WEST (INNER) AREA COMMITTEE 20Th OCTOBER 2005 PRESENT

WEST (INNER) AREA COMMITTEE 20th OCTOBER 2005

PRESENT: Councillor D Atkinson in the Chair Councillors T Hanley, J Harper, A Lowe, J McKenna, N Taggart

CO-OPTEES: Morgan Pugh (Armley Community Forum) Hazel Boutle (Armley Community Forum) Jean Bedford (Bramley and Stanningley Community Forum)

39 Chair’s Introduction/Apologies for Absence

Apologies for absence were received from Chief Superintendent Howard Crowther (West Yorkshire Police) and from Councillor Neil Taggart who would be late in attending this meeting

The Chair welcomed Hazel Boutle (Armley Community Forum) to her first meeting as a co-opted member of the Area Committee

40 Late Item

The Chair admitted the following late items to the agenda, due to details becoming available after the despatch of the agenda papers:

Application to the Well-Being Fund - Pudsey Weetwood Community Cycle Scheme (minute 50 refers)

41 Declarations of Interest

Councillor Janet Harper declared a personal interest in the application to the well-being fund from SureStart Bramley (minute 50 refers), as Chair of SureStart

42 Minutes of the West (Inner) Area Committee meeting held on the 13th September 2005

RESOLVED – That the minutes of the above meeting be approved as a true and correct record.

43 Matters Arising From the Minutes

Further to minute 27 regarding the introduction of a 20mph zone in the Armley ward it was reported that, following further consultation by the Head of Highway Services with ward members on the rationale behind this decision, a meeting to review the proposals was not considered necessary. Information provided by the Head of Highway Services detailing the previous consultation with ward members was circulated for information

Draft Minutes for approval at the meeting to be held on 8th December 2005

44 Open Forum and Community Forum minutes

The Chair referred to the provision in the area committee procedure rules for an open forum session at each area committee meeting to allow representations or questions on matters within the terms of reference of area committees

The Armley Community Forum minutes held on 20th September 2005 and the Bramley and Stanningley Community Forum minutes of 29th September 2005 were submitted for information and noted

45 Street Lighting PFI

The Area Committee considered a report by the Director of City Services summarising the progress to date on the Street Lighting PFI initiative, involving the replacement of the existing orange light source with a better quality light source and generation of £1m per year for the 25-year life of third party income

Members discussed the following issues arising from this report:

• The continued provision of Christmas lights in Armley and Bramley • Measures to minimise light pollution and maximise energy efficiency • The visual impact of street lighting advertising and associated road safety issues • The need for full prior consultation with ward members on new street lighting proposals

RESOLVED – To note the progress on the lighting solution and the third party income proposals

46 Area Delivery Plan – Agreement of Priorities

The Area Committee considered a report by the Director of Neighbourhoods and Housing detailing the main headings and priority themes in the Area Delivery Plan for 2006/07, together with the commissioning framework from which local projects and service improvements will be negotiated using the 2006/07 corporate planning/budget process and Area Well-Being Budget . RESOLVED –

a) To note the report including the timetable set out in section 6.0 of the report

b) To agree the proposed Area Delivery Plan content as listed in section 2.1 of the report

c) To agree the priorities for the 2006/07 Area Delivery Plan as outlined in section 3.2 of the report

Draft Minutes for approval at the meeting to be held on 8th December 2005

47 Area Manager’s Report on Progress

Members considered the report of the Area Manager providing an update on the activities of Area Management in Inner West Leeds over April - September 2005, together with progress on key plans and priorities and the activities of the West Leeds District Partnership and the family of partnerships in West Leeds. The report detailed how these actions were helping to deliver the corporate priorities of the Council.

Members discussed the planned establishment of a Community Action Service Team (CAST) for the inner west area as part of the Streetscene initiative. Draft proposals on how the local Streetscene teams would operate in inner west Leeds were circulated for consideration

Members raised the following further issues:

• The impact of the Operation Apollo community safety initiative and arrangements for further work throughout West Leeds • The identification of further priority hotspots for the CAST initiative including the New Wortley area and the area around Intake high school • The need to publicise the successful impact of additional neighbourhood wardens in hotspot areas in inner west Leeds • Work with St Bartholomew’s Church on a new community/voluntary sector project; Discussion took place on the need for further consultation with Armley ward members on a related planning application for housing development • It was reported that the new health LIFT centre at Armley Town Centre would open ahead of schedule in November 2005 • The work of Leeds West Homes in promoting heat lease schemes to help the most vulnerable elderly people in the area and associated work with Bramley Elderly Action • The work of the joint review group on the special measures action plan for Intake high school, due to conclude in February 2006

RESOLVED – To note the current work programme of the area management team and the West Leeds District Partnership and Members be asked to supply further information in relation to litter hotspots and views on the CAST process by 28th October 2005

48 Youth Service Developments – October 2005

Members considered the report of the Youth Service Inner West providing an update for the Area Committee on general developments within the Leeds Youth Service, including current programmes of work, achievements and proposed developments at area and ward level, together with information on how the Area Committee can be meaningfully engaged in influencing the planning and delivery

A booklet was circulated on the work of BARCA over 1994-2004 in helping children and young people develop their views, for Members’ information.

Draft Minutes for approval at the meeting to be held on 8th December 2005

Members discussed the current reach figures for Bramley and Stanningley and Armley wards, representing meaningful work achieved with young people registered with the Youth Service, together with concerns over the present vacancy levels

It was noted that meetings with ward members to discuss youth service issues would be arranged towards the end of November 2005. It was confirmed that the discussions with elected Members over youth service issues at ward level would be on a consultative basis only and any recommendations arising would be subject to the approval of the Area Committee

RESOLVED - To note the contents of the report

49 Greenspace Improvements and Groundwork Leeds

The Area Committee considered the report of the West Leeds Area Manager seeking support for Groundwork Leeds project proposals for 2005/06 and in principle support for a partnership arrangement to bring about improvements to green space/hotspot areas in the inner west area in 2007/08

A proposal by Groundwork Leeds to the Area Committee for revenue and capital support was also considered and representatives from Groundwork Leeds presented the application to the well-being fund (minute 50 refers)

Members discussed the location of projects throughout the West area and arrangements for future maintenance, involving discussions with the City Council’s grounds maintenance contractor

Hazel Boutle declared a personal interest as a member of the Binyards Association

RESOLVED –

a) To approve Groundwork Leeds 2005/06 revenue / capital project requests (£2,500 revenue, £2,000 for Motiv8 and £15,000 for the Butts Mount scheme.

b) To give approval in principle to support Groundwork Leeds revenue costs in 2006/07 and 2007/08 in order to develop further schemes within the context of future Area Delivery Plans

50 “I Love West Leeds” Arts Festival

Members considered the report of the West Leeds Area Manager seeking support for the “I Love West Leeds” arts festival in July 2006 and the proposed appointment of a development worker together with part-funding for the project

Leaflets from last year’s festival were circulated and Members watched a DVD produced by local young people in association with the festival.

Draft Minutes for approval at the meeting to be held on 8th December 2005

RESOLVED –

a) To agree support for the “I Love West Leeds” festival

b) To agree funding of £15,000 to cover the cost of a project worker and festival manager for the event (£7,500 from 2005/6 and in principle £7,500 from 2006/7

51 West Inner Area Committee Well-Being Fund

The Area Committee considered the report of the Director of Neighbourhoods and Housing giving an up-to-date statement on the approvals to the revenue and capital well-being fund since the last Area Committee on 13th September 2005, the monies remaining to the Area Committee and seeking approval to new projects commissioned by the Area Management Team

RESOLVED –

a) To note the projects approved and the remaining funding available.

b) To approve the following new projects:

Bramley Neighbourhood Wardens. Proposal for a warden to be employed for the last 4 months of the year 2005/2006 at a cost of £8,333 £8,333 approved for 2005-2006 and £12,500 approved in principle for years 2006-2007 and 2007- 2008 from the Well-Being Revenue Budget.

Under 13 Football Training – Fairfield Estate. £1,582 approved for the remainder of 2005-2006 and £3,575 approved in principle for 2006-2007 from the Well-Being Revenue Budget.

Youth Development Worker. Funding to employ a Youth Development worker to work with 9-13year olds in Inner West Leeds. Application deferred to a future meeting pending further details of this post, including objectives and outcomes

Feasibility Study for Bramley Community Campus Study into the provision of a community building /campus to serve voluntary sector and community groups in the Bramley Area. Application deferred to a future meeting pending further consultation with Bramley and Stanningley ward members (Councillor Jim McKenna and Councillor Janet Harper declared personal interests as members of the Primary Care Trust. Councillor Ted Hanley declared a personal interest in view of his involvement with Bramley Elderly Action)

I Love West Leeds Cost of employing a development worker to assist with the delivery of the festival at a cost of £15,000 revenue over 2 years

Draft Minutes for approval at the meeting to be held on 8th December 2005

£7,500 approved to fund the project in 2005-2006 and £7,500 approved in principle for 2006-2007

Debt Counsellor – Surestart Bramley Application from Surestart Bramley to fund a debt counsellor until March 2006. £3,000 revenue funding approved

Groundwork Leeds Proposal – Greenspace Improvements To approve funding as follows:

2005/6 Revenue costs £ 2,500 Motiv8 project £ 2,000 Develop a community area in Butts Mount £15,000 (£15,000 secured from Leeds West Homes)

To approve funding in principle in 2006/7 and 07/8 as follows:

2006/7 Revenue costs £5,000 2007/8 Revenue costs £5,000

Fencing to New Wortley Cemetery, Hall Lane, Armley Application deferred to a future meeting pending further consideration of the financial contribution to the project by the Director of Learning and Leisure and the Lead Member and the Chief Recreation Officer be invited to attend

Pudsey Weetwood Community Cycle Scheme (Late Application) To approve a further contribution of £400 from the well-being fund to meet a shortfall in the funding for the above application

52 Community Safety Delegated Functions Update

Members considered the report of the Chief Officer, Leeds Community Safety providing an update on the community safety delegated functions, specifically CCTV, Neighbourhood Wardens and Police Community Support Officers

Feedback on the evaluation of the Operation Apollo community safety initiative was circulated for information. Members discussed the operation and visibility of Police Community Safety Officers and neighbourhood wardens in the area, together with the general level of vacancies.

RESOLVED –

a) To note the information provided in the report

b) That information on Neighbourhood Warden activity be presented to the Area Committee on a quarterly basis

53 Pitch Strategy Update

The Area Committee considered the report of the Chief Recreation Officer outlining the Sports Pitch Strategy approved by Executive Board in October Draft Minutes for approval at the meeting to be held on 8th December 2005

2003, together with progress made to date and plans for implementation in the future. A map showing the location of pitches in the inner west area was circulated for information. Members discussed the following issues relating to sports pitches in the area:

• The need for women’s football changing facilities at Armley park and the possible use of facilities at the bowling club • The use of section 106 funding to provide pitch improvements and possibly changing rooms at Moorfield recreation ground • The possible use of changing facilities at West Leeds rugby club • The need to link this project with the West Leeds Country Park and Green Gateways initiative • The need to improve fencing at Stanningley rugby club (Councillor Denise Atkinson declared a personal interest in this matter)

RESOLVED - To note the progress to date made with the pitch strategy together with the practical implications of its implementation, and support future playing pitch development in line with the strategy.

54 Date and Time of Next Meeting

Thursday 8h December 2005 at 5.00 p.m. (Venue to be determined)

Draft Minutes for approval at the meeting to be held on 8th December 2005

Neighbourhoods and Housing Department West Leeds Area Management

Armley Community Forum Date: Tuesday 18th October 2005

Present: Cllr Janet Harper (Chair), Cllr Alison Lowe, D M Peck, Tom Maynard, B & M Guthrie, E Bowes, E Hey, P Kempster, J Sharp, K Donnelly, H & D Boutle, K W Mulligan, Gilder Shaw, Gail Bickler, Sharon Guy, J Gill, Kathy Salter, Morgan Pugh. ACTION 1.00 WELCOME 1.01 Cllr Harper welcomed everyone to the meeting.

2.00 APOLOGIES 2.01 Edith & Bill Rayforth, Diane Maynard, Mrs Lemm, Cllr McKenna, Dawn Newsome, Kathleen Osborn.

3.00 MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING 3.01 The minutes of the last meeting were agreed as a true record.

4.00 MATTERS ARISING 4.01 5:03 Cllr Harper is awaiting a response from Highways. 4:02 6:03 Phil Joyce has provided copies of plans for the showcase bus on route 4. 4:03 9:03 Henconnor Lane will have traffic signals 9:04 Stanningley Road junction improvements. Work has started. Armley Grange Avenue will be blocked off as part of the scheme. Highways are considering implementing a 30 mph speed limit on the inbound road to Leeds. 4:04 9:06 Cllr Lowe is awaiting a response from Planning.

5.00 POLICE AND COMMUNITY SAFETY ISSUES 5.01 No representatives from the Police were present.

6.00 LIFT CENTRE (Not Community Dental Service as indicated on the agenda) 6.01 Anne Marie Coubrough attended to give a progress update on the new LIFT centre. It will open on 14th November. 6.02 The Community Dental Service will be relocating there in December from Bramley. This service is for children, people over 65 and people with special needs who cannot access an NHS dentist. 6.03 The Community Café should open in the New Year. 6.04 The name of the new centre is the Armley Moor Health Centre, chosen through a competition involving local schools. 6.05 The official opening will be in January 2006. 6.06 There are no problems with the building works. 6.08 Inner West will have two new NHS practices, one in Armley and one in Bramley. AMC Anne Marie will provide details of these. 6.07 There is a Carers Event taking place on Wednesday 16th November at Pudsey Civic Hall, 10am – 2pm. 6.08 Consultation is being undertaken by the PCT to enable people to have a say in the future of community health services.

L:\COMMITTEE-MEETINGS\AG_REPOR\20052006\Committees\Area Committees\ W Inner\December\Reports\Item 8.doc 1

7.00 WEST LEEDS COUNTRY PARK AND GREEN GATEWAYS 7.01 Doug Louis from Parks and Countryside attended to present this item. 7.02 The purpose of this is to protect the greenspace around West Leeds. It is a circular route with spurs off to sites of interest. The route will be marked with interpretative boards and leaflets. There will be 1 main leaflet and 6 others providing details about different sections. Doug outlined the short, medium and long term objectives for the Country Park which the forum were in agreement with. There is a consultative forum – the West Leeds Country Park and Green Gateways Group. The next meeting for this is December 19th. There will be guided walks and volunteers who would like to lead a walk would be welcomed. In response to a question Doug confirmed that there are links with the ‘Walking your way to Health Initiative’

8.00 Any other business 8:01 The new childrens home in Armley is now open. Cllr Harper and the local MP have assisted in an arrangement for the home to lease a minibus from Armley Helping Hands. 8:02 A skateboard park is proposed for Armley Park. Consultation has been carried out with Armley Lodge Residents. 8:03 New boundary signs are proposed which give prominence to the name of the locality with ‘Leeds’ in smaller letters and with the new crest. The general consensus of the meeting is that money should not be spent on new signs, but on road repairs. The meeting also expressed its dissatisfaction with the new Leeds Crest, they felt the tradition and heritage of the old style crest should have been retained. 8:04 Wyther Park Primary School is to be demolished. No planning applications have been received, but at some point in the future the site will be sold. 8:05 Concerns were raised about a series of incidents at Moorfield Road Recreation Cllr Ground, where a number of fires have been lit, and there has been a lot of Harper flytipping but no action seems to be taken against anyone. On some occasions, the Fire Brigade have been called out but they have left the fires burning. It was agreed that Cllr Harper should invite representatives from the Fire Authority and the Police to a future meeting to address these concerns. 8:06 Cllr Lowe agreed to prepare a response to a recent letter in the Yorkshire Evening Cllr Post which was alleging that Armley was in decline. Lowe 8:07 Bulb Bonanza - Groundwork Leeds are giving away spring bulbs to local groups for planting in community areas. 8:08 Cllr Lowe is on the Council’s Waste Management Strategy Group and will be able Cllr to bring an update on recycling to a future meeting. Lowe 8:09 Bulk rubbish collection. Still 13 collections per year, but you must phone up and book (tel 3984760). 8:10 Problems with litter around West Leeds Family Learning Centre, apparently Cllr caused by pupils from West Leeds High school. Cllr Lowe has been dealing with Lowe this and will chase up the litter bins that were promised in July. 9.00 DATE OF NEXT MEETING Tuesday 15th Nov, 7.00pm, Armley One Stop Centre.

L:\COMMITTEE-MEETINGS\AG_REPOR\20052006\Committees\Area Committees\W Inner\December\Reports\Item 8.doc 2 AGENDA ITEM:

Originator: Shirley Parks Telephone: 224 3868

REPORT OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF EDUCATION LEEDS MEETING: INNER WEST AREA COMMITTEE DATE: 8th December 2005

SUBJECT: Building Schools for the Future: Secondary Provision in Inner West Leeds

Electoral Wards Affected:

Armley Farnley & Wortley Bramley & Stanningley Specific Implications For: Ethnic Minorities Women Disabled People

Policy Implications:

Executive Council 3 Eligible Not eligible for Call In Function Function for Call In (details contained in the report)

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

At its meeting on 21st October 2005, Executive Board granted permission for public consultation to be undertaken on a proposal to amalgamate West Leeds and Wortley High Schools on West Leeds site, and expand Farnley Park in August 2007. Education Leeds is currently undertaking public consultation on this proposal for a period of six weeks from 7th November until 16th December 2005 and seeks the Inner West Area Committee’s views.

1.0 Background

1.1 In February 2004 Leeds was identified as a Wave One Authority in the national Building Schools for the Future Programme (BSF). A total of £188m of investment has been secured to deliver the Wave 1 Programme which includes the rebuilding of 5 existing schools and the refurbishment of a further 9 schools.

1.2 Investment was secured for schools serving inner West Leeds on the basis that a review of provision would be undertaken with a view to rationalising that provision in the context of falling demographic demand. Inner West Leeds is currently served by three high schools: West Leeds, Wortley and Farnley Park.

1.3 The Executive Board of the City Council approved the content of the BSF Strategic Business Case (SBC) in March 2005 and it was formally approved by the Department for Education and Skills (DfES) on 28th April 2005. The SBC acknowledged that projections of pupil numbers show insufficient demand to support the retention of both West Leeds and Wortley High Schools. The SBC proposed one new school for inner West Leeds and an increase in the size of Farnley Park High School in order to meet the need for school places for the area as a whole. It was indicated that an amalgamation of West Leeds and Wortley to create one new 8 forms of entry school on the West Leeds site was an option and that further consultation was required.

1.4 The projects for inner West Leeds are scheduled in the second phase of the Leeds Wave 1 BSF programme with delivery of a new school building in 2009. The DfES has indicated that the provision of a new building will be through the Private Finance Initiative, which would require the submission of an Outline Business Case (OBC) for government approval. In order to deliver the new building for September 2009, approval of this OBC would be required by October 2006. The DfES expects statutory processes for structural change to be completed and agreed prior to submission of the Outline Business Case. It is therefore imperative that consultation on proposals for structural change takes place now to allow for the statutory timetable to be completed within the desired timescales.

1.5 The Building Schools for the Future programme has been one of the main factors for considering the appropriate pattern of secondary provision across the city in the context of demographic demand. The number of children entering secondary schools peaked in 2002 at 8,722. In January 2005 there were 8,217 pupils in Year 7 and this number is projected to continue to fall year on year to around 7,500 by 2011.

1.7 There is considerable overlap in the geographic areas served by Wortley, West Leeds and Farnley Park. Intakes into the three secondary schools serving inner West Leeds have remained steady in recent years, but they are projected to fall over the next few years as the fall in pupil numbers witnessed in primary schools filters through to secondary schools. In January 2005 there were 528 pupils in Year 7 across the three inner West Leeds schools. Forecasts of future numbers suggest that demand will decrease and stabilise at around 460, compared to the 540 places currently available. This supports a need to rationalise current provision in the context of the Building Schools for the Future programme.

1.8 Pupil projections suggest that schools in the inner West will increasingly feel the impact of falling pupil numbers. West Leeds and Wortley High Schools are located in very close proximity – the two school sites are only 410 metres apart (measured as the crow flies). As a consequence they tend to compete to serve a similar geographic area. As pupil numbers decline, it is likely that the fall will not be distributed equally but that one school will become increasingly vulnerable. West Leeds High School currently receives a higher number of parental preferences than Wortley .

2.0 The Proposal 2.1 The Executive Board gave permission at their meeting on 21st October for formal consultation to be undertaken on a proposal to amalgamate West Leeds and Wortley High Schools on West Leeds site and expand Farnley Park in August 2007. A consultation document containing further detailed information is attached to this report and is available on the Education Leeds website.

2.2 Other options that were considered include closing Wortley High School, and also federating West Leeds and Wortley High Schools. In both these other options, Farnley Park High School would be enlarged.

2.3 Education Leeds believes that an amalgamation of West Leeds and Wortley High Schools in 2007 would present the most equitable way forward to achieve a reduction in secondary capacity in the inner West area. This would be achieved by closing West Leeds and Wortley High Schools and establishing a new school with an admission number of 240 in a new building on the West Leeds site. The proposed date of implementation is September 2007, with the school using existing sites until the new building is ready in 2009.

3.0 STATUTORY IMPLICATIONS 3.1 The review of primary provision fulfils the LEA’s statutory requirement to keep under review the supply and demand of school places.

3.2 Following consultation this proposal may lead to a statutory process being followed.

4.0 LINKS TO KEY PRIORITIES 4.1 The proposal links to key priorities identified in the Education Development Plan, the Asset Management Plan and the Corporate Plan by contributing to the targets within the raising achievement agenda and improving the school estate.

5.0 RECOMMENDATION 5.1 The Area Committee is asked to make their views known on the statutory proposals in the inner West Leeds Area.

Consultation – Future Secondary School Provision – Inner West Area

Public Consultation

Future Secondary School Provision Proposals for Inner West Leeds

7th November – 16th December 2005

Excellence in Learning

If you require a copy of this document in large print or in another language please contact the School Organisation Team on: 0113 2243311.

Inner West Area Consultation – Future Secondary School Provision – Inner West Area

Public Consultation on Future Secondary School Provision in Inner West Leeds

1.0 Background

1.4 The projects for inner West Leeds are scheduled in the second phase of the Leeds Wave 1 BSF programme with delivery of a new school building in 2009. The DfES has indicated that the provision of a new building will be through the Private Finance Initiativ, which would require the submission of an Outline Business Case (OBC) for government approval. In order to deliver the new building for September 2009, approval of this OBC would be required by October 2006 (Table 5). The DfES expects statutory processes for structural change to be completed and agreed prior to submission of the Outline Business Case. It is therefore imperative that consultation on proposals for structural change takes place now to allow for the statutory timetable to be completed within the desired timescales.

2.0 Demographic Context

2.1 The Building Schools for the Future programme has been one of the main factors for considering the appropriate pattern of secondary provision across the city in the context of demographic demand. The number of children entering secondary schools peaked in 2002 at 8,722. In January 2005 there were 8,217 pupils in Year 7 and this number is projected to continue to fall year on year to around 7,500 by 2011.

2.2 There is considerable overlap in the geographic areas served by Wortley, West Leeds and Farnley Park. Intakes into the three secondary schools serving inner West Leeds have remained steady in recent years, but they are projected to fall over the next few years as the fall in pupil numbers witnessed in primary schools filters through to secondary schools. In January 2005 there were 528 pupils in Year 7 across the three inner West Leeds schools. Forecasts of future numbers suggest that demand will decrease and stabilise at around 460, compared to the 540 places currently available. This supports a need to rationalise current provision in the context of the Building Schools for the Future programme. Table 2 in the Inner West Area Consultation – Future Secondary School Provision – Inner West Area

Appendix provides projections of Year 7 intakes and the total number of pupils across the three schools.

2.3 There is considerable pupil movement across the West of Leeds with many pupils travelling some distance to schools. Any changes to provision, therefore, have to be considered in the context of secondary provision across the whole of the West (including Intake, Pudsey Grangefield, Crawshaw and Priesthorpe High Schools). Within this context, 450 places are considered to be sufficient for the inner West area.

2.4 There are no significant housing developments for the area that have planning permission at this stage. In terms of regeneration activities, the scope of any additional housing is not yet known, although the District Partnership would like to secure more affordable housing in the area. It is likely that investment will also take the form of improving the existing housing stock.

2.5 Pupil projections suggest that schools in the inner West will increasingly feel the impact of falling pupil numbers. West Leeds and Wortley High Schools are located in very close proximity – the two school sites are only 410 metres apart (measured as the crow flies). As a consequence they tend to compete to serve a similar geographic area. As pupil numbers decline, it is likely that the fall will not be distributed equally but that one school will become increasingly vulnerable. West Leeds High School currently receives a higher number of parental preferences than Wortley (Table 3).

3.0 What options have been considered?

3.1 The initial BSF submission and the BSF Strategic Business Case proposed that the current number of high schools in the inner West area be reduced from three to two, subject to full consultation. There are various routes through which this could be achieved and a range of factors have been considered in drawing up options for structural change. These include: • The geographical location of schools in relation to where pupils live and other environmental factors, such as travelling distances • The appropriateness of school sites - their size, location, layout and design, proximity and fitness for purpose • Value for money from the education budget • Community issues and needs, including the needs of vulnerable children and children with special educational needs • Opportunities to not only maintain but improve school standards

3.2 The options that have been the focus of consideration seek to consolidate provision onto the West Leeds High and Farnley Park sites. This pattern of provision would achieve the best geographic distribution of schools, using the best of the sites available. At 98,192 m² the West Leeds site is larger than the Wortley site (66,508 m²) and is sufficient to support a school with an annual intake of 240 pupils. The Wortley site on the other hand does not meet the recommended DfES site size for a school of this size. In addition, the site is not as level as the West Leeds site and therefore is not so favourable to redevelopment. The three options are:

• Amalgamate West Leeds and Wortley High Schools on West Leeds site, and enlarge Farnley Park • Close Wortley High School and enlarge West Leeds and Farnley Park • Federate West Leeds and Wortley High Schools, with a view to consolidation on the West Leeds site, and enlarge Farnley Park

Inner West Area Consultation – Future Secondary School Provision – Inner West Area

4.0 The Proposal

4.1 Education Leeds believes that an amalgamation of West Leeds and Wortley High Schools in 2007 would present the most equitable way forward to achieve a reduction in secondary capacity in the inner West area. This would be achieved by closing West Leeds and Wortley High Schools and establishing a new school with an admission number of 240 in a new building on the West Leeds site. The proposed date of implementation is September 2007, with the school using existing sites until the new building is ready in 2009.

4.2 All pupils on the roll of West Leeds and Wortley High Schools at the point of closure would transfer to the new school. Initially there would be more than 240 pupils in the higher age groups, and some transitional arrangements would be required. The school would downsize gradually as lower intakes enter into Year 7. The Resourced Provision at Wortley for Speech and Language would transfer to the new school.

At the same time, it is proposed that the admission number of Farnley Park is increased from 150 to 210, supported by additional building capacity delivered through the school’s BSF scheme. This would include a mix of new build and refurbishment/remodelling and a high care partnership base would also be provided.

5.0 Aims of the Proposal

5.1 The preferred option to amalgamate West Leeds and Wortley in September 2007 and expand Farnley Park High School would rationalise provision in the area in response to changing demographic demand, while retaining sufficient capacity for projected intakes of 450 Year 7 pupils per year. The proposed timescale would allow for careful planning and management of the change process, leading to the delivery of new accommodation in September 2009.

5.2 The Building Schools for the Future investment programme will provide the local community with two excellent resources offering extended school facilities on the Farnley Park and West Leeds sites. This will strengthen the contribution of local high schools to regeneration in the inner West area through capacity building, community cohesion, lifelong learning and inclusive education. There would also be the opportunity to consider development of the West Leeds site as a Learning Campus, offering integrated services. The schools will provide an inspiring physical environment in which children learn, including new technologies and the capacity to accommodate new curriculum initiatives. The design of the schools will encourage inclusive opportunities to ensure that the needs of all pupils can be met, including those with special educational needs. City Learning Centre (CLC) facilities at West Leeds High School would be maintained and consideration will be given to retaining CLC facilities that are currently linked to the Wortley site.

5.3 The establishment of a new school offers excellent potential for transformation to take place in terms of ethos and standards, building on the strengths and expertise of the two existing schools in equal partnership. With the exception of the headteacher and deputy headteacher posts which could be subject to recruitment through national advert, all other posts in the new school would be ringfenced to staff in the closing schools. This would secure continuity for pupils and equity across the two staff bodies.

5.4 Although integrating the two schools would require careful planning, all pupils and staff would be able to contribute to the development of the new school. There is some concern that the two schools serve different groups locally, with Tong Road a barrier between them. An amalgamation of the two schools offers the opportunity to enhance community cohesion and bring communities together. Inner West Area Consultation – Future Secondary School Provision – Inner West Area

5.5 For the amalgamation to successfully proceed there would need to be very careful management of the transition period to support parents, staff and pupils. Education Leeds would support the schools involved to ensure that the amalgamation did not negatively impact on teaching and learning. Education Leeds would also work with the new school in engaging with other local agencies and Council departments to plan the implementation of a school that can offer access to a range of services tailored to the local community’s needs.

5.6 The proposed date of implementation of the amalgamation is September 2007, with the new building delivered in September 2009. Amalgamating the two schools in advance of delivery of the new building, using existing sites, would offer several advantages: • Year 7 intakes would be reduced so that number on roll better matches capacity of the new building when delivered • the leadership and management team of the new school would be appointed and could proceed to manage the transition to the new school and begin the transformational agenda in advance of occupying new buildings • the leadership and management team would be involved in shaping the building design to meet the school's vision • the staffing structure could be planned and implemented to reflect falling numbers on roll and this would provide staff with security, mitigating against staff leakage.

6.0 Alternative options

6.1 Closure of Wortley High School and enlargement of West Leeds and Farnley Park High Schools to accommodate pupils

The closure of Wortley High School and the enlargement of West Leeds and Farnley Park High Schools to an admission intake of 240 and 210 respectively would have a similar outcome as an amalgamation of West Leeds and Wortley in terms of balancing the supply and demand for school places. For logistical reasons, this option would most likely be timed to fit in with delivery of the new building.

This option would provide less continuity for the Wortley pupils, who would transfer to either Farnley Park or West Leeds. They would be more likely to feel the negative effects of change, although the schools that received pupils from Wortley would have support in managing the challenging transition issues.

The transformational impact of BSF would work best if built on the strengths and expertise of both schools coming together. In the case of the closure of Wortley, there would not be the same opportunity for staff and governors to transfer their experitise and input into the BSF project as with an amalgamation. West Leeds on the other hand would see its strengths, values and ethos retained. The school would, however, face the challenge of integrating pupils from Wortley, who may feel that they do not share equal ownership of the new facilities.

6.2 Federation of West Leeds and Wortley High Schools with a view to consolidation on the West Leeds site

A federation is a formal partnership between two or more schools, under the governance of one governing body. To achieve this would require consultation with key stakeholders and could include changes to the Leadership and Management teams of the existing schools. The two schools would remain as distinct institutions, but would be enabled to pool resources, such as teaching staff. A federation between West Leeds and Wortley High Schools would effectively forge links between staff bodies and pupils and could also provide Inner West Area Consultation – Future Secondary School Provision – Inner West Area

some flexibility in the use of the school sites.

A federation could address some of the concerns associated with falling rolls, although careful consideration would need to be given to the size of both schools. There would not be sufficient funding, however, through the BSF programme for both schools to be replaced. At best, a request to the DfES could be made for diverting allocated funding for a new school in the area towards the refurbishment of both West Leeds and Wortley. This would not maximise the transformational impact that the BSF funding could have on education and learning in the West Leeds area.

However, a federation could be of value as a transitional measure, to act as the vehicle for delivery of the single institution which would occupy the new school building. To achieve consolidation as one school would still require a statutory process and for both schools to be formally closed, and a new school established. With the full support of both existing governing bodies a federation could be established which, under a single governing body, oversees the managed closure of both current schools whilst planning for the new school in its new state of the art buildings. To be effective this would require implementation of the formal closures to coincide with the opening of the new building in 2009. This route would also require enlargement of the intake into Farnley Park High School from 150 to 210 to co- ordinate with downsizing intakes into the two schools.

7.0 What happens if the proposals proceed

7.1 Where would children be offered places? All of the children on the roll of Wortley High School and West Leeds High School when they close in August 2007 would transfer, if they wished to do so, onto the roll of the new High School in September 2007. Children attending Farnley Park would remain on roll at that school.

7.2 Parents and carers at the closing schools will be able to consider a place at any other school. They may express a preference for any other school and parental preference will be met as far as possible by application of the published admission criteria for Leeds, as long as there are places available.

7.3 How would the transition arrangements be managed? The transition to the new pattern of provision would be carefully managed and supported to make sure that the quality educational provision continues to improve, building upon existing provision and achievements. The process would be led and managed by the existing headteachers, senior staff and governing bodies, with the support of Education Leeds. A Project Co-ordinator would work closely with the schools to ensure that the transition process is linked with the school improvement strategy and co-ordinated with the services provided by Education Leeds and others.

7.4 A temporary governing body would be established or the new school, drawing from existing governors of West Leeds and Wortley. The temporary governing body would be responsible, with advice from Education Leeds, for appointing the leadership and management team of the new school. Once this has been achieved, the temporary governing body and the head would establish a staffing structure for the new school.

7.5 What about the staff? Throughout the transition process a planned process would encourage and support all staff to continue the development of their career within the existing schools and to support the process of change.

7.6 It is intended that posts in the new school would be ringfenced to staff in the closing schools Inner West Area Consultation – Future Secondary School Provision – Inner West Area

in the first instance. The Education Leeds Personnel Team would work with any members of staff unable to obtain employment in the new school to seek redeployment elsewhere, which could include any new posts at Farnley Park High School in relation to the school’s expansion.

7.7 When is the proposed date for the amalgamation? The proposed date for the amalgamation is September 2007, with Wortley and West Leeds High Schools closing at the end of August and the new school opening on 1st September. This recognises the need for time to complete the statutory processes required. The new school would continue to operate out of both current buildings until a new building is completed for September 2009.

8.0 What happens next?

8.1 We are consulting parents, governors, staff and the community during November and December 2005. At the end of this period the Executive Board of the City Council will receive a report summarising the views expressed during the consultation (January 2006). The Board will be asked to consider whether, in the light of these views it still wishes to proceed with these or amended proposals. If the Board does wish to proceed then statutory notices will be published for a period of 6 weeks. Anyone who disagrees with the proposal can formally object during this representation period. After this, a further report will be submitted to the Executive Board summarising the representations received (April/May 2006) and the relevant documentation will be submitted to the School Organisation Committee, an independent body, who must decide whether or not to finally approve the proposal.

If no objections are received then the proposal does not proceed to School Organisation Committee and a final decision will be made by Executive Board.

8.2 What would these proposals take effect?

Set out below is the timetable of key dates currently envisaged, although this may be subject to change:

21st October 2005 Leeds City Council Executive Board granted permission for Public Consultation on the preferred option 7th November-16th Public consultation period December 2005 18th January 2006 Executive Board receive report summarising consultation and seeking permission to publish statutory notices Late January-March 2006 Publish statutory notices giving 6 weeks for representations to be made 12th April 2006 Report to Executive Board of Leeds City Council, seeking agreement to take to School Organisation Committee for decision or asking EB for decision if no objections End March 2006 Submit documentation to Leeds School Organisation Committee End May 2006 Deadline for SOC decision September 2007 Implementation

8.3 What are your views?

Whether you agree or disagree with the proposals or aspects of them, whether you have

Inner West Area Consultation – Future Secondary School Provision – Inner West Area

concerns that you feel have not been addressed or factors that you think we have not taken into account, please let us know. We would like to hear your views.

You are invited to public meetings on Tuesday 29th November 2005 at Wortley High School, on Thursday 1st December at West Leeds High School and on Wednesday 23rd November at Farnley Park High School, here your views will be noted. You may also wish to put your views in writing – either by letter or by completing the attached proforma – to arrive no later than 16th December 2005.

Send all correspondence to: The Chief Executive Education Leeds FAO School Organisation Team Selectapost 17 Merrion House 110 Merrion Centre LEEDS LS2 8DT

You can also reply by email to: [email protected] or via the website at: www.educationleeds.co.uk.

Timetable of Consultation Meetings Date 10 November 2005 Meeting with Farnley/Wortley Forum 14 November 2005 Meeting with staff of Farnley Park High School 14 November 2005 Meeting with Governing Body of Farnley Park High School 15 November 2005 Meeting with Armley Forum 21 November 2005 Meeting with staff of West Leeds High School 21 November 2005 Meeting with Governing Body of West Leeds High School 22 November 2005 Meeting with Governing Body of Wortley High School 23 November 2005 Public meeting at Farnley Park High School 29 November 2005 Meeting with staff at Wortley High School 29 November 2005 Public meeting at Wortley High School 1 December 2005 Public meeting at West Leeds High School 8 December 2005 Meeting with Inner West Area Committee

Inner West Area Consultation – Future Secondary School Provision – Inner West Area

FUTURE OF SECONDARY PROVISION IN INNER WEST LEEDS

PUBLIC CONSULTATION RESPONSE FORM

Please read the consultation document on the proposal to establish a new secondary school on the West Leeds High School site to replace Wortley and West Leeds High Schools and tell us what your views are. The questions on this form are provided to help you do so, but you do not have to respond to all of them. If you prefer not to use this form, you can also put your views in a letter. You may also respond by e-mail to [email protected], or via the internet at www.educationleeds.co.uk.

All responses will be reported to a meeting of the Executive Board of Leeds City Council in January 2006. The last date for responses to be received is Friday 16th December 2005.

QUESTIONS RELATING TO THE PROPOSALS 1. What are your views on the proposed closure Wortley High and West Leeds High Schools?

2. What are your views on the proposed new High school? e.g. Do you have any views on the size? Do you have any views concerning the site or any alternatives?

3. What are your views on the proposed enlargement of Farnley Park High School?

Please Turn Over Inner West Area Consultation – Future Secondary School Provision – Inner West Area

4. What facilities and features do you think there should be in the new school and how should the community be able to make use of these?

5. Do you have any other comments or views?

Your personal details (so that your response can be formally acknowledged): Name:

Address:

e-mail address:

Which school are you associated with? …………………………………………………….

Parent/Carer of present pupil(s) Member of staff Parent/Carer of pre-school child Local Resident Other adult relative Elected Member Pupil Community Representative Governor Other

Please send to: The Chief Executive Education Leeds FAO School Organisation Team 9th Floor West Merrion House 110 Merrion Centre Leeds LS2 8DT

Inner West Area Consultation – Future Secondary School Provision – Inner West Area

Appendix

Table 1: Current position (2004/2005) Admission 11-16 Post 16 11-18 Net Surplus % Limit 2004/5 Number on Number on Number Capacity Places Surplus Roll Jan Roll Jan on Roll 2005 2005 Jan 2005 Farnley Park High 150 716 27 743 717 -26 -3.6 School West Leeds High 210 1045 102 1147 1176 29 2.5 School 6.3 Wortley High School 180 824 76 900 961 61

Table 2: Projections for West Leeds, Wortley and Farnley Park High Schools YR7 AD LT 11-16 16+ 11-18 NET SURPLUS % TOTAL TOTAL TOTAL CAPACITY SURPLUS 2005\6 496 540 2588 201 2789 2854 65 2.3% 2006\7 498 540 2581 200 2781 2854 73 2.6% 2007\8 485 540 2533 208 2741 2854 113 4.0% 2008\9 498 540 2504 207 2711 2854 143 5.0% 2009\10 474 540 2450 204 2654 2854 200 7.0% 2010\11 455 540 2386 217 2603 2854 251 8.8% 2011\12 462 540 2376 193 2569 2854 285 10.0%

Table 3: Demand for places in Year 7 Sibs & 1st PLASC Sibs & 1st PLASC Sibs & 1st Allocation AD Prefs for 2004 Year Prefs for 2005 Year Prefs for Sep 2005 LT Sep 2003 7 Sep 2004 7 Sep 2005

Farnley Park 156 154 173 155 159 148 150 High School

Wortley High 148 166 133 169 123 146 180 School West Leeds 166 206 173 204 187 206 210 High School

Table 4: GCSE Achievement (5 A*-C GCSE grades)

2004 2005

Farnley Park High School 29.1% 36.4% Wortley High School 24.9% 37.7% West Leeds High School 32.7% 34.1% City Average 45.4% 48.1% National Average 53.7% 55.7%

Table 5: Envisaged Procurement Timetable October 2005-July 2006 Work up scheme scope and details i.e. accommodation schedule / school vision / specific requirements July 2006 Pass scheme details to Preferred Bidder (PB) July -October 2006 Work up Business Case with LEP PB then Submit Business Case to Treasury in order to get approval for PFI credits before the end of 2006. February 2008 Start construction on site July 2009 School Complete

Inner West Area Pupils attending Farnley Park HS, West Leeds HS and Wortley HS

West Leeds HS )"

Wortley HS )"

Farnley Park High Sc )"

Legend Farnley Park HS Wortley HS West Leeds HS

Map Document: (G:\GIS\New Projects\School Organisation\Secondary\west leeds wortley Oct05.mxd) 05/10/2005 -- 09:33:31 Created by Roy Sayers, School Organisation Team This map is based upon Ordnance Survey material with the permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery office © Crown copyright. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. Leeds City Council 100019567 2005

AGENDA ITEM NO.:

Originator: Carole Clark

Tel: 3951968

REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF NEIGHBOURHOODS AND HOUSING MEETING: INNER WEST AREA COMMITTEE DATE : 8 DECEMBER 2005 SUBJECT : Leeds City Credit Union Ltd (West Leeds Branch)

Electoral Wards Affected : Specific Implications For :

ALL Ethnic Minorities Women Disabled People

Executive 3 Council Eligible 3 Not eligible for Call In Function Function for Call In (details contained in the report)

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This report introduces a report from Leeds City Credit Union Ltd outlining details of the establishment of a West Leeds Branch and seeks Area Committee support for the funding of rental costs in the first two years.

Introduction

1.1 A steering group has been working on establishing a West Leeds Credit Union Branch since January 2003. Leeds City Council have now offered space at Armley One Stop Shop for the West branch of the Credit Union to be established. This report sets out the background, rationale, development and implementation of this new branch.

1.2 The Credit Union fits well with the Are Delivery Plan approach to regenerating the Inner West Leeds Area. The Credit Union will provide a source of finance not readily available to local people who may be excluded from the main financial providers.

1.3 Leeds Credit Union are seeking assistance with the revenue cost to cover the rental of the Armley branch, of £3375 per annum for two years. They have agreed that in return they will waive the joining fee for new members joining through the new branch during this period.

Recommendation

The Area Committee is asked to approve the funding of £844 for 2005/6 to cover the revenue costs of the Armley Credit Union (3 months rental), and then in principle agree the funding of £3375 in 2006/7, and £2531 in 2007/8. Leeds City Credit Union Ltd. Branches in One-Stop Shops (“BOSS”) Project West Leeds Branch

1.0 Introduction A West Leeds Steering Group was established in January 2003 following discussions with John Battle, the Member of Parliament for Leeds West. John’s concern was the expansion of “cash converter” type organizations on Armley Town Street, adding to the potential for local residents to both get into debt and pay extortionate rates of interest.

The Steering Group’s objective is to increase the provision and awareness of credit unions in West Leeds in tackling poverty and health.

The partners in the Steering Group are: • Leeds City Credit Union • West Leeds Healthy Living Network • West Leeds Primary Care Trust • Bramley Surestart • Bramley Credit Union • John Battle M.P. & staff from his office • West Leeds Homes • Leeds Citizens Advice Bureau • Armley Prison Visitor Centre • West Leeds Area Management Committee • St Margaret’s Church

The Steering Group have met regularly and have established an action plan for the area. The following activities have taken place: • LCCU staff have run training sessions on credit union services to PCT staff including Health Visitors. (There has been particular emphasis on promoting LCCU’s Child Trust Fund accounts to new mothers in the area. Many of these parents are financially excluded and may not have access, or sufficient financial knowledge, to mainstream providers. LCCU is the first credit union in Britain to be approved as a CTF provider by HM Revenue and Customs.) • Local volunteers have been recruited and trained by LCCU staff • Advertising in local papers • Information Points are being established in: • Bramley Surestart Shop • New Wortley Community Centre • Ryecroft Primary School (establishment of school savings club) • Cobden Primary School (establishment of school savings club)

Confidential Page 1 12/2/2005 • Lower Wortley Primary School (establishment of school savings club) • Jigsaw Project • LIFT Development • West Leeds Family Learning Centre • Publicity materials provided to Health Centres

The Steering Group are delighted with the offer from Leeds City Council for Leeds City Credit Union to be able to utilise the Armley One-Stop Shop and hope that sufficient resources can be put into LCCU to enable this exciting development to start as soon as possible.

2.0 About Leeds City Credit Union (LCCU) LCCU is a financial co-operative whose members share a common bond (field of Membership) of living or working in the Leeds Metropolitan District. A key characteristic of all credit unions is the emphasis on saving and LCCU is one of only 10 credit unions nationally who have “Version 2” status granted by the Financial Services Authority (FSA) permitting it to offer a range of savings accounts, including from July 2005 Child Trust Fund Accounts.

All credit union members save in the form of shares in the credit union. These savings then provide a fund from which loans are made to members "for provident or productive purposes". The interest charged on loans, (which by law may not exceed a rate of 1% per month) pays for the running costs, and members receive a dividend on their share holding after a contribution has been made to reserves. The dividend may not, by law, exceed a rate of 8% per annum and LCCU pays up to 4.25% dividend currently.

Leeds City Credit Union: • Is owned by its membership and represents a “bottom-up” approach to development • Is part of a well established movement with national and international links and long experience • Offers the individual member control over their finances and encourages self-sufficiency • Always put the interests of members first, rather than the interests of external bodies or third parties • Is stringently regulated in the same way as banks and building societies; (other community finance initiatives are registered as Industrial and Provident Societies, the same structure used for organisations such as food co-ops, working men's clubs and allotment societies, which have fewer controls) • Creates less potential for abuse and non-repayment than in community banks where there is no sense of ownership on the part of those who are making and receiving loans

Confidential Page 2 12/2/2005 • Makes lower charges on loans, low APR (12.7%) and no hidden charges • Keeps local money within the local community

3.0 Development of Leeds City Credit Union Ltd Leeds City Credit Union is the leading example of credit union development and what can be achieved if all the elements for success are in place. LCCU was established in 1987 by the local authority with a common bond covering council employees and retired members. Since that date LCCU has developed through a number of stages, each time extending its common bond, recruiting more members and improving its range of financial services. This development strategy included:

• Extending its common bond to include employees family and junior savers • Extending its common bond again throughout the 1990’s to include The University of Leeds, the Medical Protection Society, Leeds Metropolitan University, Leeds Federated Housing, further education colleges, Leeds Co-operative Society and Leeds Hospital Trust • In the year 2000, the local authority decided to re-direct its funding for credit unions to the development of Leeds City Credit Union • Extended its common bond again in 2001 to include the 750,000 people who live or work in the city • In 2001 the launch of citywide, live or work, credit union and the transfer of engagements of 6 small community based credit unions, to the Leeds City Credit Union.

Leeds City Credit Union is now the largest “Live or Work” based community credit union in England and Wales with over 15,000 members and with assets of £13 million. It pays between 2 – 4.25% dividend on a range of savings accounts and offers additional services including:

• Affordable credit, including secured and unsecured loans, Flexicredit and special loan schemes • Life Savings & Loan Protection insurance at no direct cost to the consumer • Low cost Payment Protection Insurance • Bill paying scheme, including debt management programme • Motor, travel and home insurance

The credit union has created 27 jobs and has set itself an ambitious target of growing the business, employing 150 members of staff and establishing 30 branches across the city over the next 10 years.

This remarkable growth and success has been achieved through the drive and vision of its leadership, its directors and volunteer workers and because of the investment, the support and the goodwill provided by Leeds City Council, over the past 18 years.

Confidential Page 3 12/2/2005

4.0 Potential demand and need for credit union services

Other indicators of need include requests for advice and assistance and anecdotal information about debt.

As regards more general needs it was felt that people would particularly respond to a credit union message that combined thrift with borrowing. The need for money advice and an educational role was also raised together with the need for working with young people in schools. LCCU has 15 School Savings Clubs established within primary schools in the city.

Elderly people were also identified as a group that would respond to credit union services in West Leeds, especially one that offered cash transactions. LCCU encourages elderly people not to keep money in the house and promotes itself as a safe and credible alternative to mainstream banks and building societies. LCCU has a partnership with the Distraction Burglary Project in offering local financial services to elderly people.

A preference for cash transactions was also reported in relation to employers with a significant number of local employers paying their employees in cash.

It should be noted in response to this latter point that credit unions have a commitment to maintaining the confidentiality of members both in their ethos and as organisations regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

5.0 An overview of Financial Exclusion Financial exclusion is the means by which individuals are unable and/or unwilling to access mainstream (i.e. high street banks and building societies) financial providers. Consequently the financially excluded rely on range of informal solutions and sub-prime providers. This has three negative effects: 1. Inability to access many services that now operate entirely beyond a cash based economy. 2. The mainstream finance sector (including credit unions) is highly regulated with extensive consumer safeguards, but unfortunately similar protection is not always available when using sub-prime providers 3. Most perniciously the cost of credit varies enormously with APR rates from around 14% for a bank loan, to upwards of 177% for a small cash loan from a doorstep lender.

6.0 Annual Cost to local economy Although financial exclusion occurs to individuals and is therefore classified as a personal finance issue its impact is felt across the wider economy. Recent research commissioned by Leeds City Council estimates that the use of doorstep lenders as opposed to more affordable

Confidential Page 4 12/2/2005 credit is costing the Leeds economy between £3-9.5 million per annum. This money, which is only interest repayments, disproportionately affects the financially poorest households and communities. It reduces families’ disposable income, which in turn reduces their children’s life chances, and thus cuts the amount spent at local shops and businesses. In addition to undermining existing micro-entrepreneurs the lost money reduces the capacity of potential entrepreneurs to start businesses. This latent entrepreneurship is highlighted in the research, with 20% of those surveyed in deprived communities interested in affordable loans for business start-ups.

Although financial exclusion is present in Leeds the results are broadly in- line with similar surveys in other comparative cities. However, Leeds has organisational advantages, which if strategically utilised could have a significant impact on financial exclusion. Leeds has the largest ‘live and work’ credit union in England, one of the largest CAB offices outside of London, and a thriving private sector financial community.

7.0 The need for Credit Union services Many people who are excluded from the mainstream financial system will turn to “non-standard” or “sub-prime” sources of finance. Sub-prime lenders are particularly prevalent in the Armley and Wortley areas, where a significant number of households are in receipt of Council administered benefits. Companies like Provident Financial and Shopacheck were particularly noted, as were Cash Converters, who have a shop on Armley Town Street.

Within the rented sector it was found that tenants fall into arrears to service loans from sub-prime lenders and that, in some cases, tenants would arrive at the local housing office with hundreds of pounds, provided by these doorstep moneylenders, in order to clear arrears.

These examples raise a specific need for a credit union that could offer re- financing loans perhaps from a special fund to enable immediate loans to be made without a prior savings period.

8.0 Specific examples of “non standard” lending practice • Cheque Cashing Over the past few years there has been a significant growth of cheque cashing businesses along Armley Town Street, charging high fees for their services.

Credit unions can and do cash cheques without any charge whatsoever and the faster and more efficient they are in providing this service the more advantageous and competitive and attractive they become.

• Sub-Prime Moneylenders

Confidential Page 5 12/2/2005 Research by the Yorkshire Chapter of Credit Unions found that there are some 89 credit and loan companies, 6 cheque cashing outlets and 7 pawn-broking businesses operating within a few miles of Armley town centre. In addition there are any number of mainline banking and loan companies advertising their services in local publications, on radio and television and in Yellow Pages and Thompson telephone directories.

These moneylenders either have shops, offices or agents operating in Armley and/or the Leeds area. All produce good quality promotional literature and are available for business six days a week. None of them reveal on promotional literature the interest rate they charge. Working out APR is complicated and the true cost of credit is lost in the level of weekly payments. A recent report commissioned by The Co-op Bank on “access to credit on a low income” found that the cost of credit was not something most people took into account when seeking a loan from high interest moneylenders.

APR ranged from 170% up to 497%, a stark contrast with the credit union maximum rate of just 12.7%.

9.0 Access for local people People who live and work in West Leeds can already access Leeds City Credit Union services because they are eligible to join the credit union. Indeed there are already almost 2,000 people who either live or work in West Leeds who are members of Leeds City Credit Union without a great deal of local promotion.

However, within the area there are residents who are excluded from the mainstream financial system and who therefore turn to sub-prime lenders when in need. This sector of society would particularly benefit from the opportunity to access the services of LCCU. If they were enabled to both save a little and to borrow at reasonable rates through LCCU this would both improve their personal finances and increase spending power in the local economy.

However access is an important issue for low-income groups. Research has shown that it is the face-to-face approach of many licensed moneylenders that is valued by these groups. A presence in the area is essential from the outset to build membership and trust.

Leeds City Council has offered LCCU the use of their One-Stop Shop in Armley and have offered to install a cash counter to provide security for LCCU staff and volunteers when handling cash.

The use of this office has a number of advantages for LCCU and the establishment of a West Leeds branch: • The office is well located on Armley Town Street, the heart of the area.

Confidential Page 6 12/2/2005 • The equipping of the office with a cash counter will provide the necessary security essential for the handling of cash • Residents are familiar with the premises, which are used by all sectors of society. More than 12,000 people a month visit the premises. • LCCU services can complement those of LCC and staff of both organisations can work together on a holistic approach to dealing with clients, especially those with special needs.

LCC have indicated that they will allow LCCU to use the office rent-free but, in order that LCCU can offer a full service, funds need to be raised to cover the establishment costs and for staff. Staff funding will be required for at least 3 years to ensure enough time for the branch to generate sufficient income to be self-sustaining.

10.00 Project Costs At least 3 staff will be required to be able to offer a full service and to enable the office to be open the same hours as the One-Stop Shop. It is envisioned that these staff would comprise 1 branch supervisor (full-time) and 2 part-time cashiers. It is requirement of LCCU’s Fidelity Bond and Employers’ Liability Insurance that 2 authorised persons must be on site at all times when the facility is open to the public.

LCC’s ICT Department has offered to connect LCCU to their wide area network, enabling a secure connection to any LCC building on the network. This connection would allow for transactions to be made in real time and ensure that staff and volunteers in the Armley office could give accurate and up to date information, account balance etc. to members. LCC have also indicated that they will provide voice line(s) through the LCC switchboard to allow internal calls from Armley to LCCU’s Head Office Call Centre.

3 PCs will be required, which will be networked via the DSL/DSL to LCCU’s HO in the city centre. A printer bank of 4 printers will be needed, 3 impact printers for the printing of cheques, receipts and loan agreements and 1 multipurpose laser printer/scanner for statements, letters, copying ID documents etc.

In addition LCCU will require an upgrade to Terminal Services at Head Office.

Table 1

Expenditure Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Non-staff Costs Rent (shortfall) £3375 £3375 £3375 Line charges for LCC £750 £773 £796 WAN (assuming 3% increase per annum)

Confidential Page 7 12/2/2005 ICT capital items & set £4000 £0 £0 up costs ICT maintenance £0 £500 £525 Publicity & Marketing £3000 £1000 £1000 Salaries Branch Supervisor £24000 £25000 £26500 Cashiers (x2) £24000 £25000 £26500 Recruitment £1000 £0 £0 Staff Training £2000 £1000 £1000

Total Project £62,125 £56,648 £59,696

In order to be able to provide money management and advice services an additional post will be required. This could be a part-time post, shared with another location, and would increase the project costs by a further £15,000.

It is hoped that West Leeds Area Management Committee will assist the project by covering the costs of the rent shortfall for at least 2 years. In return LCCU will offer incentives to local people to encourage them to use the services. These incentives could include:

• Waiving of the £3 membership fee • Cash prize draw for introducing new members • Gift incentives, particularly for children such as money boxes

LCCU has employed a funding consultant to assist with obtaining the necessary funding to support the branch for a minimum of 2 years. The consultant has identified a source of funding for staff salaries, together with the provision of a loan fund for the area.

If LCCU were to generate the income it would require to fully fund the project from its own resources it would require an annual increase in its loan portfolio (loans are the principle source of LCCU’s income) of approximately £1 million per annum. To generate £1 million in additional loans LCCU would require either new savings deposits in the sum of £1.25 million or an input of subordinated capital.

11.00 Marketing plan and PR: The West Leeds project will be incorporated within the overall Marketing Strategy and Plan for LCCU. Specific resources will be allocated and targets for new members and growth objectives will be set.

12.00 Staff recruitment & training timetable: Once funding has been agreed a timetable can be set for staff recruitment, which may take up to 4 months. All new staff will be trained to LCCU corporate standards with especial reference to Anti-Money Laundering training and Customer Service.

Confidential Page 8 12/2/2005

13.00 Launch date: The launch date for the new branch will be dependant on the length of time taken to: • Obtain sufficient funding • Purchase and install ITC equipment at both Armley One-Stop Shop and HO • Recruit and train staff

The launch will be included within the marketing plan with a provisional date for the launch of 5 January 2006.

14:00 Conclusion The West Leeds Steering Group have established that there is strong evidence in support of credit union services for those who both live and work in West Leeds and surrounding areas for the following reasons:

1. There is both a need and a good market opportunity 2. There are already a significant number of existing members of LCCU who could utilize the facility 3. There is evidence that volunteers would be available 4. There is strong support from a variety of local organisations

However, Leeds City Credit Union must be visible and accessible and be able to market itself as inventively and as professionally as its sub-prime competitors. In addition it must have sufficient capital to lend out to generate income to fund the service. The additional capital could be provided by way of a subordinated loan.

The Board of Directors of LCCU is incorporating the West Leeds project into their BOSS Project, which will offer services from other One-Stop Shop Cash Offices across the city. The BOSS project is phased over 5 years and is a major element in LCCU’s Strategic Development Plan for the next 10 years.

Confidential Page 9 12/2/2005 \ AGENDA

ITEM NO:

Originators: Steve Crocker

Telephone: 0113 3950966

REPORT TO: Inner West Area Committee REPORT OF: Director, Neighbourhoods and Housing Department DATE: 8th December 2005 SUBJECT: Proposed Kirkstall Valley Park

Electoral Wards Affected : Specific Implications For :

Armley, Bramley, Ethnic Minorities Hyde Park & Woodhouse, Headlingley, Women Kirkstall and Weetwood Disabled People

Executive Council 3 Eligible Not eligible for Call in Function Function for Call In (details contained in the report)

Executive Summary

The purpose of this report is to provide members of the Inner West and Inner North West Area Committees with:- • information about the proposed Kirkstall Valley Park; • information about the proposed West Leeds Country Park & Green Gateways initiative; • next steps to be taken in order for progress to be made; • issues where there is potential conflict between the ambitions of the project and the current position of the Council that need to be resolved;

The report was presented to the North West Area Committee on 20 October 2005.

1.0 CONTEXT

1.1 There have been proposals for a new public park in the Kirkstall valley area for a number of years.

1.2 The Kirkstall Valley Park proposal covers land that is in the North West and the West management areas of the City. It stretches from Armley Mills at its southerly most point up to the Kirkstall Abbey Estate. It is sandwiched between Armley and Bramley, and Kirkstall and Burley.

1.3 The Kirkstall Valley itself represents an urban green corridor of strategic significance. It includes the River Aire, Leeds and Liverpool Canal and Leeds-Carlisle railway line. 1 Areas of industrial activity and more recent redevelopment schemes contrast with more open areas of the valley floor which contain a mixture of playing fields, nursery gardens, parkland, woodlands and derelict land. In addition, the canal towpath and network of footpaths provide opportunities for informal recreation. The waterways, woodlands and areas of green space provide opportunities for nature conservation, such as the Kirkstall Valley Nature Reserve.

1.4 Due to its diverse and unique nature, the Kirkstall Valley area is recognised under a number of sections in the Unitary Development Plan. Policies that are of particular importance are: N1 - A large part of the area is designated as Green Space. N1A - There are two allotments within the area. N6 - Some areas are designated as Protected Playing Pitches. N8 - Nearly the whole area is designated as Urban Green Corridor. N11 - The whole area is Protected Open Land. N18 - 22The area around Armley Mills is designated as a Conservation Area. N50 - The area contains 2 Leeds Nature Areas (LNAs). N50 - The area contains a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) along the canal- side.

2.0 KIRKSTALL VALLEY PARK - BOARD & PROPOSALS

2.1 Kirkstall Valley Park was established in 2004 as a not for profit company limited by guarantee. It is also a registered charity. The Board of Directors is made up of:

Kirkstall Valley Park Board of Directors: Stephen Rennie (Chair) Hawksworth Wood Community Association Cllr John Illingworth (Company Kirkstall Ward Councillor Secretary) Adrian Curtis (Treasurer) Groundwork Leeds Executive Director Ann Chadwick Wades Charity Trustee Robert Collins Leeds Civic Trust Vice President Terry Garratt Park Lane College David Hall Sustrans Regional Manager Cllr Janet Harper Armley Ward Councillor Kirk Mann Armley Forum Greg Miller Leeds University External Partnerships Manager Gavin Parry Leeds Canoe Club John Preston BTCV Hollybush County Manager Chris Royffe Leeds Met. University, Associate Dean Cllr Neil Taggart Bramley and Stanningley Ward NB Directors do not formally represent these organisations and are appointed as individuals with interest, skills and experience relevant to the Board’s work

2.2 The principle vision of the company as listed in the Business Plan is ‘to create a sustainable green space for people living and working within the Aire Valley, from the city centre to the outskirts’. The proposed park is seen by the Board very much in its inner city context, with a strong educational element.

2.3 The boundary of the proposed park contains land in a number of different ownerships including the City Council, railways and electricity distribution companies and other private ownership. It also includes land that is currently formal parkland 2 managed by Leeds City Council including Gotts and Armley Parks and the Kirkstall Abbey Estate. There are strips of land between Kirkstall Road and the river that are within the North West Leeds Inner Area Committee boundary, and there are also areas managed by the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust.

2.4 The Kirkstall Valley Park Board has produced a preliminary business plan with strategic objectives that are attached (Appendix 1). This plan is an initial attempt to formalise and structure the objectives of the board.

2.5 The Board has also identified a number of current more specific priorities and actions that included in full in Appendix 2 and summarised below:-

(i) carry out further consultation on the proposals and seek agreement from landowners and other stakeholders; (ii) study to assess the need for/ feasibility of leisure facilities in the area; (iii) development of the Friends of Kirkstall Valley Park Group; (iv) develop the following specific projects: - adventure playground - path & cycle routes - bridges - overall management of the park and the nature reserve

3.0 COSTS

3.1 There are no specific project cost details included in the business plan.

4.0 CONSULTATION

4.1 Members of the Kirkstall Valley Park Board have displayed information stands at the Kirkstall Festival in 2004 and 2005, giving an overview of the plans. Board members and student volunteers have embarked on a public consultation exercise with up to 20 primary schools in the inner West and inner North West areas, working with children and young people to produce 3 dimensional maps of the proposed park area.

5.0 WEST LEEDS COUNTRY PARK & GREEN GATEWAYS

5.1 Since the establishment of Kirkstall Valley Park, the City Council has embarked upon a new strategic initiative to develop the West Leeds Country Park & Green Gateways. The proposed boundary for this initiative incorporates the proposed Kirkstall Valley Park.

5.2 The West Leeds Country Park and Green Gateways is being developed by Leeds City Councils Parks & Countryside Service. The project aims to preserve and make accessible the existing areas of green space (mainly in West Leeds) and link them to form a linear country park. This will include improved footpaths, cycle ways, bridle ways and signage around the proposed areas.

5.3 Both Kirkstall Valley Park and West Leeds Country Park share the same aim in opening up areas of green space to wider use and providing more accessible links between these. There may be the possibility of developing some of the improved links between areas that the Kirkstall Valley Park Board is looking to achieve through the West Leeds County Park and Green Gateways initiative. However, funding would need to be sought to carry out any work. 3

6.0 Issues

6.1 There are a number of issues that require either clarification or resolving in order for progress to be made. These are listed below.

6.2 Park boundary: the proposed park includes parks that are formally managed parks by Leeds City Council – Gotts Park and Armley Park, and possibly Kirkstall Abbey Estate. The Board will need to clarify its intentions in these parks and whether they should continue to be part of the Kirkstall Valley Park proposal. The Kirkstall Valley Park Board does recognise that these parks will continue to be managed by Leeds City Council and that its interest is largely around links. The Board may also have issues about community involvement which could be resolved whether they are in the proposal or not.

6.3 Feasibility: at this stage there are no detailed project proposals, with costs, to show what will happen where in the park. Further work is required by Kirkstall Valley Park to:-

• project detail: specific project proposals including their location within the park and their feasibility. The possibility has been raised of a consultant being employed to do this. Given the nature of the project, specialist engineering advice may be required. The Inner West and Inner North West Area Committees may wish to consider contributing towards such work;

• costings: cost projects and the overall proposal in full - capital and revenue (including running and long term maintenance); identify actual, proposed or potential income sources (and therefore any possible funding gaps);

• land ownership: the proposed Kirkstall Valley Park covers land that is in a number of ownerships. Whilst members of the Board have had discussions with some landowners no agreement has been sought as yet to either transfer or operate on their land. Land use issues need to be resolved at an early stage;

• identify what support or resources the project would require from Leeds City Council to enable it to achieve its ambitions.

6.4 Specifically there are issues with the following known elements of the proposal which need to be resolved one way or the other:-

• Play Area: the proposal for an adventure playground for older children has been developed with specialist advice on play from Leeds Metropolitan University. This proposal raises some concerns for Learning and Leisure about its possible location, safety for young people using it and management arrangements. A detailed project proposal that addresses these concerns would need to be prepared by the Kirkstall Valley Park board.

• St Ann’s Mills: there is a proposal to take over and convert St Ann’s Mills as part of the project. However, as the Committee is aware, the Council’s Executive Board has already agreed a proposed regeneration and refurbishment of the building to use as light industrial units. Therefore, at this stage the proposal can go no further. However, the Kirkstall Valley Park Board could work with the Council to secure

4 pathways and river access around the Mills for the purpose of the park and the wider West Leeds Country Park & Green Gateways.

• Canoe Course: Both the Environment Agency and the British Canoe Union have visited the proposed site and had no objections to the creation of a white water canoe course. However, the feasibility would need to be tested, and a detailed proposal put forward incorporating these views.

6.5 West Leeds Country Park & Green Gateways: any proposals for Kirkstall Valley Park would need to be compatible and complementary to the City Council’s West Leeds Country Park and Green Gateways Initiative.

7.0 Next Steps

7.1 The Kirkstall Valley park Board will need to decide whether to explore the issues listed under paragraph 6 of this report. If it wishes to do so, it may involve Leeds City Council where necessary. Specifically, it is suggested that Leeds City Council officers meet with the Kirkstall Valley Park Board or the Land Group (a sub group of the Board), to discuss key components of the project and what Kirkstall Valley Park may be seeking from the Council.

8.0 Recommendations

8.1 It is recommended that the Committee: (i) Note the Kirkstall Valley Park Proposals; (ii) Note the proposals for a West Leeds County Park and Green Gateways (iii) Note the issues identified in paragraph 6 and the proposed next steps.

5 APPENDIX 1

KIRKSTALL VALLEY PARK OBJECTIVES

Kirkstall Valley Park Objectives as listed in the Business Plan:

Short Term • To get people signed up to our vision, share and enhance it. • Identify and plan improved access. • Enhancement, management and stewardship of the physical and natural environment including land use and problem alleviation and cross valley links (safety as well as access). • Interpretation, education, involvement and appreciation of the wider area. • Developing a delivery capacity

Mid Term • Resource base for surrounding communities and partners. • To improve the physical environment. • Look at potential for interpretation/ visitor facilities i.e. café, as well as aspirational ideas.

Long Term • Conservation, protection and improvement of the green open spaces in the heart of the valley, retaining a green wedge into the city.

6 APPENDIX 2

KIRKSTALL VALLEY PARK CURRENT PRIORITIES AND ACTIONS

The following are current priorities and actions as listed by Kirkstall Valley Park:

‘To undertake further consultations with local residents, community groups, landowners and other stakeholders to refine the Kirkstall Valley Park “vision” and develop the detail needed to create a competent and credible business plan. This will need funds to:

Run sessions Get projects costed Agree some form of draft timeline for key projects Edit the final document

This exercise might include consultant help to assess what facilities would be needed to make the Kirkstall Valley Park a viable destination, an attractive, accessible informal greenspace may not be enough. To define the role and priority of a canoe course, sculptures and other ideas. How critical are access points with more than a small car park. Where the Mansion, Hollybush and other possible buildings fit in. The strengths and weaknesses of multiple access points.

To fully establish the Friends of Kirkstall Valley Park as both supporters group and to undertake voluntary practical and interpretative projects.

To secure stakeholder and particularly landowner agreement and support for the plan.

To work with partners and other agencies to secure developer and challenge funds for key projects:

Improved path and cycle routes Reinstatement of the Penny Bridge (near Duffields), Thompson’s Bridge (the canal below the Laser centre) and new bridges across the river and possibly the railway to link Armley to Kirkstall To bring Kirkstall Valley Nature Reserve and other areas into ongoing sympathetic management.

7 AGENDA ITEM NO.:

Originator: Ruth Mason/ Christine Farrar

Tel: 0113 2064053/2243057

REPORT OF THE: Making Leeds Better Programme MEETING: Inner West Area Committee DATE : 8th December 2005 SUBJECT : MAKING LEEDS BETTER

Electoral Wards Affected : Specific Implications For :

ALL Ethnic Minorities Women Disabled People

Executive Council x Eligible Not eligible for Call In Function Function for Call In (details contained in the report)

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Making Leeds Better is the strategic programme for improving health and social care services in the city. The aim for the programme is:

To improve the health and wellbeing of the people who use health and social services in Leeds by providing them with speedy access to high quality care and treatment that is responsive to their needs and provided in the best possible settings.

Recommendations:

1. Area Committee members are requested to note progress in developing the Making Leeds Better programme for health and social care services in Leeds.

2. Area Committee members are asked to suggest appropriate local engagement mechanisms and opportunities for Making Leeds Better in preparation for the formal consultation period next year.

3. Area Committee members are asked how they would like to be kept in touch with and informed about Making Leeds Better.

1. Background

1.1 In the summer of 2004, partners in the Leeds Health and Social Care Community agreed to work together to radically improve health and social care services in the City. The first demonstration of this shared commitment was the submission to the Department of Health of a strategic outline case for a new Children’s & Maternity Hospital in Leeds. Our proposal for a new hospital was based on far reaching changes that would transform the delivery of health and social care across the City.

1.2 Following approval of the strategic outline case, we have established the Making Leeds Better programme, through which we are involving patients, staff and the public in developing much more detailed plans. These will form the basis for formal consultation in Autumn/Winter 2006 and then we hope to submit an outline business case for a children’s and maternity hospital to the Department of Health in 2007.

2. What is Making Leeds Better?

The main elements of the Making Leeds Better programme are:

2.1 Involving People

2.1.1 Making Leeds Better is for and about local people - patients, carers, service users, visitors, health or social care professionals, or residents of Leeds. Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) is an important priority of Making Leeds Better. People’s views will help to shape the new services and facilities. People can become involved in a variety of ways, including via the Making Leeds Better website: www.makingleedsbetter.org.uk.

2.2 New Community Facilities

2.2.1 Making Leeds Better is about providing patients and service users with speedy access to the best possible care in the best possible settings. This is often best provided in the local community, rather than in an acute hospital. Making Leeds Better will include the development of proposals for new and updated community health centres, clinics and GP surgeries. These would be made possible with funds from both LIFT (Local Improvement Finance Trust) and PFI (Private Finance Initiative). This would mean that, following the Care Pathway redesign work (see below), services would be transferred out of acute hospital settings and into these new community facilities. This would also mean that there would be less need for beds in hospital.

2.3 Care Pathways

2.3.1 A Care Pathway is the journey a patient or service user takes across health and social care services during their care and treatment for a specific condition – it is the places that they go and the people that they see during that care and treatment.

2.3.2 Making Leeds Better aims to radically change these Care Pathways. We already know that in Leeds more people are admitted into hospital than people with similar problems who live in some other cities. We also know that patients with certain conditions are kept in hospital in Leeds longer than in some other cities and that when they are discharged their follow-up care or rehabilitation services back at home may not be as coordinated as they could be.

2.3.3 The care pathway work will focus on two areas – Adults, and Children’s & Maternity. 12 Care Pathways for adults and 9 Care Pathways for children and maternity have been chosen. These 21 Care Pathways show the biggest potential for reducing unnecessary hospital admissions, and for providing better care for patients via their GP (primary care) or closer to their own home (community care).

2.3.4 A group of senior NHS and social care professionals had their first glimpse of the Making Leeds Better high level care pathways at a major one-day workshop on 17 October. Around 100 delegates from disciplines including commissioning, estates, mental health, information technology and human resources took part in the event, which marked the start of the next major phase in the Making Leeds Better work programme. Following work which included patients and members of the public, helping to redesign the pathways, group discussions during the day gave planners, managers and clinical staff the opportunity to look in more detail at the challenges involved in turning these outline care pathways into tangible improvements for patients.

2.3.5 A second workshop will be held on 24 November, looking at the potential effects of new service models on the current health and social care economy. This will allow NHS and social care leaders to project the future need for skills, training, information technology, buildings and financial resources.

2.4 A new Children’s and Maternity Hospital

2.4.1 The vision for Making Leeds Better has grown out of a long campaign for a Children's & Maternity Hospital for Leeds. Currently, medical services for children are spread across the city which often results in them having to travel between different buildings to see different specialists. This can make going to hospital an upsetting and frightening experience for some children.

2.4.2 We propose to significantly improve services for children and their families in two ways: Firstly, building a dedicated Children's & Maternity Hospital on the St James's University Hospital site, will ensure that children, pregnant mums and their families will have state-of-the-art services and facilities all together in one place - built especially for their needs. Cardiac and neurological services would need to be alongside too, to make sure that if children need specialists in these two areas, they can be found close by.

2.4.3 Secondly, the LIFT programme, (Local Improvement Finance Trust) will mean that certain children's and maternity services can be offered from a range of new premises already being built in the local community - new buildings and better services located nearer to where children and their families actually live.

2.5 Bringing Hospital Services Together

2.5.1 Currently, hospital departments and facilities are spread across the two major hospitals in Leeds and a number of other sites. Making Leeds Better will look carefully at the location of health care services across the city. Pending further detailed work, and subject of course to public consultation, it is not known at this stage exactly which services will be located where. However, it is acknowledged that many of the buildings at Leeds General Infirmary are not of a high enough standard to provide health care in the 21st century, and some may not fit into plans for use in the future. To improve both the quality and safety of services for patients, and make best use of capacity, we would look to focus hospital care for the most complex cases onto a single main site at St James's University Hospital. Making Leeds Better is a very large and complex programme of change and it is vital to ensure that any proposed improvements or new services and buildings are value for money, affordable and realistic. To do this we will develop a Strategic Services Plan which will look at how to:

• Transfer staff and finances from the traditional hospital settings to primary and community care settings. This way staff can deliver speedier access to services closer to the patients’ homes. • Make savings and be more efficient in order to be able to afford the finances for the schemes which will fund the new buildings, from which we could provide modern, efficient services for patients. • Make sure that community buildings and facilities are made ready in the right place and at the right time in order to receive the gradual transference of acute hospital beds and services. • Make sure that all the partner organisations are able to work together across the entire Leeds health and social care community in order to make the single vision of Making Leeds Better affordable.

2.5.3 We want to ensure that any proposed new services we develop are accessible to everyone who needs them and that the way in which the programme as a whole is taken forward contributes to public health and to the narrowing the gap agenda of the Leeds Initiative. To help with this we will use tools such as Health Equity Audit and Health Impact Assessment to inform decisions on how the proposed changes are made.

3. How is it being developed

3.1 The governance structure and the project teams for the Making Leeds Better programme are given in Appendix I. Regular monthly updates are given on the website and the timescales for the work are given in Appendix II. Leeds City Council are full partners in the programme and the Directors of Social Services and Development sit on the Board. The Health Scrutiny Board has had a briefing from the PCTs at its July meeting this year.

3.2 NHS bodies have a statutory duty to consult the local Overview and Scrutiny Committee on any proposals they may have to substantially change health services in the Council’s area. However, where people from more than one local authority area may be affected by proposed variations or developments to NHS services, all the relevant scrutiny committees consulted must decide whether they consider the proposals to be ‘substantial’. Those that do consider the proposals to be substantial are required to form a joint health scrutiny committee to engage in consultation with the NHS bodies and to respond on behalf of their communities.

3.3 The final approach taken is yet to be determined by Scrutiny, however in late January, early February 2006 the Making Leeds Better Team will begin discussions with Scrutiny in preparation for the formal consultation process as detailed above and the views expressed by Area Committees can be fed into that process.

4. Getting Involved

4.1 As part of the Making Leeds Better commitment to public and patient involvement, youngsters of all ages are being given a chance to have their say on what they like about hospital, where they think improvements can be made, and what they would like to see in a new facility designed specifically for them.

4.2 In just one example of patient and user involvement, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust deputy chief nurse Sharon Linter has teamed up with The Project, part of West Yorkshire Youth Action, to create a range of tools designed to capture the views of children. These views will be used to ensure that the designs for a new children’s and maternity hospital truly reflect the experiences and expectations of young people.

4.3 Communications leads from NHS organisations across the city teamed up with patient forum representatives recently to look at the wider roll out of patient and public involvement in Making Leeds Better. Patients, carers and volunteers have already been involved in shaping the emerging care pathways. At the recent city-wide workshop event, work began on developing communications plans in the run up to formal public consultation next year. Challenges identified included:

• Measuring current understanding of, and involvement in, Making Leeds Better amongst patients, NHS staff and the general public; • Developing plans to inform and engage ethnic minority and ‘marginalised’ groups; • Capturing further examples of how new ways of working are already beginning to provide better services, closer to where people live; • Raising awareness among local communities of ongoing investment in primary care premises and services.

4.4 A major information and engagement event designed to keep key influencers and community leaders involved in the development of Making Leeds Better will be scheduled for January 2006.

5. People

5.1 Work is now beginning on the development of comprehensive city-wide workforce plans to support the delivery of proposals in the Making Leeds Better vision.

5.2 A workforce database showing the number and type of all NHS staff working in Leeds has already been compiled. The next challenge is for this to be mapped onto the emerging care pathways in order to:

• Explore whether traditional roles and responsibilities might need to be adapted in light of new care models; • Engage staff and inform any future change management programmes; • Maximise recruitment and retention opportunities; • Identify any potential skills gaps and assess future training needs; • Predict the likely effect of technological advances in healthcare delivery; • Look at the possible impact of new care models on health and social care education providers; • Understand the potential financial implications of a restructured workforce.

This complex piece of work, which involves Human Resources professionals from across the health and social care spectrum, is expected to take several months to complete.

6. Locations

6.1 The first of four state-of-the-art primary care facilities built under the LIFT initiative opened its doors to patients on 3 October. The new community facility in Middleton replaces the outdated former health centre on Middleton Park Road. The purpose- built centre now provides a range of services under one roof. The centre is designed specifically to meet the needs of today’s patients, doctors and nurses. It also has the space to expand and deliver extra services traditionally found only in hospital.

6.2 Three further LIFT schemes are nearing completion. New facilities for the communities of Armley, Dewsbury Road and Woodhouse are all expected to be open by Christmas. Plans for two more LIFT facilities at Beeston and Yeadon are due to reach financial close in November. Construction could then begin in the New Year, with facilities coming on stream early in 2007.

6.3 LIFT buildings are a key component of the Making Leeds Better vision. They provide valuable new investment in the primary care estate and will eventually enable more and more hospital equipment and expertise to be available within local communities.

7. Harnessing information technology

7.1 A dedicated project team has been established within Making Leeds Better to exploit advances in information and communication technology (ICT) to the full. ICT already has a key role to play in delivering care services – for example ever-faster internet connections are revolutionising the sharing of data, whilst more effective electronic storage is allowing complex information to become increasingly secure, personalised and portable.

7.2 The Making Leeds Better team will be exploring opportunities for harnessing new technologies locally and at the same time identifying how they might operate effectively alongside planned national systems.

8. Recommendation

8.1 Area Committee members are requested to note progress in developing the Making Leeds Better programme for health and social care services in Leeds.

8.2 Area Committee members are asked to suggest appropriate local engagement mechanisms and opportunities for Making Leeds Better in preparation for the formal consultation period next year.

8.3 Area Committee members are asked how they would like to be kept in touch with and informed about Making Leeds Better.

Further information is available from the Making Leeds Better website at www.makingleedsbetter.org.uk

Appendix I

Structure

Programme Board Steer and oversee the Programme, ensuring delivery Chairs, Chief Executives, Directors & Clinical Leaders from main statutory partners, Patient & Public Involvement reps, Voluntary & Community sector reps, staff reps

Programme Executive Lead, performance manage and problem solve Chief Executives and senior managers from main statutory partners

Programme Director & Programme Team Direct and manage the Programme, coordinating work across partner organisations Report to the Programme Executive and Programme Board

The Making Leeds Better Programme consists of the following projects:

Resources, Analysis

n Service Redesign v Children’s & Maternity Care Pathways o

l Adult Care Pathways Patient, P v e Cardiac & Neuro Pathways

m Non-Pathway Hospital Services

e Non-Pathway PCT/GP Services

u Workforce

C blic & Staff

o m Estate

m & Modelling Hospital Estate (PFI, Remodelling) u

n Primary/Community/Mental Health/Social Care Estate (LIFT)

i c

t Information management & technology i o n s Commissioning & Business Planning

Appendix II

Timescales

The Making Leeds Better Programme consists of a number of key stages of work with clear milestones. In addition, there is some cross-cutting work – such as governance and Patient and public involvement and communications – that runs through all key stages.

The key stages of work are set out in the flowchart below.

Flow of Work

Stage 1 (1 Apr – 28 Oct 05) Stage 2 (1 Apr – 30 Sep 05) Stage 3 (1 May – 30 Sep 05) Service Redesign Methodology & Assumptions Capacity & Demand

Stage 4 (3 Oct 05 – 27 Jan 06) Modelling & Costing Stage 8 (1 Apr 05 – 31 Mar 06) 2005/06 Implementation Stage 5 (30 Jan 06 – 23 Jun 06) Affordability Stage 9 (1 Nov 05 – 31 Mar 07) 2006/07 Planning & Implementation Stage 6 (30 Jan – 8 Sept 06) Strategic Services Plan

Stage 7 (1 May – 12 Jan 07) Stage 10 (1 Sep 06 – 31 Mar 08+) Making Leeds Better Consultation 2007/08+ Planning & Implementation

Stage 11 (3 Apr 06 – TBA) PFI Planning & Implementation

AGENDA ITEM NO.:

Originator:

David Mackey

Tel: 3950977

REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF NEIGHBOURHOODS AND HOUSING DEPARTMENT MEETING: Inner West Area Committee DATE : 8 December 2005 SUBJECT : Funding Principles for Community Centres

Electoral Wards Affected : Specific Implications For :

All Ethnic Minorities Women Disabled People

Executive x Council Eligible x Not eligible for Call In Function Function for Call In (details contained in the report)

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This report sets out guiding principles and protocols to be used in funding agreements with community centres in West Leeds. West Leeds Area Management is to be directly responsible for administering community centres in the wedge from April 2006. Centres are already approaching the Area Committees for funding for various activities.

This report proposes a set of guiding principles and protocols for centres to agree if they wish to be eligible for any large grant, funds or subsidy from the Area Committee. These funds are either Well Being funds or, in the future, any devolved funding from the centre to manage the centres. This devolved funding may include rent subsidies if that policy is fully implemented across leased community centre portfolio. The aim of using these principles and protocols is to ensure the Councils overall objectives of inclusion and social harmony are met.

1.0 BACKGROUND

1.1 There are 8 community centres located in Inner West Leeds that are either directly managed by Leeds City Council or have been leased to community groups to self- manage. Some of these centres are on very long-term leases. Others that are due to be transferred to Neighbourhoods and Housing Department during 2006 are about to have new six-year leases issued, for example Fairfield Community Centre. Some centres only lease land, the building having been build by public subscription. Refer to appendix 1 for a list of community centres in Inner West.

1.2 Lease agreements give the right for community groups to enjoy the use of the centre as they see fit providing they do not break any laws. While some of the groups that manage centres started out inclusive of all community groups they have, over time, become restrictive as to who can and cannot access their centres. This has caused tensions between some residents associations, local people and groups who have been denied access by centre managers. In some instances groups cannot access centres because of perceived or past problems with their behaviour. This is particularly the case with young people.

1.3 While restricting access to a centre is well within the legal rights of centre management committees as guaranteed by their lease agreement, it does not engender harmonious communities. Centres are considered community assets and could play a vital role in reducing tensions in the community, which is a priority at a national and local level.

1.4 West Area Management has been working with a some of the community centres to improve their management of give direction. In particular we have worked with the Swinnow Community Association to develop a business plan so that they can focus on their financial independence; we attend their monthly management meetings to give advice. We are working with Fairfield Partnership in an advisory capacity and with Sandford Community Centre where we have set up a user group to address tensions at the centre and focus on improving building management and use. At New Wortley Community centre we have assisted with their funding bids and provided advice about the management of the centre.

2.0 Way Forward

2.1 Leeds aims to be a city of equal opportunity, where everyone has a fair chance and people from all backgrounds take part in community life, creating a society that is varied, vibrant and proud. The Council is prioritising the development of harmonious communities and at the same time tackling behaviour that reduces harmony and respect. The Council and its partners celebrate the value of different religions and cultures, encourage and support leadership in communities, and work towards tackling social and economic discrimination and inequality.

2.2 These principle and protocols are listed below:

2.3 Principles

1. That all community centres are open to all persons no matter their race, faith, ability, sexual orientation or age. 2. That fair access to centres are given to all community groups, providing their aims are not in breach of any law 3. That groups are not excluded through high charges that are above the normal letting fees the management charges others for use of the centre 4. That any exclusion of a group must be because it has not met clearly set out rules of using the centre 5. That documents setting out the centres operating principles and letting policy are freely available to any inquirer. 6. That centres have a management structure in place and that they publicly advertise their AGM, which is to be open to the community.

2.4 Protocols

1. That funding is dependent on acceptance of the principles by the applicant 2. That the principles be adopted by the community centre’s management as the centre’s policy 3. That the principles be advertised in the community centre for all to see 4. That applicants for funding provide proof of the adoption of the principles and compliance of the protocols with their funding application.

3.0 Monitoring

3.1 As part of any funding agreement the monitoring will be specified in the funding agreement form, which the applicant signs.

3.2 Breach of this agreement will result in forfeiture of any funds granted to centres and the centre will be precluded from any future funds for a period of 12 months unless the organisation can demonstrate adoption of the principles and protocols.

4.0 Recommendation

4.1 That the Area committee adopt the principles and protocols as part of any future funding agreements for community centres, either from the wellbeing fund or any future devolved rent subsidy.

Inner West Leeds Community Centres

Centre Name Management Centre Lease Past Area Ownership Arrangements Management Funding Sandford Informal User Neighbourhood None £1000 to move Group/ City & Housing CCTV- no other Services recent Caretaker investment N&H pay bills Fairfield Fairfield Neighbourhood 6 year lease just Centre has been Partnership & Housing signed closed for (listed Charity) renovation for the past 12 months – Sure Start investing ~£40-£70k New Wortley New Wortley Building - New Land leased on European Partnership Wortley peppercorn rent funding from Partnership Objective 2 until Dec 2005; Funding bid submitted for new Objective 2 funding to 2006 Strawberry Lane Learning and Learning and none Youth Services Leisure Leisure fund activities Bramley Learning and Learning and none Youth Services Leisure Leisure fund activities Wyther Twilight Twirlers Learning and None None only users Leisure LAZAR Centre Learning and Learning and none Youth Services Leisure Leisure fund activities Wyther Wyther West Leeds Not known none Community Community Homes House House Association

AGENDA ITEM NO.:

Originator: Carole Clark

Tel: 3951968

REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF NEIGHBOURHOODS AND HOUSING MEETING: INNER WEST AREA COMMITTEE DATE : 8 DECEMBER 2005 SUBJECT : Improvements to parade of shops, 134 – 154 Stanningley Road

Electoral Wards Affected : Specific Implications For :

Armley, Bramley Ethnic Minorities Women Disabled People

Executive Council x Eligible Not eligible for Call In Function Function for Call In (details contained in the report)

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

To provide a progress report for members on progress on the improvement scheme for the parade of 11 shops, 134 – 154 Stanningley Road, part of the West Leeds SRB5 area.

1.00 Background

A report was brought to the Area Committee in April 2005 informing members that £200,000 had been made available through the SRB5 Local Shop Security and Enhancement Scheme to carry out improvements to the shop frontages in this important highly visible location on Stanningley Road.

2.0 Proposal

The aim of the scheme is to improve the general appearance of the shops through improvements to the forecourt and front facades to increase the economic attractiveness and viability of the neighbourhood shopping centre.

The Council’s Architectural Design Services (ADS) have been commissioned to prepare an improvement scheme for the front forecourt and the shop front which will include the following works:

2.1 Forecourt area

a) A defined path, using paving slabs is to be provided immediately to the front of the shops to separate pedestrians from vehicles; b) The forecourt car parking area is to be tarmacked from the paved path in front of the shops up to the public footpath; a new concrete kerb edging is to be installed between the new tarmac and the existing footpath. c) Defined car parking areas will be painted onto the new tarmacked surface and will include disabled parking; d) New cycle stands e) Defined entry and exit points for vehicles on and off the forecourt, clearly signed. f) A new shop parade sign.

2.2 Front Facades

a) Old signs and unwanted objects are to be removed from the 1st floor facades and a white render finish is to be applied to the first floor. b) New shutters are required to nose 138 and 154, which are the two end properties. c) The gable ends of each elevation are to be fully rendered. d) A general clean up of brickwork at ground floor level.

Further details of the proposed improvements will be tabled at the area committee meeting.

3. Consultation

All the shop owners and tenants have been contacted to inform them of our proposal to carry out improvements. An initial consultation event has been held to discuss the possible improvement works with the owners and tenants.

A further event takes place on 28 November, all the shop owners and tenants and local members have been invited to discuss the proposals in more detail.

4. Programme of works

Consultation with shop owners on detailed proposals takes place on28 November. Detailed designs for the work will be prepared in December with a view to going out to tender in early January. Work should commence on site in late February and be completed by March 2006.

The total cost of the scheme is estimated as £235,000 with the additional funding to be found from slippage elsewhere in the SRB5 programme.

5. Recommendation

Members are asked to note the progress made towards improving the environment around Stanningley Road shops.

AGENDA ITEM NO.:

Originator:

Rebecca M Boon Tel: 395 1970

REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF NEIGHBOURHOODS & HOUSING MEETING: INNER WEST AREA COMMITTEE DATE : 8th December 2005 SUBJECT : WELL-BEING FUND UPDATE REPORT

Electoral Wards Affected : Specific Implications For :

Armley Ethnic Minorities Bramley & Stanningley Women Disabled People

Executive X Council Eligible X Not eligible for Call In Function Function for Call In (details contained in the report)

1.0 PURPOSE OF THE REPORT

• To give an up-to-date statement on the approvals to the Revenue and Capital Well Being Fund since the last Area Committee meeting on 20th October 2005. • To seek approval for new projects commissioned by the Area Management Team.

2.0 UPDATE ON FINANCIAL WELL-BEING BUDGET 2005/2006 (CAPITAL & REVENUE SPEND OCTOBER 2005).

REVENUE (Committed from 2005 budget of £141,793) SERVICE AREA Project Cost Consultation Obj 2 Consultant £7, 500 Community Safety Stickers to Wheelie Bins (Fairfield Est) £ 500 Out of School Activities £ 300 Bramley Neighbourhood Wardens £8, 333 Community Cycle Scheme £ 400 Young People Football Training - Fairfield £1, 582 Street Scene Litter Bins in lieu of Anti-Litter Campaign £15, 000 Motiv 8, Butts Mount, plus Revenue Costs £19, 500 Planters to Armley Town St (Removed at no £ Nil cost) Cast Team £11, 690 Community I Love West Leeds £7, 500 Engagement Debt Counsellor - Surestart £3, 000 About Leeds Newspaper £1, 250 SMALL GRANTS & April £2, 230 SKIPS June £0.940 Sept £2,395 Oct 11 Skips to New Wortley £1,170 TOTAL £83,290

REMAINING £58,503

CAPITAL 2004-2007 Budget £253,793 Street Scene Fairfield Community Garden £10,000 Road repairs to Raynvilles £65,050 Road repairs to Wood Lane £62,000 Demolition of New Wortley Liberal Club £29,455 Community Safety Distraction Burglary Initiative £5,000 Pudsey Weetwood Community Cycle £1,600 Scheme Push Bikes for PCs £3,200 Fencing to Raynville Estate £13,833 Youth Service Motor Bikes for Lazer centre £9,000 Play facilities for Oak Road £5,000 Community Refurbishment of New Wortley Community £10,000 Engagement Café. (Dec 2004, and June 2005) Piggeries Park £10,000 Fairfield Sculpture Park £5,000 Armley Bin Yard Improvements £2,000

TOTAL £231,138

REMAINING £ 22,654

3.00 NEW PROJECTS .

3.1 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

3.2 Out and About with British Trust for Conservation Volunteers (BTCV)

3.3 Appendix 1 details an application for funding from BTCV to deliver a project working with asylum seekers and refugees from the Armley and Bramley and Stanningley wards and surrounding neighbourhoods.

3.4 The project will provide 75 activities, working with 60 asylum seekers to gain knowledge of the area and local services. It will also assist in creating ‘friendship networks’ amongst themselves and local people which will be supportive. This will lead to increased self confidence for both them and the community.

3.5 The project is to be delivered in partnership with the Home Office, the Scurrah Wainwright Trust and West Leeds Healthy Living Network..

3.6 £1000 is requested for 2005-2006 and £4,500 for 2006-2007 from the Inner West Area Committee.

4.0 Sandford Womens Group.

4.1 Appendix 2 details an application from the above group to pay for craft materials and a crèche worker for their Friday morning group.

4.2 The group have come together with the support of Surestart, and the Early Years Service and serves to assist local young mothers in a deprived neighbourhood to meet and discuss issues and concerns in a supportive and creative environment. A crèche worker is required by law to mind the children which range from young babies to 4 year olds. Surestart are unable to provide staff due to their own commitments.

4.3 The outcomes for the women are to Stay Safe, Be Healthy, Make a Positive Contribution, Enjoy and Achieve, and Achieving Economic Well-Being. It also promotes usage of the centre by local people.

4.4 £1000 is requested from the Inner West Area Committee to fund the project until April 2006 when alternative funding will be sought.

4.5 Leeds Credit Union

4.6 Leeds Credit Union are seeking funding of £844 for 2005/6 to cover 3 months rental, and £3375 for 2006/7 and £2531 in 2007/8. Refer to separate report on the West Leeds Credit Union.

5.0 YOUNG PEOPLE

5.1 Youth Development Worker.

5.2 An application is made by the Youth Service division of Learning and Leisure for revenue funding to employ a Youth Development worker to work with 9-13 year olds in Inner West Leeds. The post is for 12 months with a possibility of extension and may be offered as a secondment. The post will support the voluntary sector in their provision and improve links with the Youth Service.

5.3 The focus of the work is with the particular client group in the hot spot areas within each ward. Further details are given in Appendix 3. The cost of the post is £35,000 to be funded equally between the Inner West and Outer West Area Committees.

5.4 £4,373 is requested for Jan - Mar 2006 and the remaining £13,125 for April-Dec 2006 is requested from the 2006-2007 budget of the Inner West Area Committee.

6.0 COMMUNITY SAFETY

6.1 Alarm system for Rodley Nature Reserve

6.2 Appendix 4 details an application from Rodley Nature Reserve and West Yorkshire Police to install an alarm system at the reserve to deter vandalism and theft to this remote facility.

6.3 The reserve which serves both the inner and outer parts of west Leeds has had 3 break-ins recently resulting in damage and theft of equipment. This spoils the use of the site for local people and children and constitutes an on-going burden for the Trust who are responsible for the site.

6.4 The total cost of the project is £1,500 which will pay for 2 alarms, 2 British Telecom lines and administration fees . Annual maintenance will be met by the Trust.

6.5 £750 is requested from the Inner West Area Committee the remaining £750 being sought from the Outer West Area Committee.

7.0 SKIPS AND SMALL GRANTS

7.1 There have been no applications for small grants since the last committee meeting.

7.2 There have been requests for 11 skips from the New Wortley neighbourhood since the last meeting. This has been in response to clearance work undertaken by people serving Community Service who were tasked to clear undergrowth and vegetation from a number of sites in the area. This has been extremely successful with the area around the New Wortley Community Centre and the wider estate being totally cleared of overgrown trees and shrubs. This has made the area feel more welcoming and safe. The cost of the skips has been £1,170. This was organised by the Neighbourhood Wardens.

7.3 Due to the success of the skips service the funding has now been exhausted. A further allocation is required to meet potential requests for the period Dec to March 2006.

7.4 A further £1,500 is requested from the Inner West Area Committee.

8.00 RECOMMENDATIONS

8.10 Members are requested to note the projects approved and the remaining funding available.

8.20 To approve, where appropriate the new projects submitted with this report. Area Committee Well-being Fund – Project Proposal Inner West Area Committee Appendix 1 Project Name: Out and About with BTCV

Lead Organisation: BTCV Hollybush

Project Delivery - How will the project be delivered? (list any partners involved in the project): Activities will be linked to existing services providers to complement their largely support roles. These will include West Leeds Healthy Living Network, Meeting Point Christchurch Armley and West Leeds members of the West Yorkshire Refugee Network.

Project Summary (include a brief description of the main activities, why the project is needed and links to key priorities): This year long programme will address a range of basic needs of individual asylum seekers by facilitating groups to explore their new districts by foot, public transport and environmental activities. These needs include: finding key facilities and shops locally and in the City, learning about free outdoor leisure destinations, practising English, and gaining experience of the volunteer culture. The project will welcome asylum seekers by providing refreshments at sessions and also basic appropriate outdoor clothing. Whilst addressing both Streetscene through practical environmental projects and Education and Skills through training individuals as leaders and in other skills, the projects main impacts may be in Community Safety and Community Involvement. BTCV will be aiming to involve local residents in the programme and through this foster positive appreciation of people from different cultures.

Outcomes (summarise the main outcome/output/benefit the project will achieve): 75 activities 60 different asylum seekers and at least 15 other people involved. For asylum seekers to gain knowledge of their locality and have confidence in using public transport to get around. To practice English in an informal setting. For friendship and understanding to be fostered between the asylum seeker community and local residents. For all to enjoy the group activities.

Project Cost. Please indicate

How much the project will cost?

£47500

(List all partners and their contibutions)

Home Office Immigration and Nationality Directorate £40,000 Scurrah Wainwright Trust £2000 (for work in NE Leeds)

In Kind West Leeds Healthy Living Network and other agencies working with refugees. A record of significant assistance both staff time and facilities will be kept. Appendix 1 Identify which geographic areas will benefit:

Armley, Bramley and potentially neighbouring areas. With changing Home Office policies on asylum seekers our priority will be to ensure the sessions are well attended.

20% of sessions are allocated to Postive Action for Refugees in Harehills who were our partners on a pilot project.

How much Well Being Funding is sought and breakdown between capital and revenue)

£5,500 (£1000 05-06, £4500 06-07) all revenue.

Who will be in receipt of the financial order. (name of the organisation and contact details) BTCV Hollybush. John Preston County Manager. [email protected] Hollybush Conservation Centre, Broad Lane, Kirkstall, Leeds LS5 3BP 0113 274 2335

Approved Date

Not Approved Date

Please return this form to Rebecca Boon, West Area Management Team, c/o Armley One Stop Centre, 2 Stocks Hill, Armley Leeds. LS12 1QU or via email to [email protected]

Area Committee Well-being Fund – Project Proposal Inner West Area Committee Appendix 2 Project Name: Sandford Women’s Group

Lead Organisation: Early Years

Project Delivery - How will the project be delivered? (list any partners involved in the project): Sandford Womens Group, Surestart, Holly Bush Children’s Centre.

Project Summary (include a brief description of the main activities, why the project is needed and links to key priorities):

Sandford Womens Group are a new group formed with the assistance of Early Years Service, Surestart, and the Holly Bush Children’s Centre. They are a group of local young mothers who meet on Friday mornings to discuss issues that affect them whilst making craft items. Their children’s ages range from young babies to 4 years and are minded by a qualified and an unqualified crèche workers which is required by law.

The project is a capacity building and empowerment initiative which seeks to support young mothers in a deprived neighbourhood. It will encourage discussion about issues relative to them, their families and the neighbourhood and promote positive decision making. This will hopefully have an impact on the wider community and also promote usage of a community facility.

Funding is required to purchase craft materials and to pay for crèche workers.

Outcomes (summarise the main outcome/output/benefit the project will achieve): • Local women and their families will be encouraged to Stay Safe, Be Healthy, Make a Positve Contribution, Enjoy and Achieve, AchieveEconomic Well-Being.

• Promote usage of a Community facility.

• Support Inter-Agency working between Surestart, Early Years, Local Community, Holly Bush Children’s Centre, West Leeds Healthy Living Network.

• To promote training and access to employment.

Project Cost: Total cost £1500 (£500 applied for from Surestart)

Identify which geographic areas will benefit: Braodleas and Sandford area of Bramley & Stanningley ward.

L:\COMMITTEE-MEETINGS\AG_REPOR\20052006\Committees\Area Committees\W Inner\December\Reports\Item 16Appen 1 2.doc Area Committee Well-being Fund – Project Proposal Inner West Area Committee Appendix 2 How much Well-Being Funding is sought and break down between Revenue and Capital.

£1000 revenue is sought.

Approved Date

Not Approved Date

Please return this form to Rebecca Boon, West Area Management Team, c/o Armley One Stop Centre, 2 Stocks Hill, Armley Leeds. LS12 1QU or via email to [email protected]

L:\COMMITTEE-MEETINGS\AG_REPOR\20052006\Committees\Area Committees\W Inner\December\Reports\Item 16Appen 2 2.doc Appendix 3 Area Committee Well-being Fund – Project Proposal Inner West Area Committee

Project Name: West Leeds Youth Development Worker

Lead Organisation: Learning & Leisure Department; Youth Service

Project Delivery - How will the project be delivered? (list any partners involved in the project):

The project will be delivered by the Youth Service in conjunction with the West Leeds Area Management Team.

Project Summary (include a brief description of the main activities, why the project is needed and links to key priorities):

The proposal is for a Youth Development Worker to work across both Inner and Outer West areas to support and develop work with young people. The post holder will support the voluntary sector in their provision and improve links with the Youth Service. There could be a small element of delivery but the main focus would be on working with volunteers to develop their contribution to the provision. The proposal is based on models developed in North East and South Leeds.

The focus of the work would be on hotspot areas within each ward. The target age range would be 9-13 as this is currently where there is a gap in provision. Older age groups can require more intensive youth work which the Youth Service are better placed to deliver.

The post would be offered at JNC 2 level on a 12 month contract. The post would be line managed by the West Leeds Senior Youth Officer (SYO) and based with the West Leeds Youth Service Team at Strawberry Lane. The work programme would be steered through SYO line management, Youth Service team meetings, the Multi-Agency Tasking group and regular meetings between the SYO, Area Management Team and Youth Development Worker to develop the Area Delivery Plans for Inner and Outer West. The post holder would be expected to work 37 hours per week including up to 4 evenings per week.

It is anticipated that if funding is approved, the post could be filled by mid January 2006.

The proposal links to Area Management’s ‘Services for Young People’ priority and addresses the Council’s corporate objective of Creating Better Neighbourhoods and Confident Communities.

Outcomes (summarise the main outcome/output/benefit the project will achieve):

• Increased engagement with young people aged 9-13 • Increased voluntary sector capacity and sustainability

Appendix 3

Identify which geographic areas will benefit:

Hotspot areas within each ward of Inner and Outer West.

Project Cost . Please indicate how much the project will cost. (please list all partners and their contributions)

The total cost of the Youth Development Worker would be £35,000, including on-costs.

How much Well Being Funding is sought and breakdown between capital and revenue)

It is proposed that the post be funded equally between the Inner and Outer West Area Committee, with £17,500 (revenue) being sought from each Area Committee’s Well-being budget.

Who will be in receipt of the financial order. (name of the organisation and contact details)

Contact: Jean Davey

Senior Youth Officer Youth Services West Area Team Strawberry Lane Centre Strawberry Lane Leeds

Tel: 231 9903

Appendix 4 Area Committee Well Being Fund Commissioning of Service

Project Name: Rodley Nature Reserve

Lead Organisation: Rodley Nature Reserve & West Yorkshire Police

Project Summary: The Rodley Nature Reserve is a valuable project which is of great benefit to all sectors of the community who live in West Leeds. The project is run by volunteers and as such is a registered charity that relies on donations. The nature Reserve offers an opportunity to observe a wide variety of wildlife in natural surroundings. There are organised special events days which have included Bat Walks, Month Nights and Barbeques. The Nature Reserve also provides educational opportunities for the local schools and gives support for people with disabilities.

The Nature Reserve has in the last year has been a victim of burglary and damage offences totalling £3,600. Whilst the Trustees have invested in security grills/shutters, Danny Dance the Crime Prevention Officer with special responsibility for Wildlife within the Pudsey Weetwood Division has advised that, due to the isolated location of the reserve a 24 hours monitored alarm system connected to the police station would be the most effective means of combating this type of crime. The monitored alarm system would mean that in the event of any activation an audio alarm will sound, plus a signal will be sent simultaneously to the alarm company & the police control room. This then becomes a grade 1 response and a unit will attend immediately.

Outcomes (please summarise the main outcome / output / benefit the project will achieve):

The Nature Reserve has had 3 recent break-ins with damage and theft of equipment. The installation of an alarm monitored by the police control room would provide a deterrent to such offences and would also alert the police to any activation, enabling them to provide an immediate response.

Project Cost (please indicate how much the project will cost, how much Well Being Funding is sought and breakdown between capital and revenue): The cost for the purchase and installation of 2 alarms plus 2 BT lines and administration fees is approx £1500.00. The Rodley Nature Reserve Trust will fund the yearly maintenance, monitoring and BT line rental totalling £460 per annum. A request is been made to the Inner Area Committee for £750 to assist with the costs. A request is also being made to the Outer Area Committee for £750 as the Rodley Nature Reserve serves local communities in both Inner and Outer West.

Identify which geographic areas will benefit and which Area Committee (Inner or Outer) you are applying to: Inner West Whilst the Nature Reserve is situated in Inner West it is also close to the boundary of Outer West therefore serving both communities and local groups. A request is therefore being made for £750 to both Inner and Outer Area Committees to cover the cost of the purchase and installation of the alarm. Total cost £1500

State who will receive the funding for this project: Rodley Nature Reserve Trust.

L:\COMMSAFE\Gill\Area Committee reports\Welbeing Rodley Nature Reserve.doc Appendix 5 Area Committee Well-being Fund – Project Proposal Inner West Area Committee

Project Name: West Leeds Credit Union

Lead Organisation: Leeds City Credit Union (West Leeds)

Project Delivery - How will the project be delivered? (list any partners involved in the project):

The project will be delivered by the Leeds City Credit Union from Armley One Stop Centre

Project Summary (include a brief description of the main activities, why the project is needed and links to key priorities):

Refer to separate report on Credit Union

Outcomes (summarise the main outcome/output/benefit the project will achieve):

To increase the provision and awareness of credit unions in West Leeds in tackling poverty and health. To provide a credit union for West Leeds

Identify which geographic areas will benefit:

Armley and neighbouring communities

Project Cost . Please indicate how much the project will cost. (please list all partners and their contributions)

Year 1 £62,125 Year 2 £56,648 Year 3 £59,696

How much Well Being Funding is sought and breakdown between capital and revenue)

Year 1 £844 Year 2 £3375 Year 3 £2531

Who will be in receipt of the financial order. (name of the organisation and contact details)

Contact: West Leeds Credit Union, Sue Davenport

Tel:

AGENDA ITEM NO.:

Originator: Clare Wiggins

Tel: 395 1973

REPORT OF THE: Director of Neighbourhoods and Housing MEETING: Inner West Area Committee DATE: 9th December 2005 SUBJECT: West Leeds Business Breakfast

Electoral Wards Affected: Specific Implications For:

ALLArmley Ethnic Minorities Bramley Women

Disabled People

Executive Council Eligible Not eligible for Call In Function 3 Function for Call In 3 (details contained in the report)

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This report seeks to provide Members with an overview of the West Leeds Business Breakfast event.

1.0 Background

1.1 As part of the process of engaging with local businesses, West Leeds Area Management Team joined forces with Leeds Chamber of Commerce to host a West Leeds Business Breakfast in November 2005. The reasoning behind this proposal was that the business sector is a vital element of the community which have not yet been significantly included on the Area Management agenda. It was also felt that there are a number of significant employers within West Leeds areas who could contribute to improvements to the local area.

1.2 The event was organised on behalf of West Leeds Area Management Team by Leeds Chamber of Commerce and took place on 22nd November at the Cornmill Lodge.

1.3 The event offered a networking opportunity to meet businesses that have adopted corporate social responsibility and to look at ways that this could be developed. Businesses were able to find out practical and cost-effective ways in which they can make a contribution to improving the local area.

2.0 The Event

2.1 Approximately 20 local businesses from both the Inner and Outer West areas attended the event, as well as local Councillors from the Inner and Outer West Area Committees and representatives from Leeds Chamber and Business in the Community.

2.2 The event was opened by Cllr Andrew Carter and Stuart Firth (MD of Elite Group). Delegates then heard presentations from: • Leeds Chamber – on the benefits of implementing corporate social responsibility • Leeds Ahead – on the scheme’s partnership which provides a simple mechanism for businesses to engage in regenerating deprived communities across Leeds • Greggs – on the company’s approach to corporate social responsibility and how this has translated into positive involvement in the local community, notably arounf their work with school breakfast clubs • West Leeds Area Management Team – on how businesses can get involved in supporting the work for local communities within West Leeds

2.3 An opportunity for questions to the panel followed and finally a chance for attendees to meet informally.

3.0 Next Steps

3.1 The event was considered to be ‘a start’ in terms of engaging the business sector in the Area Management agenda.

3.2 Staff from the West Leeds Area Management Team will now be arranging follow-up meetings with those businesses that attended to try identify suitable opportunities for involvement in the local community.

5.0 Recommendations

5.1 The Area Committee is asked to note the content of and attendance at the West Leeds Business Breakfast.