Population of St Helens: How Is The

St Helens Council’s HOW community magazine YOU CAN HELP US PAGE 11

YOUR Spring COUNCIL TAX ST HELENS’ 2017 EXPLAINED BUDGET PAGE 8-9 CHALLENGE 2017-2020 PAGE 14-15

BREAKING POINT AN IN-DEPTH AND UPFRONT LOOK AT THE COUNCIL’S BUDGET POSITION sthelenscouncil | @sthelenscouncil | Spring 2017 | St Helens First 1 2 St Helens First | Spring 2017 | www.sthelens.gov.uk St Helens Council’s community magazine Welcome Spring an unprecedented level of budget vulnerable children, care for the 2017 cuts. Merseyside Police has lost elderly and maintain the roads will be £84 million with 1,600 officers and your Council Tax and business rates staff posts deleted. Merseyside Fire generated from businesses in Service has lost £26 million with a CONTACT US the borough. We are expected, as a third of fire appliances gone, and the Online: www.sthelens.gov.uk borough to be self-sufficient. It means health service, although not directly Email: cut, is experiencing pressure from an encouraging more rate paying [email protected] increasingly aging population. business and increasing Council Tax Telephone: 01744 676789 As a council, we’ve already lost more so that essential services can be Minicom: 01744 671671 St Helens than 1,600 staff and have dramatically maintained. Download the free, handy app reduced the number of services we It also means we must explain Council – search St Helens Council Council provide. However, the pressure we Tax better. As a council we must on your app store. Or visit our face not only comes from reduced legally provide certain services, such Contact Centre, Wesley House, Leader’s column funding, but also from increases in; as caring for the elderly, or keeping Corporation Street, St Helens, the amount of children and young children safe. Your Council Tax is a WA10 1HF. Cllr Andy Bowden people needing care or some form contribution to meeting the costs of Please contact us to request Acting Leader of protection, the number of children these services which the council has a translation of council information of St Helens Council with disabilities or severe learning statutory duty to provide. into Braille, audio transcription or difficulties and the ever increasing a foreign language. elcome to the Spring numbers of elderly people in need Over the next few months we will edition of St Helens of social care as our population be reviewing some of the services First. Follow us on Twitter: continues to age. we offer such as libraries, waste @sthelenscouncil W This edition has been The next three years (2017-2020) will collection and school crossing patrols – we may have to charge for services Like us on Facebook: dedicated to keeping you informed of be the toughest yet for the council, sthelenscouncil the council’s financial position. As a and possibly the borough, as we seek that were previously free or carry out council we are currently facing one of a further £20.6 million of savings. services less often. There can be no the most turbulent times in our history. This is particularly hard when we have doubt that services will be greatly CONTACT We’ve already lost £74 million of already made most of the efficiency affected, although we will do all we ST HELENS Government funding from our budget savings in previous years. There is no can to protect vital services to those since 2010 with an additional £20.6 longer any slack left in the system. with the greatest needs – vulnerable FIRST MAGAZINE million of savings to make over the Our approach is to be honest about children and adults. what this will mean. If you have less Email: next three years, as we respond to We’ve got some tough choices ahead money to spend, then you can provide [email protected] significant cuts in funding we receive fewer services. It’s as simple as that. but we will continue to consult with Online: from central Government. In total, our It also means being more open about local people and listen carefully to www.sthelens.gov.uk/news funding to spend on services in St how council finances actually work. what you tell us, so together we can Telephone: 01744 676164 Helens by 2020 will be £90 million From 2020 the amount of money find the best option for St Helens’ less than in 2010. provided to St Helens Council by future. You can go online at www. And it’s not just us – the whole of Government will almost all be gone. sthelens.gov.uk/budget to find out TALKING PAGES the public sector is experiencing The main funding available to protect more about our budget challenge. St Helens First is now available in talking book form for visually impaired people, contact us for information. Features 6-7 How your council ADVERTISING is funded St Helens Council does not warrant the accuracy of any 6 24 16-19 The cost of care description or statement, and does not endorse any product 22-23 Volunteers matter or service contained in any commercial advertisement featured in this publication. News environmentally-friendly paper. 24-25 St Cuthbert’s glowing Ofsted report 27 Archery club targets new members 22 28-29 The best upcoming

events

sthelenscouncil | @sthelenscouncil | Spring 2017 | St Helens First 3

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What does your council ! ! spend its income on? !" Your council provides a wide range of maintain the parks and keep the streets clean, of statutory services including adult and services from cradle to grave and every but most importantly we also provide life children’s social care, where the cost of stage in between, many of which we take changing support for older people, people with that service depends largely on the number for granted every day. disabilities and children who are in need of of people in need. There are also services care, amongst many other services. St Helens has a growing population, which which we legally have to provide but it is not is currently 177,612 people in 82,000 Your council is not only obliged to deliver local specified how we deliver them such as waste households. Each year St Helens Council services but must also aim to balance the collection, road maintenance and library delivers hundreds of services to each and budget each year to pay for these services. every one of them, helping to look after the In order to pay for services council’s receive services. Some services are discretionary, local area and working to improve the lives of income from Council Tax, business rates, meaning they are services that a council can local people. from fees and charges and from central choose to provide but does not have to, like You probably know that your council does Government by way of a grant. leisure services, pest control and parking – things like collect your bins, fix potholes, We are legally required to provide a number and we can charge for these services.

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! ! ! ! !" !" What are the budget pressures? Like many other councils across the country, we’ve been hit hard by Government cuts. Since 2010 we’ve had our central funding reduced by by 58% - that’s some £74 million of savings. This has led to big changes in the way our services have been delivered. Over the next three years we will have to face further funding cuts totalling £15.6m. With inflation and other cost factors added on this will mean we will need to find a further £20.6m of savings by 2020. That’s £90 million of funding cuts over the ten-year period which equates to £507 less per person to spend on your services, than we did in 2010. That’s a much bigger cut than authorities in the more wealthier parts of the country.

4 St Helens First | Spring 2017 | www.sthelens.gov.uk

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What are the demand ! ! pressures? !" In addition to the cuts to our budget it west averages, resulting in a greater impact We may need to charge for other services is also costing us more to provide local from welfare reforms and inequalities that only some people require such as garden services due to increasing demand and across wards. waste as other councils do. Or we may rising costs. The simple truth is we can no longer continue reduce services such as only cleaning the to pay for all the services we have traditionally gullies and gutters once a year instead of St Helens has an aging population causing pressure on health and social care services provided. We must prioritise resources every six months. such as home carers, respite provision and towards those services which we are legally We are continuing to review how we provide support to people with long term health required to offer and review how we provide services such as libraries, parks and leisure conditions such as dementia. In the next them. centres in order to deliver a further £20.6 20 years the number of 90 year olds in St We will be caring for vulnerable adults million worth of savings. Helens is expected to triple and the number in need. The decisions to be made are hard but there of older people with complex and/or multiple We will continue to protect children and are few alternatives, having already managed conditions is likely to dramatically increase. keep them safe. £74m of funding cuts through efficiencies and We will maintain the roads, pavements and Demand and risk is also increasing within cutting discretionary services to the bone. Children and Young People’s services with street lighting – but this may be to a more We’ve got some tough choices to make about an increase in looked after children or those basic standard. services which we know are important to you. needing some form of protection, as well as a There’s no doubt that people will be losing We can only do that by listening to you – the some of the discretionary services that they’ve rise in the number of children with disabilities people who use our services. or experiencing severe learning difficulties. come to expect. If we are not legally required St Helens is the 36th most deprived local to carry out a service, then it is possible that Visit our website at www.sthelens.gov.uk/ authority area in England with unemployment this service will no longer budget to find out more about our budget rates significantly above national and north be available. challenge.

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sthelenscouncil | @sthelenscouncil | Spring 2017 | St Helens First 5

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6 St Helens First | Spring 2017 | www.sthelens.gov.uk Budget Challenge How your council is funded Since 2010 St Helens Council has to start charging for more and more of those from investment, we need to have the

increased its income by over £8m, but non-statutory services such as garden waste, available money to fund activities now. This is this does not off-set the £74m cuts to in order to secure funding for those services something which we are currently looking at

grant that we have had to make since which we must legally provide. It’s a simple and we will invest to generate more income or 2010. The ways of generating income case of prioritising resources to what services cost savings in the future.

are limited and the amount generated we must legally provide.

can be relatively small. This is especially Councils do have other

so considering the further £20.6 million ways of increasing income.

savings that need to be found by 2020. In general, a council might

One way of generating income is by have access to capital

charging fees on a number of local council funds which it can invest

services. Some fees are fixed centrally by in buildings etc from which

Government – such as planning and some they can look to invest to

licensing fees – but others such as parking

earn income in the future.

charges, leisure centre fees and charges for Also, councils can invest to

bulky item collections, can be set by local save by doing such things councils. as investing capital funds in

There are a number of services which the replacing street lighting with council is legally obliged to provide which new, modern, energy efficient can’t be charged for such as general waste lighting – which reduces the collection, but as budgets are cut and savings annual cost of electricity. need to be found, the council will be forced However, in order to benefit

The budget process At St Helens Council, our process for and portfolio holders then set out initial through the online Budget Simulator over the setting our budget typically starts 14 months guidelines over the Summer, and discussions last six months. The full budget is approved beforehand, and budgets are considered over continue as our Government grant figures in March. All major budget decisions are a three year planning cycle. Because much are received before Christmas. Plans are discussed and approved by our Cabinet. information is unknown at the time, these refined and in the new year a consultation on figures provide only an indication of how budget proposals is held with local people The final budget is then agreed at full Council much future funding will become available. and other stakeholders. Plans are refined meetings. The reports and minutes for these Senior staff consider spending pressures and a consultation on budget proposals has meetings are all published on our website in the previous Spring. The Council Leader been held with stakeholders and local people www.sthelens.gov.uk/council

sthelenscouncil | @sthelenscouncil | Spring 2017 | St Helens First 7

Budget Challenge

Your Council Tax Explained

Council Tax is the local taxpayer’s contribution towards the cost of services in your local area. It is a tax based on domestic property and it is collected by your local council.

Example of breakdown for council tax band A in 2016/17 Where the

TOWN HALL MERSEYSIDE MERSEYSIDE COUNCIL TAX SERVICES POLICE FIRE & RESCUE BAND A money goes £841 + £108 + £49 = £998

Most of the money we collect is spent keeping the street lighting on. These are all can’t be maintained. Increasingly as budget on local council services. But some of it services that the community benefits from, cuts bite, almost all of the funds available go is handed over to pay for services like the but it may not be a service that you directly to just what services we must legally provide receive. police and fire services. – and what we must legally offer may not be The reduction of the Government grant of Your council uses its allocation of your services you personally access. However, one Council Tax contribution towards funding local £7m in 2017/18 will mean that your Council day a family member of yours might need care, services such as social care for vulnerable Tax contribution may not be able to provide people, and support for children, young people all the services you would like, or at a level or a child in your street may need protecting. and the elderly. It also pays for waste and that you may expect, as it has to be used Your Council Tax is what allows that to take recycling, street cleaning, parks and much by the council to meet its minimum legal place. more. requirements in regards to vulnerable adults, As a council we can generate more Council children and young people and maintenance Therefore, Council Tax is not a direct Tax by allowing more houses to be built, but payment for a direct service. Your Council Tax of the roads and pavements. more houses means more services to provide is a contribution to the costs of services that This is why you can’t “opt-out” of paying your council has to legally provide such as Council Tax – put simply if you don’t contribute and the additional costs associated - so social care for elderly people, the protection your share, local children can’t be kept safe, there’s more to consider than simply building and safeguarding of children, and even the vulnerable can’t be cared for and the roads more to earn more!

8 St Helens First | Spring 2017 | www.sthelens.gov.uk

Budget Challenge

Your Council Tax Explained

Is Council Tax set to rise? It is likely that Council Tax that we are proposing to raise will rise by 3.99% for 2017/18. Council Tax by 1.99% – the This is subject to consultation maximum amount that we can with local people and our key legally raise without holding a stakeholders and takes in to public referendum. This is in consideration a 2% increase, addition to the 2% Care Precept which the Government expects mentioned above. This is in line to be raised for social care and with almost all local councils in must be spent on Social Care. areas such as ours. Councils across the country In deprived areas like St are again having to respond Helens the amount of income to Government spending cuts, which can be raised by Council and here in St Helens we are no Tax is limited. This is because exception. 45% of property in St Helens is In simple terms, we’re getting in Band A. Deprived areas are less money to provide the also in greater need of resources services that people depend on. to pay for services due to higher So we have no alternative but to levels of health inequalities, make up some of the shortfall unemployment and poor lifestyle by raising Council Tax. To do choices. Extra for

(SOCITM; social care Society of IT Face to face Telephone Online Managers) Councils like St Helens, are taking this option and are £7.40 £2.90 £0.32p 2014 which have social care proposing increases of 4.99%. responsibilities, have been However, we feel that this would allowed by Government to raise not provide additional funding Council Tax by an extra 2% in over the three years but would 2016/17 with the condition that simply make funding available Do it online this money was set aside to pay earlier. for social care locally. Following This would have a big government announcements The internet has changed the way people do business and at the end of 2016, councils impact on Council Tax payers, live their lives, and the council is moving rapidly to provide more can now bring forward a rise particularly those on lower and more information and services on-line. Our aim is for our in the social care precept from household incomes and cause website to be your preferred method of contact with us, wherever 2019/20 to 2017/8 and 2018/19. further strain – it is proposed possible, significantly reducing the cost of running the council This would in effect allow the that in St Helens the increase and providing services and information in a way that meets council to raise the precept will be a 2% social care precept people’s expectations. by 3% for the next two years, each year over the next three You can make enquiries, apply for and pay your Council meaning a 4.99% increase in years, but this is subject to Tax online at www.sthelens.gov.uk/counciltax Council Tax. Many council areas consultation.

sthelenscouncil | @sthelenscouncil | Spring 2017 | St Helens First 9 Budget Challenge Changing the way we work

Since 2010 we’ve been busy changing the significantly reduced the number of directors rail infrastructure by working in partnership way the council works so that we could and senior managers. There will be further with Highways England to develop the M6 find the majority of the £74m grant cuts reviews and no doubt further job losses as a growth corridor with improvements to junctions we needed internally. result. 22 and 23, to improve connectivity and encourage more businesses to invest and Over the last year alone, we have had to find Making savings on this scale has been savings of £12m. In order to do this, we have extremely challenging and has significantly people to reside in the area. had to make further efficiency savings and changed the scale and nature of what the As St Helens Council is a financially well change the way we deliver services, with some council does – an inevitable consequence of managed and stable council, we will also of our discretionary services being reduced. the council’s workforce shrinking from 8,216 look at ways to invest to grow. In short, this We’ve also looked at the way we purchase employees in 2010 to 6,574 today. means we will look to borrow money cheaply services and maximised value for money at to make capital investments which will allow every opportunity. We’ve changed the way us to receive additional revenue. This is we borrow money and reduced repayments. We’ll continue an investment if the revenue we obtain is We’ve looked at delivering some services more than the cost of the borrowing and any in new and innovative ways and wherever to do all we maintenance of the asset. So we will invest possible we’ve worked in partnership in order in assets in order to make a surplus and use to cut costs. can… that to help support the cost of providing Whether you are aware of it or not as a We’ve also been busy trying to generate public services. In doing so, we also hope to resident, St Helens Council has a reputation more revenue. Over the last two years improve the borough’s physical infrastructure for being well managed and delivering we’ve granted consent for more than 1,800 at the same time. services effectively – St Helens Council has new homes to be built in the borough, not suggested it will be financially broke in which will help to generate more Council You may have seen or heard news the next couple of years as some councils Tax income and mean we are less reliant stories about other local authority have and this is because it is a well-managed, on Government grants. We’ve seen more areas and the financial challenges they efficient and effective council. business tax revenue from a higher level of are also facing in light of budget cuts. In response to the cuts we have faced we commercial activity in St Helens, with more It is true to say that St Helens Council have also looked at the structure of the council than 75,000 square metres developed for is in a better position than most, and good practical financial management business in the last two years. A town centre and a review of our workforce has resulted in has meant we are more stable and 1,642 employees being lost since 2010 - the redevelopment strategy is due to be launched resilient to face the challenges that will majority of which, (1,366 employees) have in 2017 and the Linkway West development be coming our way over the next three been lost from traditional council services, the will see commercial interests strengthened years. remainder being from schools. We’ve also further. We’re also improving the road and

10 St Helens First | Spring 2017 | www.sthelens.gov.uk Budget Challenge How you can help us …..

Shop local

We can’t make the substantial savings that need to be made alone. We need your help. We want to build a borough where everyone does their bit, and everyone benefits. We want to work with residents, businesses and other organisations, together as a team – a team of more than 177,000 people - for the good of our local area and to meet this challenge together. St Helens is a borough where people help and look out for each other. There is already a huge amount of community work taking place, such as the army of volunteers who turn out every week to help run children’s football practice, or those who pop round to check up on their elderly neighbours, those who take time to read to children in schools, run organisations or help out at our libraries. The list is endless and we want to thank you all. We also want to suggest some other ways Keep recycling in which we can work together. If we all make some small changes in our day to day lives, we could make a big difference and can help We’re making more and more of our Offer a helping hand to make the most of every penny we spend. services online and making them easier for There’s a number of ways that we can work you to access on your mobile or tablet. Pay to older people together. your Council Tax and business rates online by By recycling more and recycling correctly, direct debit. It costs pence rather than pounds to help reduce the councils cost, improve the to provide some services online rather than environment and help save the planet. Putting face to face or on the phone. Plus, it’s easier the wrong things in the brown bin costs us for you, as you can log on whenever it suits more money, so knowing what can go in and you. If we all supported local businesses by what can’t will really make a difference. If shopping locally and using local suppliers, we every household put 1kg less waste in their could help to grow local businesses and the brown bin each week we could save another economy and create jobs. We know for every £1 million in landfill tax per year. That could £1 spent in St Helens it delivers up to £4’s mean just recycling a few extra jars or cans a worth of value to the local economy. week instead of throwing them away. Talking We’re also lucky to have the best chamber of rubbish - don’t drop litter and do report any of commerce in the country. St Helens rubbish that’s been dumped. If we can stop Chamber supports over 1,000 businesses, people fly-tipping and littering, we could save and has been named the UK’s Chamber of another million every year. the Year three times in the last decade - most By simply being a good neighbour and recently in 2016 - the only chamber to do so If keeping an eye on an elderly relative or friend, you would like to know how you can play your you can help keep someone fit and healthy, part in helping us meet our budget challenge living independently in their own homes for as visit www.sthelens.gov.uk and look for tips long as possible. within the relevant services pages.

sthelenscouncil | @sthelenscouncil | Spring 2017 | St Helens First 11 Budget Challenge Across the wider public sector

As budget cuts continue to bite many reductions are likely to continue for some Helens, Halton, Warrington and parts of public sector organisations are scaling years based on the forecasts of Government. Knowsley, West Lancashire and Sefton - will back the services they provide to the Public sector organisations have managed see an estimated budget shortfall in 2020 of statutory minimum in order to meet costs. these challenges by increased efficiency and £250 million – not due to cuts, but simply from The budget cuts we are experiencing within doing the same services with less cost. As rising demand as more and more people use the public sector are the most radical in cuts have continued to bite it has led to the our health services. a generation with the Local Government reduction of some services and the withdrawal The current scale of change happening across Association highlighting that the north is being from some non-statutory services. Further the public sector is unprecedented. In St hit harder by Government cuts than any other reductions to budgets have now resulted in Helens we have always maintained a good region in England. public organisations simply doing the statutory minimum that is legally required. record of partnership working. But budget In St Helens it is not just the council being reductions and radically changing systems affected, but the whole of the public sector. To date Merseyside Police have lost more than 1,600 officers and staff, with Merseyside call for a new “collaborative” approach to As well as the £74 million of grant cuts faced working together. One in which services are by the council since 2010, Merseyside Police Fire and Rescue service losing nearly 300 fire designed around the person and their needs, has seen their budget cut by £84 million and fighters. with relevant partners working together beyond Merseyside Fire Service by £26 million. The And that’s not all. By 2020 it is estimated that their organisations boundaries to share health service, although not experiencing cuts the council will need to find at least a further to budgets, have seen demand increase to £20.6 million, Merseyside Police will need to services and solve problems locally. such a level that it now has a huge budget save a further £22 million and the Merseyside In St Helens we are leading the way in working shortfall. Fire Service £11 million. The changes seen to with our public sector partners to collaborate date will be continuing for years to come. The entire local public service system in St more to reduce demand and save money. Helens is changing – austerity and budget In addition, the health service covering St More and more of this will happen.

12 St Helens First | Spring 2017 | www.sthelens.gov.uk Budget Challenge Across the wider public sector

Reductions to front line services Each year at St Helens Council, reductions to front line services. we are faced with the daunting But although we know we need to challenge of balancing the make further cuts, we will always do budget. everything we can to protect those But this has become harder and in greatest need. For this reason harder to achieve since we’ve we have tried to protect the money already made most of the efficiency we spend on keeping vulnerable savings achievable, we’ve cut children and adults safe and well. discretionary services and we’ve retreated towards providing only But the reality is this round of cuts statutory services. Now facing will be felt – it is impossible to further savings of £20.6 million make close to £100 million worth of over the next three years to 2020, savings and local people not to feel we have no option but to make the resulting effect.

In St Helens, like other areas of the 90+ year olds in the borough triple by 2037. with reduced public funding and a high country, health and social care faces But this is not just about older people, but expectation of public services, have led to significant challenges. An ageing younger people with health conditions and an unprecedented financial challenge for the population is one issue, but there are disabilities who are living longer too. We are borough. As well as this financial challenge, other factors that are also impacting. also experiencing an increase in the number changes to the welfare and benefits system are also increasing the pressure on social care of people with mental health problems and One of the success stories of the last twenty and health. With partners we have worked out learning difficulties and high numbers of years or so is the number of people who are that the health and care system in St Helens living longer. In St Helens we are following children with disabilities. will suffer a £101 million gap by 2020, if the national trend and will see the number of These complex population needs together decisive action isn’t taken.

What is social care and how is it different from healthcare? Social care is the delivery of services by children and adults from harm, younger Making social care work better with healthcare the council which help vulnerable people disabled people, older people nearing the is something many people have wanted to with the activities of everyday living. When end of life, people with mental health issues, achieve for a decade or more. In St Helens, we say social care people often think about people with learning and physical disabilities, the council, the NHS Clinical Commissioning care homes, but it is much more than that. It and children in need of foster care and Group (CCG) and the hospitals work very well adoption. includes supporting people who are older, together to join-up what we do. We share the frail or disabled to continue living in their own Healthcare can be more broadly defined fact that the system will have a £101 million homes, with support for basic needs such as as the treatment, care and prevention of a funding gap in 2020 and we have all agreed to washing, dressing and getting out of bed. disease, illness or injury. work together in response. This is an example Social care also includes supporting children Social care is provided by the council and of how your council in St Helens is trying to who are disabled or who have special must be funded by the council and healthcare do the best we can to maintain services in educational needs, protecting vulnerable is provided largely by the NHS. response to the budget pressures we face.

16 St Helens First | Spring 2017 | www.sthelens.gov.uk Budget Challenge How changes could affect local people The reality of the budget situation examples show the potential is that the council may not be impact on how care would have able to provide the same level of to be provided if we do not start care as it did before. We’ll have to work differently. The examples to change the way our services are not being implemented, but are provided, meaning our more are the type of considerations a vulnerable residents may be council would have to make when affected as the amount of money trying to balance the books. that the council has to spend on However, read on to find out how these services is reducing. we will limit the impact on local The examples that follow are people, and try to prevent these fictional, but their circumstances examples from becoming reality, are shared by many in St Helens, through more joined-up working in and across the country. The the St Helens Cares partnership.

Meet Tom...

A 49 year old man with learning difficulties who sometimes exhibits challenging behaviour and is unable to live on his own. He requires support with going to the toilet. He lives with his elderly mother, Agnes, who is 74 and has some issues with her own health. Tom presently receives a direct payment from the council to purchase five days a week day service from a local care organisation, a personal assistant on a Saturday to undertake activities and take him out for the day, a Friday night activity club, weekends and weeks away (four weeks per year), a range of leisure and recreational activities including trips to the cinema, bowling and meals out. Agnes cares deeply for Tom but values the time on her own in order to manage her own house and health needs, maintain her wellbeing and spend time with other family members, grandchildren and friends. What the reduction in council funding could mean for Tom and Agnes • Tom could receive a reduction in his direct payment from the equivalent of 6 days and 1 evening per week to 2.5 days per week. • He could receive a reduction in the respite weeks from 4 weeks to 2 weeks. There would be no additional weeks or flexibility, and the council would not be able fund breaks away from the borough. • Agnes could have to care for Tom for an additional 175 days per year, not including weekends. She would also be caring for Tom on Friday nights. • The quality of life for both Tom and Agnes could decline, with Tom not getting the social care support he is used to, and Agnes having less time to see friends and family.

sthelenscouncil | @sthelenscouncil | Spring 2017 | St Helens First 17 Budget Challenge

Sylvia... Susan... Is an 86 year-old widow. She is very frail and has chronic Is 17 years old and has a learning disability, which can make respiratory issues. She requires assistance to go to the toilet, her behaviour challenging. She lives at home with her parents get up and go to bed, to wash and to prepare meals. who both work, attends a specialist school, and will transition to adult social care when she turns 18. Sylvia currently receives 45 minute visits in the morning and night to prepare for bed, a 30 minute visit at lunchtime and With our transition workers, Susan and her family have a 30 minute visit at teatime every day. Her carers unofficially planned a care package that will support her needs when supplement the weekly shop carried out by her daughter, who she finishes school, including 3 days per week day services; visits at weekends from outside the borough. 2 days per week volunteering or work experience; 4 weeks per year respite care away from home and involvement in a Once a week she has a visit for a bath or shower, and the local club for adults with learning disabilities. interaction with carers is Sylvia’s main contact with others during the week. What the reduction in council What the reduction in council funding could mean for Sylvia funding could mean for Susan

• A reduction in the time allowed from 45 to 30 minute Susan’s adult social care package could be significantly visits, which could mean that carers would be more reduced and could involve: rushed with less time to chat. • 2½ days per week day service, instead of 3. • Possibly no teatime visit, again with a reduction in social • Possibly no support with volunteering or work experience, interaction and the opportunity to go to the toilet. A cold meaning she may not be able to fulfil her potential. meal and drink for Sylvia’s evening meal would be left with lunch. • A direct payment for a maximum of 2 weeks respite care per year, instead of 4, putting greater pressure on her • Less social interaction with carers means Sylvia may family. become lonely, which can have a significant impact on wellbeing, and is associated with depression, sleep • Possibly no funding for weekend or evening activities, problems, high blood pressure and mental health again putting greater pressure on her family, and stress problems. on Susan. • The option of Sylvia continuing to live in her own home Susan’s parents will need to carefully consider whether they if her frailty increases would not be available in the can both continue to work, as they will have to spend more future, meaning she could have to give up some of her time caring for Susan. independence to live in sheltered housing or a care home.

18 St Helens First | Spring 2017 | www.sthelens.gov.uk Budget Challenge Working better together All public sector services in St Helens are Residents will: To achieve this there will be a greater emphasis working together to manage the challenges • benefit from a transformed, integrated care on preventing the need for health and social care services; self care; and supporting people of cost and demand. They have collectively system, in which they receive care and to remain independent as long as possible. agreed to develop St Helens Cares, a local support that is joined up, of high quality, care system that will bring together all local The transformation of how health, care and and affordable community services are organised and service providers. The aim is they will become • be supported and encouraged to do delivered will: jointly responsible for the quality and cost of what you can to remain healthy, well and • help to achieve better outcomes care for local people, working together within resilient for residents agreed budgets. St Helens Cares will be a • promote independence and champion • live in a borough which encourages leading example of “place-based” working, prevention under which organisational boundaries will be raising ambition, achieving aspirations, • help us to work with local communities broken down and partners will work together connectedness and supports people to • ensure care is clinically and financially to meet the needs of people in St Helens. make the right choices. sustainable. What does St Helens Cares mean for residents?

Centred around St Fully accountable Helens residents and partners. All the communities. St Helens services provided Cares will encourage and by the council, CCG, promote self care and Whiston Hospital individual resilience. and others will fall in the remit of St Helens Cares.

Partially accountable partners. Some partners like schools, police and social landlords Underpinning will directly contribute partners. A number towards the objectives of of community groups St Helens Cares, while and networks will their primary purpose provide help to make is not in the delivery of St Helens Cares health and social care. As work. These would such, they will be partially include faith groups, accountable for health volunteer groups and and care outcomes. sports clubs.

The development of St Helens Cares will make a significant contribution to closing the system’s affordability gap, Will St Helens reducing the estimated £101 million gap. So the challenge will remain, and partners will be working to identify further opportunities for savings to achieve Cares close the system financial balance. St Helens Cares will launch in 2018. If you would like to contribute to the development of St Helens Cares or would funding gap? like further information, please email visionandchange@ sthelens.gov.uk

sthelenscouncil | @sthelenscouncil | Spring 2017 | St Helens First 19 Budget Challenge Going for Local Plan We have been consulting on plans to As a council we have been very successful transform St Helens, with a draft 30-year in the past at directing development to growth vision for growth, known as the Preferred brownfield land. 59 per cent of new homes Options of the Local Plan. This sets will be built on brownfield sites, but there We must make savings of an additional out how many new homes need to be built £20.6 million by 2020. After this date the and how much employment land needs to are insufficient numbers of these sites council will receive virtually no further be found in order to secure future growth. to accommodate all our housing and Government funded grant. We are required to produce a local plan employment needs for the next 30 years, However, after this date the council will keep all by Government and the process is fixed in and this will mean that green belt land will the money it raises in the form of Council Tax and Government guidance. need to be released. business rates. This will mean less uncertainty over The plan also states where in the borough our funding, but in order to take advantage of this we If proposals are approved, then just over a must look to increase our opportunities to encourage development should take place. Locations thousand hectares would be released from more businesses to invest in St Helens. We don’t astride the M6 and M62 motorways are just want development for the business rates it will particularly attractive for large scale the local green belt, leaving 56 per cent generate, but for the jobs and prosperity it will bring development. of the borough greenbelt which is still a to the area. We must not forget that St Helens is the The availability of new well located considerably higher proportion than other 36th most deprived council area in England and still employment land is essential to St Helens’ Merseyside areas. has above average unemployment rates. economic prosperity as not being able These two pages show some of the ways we have to supply this kind of land will result in To view the Preferred Options of the been working hard to attract businesses and bring companies relocating to regions further Local Plan, visit www.sthelens.gov.uk/ investment in... along the motorway network. localplan

Local economy A new network that aims to raise the profile of bring together local businesses to work together tourism and leisure businesses within St Helens to raise the profile of our thriving town within the has been established. wider Liverpool City Region, identify our unique The Visitor Economy Network is the brainchild of offering for the visitor economy and ultimately Lynn Ben-Yousef, Director of Darkstar Laser, who is improve on-going communications between the urging other neighbouring companies to join forces local council and the businesses within the private in a bid to increase visibility for the area within the sector.” Liverpool City Region. The Visitor Economy Network, along with other Supported by St Helens Council, the network is sub-networks, will also support St Helens Council’s made up of a range of private sector businesses soon-to be established Economy Board. Made including Darkstar Laser, The World of Glass, The up of key partners in both the public and private Transport Museum, Haydock Race Course and sector, the Economy Board is proposed to St Helens R.F.C, members of the network meet form early this year with the task of leading the regularly with plans to engage and attract visitors economic rejuvenation of St. Helens. to the array of unique offerings that are housed For more information on the St Helens Visitor within the town. Economy Network, contact Lynn Ben-Yousef at Lynn said: “The overall aim of the network is to [email protected]

20 St Helens First | Spring 2017 | www.sthelens.gov.uk Budget Challenge Local Plan Transport Work is now underway at Newton- importantly for St Helens’ economy, le-Willows train station where rail support the future development of the passengers will soon benefit from nearby former Parkside Colliery site. improved facilities, easier access and Other key transport projects to be better links between local, regional and delivered around the borough include national transport. providing access to Parkside, national Ready for public use in March 2018, road network improvements to the the £17.95m scheme - funded by the M6, Windle Island, and improved Local Growth Fund and Merseytravel, accessibility to the town centre via the Proposed Development and managed by train operator A570 Linkway. Northern - incudes the creation of a new ticket office at the south entrance, Improvements to sustainable transport a bus interchange, and a 400+ vehicle in the borough, including pedestrian capacity car park. and cycling routes, have also been The facilities will help create a strategic implemented, as a result of £1.58 transport hub, linking up to the local million worth of funding from the St Helens North MP Conor McGinn and local councillors transport network with strategic Liverpool City Region Local Growth at the station, where improvements are underway. rail links across the country – and Deal. Investment Haydock Green

Towards the end of last year, the council Estates – will provide state-of-the-art with the potential to deliver new housing gave the green light to two ambitious new accommodation for three major national and over 400 new jobs whilst attracting over developments which will see an estimated employers. £13.5m of private investment into the area. 1000 jobs brought to the Haydock and Sutton Meanwhile, planning permission has also In addition to these developments, the areas of the borough. been granted for a multi-million pound mixed council is expected to receive planning The Haydock Green plans will see land applications for over 4million square ft of use industrial and housing development at adjacent to Haydock Industrial Estate built warehousing and industrial development Mere Grange near the St Helens Linkway in out with half a million sq ft of warehousing which re-enforces St. Helens’ location on and new access off Penny Lane. Upon Lea Green, Sutton. the M6 and position as a premier national completion, the site – developed by Morley Works are expected to commence this year logistics location.

21/04/2016 09:42:10 Housing An assessment of St Helens’ housing Our projections highlight the need to build 570 land need and supply was carried out by new homes a year until 2033 to deal with a independent assessors, who found that there growing population, housing shortfalls and the was a requirement for more housing in all the need of the local economy. key settlements within the area, in order to create a wider choice and greater affordability We have identified 47 brownfield sites which for local residents. we expect to deliver 2,497 new homes in the coming years, and currently have an additional A wider selection of housing stock is needed, 31 brownfield sites that are currently under ranging from executive homes and including affordable homes, as well as a number of construction or have planning permission, specialist homes such as bungalows and which will deliver a further 2,247 new homes. It lifetime homes which can be adapted to is also anticipated that 1,365 new homes support the needs of those with a disability will come forward on unknown (windfall) or the elderly. brown sites.

sthelenscouncil | @sthelenscouncil | Spring 2017 | St Helens First 21 Feature Volunteers matter As you’ll have read earlier in the magazine, council services must change as we adapt to meet budget pressures and constraints. We’ll become more reliant on the community to help us strengthen and enhance the valued services that we may no longer be able to provide in the same way. Read on to discover just a few of the ways residents are helping us right now.

Couch to 5k and parkrun get residents moving Our Sports Development team leads on long-term sustainable exit-route for people the popular, award-winning Couch to 5k to continue participating, giving residents a programme. Over a ten week course, goal to work towards, and to feel proud about participants with no prior training build up achieving. their fitness and confidence to take part in the Interested in taking part or helping out? Call volunteer-led five kilometre parkrun, in Victoria 01744 675403 to enquire about Couch to Park. 5k or to volunteer visit www.parkrun.org.uk/ Here, the parkrun volunteers greatly enhance sthelens/volunteer. the offer of a council service, providing a

22 St Helens First | Spring 2017 | www.sthelens.gov.uk www.sthelens.gov.uk Feature Volunteers help others live healthily Over 60 local people are currently Healthy Living’s volunteer doing their bit to help others be coordinator, Melanie Pilling said: well and healthy, by volunteering “Volunteers are at the very heart with the council’s Healthy Living of our team. You raise awareness team. of available services and help us These selfless people receive to deliver them. You tell people training to support some of what they are entitled to and your the council’s frontline health voice helps us shape and improve programmes, keeping residents the health of our town. You are physically active by leading bike essential to everything we do!” rides and walks; supporting mums with infant feeding; and Get involved at www. championing positive mental healthysthelens.co.uk or call 0300 wellbeing in the community. 300 0103. Street Pastors patrol town Local Christian faith groups have polo shirts and jackets. set up a St Helens branch of Councillor Lisa Preston, Cabinet the national organisation Street Member for Community Safety Pastors. said: “Working together with The group of volunteers from local partners including Merseyside churches aims to offer practical Police and the council’s own support for anyone who is feeling Community Safety team, the vulnerable in the town centre on certain Friday nights, providing a specially trained Street Pastors will friendly face and listening ear to make residents and visitors feel anyone in need. more secure during the night time The pastors will be on duty in economy, bolstering the council’s small groups between 10pm and own efforts in this area and 4am – identifiable by their ‘street relieving some of the pressure on pastor’ branded navy blue caps, police resources.” Reading Hacks help libraries A dedicated bunch of multi-faith lighting ceremony, and have young people have also brought fresh ideas to libraries, proven their love of like film viewings with the Small Cinema libraries and literature programme. by volunteering their time in St Helens Rose, said: “Reading Hack has built my Libraries’ Reading Hack group – gaining skills and experience for themselves and confidence massively because when helping staff to run events. I came to the very first meeting I was so nervous and I didn’t say anything Together, the Hacks have given hundreds of hours of their time to the and now I go in and speak my mind. library service for the love of it, and Secondly I get involved in a lot of provided valuable insight on what young activities and public speaking, helping people want from libraries. and organising the events.” They’ve developed the children’s area of Aged 13-24 and want to get involved? Central Library, supported recent events Call Central Library on 01744 676954 like the Heritage Open Day and the or visit readingagency.org.uk. Ramblers’ Association surveys path network For over a year, local members of the and Sustainable Borough, commented: “We surveys. Ramblers` Association have been helping St are proud to have 41 per cent of Merseyside’s “A well maintained path network provides Helens Council to survey 120 miles of Public Public Right of Way network here in St Helens, wider public benefits by encouraging Right of Way in the borough for ‘ease of use’, but to maintain so many miles of footpaths and sustainable transport, reducing congestion with the results to be used to create targeted tracks in rural areas incurs a significant cost. and pollution, offering alternative access to maintenance programmes. “The work done by the Ramblers’ Association areas of employment for those without their Councillor Seve Gomez-Aspron, St Helens helps us to direct maintenance to the areas own transport and can increase the health and Council’s Cabinet Member for Green, Smart most in need, and removes the need for costly wellbeing of residents.”

sthelenscouncil | @sthelenscouncil | Spring 2017 | St Helens First 23 News

#StCuthbest

St Cuthbert’s Catholic High The passion of parents was also Mrs C McKeagney joining our School was delighted to The new highlighted by Ofsted who noted Headteacher, Mrs C Twist. receive a glowing report, classrooms have how they had written at length to Mrs Twist said the school’s following an Ofsted Inspection impacted our inspectors “detailing how happy success was a genuine team in September 2016 their children are and how well affair: “St Cuthbert’s has Inspectors were so impressed teaching in a very they are progressing”. never been in better shape with the rapid reversal of fortunes The inspection follows the and we are delighted at the of St Cuthbert’s that they have positive way. school’s best ever GCSE results glowing Ofsted report. Our handed the school a “good” The classrooms are very large exceeding national results in rating - the second highest success is a team effort and which means as departments English and Maths. 54 per cent of we all can be rightly proud; grading at its disposal. The we can use the space within students achieved 5 A*-C grades glowing report concluded St we are all passionate about our lessons. Group work which is a 5 per cent increase on building on our success. We Cuthbert’s is a “truly inclusive last year’s performance. Maths school where every pupil is and active learning is easily are celebrating a year of increased their results by 1 per valued”. organised using our spaces, successes – our best ever cent to 69 per cent and English and we are able to use the GCSE results, the addition of Students’ behaviour, student results increased by 16 per cent additional working space for our best ever new facilities, safety, a revitalised curriculum to a fabulous 71 per cent. which prepares students for life intervention with students. our best Ofsted report and after school and the school’s The school has also recently now our preparation for completed a massive investment “refusal to give up on any All students are responding the year ahead as we begin programme, which has seen pupil” are among the areas positively to the new the countdown to our 60th nearly £1 million invested in the coming in for praise. environment and enjoying anniversary next year”. last six years including seven The report also notes the huge it, and we are also all Birthday events will be based impact a change in leadership and determined to make sure the new, state-of-the-art classrooms in the Lindisfarne building which around the theme ‘reflect, the arrival of new headteacher Mrs quality of the environment is were officially opened and celebrate, aspire’ including the Catherine Twist in September 2015 maintained. has had in ensuring the success blessed by Father Swanson in whole school community coming of the school which enjoyed its Mr Butterworth September 2016, together with a together to celebrate Mass at the Metropolitan Cathedral of best ever exam results this year. and Miss Turton, revamped Café area. The opening Christ the King in Liverpool on 20 Since the new headteacher’s CL Geography and History. of the Lindisfarne building has arrival, Ofsted said the school was coincided with new leadership at September 2017 and other events now home to “an ambitious and the school with the appointment including compilations of a series aspirational culture”. of our new Deputy Headteacher, of short films entitled #60at60.

24 St Helens First | Spring 2017 | www.sthelens.gov.uk News

“I like the café because “I’m pleased to say that St Cuthbert’s is it’s very comfy and has moving forward with our new Head and nice drinks and food. It is a Deputy with a dedicated staff and students great place to talk to your who are willing to learn. The Governing Body friends and relax”. has every confidence in our “Good” school getting even better. Year 7 student. #StCuthbest Fthr P Swanson, Chair of Governors

TOP LEFT: Our foyer area Remembrance Week 2016 Since leaving ABOVE : GCSE results day TOP RIGHT: Mrs McKeagney, in the summer Father Swanson and Mrs Twist in the new Lindisfarne building RIGHT: Best Ofsted award BELOW: GCSE here’s what our results day top achievers are & (01744) 678123) saying: twitter.com/stcuthbertsCHS facebook.com/stcuthbertschs “The results that I achieved at www.stcuthberts.com St Cuthbert’s have opened up a wide range of opportunities for my future, including allowing me to study A-levels. I’m now at Carmel College studying A-levels in Maths, Further Maths, History and Geography.” Amy Lyon “I’m at Carmel College studying Law, English Literature and History. The results I achieved at St Cuthbert’s has allowed me to get into a great college studying subjects I enjoy and make a start on building my future.” Beth Gerrard

sthelenscouncil | @sthelenscouncil | Spring 2017 | St Helens First 25 Green News Council’s bright idea to invest in street lighting

After a successful first obsolete and inefficient the 2017/18 financial year, phase of the Invest to Save street lighting luminaires approximately 70 per cent street lighting programme, with energy efficient LED of all street lighting across work is now underway on luminaires. Taking just over the borough will have been phase two which will see seven years to recoup, the updated with new LED the installation of a further investment is expected luminaires. to bring energy savings 4,900 energy efficient LED St Helens Council’s street lights on various of £422,101 per annum at today’s energy prices, Cabinet Member for Green, traffic routes across the Smart and Sustainable borough. producing an estimated reduction to the Energy Borough, Councillor Seve This will be followed by a Budget of £363,389 in Gomez-Aspron said: “Our further phase which will 2017/18. innovative thinking means comprise the installation that we have to cut around of 4,500 LED street lights The council operates and £360,000 less from the on a number of residential maintains 23,750 street budget in the face of roads. lighting units within the government austerity and borough, which is subject shows how we are keen to In August 2015, St to small annual increases protect services in the face Helens Council’s Cabinet as new developments have of around £68m of cuts so supported plans to invest been added to the highway far whilst also providing a £2.978m in order to replace network. By the end of better service.” Local charities share £10,000 thanks to residents who recycle St Helens Council’s award-winning Recycling 10,000 residents have signed up. Members The Hope Centre, were both awarded £1,000 Rewards scheme has raised £10,000 for four earn points for their community for recycling - each. local charities who received their donations at the more materials they save from the brown If you haven’t already signed up to the the Town Hall as part of a drive to encourage bin, the more points they earn. Recycling Reward scheme, you can request an St Helens residents to waste less and recycle During the last 12 months, members of the information pack which contains everything you more. scheme have been voting for their favourite need to start participating in the scheme. St Helens Recycling Rewards is a partnership local charity, with Willowbrook Hospice winning initiative between St Helens Council and the top prize of £5,000. Second favourite, the For further information, please call: 01744 specialist provider, Local Green Points. It has Steve Prescott Foundation won £3,000 and the 676789 or go to www.sthelens.gov.uk/ been running for a year now and already over two runners up, Honey Rose Foundation and recyclingrewards Council quids in after Multihog investment

St Helens Council is set to save a significant prevention, grass cutting and snow ploughing amount of money each week after investing in – reducing material costs by 50 per cent, while a machine that will change the face of highway increasing activity by the same percentage. maintenance in the borough. St Helens Council’s Cabinet Member for Green, The council has purchased a Multihog MH90 Smart and Sustainable Borough, Councillor vehicle that repairs highway defects such Seve Gomez-Aspron, said: “In this time of as potholes in a fraction of the time it would austerity, it takes forward thinking organisations normally take after trail hiring it last year and like St Helens Council to identify efficiency achieving savings of £2400+ per week. savings which sometimes can only be achieved In road repair mode, the Multihog delivers a by investing to save. more permanent repair by removing underlying “This means the limited highways budget can imperfections, but can also be fitted with a now be stretched that little bit further, after range of attachments for road gritting, flood being cut by 60% by government since 2010.”

26 St Helens First | Spring 2017 | www.sthelens.gov.uk Community News

Bowling green revamp gathers pace

Earlier this year, the newly formed their mossy monstrosity into a and the green, and we’re installing to form a ladies team. Bold Bowling Club set out to find championship grade surface, with flowerbeds to make the grounds He added: “There are no age limits a new home, but the home they facilities to match. much more attractive. as we have young bowlers and found at Bold Miners Community The club’s voluntary renovation With the refurbishment hopefully those in their 80s. We’ll be running Centre, Fleet Lane, was in a poor efforts received a welcomed boost complete in early 2017, we can an open day soon so come along state. with a successful grant application finally be proud of our home at – whether you’ve bowled before or Since then, with support from St to the Cory Environmental Trust, to Bold Miners, and we’re hoping not, you’ll be most welcome.” Helens Council and the St Helens the tune of almost £6900. more people will come and College Prince’s Trust, the crown Club Chairman, Barry Rolls join us!” Contact Barry on 01744 811 016 green bowlers – some of whom said: “We’re using the money to Barry hopes more women will take or 07591 202 965 to find are in their 80s – have turned upgrade the toilets, floodlights an interest in the club as they look out more. Another arrow to your quiver

Muttley Crew Archers are looking uneven terrain simulate an exciting for new members to join their medieval hunting experience. merry band. Why not add an arrow The Muttley Crew Archers compete to your quiver by taking up a very in local and regional shoots, but rewarding pastime – field archery. mostly just enjoy being outdoors, It’s a lot different from the sport keeping active and aiming to you’d see at the Olympics, being improve their skill each week. In much more organic. Field archery fact, it’s only in recent times that takes place largely outdoors (the the medieval law requiring every group also has indoor facilities), Englishman to practice his archery in woodland and fields around on Sunday was abolished! expertly designed courses – much Get involved by visiting www. like golf. Imitation animal targets muttleyarchers.co.uk or calling set at unspecified distances on Geoff Weldon on 07796 253 871.

sthelenscouncil | @sthelenscouncil | Spring 2017 | St Helens First 27 St Helens Council’s community magazine What’s on Spring 2017

WORLD BOOK DAY: 1750 DAY February THE CLUE IS THE BOOK 22 March 27 Feb to Sat 4 March Haydock Park Racecourse, call 01942 725963. THE LITTLE MIX EXPERIENCE 2017 Eccleston Library 4 February THE FLOYD EFFECT St Helens Theatre Royal, call 01744 756000. 25 March The Citadel, call 01744 735436 ST HELENS R.F.C March VS LEEDS RHINOS THE SOUNDS OF SIMON – 9 February – 8pm A TRIBUTE TO SIMON AND GARFUNKEL April Totally Wicked Stadium, call 01744 455 052. 4 March BEAUTY & THE BEAST A VISION OF ELVIS The Citadel, call 01744 735436. 1-23 April 11 February CINDERELLA – BALLET St Helens Theatre Royal, call 01744 756000. St Helens Theatre Royal, call 01744 756000. 5 March THE SIGNATURES – THE BOY WHO CRIED WOLF St Helens Theatre Royal, call 01744 756000. NORTHERN SOUL BAND 12 February GPW RECRUITMENT STEVE PRESCOTT 1 April The Citadel, call 01744 735436 FOUNDATION 10K The Citadel, call 01744 735436. LEGO CLUB 5 March ST HELENS R.F.C 13 February - 2.30pm - 3.30pm St Helens town centre, visit sthelens10k.co.uk VS HUDDERSFIELD GIANTS Moss Bank Library ROYAL BRITISH LEGION 7 April – 8pm HALF-TERM HAVOC INFORMATION & ADVICE Totally Wicked Stadium, 15 February - 2pm - 3pm 8 March - 2pm - 4pm call 01744 455 052 Chester Lane Library Chester Lane Library FAURE REQUIEM AND CHORAL MUSIC LIVE/WIRE THE ACDC SHOW WILLOWBROOK HOSPICE – SPRING CONCERT 17 February TREBLE 20 DARTS 8 April – 7:30am The Citadel, call 01744 735436. 10 March – 7pm United Reformed Church, West Park RUFC, Prescot Road, WA10 3AG Ormskirk Street, THE LANCASHIRE HOTPOTS St Helens 18 February PHOENIX APPAREL’S 100% VEGAN ARTS For more information visit: www. The Citadel, call 01744 735436. AND CRAFTS FAIR sthelenschoralsociety.org 18 March – 10am-4pm BETFRED GRAND NATIONAL TRIAL St Helens Town Hall SUPERHERO EASTER FAMILY DAY 20 February 15 April Haydock Park Racecourse, call 01942 725963. CILLA & THE SHADE OF THE 60s Haydock Park Racecourse, 18 March call 01942 725963. BINGO BONANZA St Helens Theatre Royal, call 01744 756000. 23 February - 2pm CENACLE Willowbrook Hospice – The Living Well, ST HELENS R.F.C Local band return to the Borough Road. VS WARRINGTON WOLVES Citadel for a hometown gig. For tickets and more details, 24 March – 8pm 15 April call 01744 453798. Totally Wicked Stadium, call 01744 455 052. The Citadel, call 01744 735436.

28 St Helens First | Spring 2017 | www.sthelens.gov.uk TENSATIONAL SEASON OPENER 29 April Haydock Park Racecourse, call 01942 725963. CLASSIC CAR SHOW Phoenix-Clock Face Classic Car Club 29 April EVENTS FROM THE NATIONAL Mansion House, Victoria Park LOTTERY AWARD-WINNING CULTURAL HUBS PROGRAMME May CARDBOARD CITIZENS PRESENTS – CATHY MANSION HOUSE BEER FESTIVAL 10 February – 7pm 6 May St Helens Central Library £3 entry, noon until late, proceeds go to AgeUK £6 or £5 for library card holders, £3 FILM SHOWINGS Mid Mersey. Call 01744 752 644 concessions. AT LUCEM HOUSE THE DOORS ALIVE PLUS GUESTS Audience: 14+ COMMUNITY CINEMA PLUS+ 6 May PREVAIL RAMS The Citadel, call 01744 735436. Premiere of Iain Stringer Works’ latest 8 April CLASSIC CAR SHOW LGBT performance, ‘Prevail.’ 6 May 24 February – 1pm & 7pm I AM LOVE Phoenix-Clock Face Classic Car Club St Helens Central Library 12 May Earlestown, Market Square £6, or £5 for library card holders, £3 concessions. WHALE RIDER HEALTHY IN ST HELENS EVENT Audience: Teenagers aged 13+ and adults. 16 June 12-13 May – 10am-4pm HIPPO ON ICE – UC CREW HEADHUNTERS Church Square 2 March – 4pm 30 June TOTALLY TINA St Helens Central Library *Lucem House Community Cinema 19 May FREE (booking required) Plus+ reserves the right to alter St Helens Theatre Royal, call 01744 756000. Audience: Families any programme in unforeseen ST HELENS R.F.C VS WIGAN WARRIORS GET WELL ON THE WALL circumstances. 25 May – 8pm 20 March -12pm to 6:30pm For more information on screening Totally Wicked Stadium, call 01744 455 052. ST Helens Central Library times, additional titles or to book, visit FREE (booking required) www.lucemhouse.co.uk TENSATIONAL PERTEMPS SWINTON Audience: Everyone. HURDLE Address: Lucem House, The only mixed, jump and flat, A PLACE CALLED HAPPINESS 100 Corporation Street , 20 March – 7pm meeting in England. St Helens, WA10 1SX. 13 May St Helens Central Library Haydock Park Racecourse, call 01942 725963. £6, or £5 for library card holders, £3 concessions. Audience: 16+ June BEST FOOT FORWARD – Theatre THE JOHNNY CASH ROADSHOW 2017 performance For more events 9 June 1 April – 1pm St Helens Theatre Royal, call 01744 756000. St Helens Central Library and details, and £6 or £5 for library card holders, £3 ST HELENS R.F.C VS WIDNES VIKINGS concessions. regular updates, like 9 June – 8pm Audience: Everyone Totally Wicked Stadium, call 01744 455 052. our facebook.com/ BBC GET CREATIVE DAY TENSATIONAL TIMEFORM JURY/ 10 April whatsoninsthelens SANDY LANE STAKES St Helens Central Library 14 June FREE – just turn up. page, and follow Haydock Park Racecourse, call 01942 725963. Audience: Everyone. DESPERADO – For more information on the events listed us on Twitter THE HISTORY OF THE EAGLES or to book, please go to www.culturalhubs. 24 June eventbrite.co.uk, visit any St Helens library @whatsonsthelens The Citadel, call 01744 735436. or call Central Library on 01744 676954.

sthelenscouncil | @sthelenscouncil | Spring 2017 | St Helens First 29 First Feedback

St Helens Council’s community magazine What’s your

Spring 2017 problem? We do all we can to fix problems quickly and efficiently. But sometimes you’ll become aware of an issue before we do – so we depend on our residents to tell us what needs fixing, moving, inspecting or clearing. If we don’t know about it – we can’t help. BY PHONE – 01744 676789 BY EMAIL – [email protected] USING THE COUNCIL APP - search ‘St Helens Council’ in your app store BY MINICOM - 01744 671671 VIA OUR WEBSITE - www.sthelens.gov.uk/self-service A big thank you to everyone who flagged up local issues to us over the last few weeks. Here are just a few of the problems we’ve helped people with.

Your Problem Action

Resident asked for a ‘ride-through’ gate facility on his regular cycle We’ll be installing the new ride-through path route via Wagon Lane, gate soon. Haydock, as lifting his bike over the current gate was painful.

Resident of Cavan Drive, Haydock called about a faulty street light Lamp was promptly repaired. that came on only for an hour.

Resident called to inform us there were bolts in the floor near Boots Bolts were swiftly removed. on Church Street that were hazard- ous to pedestrians.

Pothole on Gorsey Lane, Bold, was spread over both lanes causing thole was repaired. traffic in both directions to hit it.

Raised grid was proving an issue to residents on Morley Way, Moss Grid was replaced the same day. Bank.

Flytipping was reported on Burrows Rubbish was removed. Lane, Eccleston.

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