form needs to a weekend event at the Development, said: “This register by using the form be completed, signed and Etruria Industrial Museum city has an incredibly currently being delivered by returned. to honour John Livesey, the diverse history but to have Royal Mail. Reminders will be sent to son of a local pottery links with the American The register will run from 1 properties which have not manufacturer, who signed Civil War is something December 2011 to 30 November responded around the end of up to fight for the Union in which many people living 2012. September, then households which the 6th Regiment, New York here will not know or even Residents not on the electoral have still failed to respond will Cavalry during a trip to have considered a register will find that they are barred receive personal visits during October America in 1864. possibility.” from voting at local and national elections and November. A plaque of remembrance During the weekend the and may also have problems obtaining a Paul Hackney, the city council’s Assistant to John Livesey is in Hanley American Civil War Society mortgage or credit, opening bank accounts or Director (Legal Services) who is also the Electoral Cemetery. staged battle re-enactments obtaining goods or services that require a credit Registration Officer, said:“This has to be done by He was admitted to and showed what every day check. law, but is very costly, so we would urge hospital later that year with life was like for soldiers in If details of everyone in the household have not householders to respond to the initial forms as gunshot wounds, resulting the conflict. changed, householders can simply register by soon as possible in order to save public money.” Our City p28 15/9/11 12:26 Page 1

28 Our City SEPTEMBER 2011 Public set to have a say on mental health THE public are being asked to have their say on the future of mental health services in North Staffordshire. A consultation exercise has been launched to find out what people think about NHS proposals to close 100-year-old Bucknall Hospital and transfer its services to the Harplands Hospital at Hartshill. Community teams would make sure older people feeling mentally or emotionally unwell are supported in their own homes, and rehabilitation care would be provided in more appropriate community settings. Benefits assessor Anjii Brown Fiona Myers, Chief Executive pictured outside the Stoke Local of North Staffordshire Centre with the national award Combined Healthcare, said: which recognises her work. “We have talked to people who use, support, deliver and fund our services and this consultation is an opportunity for everyone to have their say. “The proposed changes will Benefits assessor Anjii named UK’s give people care closer to home and reduce the length of hospital stays, both of which we know are beneficial to our patients.” professional of the year The consultation runs until 28 October. A full copy of the NJII Brown has won the 2011 UK Customer award. I really enjoy my job document can be found at a top award for Experience Awards. because I love dealing with www.combined.nhs.uk or by A the way she helps Anjii won the General section people and it’s really rewarding Accolade for calling the Communications people with advice about of the Customer Experience to know you have been able to Team on freephone 08000 their housing and council Professional of the Year category, help someone.” best candidate beating off stiff competition from Anjii, who is based at Stoke 328 728. tax benefit entitlement, CONGRATULATIONS are Responses to the seven other finalists representing big Library, has worked for the city assesses claims and name organisations such as council’s housing and tax also due to Environmental questions posed in the other issues. Health Officer Kerri Ford document can be emailed to NatWest Bank, Legal & General benefits office for 14 years. The Benefits Assessor at the Insurance and QinetiQ. She said: “Because of the who has won the Richard consultation@northstaffs. city council’s Housing and After a 15 minute presentation recession a lot of people have Booth Best Candidate nhs.uk or posted to Council Tax Benefits one stop by members of her team, Anjii found themselves without a job Award for the highest FREEPOST MID254483, shop in Stoke town centre faced a 15 minute question and and come to us. A lot of the time achievement in the Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 6BR. collected a prestigious prize in answer session in front of a panel people just need our help as they NEBOSH Diploma in of five judges during the awards don’t know what they are Occupational Health and held in London at the Sofitel entitled to or how to get it.” Safety (Unit B). Hotel, Heathrow. Now she is in line for a second The Best Candidate She was presented with a glass honour this year. Anjii has been Award recognises the For all city council services trophy by M People singing star shortlisted for one of the achievements of the top Heather Small during a gala categories in the national WOW lunch at the venue. Awards – which acknowledge performing candidates in contact 234234 Anjii, said: “I had no idea that workers who display excellent the national certificate and I was being nominated and I’m customer service – which will be diploma qualifications. absolutely thrilled to receive the held in October. YOUR HEALTH CENTRES

ABBEY HULTON (Main) 0300 123 0976 PACKMOOR 0300 123 0874 0300 123 0987 Fire & Rescue contact numbers Children and Adolescents 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 p29 15/9/11 10:36 Page 1

SEPTEMBER 2011 Our City 29

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: LEE WANGER MATTHEW FRY ● The next Cabinet meeting is scheduled for 29 September at 5.30pm. (City Independents) (Labour) ● 07971 303729 07826 891801 Full city council meetings 20 October and 8 December (times to be confirmed). lee.wanger@ matthew.fry@ stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk For more information on your councillors go to stoke.gov.uk/councillors

Information on city councillors was correct at the time of going to press. Our City p30-31 15/9/11 10:39 Page 1

30 Our City SEPTEMBER 2011 Personal Development/ Drawing and painting Languages 1 Getting into work To provide a basic introduction to drawing and painting 4 Adult Learning techniques and materials. Active listening Digame – beginners Spanish MCC Thur 10:00-12:00 5 Wks (15/9/11-13/10/11) FREE (£6) ON the next two pages you will find Learners will learn more effective communication skills to A basic introduction to the Spanish language - covering information about lots of courses for enable them to engage. TY Mon 10:30-12:30 5 Wks (19/9/11-17/10/11) FREE (£6) greetings,names,numbers etc. adults aged 19 or over to help you gain HCL Fri 10:00-13:00 1 Wk (16/9/11-16/9/11) FREE (£6) HCL Wed 13:00-15:00 5 Wks (14/9/11-12/10/11) FREE (£6) WCC Wed 10:00-12:00 5 Wks (14/9/11-12/10/11) FREE (£6) new skills, knowledge and confidence – all in a fun, friendly and informal way. Mental health awareness NPH Mon 09:30-11:30 5 Wks (19/9/11-17/10/11) FREE (£6) Floral art for beginners Adult and Community Learning also Learners will understand mental health,increasing awareness English in the community offers a range of Family Learning of the various types of mental distress and their treatment. Learn the basic floral art skills,art and design,to include colour workshops and courses. harmonies and shapes of arrangement. Learners will develop English conversation and comprehension HBC Thur 13:00-15:00 3 Wks (29/9/11-13/10/11) FREE (£6) skills including culture,leisure,education and community. We have funding available for CC Fri 10:00-12:00 5 Wks (16/9/11-14/10/11) FREE (£6) voluntary and community sector groups Stress management CCC Thur 10:00-12:00 5 Wks (15/9/11-13/10/11) FREE (£6) to deliver their own courses. MCE Tue 18:30-20:30 5 Wks (11/10/11-8/11/11) FREE (£6) Learners will understand the causes and consequences of stress HCC Wed 12:30-14:30 5 Wks (21/9/11-19/10/11) FREE (£6) For information about joining a class, or and be able to employ techniques to manage stress. for more details about a particular course, Getting started with your digital camera HBC Thur 13:00-15:00 3 Wks (3/11/11-17/11/11) FREE (£6) TL Tue 09:30-11:30 5 Wks (13/9/11-11/10/11) FREE (£6) please call 01782 234775. Understand the basics of operating a digital camera and

▲▲ downloading images. Spanish conversation Course Fees Parenting, Caring SBE Wed 18:30-20:30 5 Wks (2/11/11-30/11/11) FREE (£6) Learners will develop existing knowledge to be able to converse 2 and Health fluently on a range of topics. MANY of our courses are free of charge. Get to know your overlocker DC Mon 18:30-20:30 30 Wks (5/9/11-30/4/12) £162 (£6) Where fees apply course charges are First aid for the treatment of children Learners will be able to make effective use of an overlocker, DC Thur 18:30-20:30 30 Wks (8/9/11-10/5/12) £162 (£6) £2.70 per hour with a £6 administration Gain the knowledge and skills to recognise and treat illnesses includes threading. fee also payable. and injuries that are most likely to be encountered by children Everyday English This £6 is paid on your first course and babies. BP Fri 12:45-14:45 3 Wks (25/11/11-9/12/11) FREE (£6) enrolment but covers you for as many Learners will become confident and competent in using basic SP Thur 09:15-11:15 5 Wks (3/11/11-1/12/11) FREE SJC Fri 10:00-12:00 3 Wks (25/11/11-9/12/11) FREE (£6) English in home,transport,shopping and health situations. courses as you want to do until July 2012. TL Tue 13:00-15:00 5 Wks (13/9/11-11/10/11) FREE (£6) Payment is by cash or cheque; please Reflexology Glass painting note cheques should be supported by a Learn to identify the reflexes on the feet and understand how Experience painting on both glass and acetate;creating your Everyday British Sign Language cheque guarantee card. this relates to general health. own design. Learners will acquire the basics of British Sign Language to be WCC Mon 18:00-20:00 8 Wks (3/10/11-21/11/11) £43.20 (£6) MS Mon 12:30-14:30 5 Wks (12/9/11-10/10/11) FREE (£6) able to greet and hold a simple conversation with a BSL user. Fee Concessions Why do we do it and how do we deal with it? TY Wed 10:30-12:30 5 Wks (21/9/11-19/10/11) FREE (£6) SJC Wed 10:00-12:00 5 Wks (28/9/11-26/10/11) FREE (£6) WE want our courses to be as accessible Understand why people behave in certain ways and gain skills TL Mon 09:30-11:30 5 Wks (12/9/11-10/10/11) FREE (£6) as possible and try to keep costs to a and strategies to accept or change behaviours. Introduction to sewing minimum at all times. BNC Wed 09:30-11:30 5 Wks (21/9/11-19/10/11) FREE (£6) Learners will be able to set up their own sewing equipment and You will be entitled to a reduced fee if complete a small sewing project. you are in receipt of Income Based Job HCL Mon 09:45-11:45 5 Wks (12/9/11-10/10/11) FREE (£6) Lifestyle, Beauty BP Fri 12:45-14:45 5 Wks (23/9/11-21/10/11) FREE (£6) and Home Seekers Allowance. WVC Tue 10:00-12:00 5 Wks (1/11/11-29/11/11) FREE (£6) 5 Please bring proof of benefit when CCC Thur 12:30-14:30 5 Wks (22/9/11-20/10/11) FREE (£6) enrolling. Facial treatments Please note: non-UK residents have a SJC Fri 10:00-12:00 5 Wks (23/9/11-21/10/11) FREE (£6) Recognise skin types and conditions and the correct techniques slightly higher rate of charges. Adult and Art and Craft and products required for facial care. Community Learning reserve the right to 3 Learn to face paint WCC Thur 18:30-20:30 6 Wks (20/10/11-24/11/11)£32.40 (£6) change the fee policy. Art of photography Develop a basic knowledge of application techniques to cover a Hand and nail treatments ▲ range of face painting designs. Develop knowledge of focal length,shutter speeds and the rule Learn the basic principles of manicure,nail polish application Information Advice of thirds applied to creative photography. MS Mon 09:30-12:30 5 Wks (12/9/11-10/10/11) FREE (£6) and hand massage. CCL Wed 12:30-14:30 6 Wks (9/11/11-14/12/11) £32.40 (£6) and Guidance TCC Wed 09:30-11:30 5 Wks (2/11/11-30/11/11) FREE (£6) HCL Wed 09:30-11:30 5 Wks (14/9/11-12/10/11) FREE (£6) SBE Thur 18:30-20:30 6 Wks (15/9/11-3/11/11) £32.40 (£6) Holistic therapies IF you would like to talk to someone Painting with acrylics about starting a course or receive Card making Explore and experience the benefits of Aromatherapy,Indian An introduction to using acrylics to create a diverse range of information about the content of any of Head Massage and Reflexology. Design and create a range of greetings cards exploring different artwork. our courses please contact our media and techniques. WCC Mon 18:00-20:00 3 Wks (12/9/11-26/9/11) FREE (£6) Engagement Team on 01782 234775 or WCC Tue 10:00-12:00 6 Wks (1/11/11-6/12/11) £32.40 (£6) [email protected] WCC Fri 10:30-12:30 5 Wks (4/11/11-2/12/11) FREE (£6) WVC Thur 10:00-12:00 3 Wks (15/9/11-29/9/11) FREE (£6) Our staff are qualified advisers who will Christmas crafts Painting with watercolours be happy to give you information about Indian head massage Design and create your own range of Christmas stationery and An introduction to using watercolours to create a diverse range our courses and can also signpost you to Perform a basic Indian Head Massage and understand the decorations. of artwork. other providers. benefits of massage in health and well-being. WCC Wed 10:00-12:00 6 Wks (19/10/11-23/11/11)£32.40 (£6) Please visit our website stoke.gov.uk/ BCL Tue 12:30-14:30 5 Wks (8/11/11-6/12/11) FREE (£6) BNC Tue 09:30-11:30 5 Wks (20/9/11-18/10/11) FREE (£6) adultlearning for up-to-date course CCC Thur 12:30-14:30 5 Wks (17/11/11-15/12/11) FREE (£6) MCE Fri 10:00-12:00 6 Wks (4/11/11-9/12/11) £32.40 (£6) listings. WVC Thur 10:00-12:00 5 Wks (6/10/11-10/11/11) FREE (£6)

▲ SJC Wed 10:00-12:00 5 Wks (2/11/11-30/11/11) FREE (£6) Photo restoration Look good, new you Skills for Life and TY Mon 10:30-12:30 5 Wks (31/10/11-28/11/10) FREE (£6) Develop skills in restoring old photographs;includes Review your lifestyle to improve your image and well-being. brightening,resizing and retouching. WCC Thur 18:30-20:30 5 Wks (15/9/11-13/10/11) FREE (£6) Learner Support Christmas floral arrangements CCL Wed 12:30-14:30 6 Wks (14/9/11-19/10/11) £32.40 (£6) Develop a range of traditional Christmas designs including a WE aim to offer an inclusive service to all holly wreath and table arrangement. SJC Fri 10:00-12:00 6 Wks (30/9/11-11/11/11) £32.40 (£6) of our learners. BNC Wed 18:00-20:00 4 Wks (2/11/11-23/11/11) FREE (£6) ICT If you are concerned about your literacy Sewing for baby or numeracy skills or have a disability 6 DC Thur 18:00-20:00 4 Wks (24/11/11-22/12/11) FREE (£6) Design and create a range of personalised soft furnishings for which you feel may affect your learning Build your own PC with us please contact our Skills for Life baby. HCC Thur 18:00-20:00 4 Wks (1/12/11-22/12/11) FREE (£6) Learners will be guided through the steps needed to build a PC Coordinator on 01782 236461 or email HCC Mon 09:30-11:30 5 Wks (19/9/11-17/10/11) FREE (£6) including hardware and the installation of operating systems [email protected] MCE Tue 18:30-20:30 4 Wks (15/11/11-6/12/11) FREE (£6) and software. We want you to get the most out of Sewing machine techniques Craft sampler BC Wed 18:00-20:00 8 Wks (21/9/11-23/11/11) £64 (£6) your learning opportunities with us and Gain an insight in to the various functions of a sewing machine will endeavour to support you either Sample bead and fabric jewellery making,basic decoupage box, and how to apply them. Computers for absolute beginners through our Learning Support Officers or pop up card and glass painting. through assistive technology. BCL Tue 12:30-14:30 5 Wks (20/9/11-18/10/11) FREE (£6) BP Fri 12:45-14:45 3 Wks (4/11/11-18/11/11) FREE (£6) Gain an understanding of basic operations and uses of computers including Microsoft Office and the internet. SJC Fri 10:00-12:00 3 Wks (4/11/11-18/11/11) FREE (£6) Every effort has been made to ensure WCC Fri 10:30-12:30 5 Wks (30/9/11-28/10/11) FREE (£6) BL Wed 09:30-11:30 10 Wks (14/9/11-23/11/11) FREE the accuracy of this information.The Cushions Window blinds Adult Learning Service reserves the CC Tue 18:30-20:30 10 Wks (13/9/11-22/11/11) FREE Learn to design and create different styles of cushion with a Learn to measure and choose fabrics and mechanisms for right to change any fee, course or CC Wed 18:30-20:30 10 Wks (14/9/11-23/11/11) FREE service described. variety of fastenings and decoration. different window settings. MCE Fri 13:00-15:00 5Wks (21/10/11-18/11/11) FREE (£6) MCE Mon 18:30-20:30 10 Wks (12/9/11-14/11/11) £54 (£6) CC Mon 10:00-12:00 10 Wks (12/9/11-21/11/11) FREE Our City p30-31 15/9/11 10:39 Page 2

SEPTEMBER 2011 Our City 31 Computers for absolute beginners Gain an understanding of basic operations and uses of computers including Microsoft Office and the internet. CC Thur 13:00-15:00 10 Wks (15/9/11-24/11/11) FREE CCL Mon 09:30-11:30 10 Wks (5/9/11-14/11/11) FREE dD Tue 09:30-11:30 10 Wks (13/9/11-22/11/11) FREE BE HCL Mon 15:15-17:15 10 Wks (12/9/11-21/11/11) FREE CREATIVE... HBC Tue 10:30-12:30 10 Wks (27/9/11-6/12/11) FREE with one of the many craft NOR Tue 10:00-12:00 10 Wks (13/9/11-15/11/11) FREE courses on offer in the city. SJC Thur 12:30-14:30 10 Wks (22/9/11-1/12/11) FREE SL Mon 09:30-11:30 10 Wks (12/9/11-14/11/11) FREE TL Thur 10:00-12:00 10 Wks (15/9/11-24/11/11) FREE WCC Mon 10:00-12:00 10 Wks (12/9/11-14/11/11) FREE HBC Mon 13:00-15:00 10 Wks (26/9/11-5/12/11) FREE MCE Mon 18:30-20:30 10 Wks (12/9/11-14/11/11) FREE Introduction to Desk Top Publishing Learn how to use basic features of Publisher through creating and editing publications such as cards,posters and letterheads. TL Mon 13:00-15:00 3 Wks (28/11/11-12/12/11) FREE (£6) CC Thur 10:00-12:00 3 Wks (15/9/11-29/9/11) FREE (£6) CCL Mon 09:30-11:30 3 Wks (28/11/11-12/12/11) FREE (£6) dD Tue 12:30-14:30 3 Wks (13/9/11-27/9/11) FREE (£6) Counselling 7 and Psychology ML Meir Library SL Fri 09:30-11:30 3 Wks (7/10/11-21/10/11) FREE (£6) Venue Codes Sandon Road,ST3 7DJ Counselling skills introduction 01782 234775 or 07717 714279 Introduction to email BP Belgrave St Bartholomews Develop the skills and techniques to enable effective Academy MS Milton Scout HQ Acquire the knowledge to set up,send and receive emails - communication,develop life skills and empathy with others. Sussex Place,Longton,ST3 4TP 1802 Leek Road,Milton,ST2 7AF including adding attachments and internet security. HBC Wed 13:00-15:00 10 Wks (28/9/11-7/12/11) FREE 01782 234775 or 07717 714279. 01782 234775 or 07766 360798 BL Wed 09:30-12:00 4 Wks (30/11/11-21/12/11) FREE (£6) BJ Bentilee JETS MCC Minton Community Centre HCC Thur 09:30-11:30 10 Wks (22/9/11-1/12/11) FREE CC Mon 13:00-15:00 5 Wks (7/11/11-5/12/11) FREE (£6) 19 Brackenfield Avenue,Bentilee,ST2 0DH Off Hartshill Road,Vicarage Lane,Hartshill,ST4 7NL SBE Thur 18:30-20:30 10 Wks (24/11/11-9/2/12) FREE 01782 234775 or 07766 360798 01782 234775 or 07766 360798 CCL Tue 12:30-14:30 5 Wks (13/9/11-11/10/11) FREE (£6) BL Bentilee Library MG Moss Green Residents WCC Thur 18:00-20:00 10 Wks (15/9/11-17/11/11) FREE Dawlish Drive,Bentilee,ST2 0HW Association dD Tue 12:30-14:30 5 Wks (4/10/11-8/11/11) FREE (£6) 01782 234775 or 07766 360798 Psychology – debates and memory Moss Green Road,Moss Green Village,ST2 0SP NOR Tue 10:00-12:00 5 Wks (22/11/11-20/12/11) FREE (£6) BNC Bentilee Neighbourhood 01782 234775 or 07766 360798 Learners will be introduced to the debates active in psychology, Centre SJC Mon 12:30-14:30 5 Wks (31/10/11-28/11/12) FREE (£6) and be able to map out memory and how it works. Dawlish Drive,Bentilee,ST2 0EU NPH Northwood Parish Hall 01782 234775 or 07766 360798 Keelings Road,Northwood,ST1 6PB SL Mon 09:30-11:30 5 Wks (21/11/11-19/12/11) FREE (£6) HCL Mon 12:15-14:15 5 Wks (12/9/11-10/10/11) FREE (£6) BCL Bethel Church (Longton) 01782 234775 or 07760 178495 WCC Mon 10:00-12:00 5 Wks (21/11/11-19/12/11) FREE (£6) TL Thur 09:30-11:30 5 Wks (15/9/11-13/10/11) FREE (£6) Dunrobin Street,Longton,ST3 4NA NOR NORSACA Psychology of ageing 01782 234775 or 07717 714279 Lindsay Annexe,Cannon Place,Hanley,ST1 4EP Introduction to Excel CC Chatterley Centre 01782 267888 or 07766 360798 Understand and appreciate the changes in the human brain as Learn how to create simple spreadsheets,enter data and use Wilding Road,Ball Green,ST6 8BQ it matures. SBE Sandon Business and basic formulae to produce charts or graphs. 01782 234775 or 07920 835877 BNC Wed 09:30-12:30 1 Wk (2/11/11-2/11/11) FREE (£6) Enterprise College BL Thur 09:30-11:30 3 Wks (1/12/11-15/12/11) FREE (£6) CCL City Central Library (Hanley) Sandon Road,Meir,ST3 7DF HCL Fri 10:00-13:00 1 Wk (30/9/11-30/9/11) FREE (£6) Bethesda Street,Hanley,ST1 3RS 01782 234775 or 07717 714279 CCL Tue 12:30-14:30 3 Wks (1/11/11-15/11/11) FREE (£6) 01782 234775 or 07760 178495 SJA St John’s Ambulance Psychology of behaviour CCC Cobridge Community Centre (Hanley) SL Fri 09:30-11:30 3 Wks (2/12/11-16/12/11) FREE (£6) Tansey House,Sheaf Street,Hanley,ST1 4LW Bursley Road,Cobridge,ST6 3DQ Learners will gain an understanding and knowledge of why 01785 257124 Introduction to Powerpoint people behave the way they do. 01782 234775 or 07760 178495 Learn how to create and edit basic PowerPoint presentations. dD dDeaflinks (The Ellis Centre) SJC St John’s Centre TL Thur 09:30-11:30 5 Wks (3/11/11-1/12/11) FREE (£6) Newcastle Road,Trent Vale,ST4 6QD CCL Tue 12:30-14:30 3 Wks (29/11/11-13/12/11) FREE (£6) Wellesley Street,Stoke-on-Trent ST1 4NF 01782 234775 or 07766 360798 01782 234775 or 07717 714279 SL Fri 09:30-11:30 3 Wks (16/9/11-30/9/11) FREE (£6) DC Dudson Centre SL Stoke Library (Stoke Local Centre) Music and Hope Street,Hanley,ST1 5DD Introduction to word processing South Wolfe Street,ST4 4SZ 8 Dance 01782 234775 or 07760 178495 01782 234775 or 07766 360798 Learn to create a word document,change fonts and insert tables. Salsa for beginners GCC Goldenhill Community Centre SP Sutherland Primary School BL Thur 09:30-11:30 5 Wks (20/10/11-24/11/11) FREE (£6) Drummond Street,Goldenhill, Learn basic salsa movements and perform a simple routine. Beaconsfield Drive,Blurton,ST3 3DY ST6 5RF 01782 234775 or 07717 714279 CC Mon 13:00-15:00 3 Wks (12/9/11-26/9/11) FREE (£6) TCC Thur 09:30-10:30 10 Wks (15/9/11-24/11/11) FREE (£6) 01782 234775 or 07920 835877 TY The Yard SJC Mon 12:30-14:30 3 Wks (26/9/11-10/10/11) FREE (£6) GCC Thur 11:00-12:00 10 Wks (29/9/11-08/12/11) FREE (£6) HCL Haywood Community Library Haywood High School,Haywood Road,Stanfields, Forrest Road,Meir,ST3 7BY TL Thur 10:00-12:00 3 Wks (1/12/11-15/12/11) FREE (£6) Burslem,ST6 7AH 01782 234775 or 07717 714279 01782 234775 or 07920 835877 Online shopping TCC Tunstall Community Teaching Centre/Floral Hall Gain an understanding of the concept of online shopping; HBC Hollybush Centre 9 Assistant 77-81 Meaford Drive,Blurton,ST3 2BB Tunstall Park,ST6 6EE learning how to avoid dangers and how to explore shopping 01782 234775 or 07920 835877 websites and comparison sites. School support services courses – if you are 01782 234775 or 07717 714279 TL Tunstall Library BL Thur 09:30-11:30 5 Wks (15/9/11-13/10/11) FREE (£6) interested in training to work in a school HCC Hope Community Church environment please ring Sue on Garth Street,Hanley,ST1 2DA The Boulevard,Tunstall,ST6 6BD CC Mon 13:00-15:00 5 Wks (3/10/11-31/10/11) FREE (£6) 0771 789 2744 for further information. 01782 234775 or 07760 178495 01782 234775 or 07920 835877 WCC Wedgwood College CCL Wed 09:30-11:30 5 Wks (2/11/11-30/11/11) FREE (£6) LL Longton Library Sutherland Institute,Lightwood Road, and Conference Centre SL Fri 09:30-12:00 4 Wks (28/10/11-25/11/11) FREE (£6) For information about joining a Longton,ST3 4HY Station Road,Barlaston,ST12 9DG class, or for more details about a 01782 234775 or 07717 714279 01782 372105 Web design for beginners particular course, please call 01782 MCE Meir Community Education Centre WVCWhitfield Valley Community Centre Learners will gain an awareness and understanding of basic Fegg Hayes Road,Fegg Hayes,ST6 6QR website design and creation,developing skills to build a website. 234775 or visit www.facebook.com/ Pickford Place,ST3 4DY AdultLearningStoke 01782 235150 01782 234775 or 07920 835877 CCL Sat 10:00-12:20 8 Wks (10/9/11-22/10/11) £43.20 (£6) Our City p32 15/9/11 12:34 Page 1

32 Our City SEPTEMBER 2011

WORLD’S LEADING CYCLISTS TACKLE GRUELLING 140-KILOMETRE RACE STAGE

The cameras roll to capture the dramatic finish and, below, Lord Mayor Councillor Terry Follows presents the cuddly toy “trophy” to King of the Mountains leader Russell Hampton.

Thousands line streets to cheer on riders in electric finish HE wind battered clear day to watch the race head Meredith, said: “The Tour of Tour of Britain got out towards Stone and into the Britain has once again highlighted T back on track in Moorlands before steaming back Stoke-on-Trent’s ability to host an Stoke-on-Trent as the UK’s through Leek and the finish into event of international proportions. Hanley City Centre. “It has proved to be another biggest professional cycling Thousands more lined the huge success with large numbers race returned to the streets as Rabobank’s Dutch rider of people from inside and outside Potteries for the fourth Lars Boom took the stage win Stoke-on-Trent coming into the consecutive year. with overall race leader and city centre to enjoy the activities.” After 75 mile an hour gusts 20-time Tour de France stage Mike Herbert, Regional forced the cancellation of the winner Mark Cavendish finishing Director for St. Modwen who previous stage from Kendal to fifth. own Trentham Gardens, said: “We Blackpool, around a hundred With an international TV have a wonderful and beautiful riders got back in the saddle for audience watching, the event Italian Gardens and starting the the 140-kilometre long stage. showcased Stoke-on-Trent and event from this location is unique, Trentham Gardens hosted the what the city has to offer. creative and really exciting.” start for the first time with The council’s Cabinet Member Mike Bennett, Tour of Britain thousands turning out on a crisp, for Economic Development, Mark Race Director, said: “The race and the riders have proved very popular in this part of the world and we love coming back to the Spectators praise big event city, creating a tough route across FANS from across the city made it the stage. Sue Holmes, who the region and developing a a start to remember and travelled from Mansfield, summed relationship with our partners and supported riders all along the up the feelings of many when she cycling supporters in the area. “Our partners in Stoke always route. said:“We are great cycling fanatics produce a great event with us.” Imogen Crooks, 16, from and go to the Tour de France so it THEY’RE OFF... ● Oakhill, said:“I thought it was is great to see an event like this in Amateur cyclists will get the Mark Cavendish, great having it at Trentham the Midlands. chance to ride the stage if they in gold, leads out the sign up for The Prostate Cancer Gardens because you could get “It is good to see the stage riders as they start Charity Tour Ride on Sunday in the picturesque really close up and see the getting bigger and better. September 25, starting from Italian Gardens professionals. I’ll never forget it.” “Stoke-on-Trent always provides Trentham Gardens. Find out Visitors flocked to the city for a really good venue for the stage.” more at www.tourride.co.uk at Trentham.

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