News...features...plus more about your city...your neighbourhood...your services cCo vetnt ryv s oissue 37 |ndecember | 2011 Job shop opens Winter What’s On inside

Writer ushers in new era at library

Let there be Pupils dig in to festive lights! help with clean-up

Your guide to bin collections this Christmas Mums get help to kick smoking habit

Plus: Your 8-page 2012 Olympic Games special Keep up to speed with what’s happening as Coventry prepares PLUS: Win tickets for for London 2012 panto and ice hockey Be part of it!

Plus Including: news, comments and updates from organisations across the city working together to improve life in Coventry

From the top contents welcome to the december issue of citivision A personal message from news A personal message from Dave Walton, * Dave Walton is Cllr John Mutton, chair of the Coventry Partnership.... acting Assistant Chief Fire Officer/Director with Leader, Coventry 4 Tw o new programmes to help reduce the number of responsibility for the City Council. Coventry Citivision includes a great Technical and young people coming into range of articles from organisations Operational Support care or custody and to across the city that make up the sections within West support foster carers have Coventry Partnership. Midlands Fire Service. Taking pride in a been backed by the Council. The partnership includes the public, private, community and year of highlights 6 City motorists are being voluntary sectors and as the recently warned not to gift thieves an appointed chair, it's been It's been such a busy year in early Christmas present by encouraging to see everyone play Coventry, it’s hard to pick out every leaving their vehicles their part in the Proud of my City highlight as we get to the end of unattended in the mornings campaign with a steady stream of Partnership in the run up to the 2011. While there have been some to defrost. good news stories appearing in the 2012 Olympics presents a fantastic real challenges, I’m very proud that local media. opportunity to promote the City of the Council has played a big part in 7 State-of-the-art facilities I encourage you to go to the Coventry to the rest of the United some of the good work across for people looking to make website, www.proudofmycity.org.uk Kingdom, and indeed the world. Coventry this year. a career or develop their for more information and to submit The opportunity for the city to host We started the year with some of passion for music and the your story of how you're playing your part of such a prestigious sporting the worst weather the country has arts are now open and part to prepare Coventry for London event is unique to all of us and with seen for a long time. Council available for use at Taylor 2012. 2012 now almost upon us, it's just workers did a brilliant job emptying John’s House in Coventry. Being the Chair of the Coventry around the corner! bins, gritting roads and keeping people informed about school 8 All your questions closures. We’re well prepared for this answered on the recent winter, too, as you'll find out in this changes to the rules for green focus issue of Citivision. claiming Housing Benefit. WIN! While economic times are tough, WIN!WIN! 12 A new programme is we’re clear it’s more important than community focus offering training for businesses ever to invest in the city's future. That in renewable energy so that means putting time and resources 9 Offenders have been they can tap into a growing into our Jobs Strategy which is working under the market. helping us support people back into supervision of the Probation work, and putting time and money Trust on projects to benefit into improving the city centre. And jobs & training local communities as a over the year we’ve kept your payback for their crimes. 19 Jobseekers can now ‘shop’ priorities firmly at the top of our for support in their quest for own to-do list. We’ve repaired 158 work by calling on a new miles of Coventry roads over the health focus city-centre jobs store past 18 months and there’s more to 12 Patients are a Tickets for Coventry Blaze opened by the City Council do. It's been occasionally frustrating step closer to benefiting ice hockey and the in a bid to boost as we’ve had to close roads to get from a variety of high-quality Belgrade pantomime 21 employment figures. them fixed, so thanks for your health services from a patience. central location as work is what’s on What we’ve done this year has put completed on the new us in good shape to make the most City of Coventry Health 18 A round-up of some of the of 2012. We have a once-in-a-lifetime Centre. attractions on offer in and opportunity to show the city at its around Coventry this autumn best during the Olympics; I know that 12 A major cancer screening and early winter. Coventry people will make sure campaign has been launched everyone knows how proud we are across Coventry and councillors of our city! Warwickshire as part of an Finally, have a peaceful Christmas, NHS drive to increase uptake 22 Need to contact your and a Happy New Year to you all. of cervical, breast and bowel councillor? Check out our cancer checks. comprehensive directory. * You can write to John at The Council House, Earl Street, Coventry CV1 5RR, or e-mail him at [email protected] contact us

If you need this information in another Call the Citivision newsdesk on print and distribute to every If you would like to advertise in the format or language please contact us: 024 7683 1075 or write to Newsdesk, home in Coventry. You can also next issue of Citivision, contact Darren O’Shaughnessy on Tel: 024 7683 1081 Room 27, The Council House, pick up a copy at libraries and Earl Street, Coventry, CV1 5RR, council buildings. Citivision is 024 7683 1075. Coventry City Fax: 024 7683 1132 or e-mail [email protected] produced on paper from Council is grateful for the support e-mail: communications@ sustainable woodland and is from advertisers in this issue of coventry.gov.uk Written and produced by the chlorine free. The milling process Citivision, but accepts no Communications Team, Coventry also has Environmental responsibility for the accuracy of Cover story: Lord Mayor Cllr Keiran Mulhall is City Council. Each edition of adverts. The next issue of Citivision will joined by city Shining Star Joseph Friday and Touch Management Systems in place. FM’s Brody Swain at the festive lights switch on. Citivision costs 7p per copy to write, Once read, please recycle. be delivered in February 2012. For the full story, see page 5. 11/11/2380 december 2011 | citivision | 03 news

Toilet is key to shopping experience Coventry city centre will soon have its first Changing Places toilet after the Council backed a scheme to build the much- needed facility in the Central Library. Junction work A nationwide Cllr Harvard at the campaign has been keeps drivers junction of Barras Lane running to raise and Holyhead Road after awareness of the need the completion of for such facilities so on the move improvement works. that disabled people and their carers can have the same Phase one of a package of The pedestrian crossing near Department for Transport. opportunities to take improvements along Holyhead Road Minster Road has also been upgraded Cllr Lindsley Harvard, Cabinet part in the shopping has been completed. to include the latest technology. Member for City Services, said: “This experience that we all The work, which covered the Phase two is underway, with three package of improvements will help all take for granted. section between the Ring Road and further pedestrian crossings being road users and keep traffic moving.” Changing Places Northumberland Road, included a upgraded. The remaining sets of lights The changes on Holyhead Road toilets have plenty of major change to the layout of the along the road will also be upgraded. includes repair to roads, pavements space and include a Barras Lane junction to improve access The work has been made possible and verges. Work is also underway to changing bench, a hoist for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers. thanks to a grant from the replace every street light. and other specialist equipment. It means that many hundreds of people will be able to spend more quality New support plans for time in the city centre. Jill Hinde from Coventry Mencap, said: “Many people face a families and foster carers daily challenge to leave their home and Two new programmes to help adequate toilet and reduce the number of young people changing facilities in coming into care or custody and to public places is one support foster carers have been way to reduce the backed by the Council. barriers they face. Coventry has secured Government “We are delighted funding of £300,000 to implement Multi the Council is Systemic Therapy (MST) and Keeping supporting this Foster and Kinship Carers Trained and scheme and hope that Supported (KEEP) from April next year. RTC programme director Simon Weatherbed, the new facility will Prof Alan Hunter, the director of Coventry add to the MST uses therapy to increase young University’s Centre for Peace and Reconciliation people’s engagement with education and Studies and RTC peace and conflict advisor improvements in the training, reduce offending or anti-social Joan McGregor admire the prize (left), and city centre.” behaviour and increase family cohesion. (above) Rachel Sutton, who designed the work. Cllr Faye Abbott KEEP is designed for carers of children added: “We’re proud aged five to 12 years. It aims to increase of being a diverse and parenting skills and confidence among Rachel crafts city’s symbol of peace welcoming city and I hope that the foster carers. Coventry University graduate reconciliation around the world. Changing Places toilet Three therapists will be employed to Rachel Sutton has designed this Rachel graduated in 2010, will encourage more work with five families over a three-to- year’s Coventry International receiving a first-class Honours people to visit the five month period, supporting up to 36 Prize for Peace and degree in Applied Arts. city.” families a year. The MST programme is Reconciliation, which has been Responding to Conflict The scheme is a forecast to deliver approximately awarded to a Birmingham-based programme director Simon partnership project led £850,000 of savings per annum. group. This year’s award, Weatherbed said: “Many of the by Coventry Mencap Councillor O’Boyle, Cabinet Member commemorating the 70th people we have worked with and funded by the for Children and Young People, said: anniversary of the Blitz, has have continued to transform Council as part of its “Keeping children at home, in school and been presented to Responding violent conflicts and people’s preparations for out of trouble is a priority for the council to Conflict, a small organisation lives, and I am proud to accept London 2012. and the MST and KEEP programmes will working to promote peace and this award on their behalf.” help us to do that.” 04 | citivision | december 2011 news

A new tasty and nutritious menu is being launched in city primary schools from January. All meals are balanced and contain the right vitamins, minerals and fat content for a growing child. Many of the items on the new menu have been tasted and WHAT A CRACKER! approved by pupils. For more information go to www.coventry Thousands of people gathered in Crowds cheer .gov.uk/schoolmeals the city centre to support the as the festive launch of Coventry's Christmas lights are switched Write move Cracker. on (above), while Business in the Community is Featuring a range of family (left) TVs ZingZillas bring looking for firms to take part in entertainment and hosted by Brody the Read to Succeed Story Book Swain from Touch FM, the day smiles to the faces of Shining Star Challenge in March 2012. culminated with the festive lights Joseph Friday Participants will be invited to being switched on by Shining Star (right) and his contribute to a short story begun Joseph Friday, Coventry Lord Mayor brothers. by the Year 5 children at Cllr Keiran Mulhall and popular Aldermoor Farm Primary School, children's characters The ZingZillas. Coventry. The children will then Joseph, aged five and a pupil at finish the story, to be printed in a Clifford Bridge Primary School, was booklet. Businesses will be invited chosen to do the big switch on as to meet their co-authors and read part of a competition by the Coventry the stories at the school on Telegraph. He was born at 26 weeks Thursday, March 1. To register, and spent three months in hospital e-mail [email protected] where he underwent eye surgery and also has a chronic lung condition. Festive sadness Precinct Cross was the venue for the entertainment and appearances the animatronic Bjorn the Polar Bear. Christmas shoppers, motorists have A Christmas memorial service is from children’s TV favourites The All the photographs of the day are been able to park for free in city to be held at Canley Crematorium ZingZillas, Mr Bump and Little Miss on Flickr, so go and spot yourself in centre car parks after 4pm on on Sunday December 11 for those Sunshine. the crowd at www.flickr.com/photos Wednesdays. Star Wednesdays are who have lost loved ones. To The city centre was also taken /coventrycc produced by the City Council in reserve a place, contact Helen over by acrobatic elves, choirs and With the Christmas lights on and association with Sam McNulty and Roberts, Bereavement Services, on panto dames. Stars of local sports illuminating the city, shoppers in the Touch FM. Sparkle Saturdays have 024 7678 5485 or by e-mail at teams also took part, along with city centre have also been able to also been staged over recent [email protected] Olympic gold medal winner Kirsty enjoy live acoustic music nights. weekends with the very best in Alternatively, you can write to her Coventry. Star Wednesdays have been taking fitness, dance, music and theatre. For at Canley Cemetery and West Orchards Shopping Centre place at the open air Fountain Stage more details, visit www.coventrys Crematorium, The Lodge, Cannon welcomed back Santa to his grotto in Precinct Cross, every Wednesday christmascracker.co.uk or pick up a Hill Road, Coventry CV4 7DF. and a real life reindeer was out and afternoon from 4pm, featuring the programme from Central Library, about in Smithford Way. The Lower very best local musical talent. West Orchards Shopping Centre or Animal magic Precinct hosted performances from As an extra incentive for Council House reception desk. Vet Elly Pittaway is in the running for the Demeter Award, marking the achievements of business City centre makeover is gathering pace women. Elly, who opened Broad Regeneration projects across the includes re-paving paths, installing a Lane Vets in Coventry three years city are progressing well. Now that zebra crossing and filling in the two ago, employs 30 staff. Broadgate is traffic-free, people are subways. Work at Junction 6 of the beginning to get a better feel for the ring road to install a Toucan crossing Home venue size of the square. Buses and taxis will start after the January sales. Artist George Shaw was at the have been relocated, with buses Work has started outside Holy Animal magic Herbert Art Gallery and Museum now stopping in the Burges and Trinity Church and will include in November to celebrate his first taxis at a new rank in Greyfriars removing bus shelters, and the exhibition in his home city. The Lane. Pavements have also been provision of two grassed areas, Turner-nominated artist unveiled improved for wheelchair users. more trees and benches. the exclusive George Shaw: I woz The route from Coventry railway Improvements to Hertford Street ere exhibition. Shaw has spent his station into the city centre, via Bull include repairs, replacing benches, entire career painting the Tile Hill Yard, is being made safer and more upgrading the lighting, improving estate where he grew up. For attractive. The work will create a shop fronts and de-cluttering the more details, visit greener, more landscaped area and street scene. The new-look junction at Gosford Street. www.theherbert.org What’s On - Pages 20-21 december 2011 | citivision | 05 news Jag’s global HQ gets off to a flier

Civic dignitaries joined company officials at the opening of Jaguar Land Rover's (JLR) new global headquarters in Whitley, Coventry. The new HQ, adjacent to the company’s Whitley Engineering Centre, was opened by the chairman of Tata Sons, Mr Ratan Tata, the vice president of Tata Motors, Mr Ravi Kant, and the chief executive of JLR Dr Ralf Speth. The opening is the first major step towards JLR delivering on its desire to consolidate its engineering and corporate operations across its two sites in Coventry and Gaydon. Dr Speth said: “We are embarking on our most ambitious product creation programme which will see us invest more than £1.5 billion annually for the next five years. We are also investing heavily in innovation, people and infrastructure.” Whitley will become the centre of JLR’s business operations, with key corporate functions from finance and purchasing to marketing and HR moving across to the site. JLR has also announced plans to Council leader John Mutton (second from left), Cllr Lynda Bigham and Council chief executive Martin Reeves (second from right) join redevelop its advanced manufacturing Mr Ratan Tata (left), chairman of Tata Sons, Mr Ravi Kant (third from right), vice president of Tata Motors, Dr Ralf Speth (right), Jaguar chief executive, and other JLR representatives at the opening for the firm’s new global headquarters. plant at Solihull. Freeze out car thieves this winter City motorists are being warned not to gift thieves an early Christmas present by leaving their vehicles unattended in the mornings to defrost. Last winter, a number of vehicles were stolen by opportunist thieves taking advantage of drivers leaving their cars ticking over outside their homes. Coventry Police officers already carry out ‘frosty morning patrols’, warning drivers about the danger of leaving vehicles unattended. Motorists should also be mindful that car insurance policies are often invalid when cars are stolen in this way, as the owner is deemed to have advice, check out www.west- been responsible for the theft. midlands.police.uk/safermotors The answer is to use de-icing spray If anyone witnesses any suspicious and a scraper to speed up the activity, they should report it thawing process. immediately to their local police For more vehicle crime prevention station on 0345 113 5000. February date for city bus route changes Broadgate closed to traffic in Centro’s Pool Meadow shop or October, bringing with it go to www.networkwest changes to bus routes and stop midlands.com/Service locations in the city. Hundreds of Alterations/alterations.aspx people attended two exhibitions The bus network review takes at Pool Meadow bus station in effect on February 26. Visit the week running up to the www.networkwestmidlands.com changes. For more details, visit for more details. 06 | citivision | december 2011 news

Top writer Author Josephine helps usher Cox (left) with Cllr Lynnette Kelly at the in a new era official opening of Allesley Park Library. A popular author whose work is in the top three of the most loaned books in Coventry has taken part in the official opening ceremony of a city library. Josephine Cox was joined by Cllr Lynnette Kelly, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Libraries, at the new £1 million Allesley Park Library. Josephine has sold more than 15 million books worldwide and is the best-selling author of The Journey, Songbird, Journey's End, Born Bad and Blood Brothers. Allesley Park Library opened its doors to the public in July and has proved a huge success, attracting more than 100 new members in the first 24 hours. It is Cutting-edge arts venue part of a wider Neighbourhood Centre including a medical centre. The library replaced proves music to the ears a mobile service and attracted 6,753 visitors State-of-the-art facilities for people Canal Basin, enabling a wider range of access to a larger selection of in August, compared to looking to make a career or activities and services to be offered to instruments and equipment mean just 605 to the mobile develop their passion for music and those interested in music and the arts. Coventry people will have an library 12 months the arts are now open and available Cllr Tony Skipper, Cabinet Member for opportunity to use affordable city centre earlier. for use at Taylor John's House in Leisure and Culture, believes that the facilities that I'm sure will prove to be The library boasts Coventry. improvements will be a benefit to the very popular.” more than 12,000 The city centre-based venue has city's creative talent. He said: “These new The venue will now offer three new, items that are available expanded into additional units at the rehearsal studios, additional space and fully-equipped band rehearsal studios, to loan to members, available for hire at an including books and introductory rate of £7 per hour, DVDs. There are also along with two, larger, highly- 10 computers for versatile rooms that can be used public use including two for a variety of activities, including designated solely for film, theatre and art groups. children to use. The facility is a joint project Other attractions with Coventry City Council and include a children's the Department for Culture, library, a teen zone and Media and Sport and supported by a meeting room for UK Music. community use. Andy Whitehead, from Taylor Councillor Kelly said: John’s Music and Arts Centre Ltd, "Despite many local added: “Whether people are authorities cutting interested in taking up a new library services and creative activity or want to opening hours, develop their existing skills, we can Coventry has pledged Andy Whitehead and help.” that these valuable Cllr Tony Skipper believe For more details, visit the venue refurbishment community resources will hit just the right note. www.thetinangel.co.uk, will remain untouched." call 024 76 230 699 or e-mail [email protected] december 2011 | citivision | 07 news

Housing Benefit changes: Your questions answered

The Government’s changes to the rules for we may be able to make future LHA payments claiming Housing Benefit will lead to directly to their landlord’s bank account. significant reductions in payments for some people in Coventry from January. The Where should customers seek Council has already written to people Q advice if they cannot afford their affected to give them notice of the rent? changes, which will impact on people Housing Advice: For people who claiming housing benefit in privately rented A believe they will become homeless due to accommodation. Here we look at some of changes in Housing Benefit, contact the duty the questions being posed by the officer on 024 7683 4025. For people who changes.... want to have the opportunity to apply for Social Housing, they should visit www.coventryhomefinder.com to register an When are people affected and the nine-month protection will start to cease application. Q what is the Council doing? from January 2012, some people will start to For new customers claiming after April 1 receive less housing benefit. Money Management Advice: For A 2011, these changes took effect A people needing help with their finances, immediately, while existing people were People in receipt of the ‘five please contact our Money Management protected from these changes for nine months. A Bedroom Rate’. The rate of housing Advisor Anna Green, who offers support on These changes will now start to take effect benefit is now restricted to the four bedroom improving budgeting skills and making payment from January 2012 and in some cases will rate, so for tenants who were protected on arrangements for household bills. She can be mean a reduction in the amount of housing the five bedroom rate, these changes will also contacted on 024 7683 1238. benefit some tenants receive. We are writing take effect from January 2012. directly to the tenants that are affected. We Discretionary Housing Payments: will also be writing to landlords who may be How much will people lose? A The Discretionary Housing Payment renting to people receiving housing benefit. Q scheme provides additional short term We have estimated that: financial help for people in receipt of housing Who is likely to be affected and A and/or council tax benefit where they have a Q how much money could they lose? * The annual loss &of benefit for around 2,300 shortfall in their housing costs. For further Single people aged between 25 Qand people in Coventry will be overA £1.5 information please contact Richard Wise on A 35. Tenants who fall in this category will million; 024 7683 2967. see a reduction in the amount of housing * The weekly reduction in benefit ranges from benefit they receive. Most will be restricted to £1 to over £70; Housing and Council Tax Benefit the shared room rate of LHA which is * The average reduction is over £12 per week; A Advice: For people who need advice on currently £61 per week. * Most people will lose between £10 and £20 claims for housing or council tax benefit, per week. please contact us on 024 7683 1800, or visit People protected from the changes If, as a result of any of these changes people do our enquiry counter at New Union Street, A which took place in April 2011. Since not receive enough benefit to cover their rent Coventry. April 2011, the Government has reduced the payments, then we advise them to contact housing benefit rates. Existing tenants were their landlords in the first instance. If they General Welfare Benefits Advice: protected for a period of nine months from manage to negotiate a reduced rental charge A People can also contact our Welfare their anniversary date on the higher rate. As (which they can afford) for the property then Benefits Advice Team on 024 7683 2000.

Website sets out the standards you can expect Make your mark at festival The Council is making it easier better service. them know why. Performers and volunteers are being sought for for local people to find out The updated standards Cllr Phil Townshend, Cabinet the 2012 Positive Images Multicultural Festival. what standards of service they include: member for Customer Next year’s extravaganza is set to celebrate can expect when they get in Acknowledging e-mails that Services, said: “In these not only Coventry’s cultural diversity, but the touch. need a response within one challenging financial times 50th anniversary of the city’s cathedral, the Information on the Council's working day and providing a where we’re looking closely at Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the Olympic website has been changed to full response within ten days; our services and how we Games. The venue has still to be decided. reflect the Council’s updated Acknowledging letters that deliver them, it’s more Organisations, artists, performers and those customer service standards. need a response within important than ever that we seeking volunteering experience are invited to The standards, which cover three working days and continue to focus on providing planning meetings at the Central Library from what people can expect when providing a full response good customer service.” noon-1.30pm on December 19, January 23, they telephone, e-mail or visit within ten; For details on the standards February 20 and March 26. the Council, also offer tips on Aiming to see people within visit www.coventry.gov.uk For further information, contact Colin Scott how local people can help the ten minutes of waiting and if /coventrydirect or telephone on 024 7683 2457 or e-mail colrsco@yahoo Council provide them with a this is not possible to let 0500 834 333. .co.uk 08 | citivision | december 2011 community focus

Payback time pays dividends for city communities Offenders have been working community groups, faith under the supervision of the groups and schools. Probation Trust on projects to Jobs have included ground benefit local communities as a and entry clearance, payback for their crimes. gardening, decorating and The Community Payback litter collection at community scheme – one of a range of events such as the Coventry community sentences nominated by members of the Half Marathon and the imposed by courts – has seen public for the benefit of the Caribbean Festival. offenders reporting for up to local community. To nominate a project, three days each week to In recent months, offenders complete the nomination complete community tasks. at Coventry Community form on the Staffordshire and The type of work that the Payback Unit have completed West Midlands Probation Trust offenders perform is varied over 70,000 hours of work for website at www.swmprobation An offender removing city graffiti. and difficult and projects are over 60 local charities, .gov.uk or call 0121 248 2688. Community champ Roger honoured with street name

A former community redevelopment began in June champion is being 2010 following years of critical remembered after the planning among partners and Caring for Canley and Caludon Castle Park first street sign in residents, of which Roger Coventry's £360m Spirit played a key role. Quarters redevelopment Kevin Roach, project was set in place in his director for Spirit Quarters, honour. said: “Roger always worked Tipton Way was named closely with partners and after Roger Tipton, who residents to ensure the passed away in 2009. He success of the regeneration in served for 10 years as resident this area.” chair on the New Deal for Spirit Quarters is being Communities (NDC) delivered through a Partnership Board, and partnership made up of residents involved in the Whitefriars Housing, project decided to pay tribute Coventry City Council, the to Roger by naming the first Homes and Communities Residents and volunteers of all ages have new road in the Agency, Moat House been rolling up their sleeves to spruce up redevelopment after him. Community Trust and a two neighbourhoods in Coventry. Dozens Ian Tipton, a relative of developer consortium of Bovis of trees were planted in Canley Brook Roger, said: “To have this street Homes, Keepmoat Homes and and Parkwood by Friends of Canley named after Roger is a fitting Westbury Partnerships. Some Green Spaces, University of Warwick tribute to the hard work he 154 new homes are mid-way volunteers and residents. Youngsters from carried out in the community. through build and the second Wyken Croft Primary School, Richard Lee He was a simple man who got phase of 230 is due to start Primary School and Caludon Castle immense pleasure from seeing soon. For more information School (left and above) were among positive changes to his local about regeneration in north volunteers helping improve Caludon neighbourhood.” east Coventry, visit Castle Park by planting hedges. The hedge The Spirit Quarters housing www.spiritquarters.co.uk planting signals a season of work on the park over the next 12 months including volunteer days for bulb planting and litter- picking. The Council helped fund the tree planting in Canley, and The Friends of Caludon Castle Park secured a £50,000 Ian Tipton Changing Spaces Grant. The work is also (left) and part of Coventry’s Proud of My City Alan Tyrrell campaign to clean up the city ahead of at the street London 2012. For details visit: sign in www.ProudOfMyCity.org.uk memory of Roger (top right).

december 2011 | citivision | 09

health focus Smokeless zone support for mums

Pregnant women in Coventry, their partners and family members can now get extra support to stop smoking and make their homes and cars smokefree. Over the next 12 months, new support workers Diane and Mundeep (pictured) will be working to encourage more pregnant women to give up smoking and give their baby a healthier start to life. Partners, family members and friends will also be offered help to quit in support of mum-to-be. The team can support appointments with specialist stop smoking in pregnancy advisors who are based in locations throughout Coventry. They can also arrange a home visit for stop smoking support or for help and advice on how to make your Coventry mothers-to-be both mother and baby. Women physical activity, and weight home and car smokefree. are being urged to think about should be aware that only a small management. The next course The new team has been created their weight during pregnancy to number of extra calories are starts on Thursday January 19 at thanks to funding from the Coventry reduce chances of complications needed during pregnancy and only Radford Community Fire Station, Health Improvement Programme during pregnancy, labour and after needed in the last trimester. 10am-noon. (CHIP). the birth. The Just4Mums course offers Please speak to your midwife To contact the support workers call Although some weight gain in pregnant women a seven-week for a referral or call the Be Active 024 7684 4184 for more information or pregnancy is to be expected, being programme for support and Be Healthy team on 024 7683 to arrange an appointment. overweight carries health risks for information about nutrition, 3148 to find out more. UNICEF babycare prize a bundle of joy

Coventry has achieved stage two of the city has towards encouraging the UNICEF Baby Friendly initiative, a breastfeeding. Several studies have worldwide programme which shown that the baby-friendly encourages successful breastfeeding accreditation can increase in hospitals. breastfeeding rates and reduce the In November, UNICEF officials met incidence of illness. with members of the Council’s Infant Communities can also work to the Feeding Team (pictured above) and UNICEF plan to ensure pregnant healthcare professionals from across women and mothers receive high the city to assess the work being standards of care relating to feeding done in Coventry to support their babies. mothers to breastfeed. The Infant Feeding Team is part of UNICEF found that many the Coventry Health Improvement organisations in the city are working Programme (CHIP). closely together to help support the If you would like to find out more programme. about breastfeeding, call 07904 984 The stage two award recognises 620 or visit www.coventry.gov.uk the hard work and commitment that /breastfeeding. december 2011 | citivision | 11 health focus Your guide to what’s new on the healthcare scene in and around Coventry New City Health Centre now open

Patients in Coventry are a step closer to benefiting from a variety of high quality health services from a central location, as work is completed on the development of the city’s new City of Coventry Health Centre. Galliford Try Construction, through Coventry Care Partnerships has completed the construction work of the £22.5m five-storey building which covers over 10,000m², making it one of the largest Primary Care centres in England. The new facility, which becomes fully operational on January 9 2012, is opening to the public on Saturday December 10 from 11am till 3pm, to give people an idea of what the new facility will provide. GPs, the Walk-in Centre and other services currently based at the Coventry and Warwickshire hospital site, and services from other parts of the city, will be relocating through a phased transition of all services from December 16 into the new building. Key to the door: George Marsh (left), chair of Coventry Care Partnerships, Alison Gingell, chair of the Arden Cluster (NHS Coventry and Alison Gingell, Chair of Arden NHS Warwickshire) and Sean Bowles, Business Unit managing director for Galliford Try Construction, at the new health centre. Cluster, said: “I’m excited that we are another step closer to the opening of the new health centre. Are you ready for screen test? Put your health in the spotlight I know local people in the area will be pleased to know that A major cancer screening campaign Bowel Cancer Screening we’re nearly ready to open the has been launched across Coventry Bowel cancer is one of the most building for them to start using and Warwickshire, encouraging local common cancers. All men and services from January. people to go for their cancer women aged 60-74 are eligible to “I wish to thank Coventry screening test, as part of an NHS receive a free test kit every two Care Partnership, Galliford Try, drive to increase uptake of cervical, years. Bowel cancer screening can patients groups and everyone breast and bowel cancer screening. detect changes in your bowels early, who has been involved in making Screening is free of charge and when there is a good chance of a this project come alive.” can detect changes early, when successful recovery. If you missed Rachel Newson, chief executive there is a good chance of your last test, call 0800 707 6060 to of Coventry and Warwickshire successful recovery. order a test kit. Partnership NHS Trust, said: “The The public will see a range of quality of the care we provide is adverts over the coming months on Cervical Cancer Screening our top priority, and the facilities buses which encourage people to Cervical cancer is more common in we use to deliver services from put their health in the spotlight by young women. All women aged 25- need to reflect this too. going for a screen test. The three 64 are eligible for regular smear “A wide range of health adverts are being used to raise tests. Cervical screening can detect services will be available to local awareness of the importance of changes in the cervix early before people in this fantastic new simple screening test - which could they have a chance to develop into building, and we are really looking save your life. every three years. Breast screening cancer. forward to moving in and making can detect changes in your breasts If you missed your last test, call sure people can get the services Breast Cancer Screening early when there is a good chance your doctor to make an they need in a modern, high Breast cancer is the most common of a successful recovery. If you appointment today. For more quality, environment.” cancer in women. All women aged missed your last test, call 024 7696 information go to 50-70 are eligible for a mammogram 7200 to make an appointment today. www.cancerscreening.nhs.uk

12 | citivision | december 2011 Our Journey London 2012 is coming to Coventry...

www.coventry.gov.uk/london2012 Issue 20

Ambassador applications exceed expectations

A total of 575 applications The Coventry to be a Coventry Ambassadors Ambassador have been scheme has been received from people one of the most from all backgrounds and successful campaigns communities from across the city has seen with the city and West Midlands. over 7,000 people The recruitment phase of visiting the Coventry the project, which closed on Ambassador website. 25 November 2011, was to Councillor John enroll over 300 volunteers to Mutton, Leader of be deployed during Games Coventry City Council time who are responsible said: “I am delighted with for welcoming the world to the response we have the city of Coventry when had to the programme as thousands of visitors arrive it demonstrates that we Coventry Ambassador partners in July and August 2012. have a lot of passionate The process now starts to people who want to announcing the final number of review the applications to represent our city. applications received select most suitable people “Coventry Ambassadors to represent Coventry as will play a crucial role provides a first class delivered by Coventry ambassadors. in ensuring that the city experience for visitors and University and supported by Those who are successful Coventrians during the Voluntary Action Coventry through a selection and “We have a lot of Games, without whom we and CSW Sport. interview process will attend would not fulfil this ambition.” For more information at two training sessions in passionate people Funded by Coventry about Coventry spring 2012 to ensure they who want to City Council, the Coventry Ambassadors please visit: are fully prepared for the Ambassadors scheme is www.coventry.gov.uk/ Games. represent our city” a partnership programme coventryambassadors Inside this issue:

2 Olympic Football tickets 6 Coventry Schools Torch Relay London 2012 Olympic

Football tickets are back ge age Pupils and staff gear up

P on sale!

Pa for their own Torch Relay celebrations

4 Cultural Olympiad

Coventry’s plans to 7 Local Leaders celebrate the cultural age aspects of London P Sign up to be a London 2012 Kirsty Coventry 2012 Local Leader to Three time Olympian visits age

P celebrate the Games the city that shares her name

Page 3 Issue 20 / Our Journey 1 Welcome

Cllr John Mutton - Leader of David Moorcroft - Lead Coventry Coventry City Council 2012 Games Ambassador

I’m sure many of you have I think the Olympic Flame been watching the new is the most powerful symbol Broadgate take shape over of everything the Games the last few months and represents and have known for along with some other key a while that Coventry has the improvement works such honour of hosting an overnight as Gosford Street, begin to visit of the Torch on 1 July 2012. get a picture of how the city However the final route, in and out centre will be transformed in of Coventry, was only announced readiness for next summer. recently and it was great news One of the exciting parts of London 2012 coming to the for our Warwickshire neighbours region will be the range of innovative and creative cultural in Stratford- upon- Avon, Warwick, events taking place. I’m sure many of you will already have Leamington Spa, Kenilworth, Rugby, Dunchurch and heard about the Godiva Awakes project which will certainly get many villages and communities in between. national coverage for the city as she makes her way to London. The Olympic Torch will spend seven days in the January 2012 will see more exciting news released about the West Midlands, spotlighting many communities in our project so I’ll be as interested as you to read more about it and region and across the UK and it will be carried by 8000 begin to see the project really take off. people, from all backgrounds, who have been nominated Two of the other major cultural events taking place during because of their contribution to their communities. It 2012, the 50th anniversary celebrations of Coventry Cathedral will be a fantastic celebration and a wonderful way to and the World Shakespeare Festival, will also be spectacular connect us all to the 2012 Games. highlights of the Cultural Olympiad in our region. Football tickets back on sale

Next summer will telephone on 0844 847 2012 see the world’s largest In recognition of Visa’s sporting event coming longstanding support of to Coventry! London the Olympic Games and 2012 promises to be Paralympic Games, only a spectacular festival Visa (debit, credit and of sport and culture prepaid) can be used to and with the Football purchase tickets. tournament taking There are more than 1.5 place at venues up and million Football tickets down the UK, including still available across all Coventry, there is a once- sessions, with limited in-a- lifetime opportunity availability at matches to be part of a fantastic taking place at Wembley. family day out at the Tickets start at £20 Olympic Games and say for adults and there are ‘I was there’. special prices available at Tickets for the Football the majority of sessions, tournament go back on sale including ‘pay your age’ on 29 November 2011 and tickets for under-16s and Coventry hosts preliminary £16 tickets for those aged group matches in both 60 and over. the men and women’s Team GB and all tournament, as well as competing teams will quarter-final and bronze find out their opponents medal matches in the when the official draw women’s tournament. for the Olympic Football Tickets will go on sale Tournament takes place on from 11am on 29 November 24 April 2012 at Wembley 2011 from www.tickets. Stadium. london2012.com or by

2 Our Journey / Issue 20 Kirsty Coventry Coventry

Kirsty Coventry giving advice during a training session with the City of returns to Coventry Swimming Club

heading to the Coventry talk at Coventry University Coventry Sports Foundation-managed to the universities Sport Alan Higgs Centre on Allard Scholars giving an insight Way. into the life as a professional A seven-time Olympic lights celebrations in the city There she talked to pupils athlete. medal-winning swimmer centre before heading to the at the latest instalment of the Cllr. John Mutton, Leader has returned to visit the Coventry Blaze v Cardiff Coventry City Council 2012 of Coventry City Council, city which shares her Devils ice hockey fixture at Games Team’s Festival of said: “We are delighted to name following her first the Skydome Arena. Sport – which aims to give welcome Kirsty back to our visit last year. Talking about her visit school children across the city and to show her some Kirsty Coventry, from Kirsty said: “The city has region a taste of the Olympic of the fantastic ways in Zimbabwe, headed to the been very welcoming and the and Paralympic Games. which Coventry is involved in city to visit some of the people have been very warm. “I hope I have shared London 2012. region’s main attractions and “It is great to see how many something which can inspire “It has been exciting to hear check out the city’s sporting projects and programmes them as sport has played Kirsty share her experiences facilities as she continues are going on in this region to such a huge role in my life with pupils and students her preparations for London reach out to the community and I hope it can do the studying in the city and I 2012. and give them a feel of the same for children growing up hope she can help to inspire After arriving on Friday, Games. today,” she said. them as much as London November 18 she paid a visit “There have been a lot of Kirsty also gave a special 2012 seems to have.” to members of Coventry Olympics in the past where Swimming Club to lead a not everyone has been training session and share able to feel the positives of her experiences which hosting the Games – but include winning a total of Coventry has done very two gold medals, four silvers well promoting the Olympic and a bronze at the last two movement and helping the Olympic Games. community get involved.” Kirsty visited the Exhall “We are delighted headquarters of Olympic to welcome Kirsty and Paralympic Torch back to our city and manufacturers the Premier Group on Monday, November Kirsty with a prototype of the Olympic Torch to show her some of 21 to meet staff before at Premier Group’s headquarters in Exhall the fantastic ways in which Coventry is involved in London 2012”. During her visit Kirsty also trained at the 50m pool at Coventry Sports Centre on Fairfax Street. On Saturday, November 19 Kirsty attended Coventry City’s fixture against West Ham United to see the City of Coventry Stadium, which will host a total of 12 men’s and women’s matches during the Kirsty at the Festival of Sport with children Olympic Football Tournament from Cardinal Wiseman Catholic School in 2012. The following day, Kirsty attended the Christmas

Issue 20 / Our Journey 3 Focus on Culture Olympiad

The London 2012 Cultural The culmination of the Olympiad is the largest Cultural Olympiad, the Godiva Awakes cultural celebration in the London 2012 Festival When: 28 July 2012 history of the modern will open on 21 June Olympic and Paralympic 2012 – Midsummer’s Website: www.godivaawakes.co.uk Movements. Day. It will run until 9 Tickets: Free public event Spread over four years, it September 2012 – the last Lead: Imagineer Productions is designed to give everyone day of the London 2012 in the UK a chance to be part Paralympic Games. At In July 2012 a 21st Century the region, nationally and of London 2012 and inspire the heart of the Festival Godiva will awake to a internationally to the highest creativity across all forms will be a programme of spectacular performance standards of contemporary of culture, especially among commissions by some involving dancers, actors, craftsmanship. young people. of the finest artists in the aerialists, musicians, Godiva’s spectacular coat world. pyrotechnicians, carnivalists is being designed by Julia and 220 young people in O’Connell, who won a first class a procession marking the honours degree in textiles at unveiling of this Godiva for Coventry University. A team Godiva image left Artists the modern age. of local artists are working impression of Godiva Powered by 100 cyclists, with Julia to create different the 10m tall Godiva will elements of what can only be then journey to London to described as ‘haute couture’ – celebrate the London 2012 there will be no other like it in Olympic and Paralympic the world. Games. World renowned fashion Godiva Awakes is a world designer Zandra Rhodes is also class piece of public art, designing the undergarment made by mechanics, artists, for Godiva which highlights theatre makers, puppeteers the quality of talent involved in and engineers from Coventry, Godiva Awakes. Coventry Cathedral

When: 23 June 2012 Website: www.coventrycathedral.org.uk/50 Tickets: 02476 521 210 or online as above (from 1 January 2012) Lead: Coventry Cathedral

Coventry Cathedral of the Golden Jubilee celebrates its Golden Jubilee commission – Gloria - from in 2012 and the past 50 years James MacMillan. have witnessed the creation This exciting project, of a vibrant choral and supported by London 2012 classical music tradition. and Arts Council England, Always at the forefront of has become a major part of encouraging new music, a the London 2012 Festival in Coventry Cathedral is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2012 special concert on 23 June the West Midlands as part 2012 features the premiere of the finale to the Cultural

London 2012 is coming to Coventry...

April April 23 June 25 July 1 London 2012 Olympic World Shakespeare Music Commission performed Olympic Torch Relay evening 2012 Football test event at the City Festival begins at Coventry Cathedral celebration event in Coventry of Coventry Stadium 4 plans for Coventry Focus on

World

Example designs of Lady Godiva’s coat Shakespeare Festival

Ten groups of young beautifully crafted book online When: 23 April – 9 September 2012 people from across the West the Godiva Awakes website Website: www.worldshakespearefestival.org.uk Midlands are working on the www.godivaawakes.co.uk creation of the Book of Intent which launched in September. Tickets: 0844 800 1110 or online as above containing the contributors Following Godiva’s journey Lead: Royal Shakespeare Company hopes and aspirations around the Book of Intent will be the core Olympic themes of on permanent display in The World Shakespeare Brighton, Wales and Scotland equality, justice and fairness. Coventry. Festival (WSF) is a as well as online. They will ask Godiva to carry Godiva Awakes is part celebration of Shakespeare Productions taking place in to London on the night of of Artists taking the lead, as the world’s playwright Stratford-upon-Avon include July 28th 2012 during the a series of 12 public art in an unprecedented Meera Syal as Beatrice in Reawakening performance in commissions across the UK collaboration with leading a production of Much Ado Coventry. to celebrate the London 2012 UK and international arts about Nothing set in India and Members of the public Cultural Olympiad, funded by organisations, and with The Comedy of Errors, The can also contribute to this Arts Council England. Globe to Globe, a major Tempest and Twelfth Night, international programme directed by David Farr and produced by Shakespeare’s Palestinian director, Amir Nizar Globe. Zuabi. Olympiad. is another Coventry It runs from 23 April to There will also be a Nations Performed by the City Cathedral commission November 2012 and forms at War season comprised of of Birmingham Symphony (from 1980), ‘War in part of London 2012 Festival, Richard III, King John and A Orchestra, Ian Bostridge Heaven’, by Neil Cox, which is the culmination of the Soldier in Every Son: An Aztec (tenor), St Michael’s Singers an exciting work for Cultural Olympiad, bringing Trilogy, consisting of three and a large choir of local choir, organ and the leading artists from all over plays about the intrigue of a schoolchildren, the premiere brass instruments of the the world together in a UK- century of Aztec civilisation by will be conducted by the orchestra. wide festival in the summer of Luis Mario Moncada, one of composer, James MacMillan. As part of the 2012. Mexico’s leading playwrights. In the same programme wider celebrations of Thousands of people from RSC Chief Associate Director Paul Leddington Wright will the Cathedral’s 50th over 50 arts organisations Gregory Doran will direct conduct Benjamin Britten’s Anniversary, a host of have come together to Julius Caesar, finding dark St Nicholas, which provides other events and activities take part in the Festival, a contemporary echoes set in a further opportunity for the have been programmed collaboration of extraordinary sub-Saharan Africa. children’s choir to sing with highlighting its unique scale and ambition. The The World Shakespeare a professional symphony international mission of Festival will feature close to Festival is supported by BP, as orchestra in magnificent peace and reconciliation 70 productions, plus events Founding Presenting Partner, surroundings. and as a culture centre for and exhibitions across the UK, and by the National Lottery Completing the programme the performing arts. including London, Stratford- through the Olympic Lottery upon-Avon, Newcastle/ Distributor and Arts Council Gateshead, Birmingham, England.

July 25 July 27 - July 28 - August 29 - First Olympic Football match August 12 Godiva Awakening September 9 to be played at the City of Performance London 2012 Olympic Games London 2012 Coventry Stadium Paralympic Games 5 Schools Torch Relay Schools plan Torch Relay

Paralympic mascot Mandeville with children celebrations from Edgewick primary school

What is the Coventry Schools Torch Relay? What support is available to schools? Communications will be sent out with ideas and updates about how to plan and deliver your Torch Relay. Coventry City This is a project to enable each school in Council will also provide posters for your school to customise Coventry to develop and create their own Games and to promote your event in the summer of 2012. inspired Torch that can be showcased at a special The London 2012 education programme ‘Get Set’ has also ceremony in the summer of 2012 for for each has released an Olympic Torch relay resource pack which school to hold their own Torch Relay event. includes information about the history of the Olympic Torch and the design of the London 2012 Olympic Torch. This information can be accessed at: http://getset.london2012.com

When should your Torch Relay event take place? In the week before, 25-29 June 2012, we would like as many schools as possible to stage their own torch relay during this week in the build up to the Olympic Torch arriving that weekend in Coventry on 1 July 2012. The 25-29 June 2012 is also Lloyds TSB National School Sports Week so you may wish to include your Torch Relay event to enhance any sporting activity planned to take place. Register at: www.schoolsportweek.org

How does your school get started?

1. Set a date for your Torch Relay during 25-29 June 2012

2. Allocate a lead staff contact within your school Torch celebrations as part of the Festival of Sport project for the project during Lloyds TSB National School Sports Week in 2011

3. Discuss how you want to make your torch. Is it a whole school competition? Does each class Five facts about the London 2012 Olympic Torch or year group make their own? 1. It has 8,000 small cut-out circles, one for each of the 8,000 inspirational people who will carry it on its journey 4. Decide how the event will work. Is it part of the around the UK sports day? How will you co-ordinate children 2. You can see through the holes to the burner system inside and staff carrying the torch? Will you invite that keeps the Flame alight parents and family to watch the event? 3. The Torch is 800mm high 4. It weighs 800g 5. Plan backwards key milestones which need to 5. It is made from a lightweight aluminium alloy and is a be achieved to put on the Torch Relay golden colour

6. Carry out your plan and review progress as you go along Will this project help with our Get Set network application?

Where can our school get more Your school’s involvement in this project is a great way to demonstrate how your school is linking with London 2012 information? and the Olympic and Paralympic Values. By developing a torch and relay event, you can use this as evidence as Full details about the project can be found part of your application to the Get Set network. at: www.coventry.gov.uk/london2012

6 Our Journey / Issue 20 Get involved Local Leaders

Local Leaders is a programme being launched by London 2012 to invite the nation’s organisers, planners and doers to get ready for the Games. person who makes it happen. Being a Local Leader Across the whole of the The person who makes a is simple: all you need is own events or get involved UK, millions of people will difference and just gets stuff an idea of how you will with the some of the ideas be part of the celebrations done. If this sounds like you, celebrate the Games and communities across the UK and at the heart of every why don’t you sign up to be a then get organising. Local have suggested to London celebration will be the one London 2012 Local Leader? Leaders can create their 2012. Some ideas to get you started: Garden for Super the Games Sports Quiz School’s Out Saturday

Spring 2012: May: Summer 2012: 4 August: Dig out your trowel and Know your Fencing from Mums, dads, teachers... A medal-winning get planting! Use your your Phelps? Hold a Big every week over the weekend. Invite window pot, garden or Sports Quiz at home or school holidays we will neighbours you’ve never community allotment down the pub to find provide you with stuff to chatted to round for a to celebrate through all your local ‘brains of the do to get the kids ready BBQ to watch record things floral. Games’. for the Games. breaking athletes.

When you sign up you will get hints and tips to help you plan your celebrations, plus access to exclusive toolkits as we get closer to the Games. Join thousands of others around the UK to organise events to make the Games local. Sign up at: www.london2012.com/localleaders

Get Set profile: Cardinal Wiseman Catholic School

As the first secondary of the band. As a specialist school in Coventry to language college, the be part of the Get Set wristbands have the Values network, Cardinal Wiseman written in four languages have developed a range of with some of the Values schemes to involve their substituted for gospel values pupils in London 2012. to draw symmetry with the The school has linked their school’s Catholic background. wider student ambassador programme to London 2012 The school’s fitness suite by making the ambassadors also displays some artwork responsible for updating designed by a local graffiti notice boards for each artist with pupils which academic department with graphically depict the Olympic information about the Olympic and Paralympic Values with and Paralympic Games the intention to inspire and relating to specific subjects. motivate students when The school also has a exercising. reward scheme for pupils who demonstrate the Olympic and Is your school registered on Get Set? Ask your teacher to register to The Values boards on Paralympic Values by giving get access to London 2012 resources, competitions and exclusive students wristbands with rewards. Register for Get Set at: http://getset.london2012.com display in the school’s the Value written on the side fitness suite

Issue 20 / Our Journey 7 Finish line

Kick off for Girls Football

Partners from across Club and attended by 176 Competition Coventry have joined girls from 15 schools forces with the Birmingham Warwickshire schools can Win a limited edition pin badge marking 300 County FA to inspire girls also take part and are actively days to go until London 2012 by answering at schools in Coventry and encouraged to participate in the following question correctly. Warwickshire to play football this opportunity. as a result of Coventry A Legacy Cup tournament Q: What is the name of the commissioned being one of six UK-wide will also run alongside piece of music by James MacMillan for cities to host the London the league as part of the Coventry Cathedral? 2012 Olympic Football countdown to 12 Olympic competition. women’s and men’s Football A) Rejoice The formation of the new matches being staged at the B) Almighty Legacy League scheme for City of Coventry Stadium – as C) Gloria year nine and ten students the venue will be known for has earned the London 2012 the duration of the Games – Please send your answers followed by your Inspire mark, an accreditation starting on July 25, 2012. name, address and contact number by e-mail which recognises innovative Any school interested in to: [email protected] and exceptional projects that entering the Legacy League have been directly influenced should contact Jenny Shortt Entries by Monday 19 December 2011 by the 2012 Olympic and on jenny.shortt@ricoharena. please. Winner will be announced on 21 Paralympic Games. com or telephone December 2011 at: The scheme was launched 0844 873 6323. www.covenry.gov.uk/london2012 in March 2011 with support from Coventry City Football Next issue: Olympic Football test event

Preview of the London 2012 Football test event that will act as the final qualifier for the Olympic Games which will be hosted at the City of Coventry Stadium in April. Olympic Legend London 2012 Hopeful

Bill Adcocks Athletics 1968 Olympic Games

Coventry athlete Bill Adcocks came 5th in the Marathon in the Mexico City 1968 Olympic Games. Bill, who Rachel Smith had never run at high altitude, Rythmic Gymnastics went on to set his personal best winning the Fukuoka Rachel, from Wyken in Coventry, moved to Bath in July marathon in 2:10:48 later that 2011 to begin training on a full-time basis with her team year. Bill has been involved mates as they look to become the first ever rhythmic group with the Coventry Godiva to represent Great Britain at the Olympic Games. Rachel Harriers Athletics club for 56 is the captain of the team of seven which average age is years, 22 as secretary, and just 17 years old. The team has a rigorous qualification still officiates at track and process for the Games which culminates at the test event field events. at the North Greenwich Arena in London in January 2012.

Search for Coventry City Council, Council House, Earl Street, Coventry, CV1 5RR Coventry-2012 Games: e-mail: [email protected]

8 Our Journey / Issue 20 www.coventry.gov.uk/london2012 health focus

Helping you to Need help stay out of hospital Local resident Thomas Terrence is taking no chances with finding your his health this year. He’s been living with diabetes for over 20 years and doesn’t want others like him to experience what it’s like to get flu when living with a long term health local NHS condition. Thomas, aged 59, from Walsgrave in Coventry, shared his experience of what it’s like to get flu when you’re services? diabetic. He said: “Fourteen years ago I caught the flu virus and thought I’d be okay in a couple of weeks, it Your time is a precious thing. Hundreds of wasn’t until after three months that I’d realised how long people use A&E every week for minor it took me to fully recover from what I thought was a illnesses and aliments when another service simple cold. would have treated them sooner. Don’t This NHS poster offers advice on “At the time, my diabetes was difficult to manage as my waste your own time. Get the right getting the right treatment quickly. blood sugars were fluctuating from day to day and trying treatment for you. to stabilise my condition was proving to be more difficult Pharmacy or any time on a weekend or Bank Holiday. than I thought. Did you know that you can treat many minor “I certainly didn’t want to get flu again so for the last illnesses and injuries without having to see a Walk in Centre fourteen years I’ve been getting my vaccine each year – doctor at all? As well as dispensing NHS Walk in Centres give you fast access to since then I’ve never had the flu – and certainly don’t prescriptions, pharmacists provide a range of health advice and treatment from want to take the risk of getting it again.” services and provide ‘on the spot’ help and experienced GPs and nurses on a range of There are additional ways people can protect advice on minor ailments such as: minor illnesses and injuries, including: themselves and those around them. Good hand hygiene - Coughs, colds and flu; Coughs, colds and flu-like the ‘catch it, bin it, kill it’ technique – reduces the spread Skin conditions; symptoms; of germs. Allergies; Minor cuts and wound care; “This means carrying tissues, covering coughs and Aches and pains like headaches, Muscle and joint injuries, strains and sneezes with a tissue, disposing of the tissue after one earache and backache; sprains; use, and cleaning hands as soon as possible with soap and Indigestion; Skin complaints; water or an alcohol hand gel. Diarrhoea; Emergency contraception and There are four groups of people most at risk from flu – Minor cuts and bruises; contraceptive advice; pregnant women; people with long term conditions; Help losing weight or giving up Hayfever, bites and stings; carers and people over 65 years. For more information smoking. Stomach ache; about seasonal flu, visit www.coventry.nhs.uk Don’t forget that pharmacists are trained Indigestion, constipation, vomiting health professionals and offer a convenient and diarrhoea. local service, opening on evenings and Based on the Coventry and Warwickshire Have a say! It’s your chance weekends. Hospital site, the Walk in Centre is open from to tell us what you think 8am to 10pm, every day of the year. You can GP simply walk in and wait to be seen. Give us your views – that’s the appeal from the Coventry See a GP if you have a condition you or your and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust which is pharmacist cannot treat, except in cases of Accident and Emergency (A&E) consulting people across Coventry, Warwickshire and chest pain, shortness of breath, massive A&E is open 24 hours a day, seven days a Solihull and asking them to make a difference to the way bleeding or suspected stroke. If you are week for immediate hospital attention due to its mental health, learning disability and community registered with a GP surgery you can access a a serious illness or injury. The rule is simple: services are delivered. range of services including: Call 999 for an ambulance or take someone A public consultation campaign called “Give us your Treatment for minor injuries, cuts, straight to A&E if it is an emergency or life- views” was launched in November to outline the Trust’s grazes and bruising; threatening situation. An emergency includes plan to become a Foundation Trust and it is asking local Suturing (stitching), some minor things like: people to get involved in the consultation. injuries; Suspected heart attack or stroke; The consultation ends on February 27 and public Health checks, screening and family Suspected meningitis; meetings have been arranged during this period across planning advice; Breathing difficulties; Coventry, Warwickshire and Solihull, including Wednesday Referral to other specialist services; Chest pain; January 25 at 10.30am-noon at The Lounge, Coventry Prescriptions; Unconsciousness; Central Hall, Warwick Lane, Coventry, CV1 2HA. Child health checks (post-natal Heavy or uncontrolled bleeding; Trust chief executive Rachel Newson said: "We believe health); Suspected drug overdose; that by becoming a Foundation Trust we set out an Immunisation and vaccines GP Out Sudden and severe headaches; ambitious future for the delivery of care and treatment to of Hours. Severe head injuries; local people living with physical or mental health If you need to see a doctor or nurse more Serious injuries such as impalement problems, or a learning disability. It is really important to urgently, and cannot wait until your GP is or stab wounds; us to engage with our local communities about our plans. open, you can also telephone 01926 888026 Severe bone breaks, fractures or “We also want to invite every person in our local between 6.30pm and 8am Monday to Friday, burns. communities to become a member of the Trust. We are taking the opportunity in this public consultation to ask SAFEGUARDING IS EVERYONE’S BUSINESS: A new leaflet outlining the you to consider the vision we set out, the values that are safeguarding process is available from the Coventry Safeguarding Adults team. It is important to us, and the strategic direction of the Trust. part of a suite of information designed to help people understand the role of safeguarding Becoming a member shows both a commitment to and the important role we can all play. For more information, or to download the leaflet, supporting the Trust in its ambitions and provides an visit www.coventry.gov.uk/safeguarding. opportunity to help shape the future of the organisation.”

december 2011 | citivision | 13 health focus Make sure you take good care of yourself University Hospital’s That’s the advice of the Coventry Healthy Lifestyle team who say that it’s important to be aware of self care when suffering from ill major trauma centre health. Eating healthier foods, increasing physical activity and stopping smoking, or even all three, will improve a person’s saves farmer Alan health. An individual experiencing no health issues is likely to improve University Hospitals collapsed lung. such as major head or spinal their health status, avoid ill health Coventry and Warwickshire The 75-year-old was cut injuries, amputations, multiple and experience a good quality of NHS Trust is now one of the out of his van before being injuries, and severe knife or life by making these healthy adult major trauma airlifted to the nearest major gunshot wounds. The creation lifestyle changes. centre’s in the West hospital able to deal with life of new trauma care networks With those experiencing a long Midlands. threatening injuries. will help patients by increasing term condition the aim would be One person already This was the first link in a survival rates, shortening to improve their health status or benefiting from the major complex chain of life saving recovery times and reducing prevent any further decline. trauma services is farmer treatments which has meant disability from injury. Natalie Hinsley, Lifestyle Alan Hinch. Alan is here today. Dr Matthew Wyse, Services Manager said: “We’re He is lucky to be alive after Alan said: "The last thing I Consultant Anaesthetist and hoping that people who want to his van was hit by a car on a remember is the sound of Clinical Lead for Major Trauma make a lifestyle change take our rural road in Market the helicopter, the next thing Service said: “At University advice and get in touch with us. Harborough on September 5 was waking up in the critical Hospital we see about 300 The team are on hand to offer a and he was left fighting for care unit three days later." major traumas each year. wide range of advice and his life with injuries including Major trauma is defined as Patients bought here do not information to help people to take a broken back, shattered serious injuries which are need to be transferred control of their health and well- pelvis, fractured hips and a immediately life threatening anywhere else because we have being. “Often people need some support from NHS services to guide them in the right direction Alison steps up to chair new and often have better success if Recognising a key they seek help. For example, with board for local care trust cluster role in social care stopping smoking you are four A new chair and new non- times more likely to quit with the executive directors have been ‘Personal assistant’ is a term support of NHS services.” announced for the Arden used in social care for an Coventry Healthy Lifestyle Cluster Board (also known as individual employed by a person services are available to residents NHS Coventry and NHS receiving direct payments to across Coventry who would like Warwickshire), bringing support them to live to make a healthy lifestyle change, together expertise from across independently at home. whether that be losing weight, Coventry and Warwickshire. The PA role has been adapted stopping smoking or becoming New chair Alison Gingell to meet the wider variety of more active. said: “It is a great privilege to needs of those people directing Call 0300 200 0011 to book an be the Chair of the Arden their own support. This could appointment with an advisor Cluster and I’m very much include support with shopping, today or visit a local pharmacy. looking forward to working cleaning, gardening and social alongside a great team of activities as well as personal care. C-card update committed and positive people Coventry and Warwickshire Coventry's c-card scheme, which across Coventry and Partnership for Care (CWPC) is offers young people advice on Warwickshire. working with Coventry City sexual health issues, has launched “We are facing some difficult Council to gain a better a facebook page. www.facebook and complex challenges in the understanding of the role and New Chair Alison Gingell. .com/CcardCoventry tells you coming years in the NHS, but the support PAs require. We are where to get the C-card, where to despite the uncertainty we’re the non- executive directors in developing opportunities for find new sexual health venues and determined to provide helping us to achieve the best people in this role to meet and sexual health updates. Posters and excellent quality of care across healthcare possible, I am sure access information about an 'ad van' travelling around the the area.” they are proud to be part of available support and training city will be encouraging more The Cluster Board is made such a dynamic organisation opportunities. To find out more, young people to sign up to the c- up of non-executive directors which shows real results for contact Claire Walton on 01926 card. The C-card section of from the previous NHS the people of Coventry and 745114, e-mail clairewalton@ www.besavvy.org.uk has also been Coventry and NHS Warwickshire and continue on warwickshire.gov.uk or visit updated with a full list of Warwickshire Boards. our mission to improve the www.voiceofcare.co.uk distribution and registration sites. Alison added: “I welcome all health of local people.” 14 | citivision | december 2011 health focus Safe drinking at home

Farmer Alan over the festive period Hinch, whose life was saved by the skill of the major trauma team.

all the life-saving services on he is grateful to be alive. one site. Patients get faster “If I had gone to the Residents across Coventry and What’s in a unit? access to scans and treatment nearest hospital, valuable Warwickshire are being urged to Pint of four per cent lager: which saves lives. Patients like time would have been lost think about the amount of alcohol 2.3 units; Alan are in safer hands..” and I am not sure whether I they’re drinking at home. 175ml glass of 13 per cent wine: Alan has to be kept at would have been here today It may seem to be the easiest and 2.3 units; constant angle of 30 degrees to tell the tale. cheapest option to have a few drinks 25ml glass of 40 per cent single for the next three months to At University Hospital at home, but when you have control spirit and mixer: 1 unit. allow his shattered pelvis to there are the people and the over the amount of measures you For more information about heal. equipment all in the one pour, you’re more likely to be over sensible drinking and how to He knows he has a long road place to do everything at the limit on less alcohol than you calculate your units of alcohol intake, of recovery ahead of him but once.” may think. The effects of even a visit www.nhs.uk small amount of alcohol can include: Residents across Coventry and Slower reactions; Warwickshire with a drug or alcohol Martin Gower is named as new Increased stopping distance; problem now have access to a new Poorer judgment of speed and integrated and recovery-focused Chair of Partnership NHS Trust distance; treatment service – The Recovery A reduced field of vision. Partnership. The Recovery Coventry and Warwickshire ‘I am honoured and Alcohol can also make you feel Partnership is provided by Addaction Partnership NHS Trust has overconfident. This may make you and Cranstoun, two national announced the appointment of delighted to be more likely to take risks when substance misuse charities which Martin Gower as the new chair of appointed as chair driving, creating dangerous situations between them operate over 100 its Trust Board. of the Tr ust and to for yourself and other people on the specialist services. The Recovery Martin began with the Trust as a road. If you’re found guilty of drink Partnership will be a one-stop-shop non-executive director (designate) continue working driving, you could lose your licence, for people with a dependency on in August 2009 and was appointed with an excellent get a £5,000 fine, be sentenced to up drugs and/or alcohol but with a substantively in February 2010 after to six months in prison and pay sharper focus on helping people to which he became vice-chair and team of colleagues increased rates for your car become drug or alcohol free. It will senior independent director. providing exceptional insurance.The NHS recommends: replace drug and alcohol services In August 2011 he was healthcare...’ Men should not regularly drink currently provided by Coventry and appointed Interim chair following more than three-four units of Warwickshire Partnership Trust the resignation of the previous – Martin Gower, new chair of alcohol a day; (services known as CDTs), Trust the chair. Coventry and Warwickshire Women should not regularly drink Process Counselling, Swanswell Most of Martin’s career has been Partnership NHS Trust more than two-three units a day; Charitable Trust, Warwickshire spent in publishing businesses in the ‘Regularly’ means drinking this Probation Trust and West Midlands UK, the USA and Ireland. In the last working with an excellent team of amount every day or most days of Police. For more information, ring 18 years of his full time career, he colleagues providing exceptional the week. 024 7663 0135, held managing director positions in healthcare across Coventry and South Wales, Northern Ireland, Warwickshire.” Southwest England and the Rachel Newson, chief executive For a happy and safe Christmas, Midlands. of Coventry and Warwickshire His knowledge of Coventry and Partnership NHS Trust, welcomed always carry condoms Warwickshire was gained whilst the appointment and said: “Martin Condoms can help prevent both unplanned pregnancies managing director of Coventry knows us very well already, has an and STIs, they are easy to use and can be brought or Newspapers Ltd. impressive track record and will be obtained for free from a number of places across the city. Martin said: “I am honoured and able to continue to use his For more information on where you can get free condoms, delighted to be appointed as chair knowledge and experience to good visit www.coventry.nhs.uk and www.besavvy.org.uk of the Trust and to continue effect in his new role.” december 2011 | citivision | 15

green focus Get aboard green energy drive

A new programme is offering training for businesses in Resolve to recycle renewable energy so that they Pillars of salt ready for big chill can tap into a growing market. Make sure you recycle as much as The Council has been stocking The training is open to all small to you can over Christmas. Real up during the summer on medium-sized businesses, sole Christmas trees can be taken to gritting salt in preparation for traders and start-up businesses in the Household Waste and the winter months, with over Coventry and the other participating Recycling Centre, or to the 5,000 tonnes being stored at council areas. There are a limited recycling area in the main car park the salt barn in Humber Road. number of free places available in at the War Memorial Park Cllr Lindsley Harvard (right), renewable energy technologies such between January 6-13. Recycling a Cabinet Member for City as solar photovoltaic, solar thermal, single glass bottle or jar saves Services, said: “We are heat pumps and biomass to enough energy to power a light determined to keep Coventry’s plumbers, heating engineers and bulb for an hour or a computer roads open during the winter building services companies. for 20 minutes. Recycling a can months, and have stock-piled Cllr Linda Bigham, Cabinet saves enough energy to power a gritting salt to ensure that we Member for City Development, said: TV for three hours. have enough even if we get “This training programme presents arctic conditions.” an opportunity for businesses to A business can apply for a In previous years the typical extend their skills base, and offers member of staff to attend a non- quantity stored has been them the potential of new business accredited or related training course 2,000-2,500 tonnes. within this key sector.” including the Quality Management Sixty tonnes of salt is used The Council, in partnership with Systems training, and a renewable every time the gritting wagons councils covering Warwickshire, technology training session. are called out – so it means Staffordshire, Stoke on Trent, Telford The programme has been tailored that there is sufficient salt for and Wrekin, Worcestershire and to support the take up and 41 sweeps of the city’s highway Shropshire, is jointly supporting the attainment of the Microgeneration system, based on average funding of this unique training Certification Scheme. To find out winter conditions. programme, together with support more, contact the Energy Training from the European Social Fund. Hub on 0800 027 7420.

december 2011 | citivision | 17 news extra Plug those draughts for free! Free home insulation offer proves a winner Sound future as youth club members take lead roles Former Coventry youth club Homeowners and private members Conar Hennedy, landlords are taking advantage of aged 18, James Dakin, 18, and a free home insulation offer. Jehanne McGarth, 19, are Coventry firm Rockwarm is making celebrating their new roles as the sensational offer that is paid for Assistant Youth Workers. The through an EDF Energy grant. three have all attended the The special offer is in partnership Wood End Youth Centre for with Coventry City Council and the a number of years and have Energy Saving Trust – a government been working with young funded organisation set up to provide people as volunteers for free and impartial energy advice. some time. James and Conar Free cavity wall insulation is available both have skills as sound to all homeowners or private landlords engineers and all three were of all properties up to 120 metres in involved in the launch of a size that have a normal 75mm cavity. record label at the Wood End Loft insulation is available for Youth Centre. James has also qualifying properties that have less than delivered DJ workshops. Cllr three inches (60mm) of existing loft Jim O’Boyle, Cabinet insulation. Such homes qualify for free Member for Children and 200mm and 250mm top ups. Young People, said: The offer was originally set to last “Inspiring the young people until November but has been extended our service works with to due to popular demand. become youth workers is Anyone wanting to arrange a free great as they can identify home insulation survey should with the needs of their peers telephone 024 7634 5554 Jehanne, James and Conar settle into their new roles as assistant youth workers. and be positive role models.” or 0800 132 689. Homefinder website helps point the way to social housing across the city Have you tried the new application online; Coventry Homefinder service Updates will be sent to that allows you to find out individual accounts – so about the different types of please make sure you check social housing available? your account on a regular Changes were made to the basis; system in November aimed at All registrations will be making it easier to use and reviewed annually through a more efficient. message sent to your The main changes you will account. Failure to respond notice are: to this will see your Submit and view your application removed from the system; Help with homes swap An interactive map to help you find Coventry City Council and Whitefriars properties Housing are working together to free-up available; much-needed family homes in Coventry. Apply to rent The Council is helping Whitefriars tenants garages owned by keen to swap their three or more bedroom Whitefriars homes for smaller accommodation, thus Housing; freeing up larger family properties for those A newsletter listing who need them. all available If you have been a tenant for more than one properties; year and have a clear rent account, then the A lifetime Council could help you move. This may registration include help with packing and removals, number for all decoration, flooring, and curtains/blinds for applicants no your new home. matter how many If you are interested, contact Richard applications you Darbyshire on 024 7676 7126. make.

18 | citivision | december 2011 jobs & training

Uni in fast lane of the learning curve The Centre for Lifelong Learning at the University of Warwick has launched a new programme of open studies courses. A wide range of courses have been designed for enjoyment or progression on to one of the part-time degrees. They are designed for flexible study and offer subjects ranging from history, art, architecture, business, health, creative writing, English Literature, languages, journalism, film, cinema, ecology, geology, sociology, and communication skills. Thirst for knowledge: Age is no barrier to students at the Centre for Lifelong Learning. The Centre for Lifelong Learning makes a major contribution to the university’s Have your say engagement with local Watch out for your next communities. ‘Shop till you local Ward Forum, which For over 25 years, the centre gives you the chance to has been at the forefront of have your say on issues efforts to widen participation in which affect your higher education for local adult drop’ on to a community. Meetings are learners. For more information held four times a year – about courses, visit visit www.coventry.gov.uk www.warwick.ac.uk/cll job placement /wardforums for dates. Jobseekers can now ‘shop’ for “Despite the challenging support in their quest for work economic climate, the Jobs Team by calling on a new city-centre has already supported 500 local jobs store opened by the City people to find work so far this year. Council in a bid to boost And now we have temporary employment figures. residence in a city centre shop, we The Jobs Team shop in The hope to make it easier for Precinct has a host of self-sourced unemployed residents to find out employment opportunities on what help and support is available offer – the result of months spent to them." building strong relationships with Latest figures suggest that one in more than a thousand local five of Coventry’s young people is businesses. currently not working, in education "Having a shop in the city centre or in training. The shop will remain is part of the Council's wider Jobs open until December 22, with Strategy which sets out how we’re experienced advisors on hand to leading on job creation and offer wide ranging employment tips renewing prosperity in the city,” and help chances of employment. said Cllr Linda Bigham, Cabinet For more information, call the member for City Development. Jobs Team on 024 7683 1218.

Cllrs George Duggins and Linda Bigham are joined by staff from the new job shop at the ribbon cutting ceremony.

december 2011 | citivision | 19 what’s on A sackful of treats this winter

Here are some of the things you can enjoy during the winter months around Coventry

DECEMBER Legends honoured with 2-Tone Wall of Fame Rangers for details of where this 10 – Festive Fun, War 2-tone Village in Ball Hill has So far, Lynval Golding and activity will take place. Suitable Memorial Park, 11am-1pm. Meet added a new feature to its Neville Staple from The for 16+ – booking essential. Call at Visitor Centre to make some venue with the creation of a Specials, Indian musician 024 7683 3633 option 3. If the 3D Christmas decorations and Wall of Fame honouring music Rajinder Singh, Neol Davies, Ranger is not available, you can cards. Cost: £2.50 per child. legends who have helped to Bob Brolly, the late Steve leave a message. Suitable for ages four and over. shape the music scene in Eaton – original 2-Tone DJ – 19 – My Dive to Titanic, Titanic Call 024 7678 6280 and check Coventry. Six plaques have and Vince Holliday have all Heritage Trust, The noticeboards around the park. been unveiled at the Walsgrave been honoured. TechnoCentre, Puma Way, 10 – Creative Writing Adult Road venue and more names For details, visit Coventry CV1 2TT, 2 for 2.30pm. Workshops: Seas of Grass, will be added. www.2tonecentral.co.uk Talk by Philip Littlejohn, the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, grandson of Alexander James

1-4pm. Led by Connie Ramsay n Littlejohn, First Class Steward,

Bott and Cathy Whittaker, this Dad’s the word in ippo RMS Titanic. He is the only R e g

r Titanic relative to make the dive workshop will stir your thoughtful new film o Ge imagination and examine to the Titanic wreck site. A new film written, produced and directed Advance tickets for this event memoir, fiction and poetry. hotos: Admission £8. Booking in Coventry is being premiered in the city * P available from www.titanic essential – call 024 7629 4774 or this month (December). heritagetrust.org.uk or contact ask at reception. Dad captures a father’s deterioration into Titanic Heritage Trust on 11 – Friends of the Park alcoholism, while simultaneously exploring 024 7623 6556, e-mail Christmas Carol Concert, one woman’s exploration of misery as a enquiries@titanicheritagetrust War Memorial Park, 2.30-4pm. creative outlet and, eventually, as a critical .org.uk Carols with the City of coping mechanism. First-time writer and 19 – Waiting for Orders; my Coventry Brass Band. Santa will director Michelle Bailey, aged 25 from Grandfather’s story, Titanic pop along with some gifts for the Coventry, also stars in the short film, the Heritage Trust, The children. Event will be located work of Baileyface Productions. The group TechnoCentre, Puma Way, will be entering Dad into the Midlands- Coventry CV1 2TT, outside the new Visitor Centre, based Flatpack festival - which specialises in Top: A scene from the thought 7 for 7.30pm. Advance tickets for offering visitors the chance to provoking film Dad, filmed in try some of The Beech Café’s experimental cinema – and the One Voice Coventry, and (below) student this event are available from mince pies and mulled wine. Youth Film Festival, which focuses on film Michelle Bailey with members of www.titanicheritagetrust.org.uk 17 – Christmas Crafts, makers under 26. the film production team. or contact Titanic Heritage Trust Coombe Country Park 1-3pm. Michelle, who is studying for an MA in on 024 7623 6556, e-mail Help Mother Claus get ready for film and visual culture at enquiries@titanicheritagetrust Christmas with this fun-filled Coventry University, .org.uk family session making produced Dad in August. 27 –Titanic –The Midland decorations. Mince pies and She said: "The film combines Connection, Titanic Heritage goodies for all who attend. Cost documentary and drama, Trust, The TechnoCentre, Puma £2.50, and booking essential – creating something inspiring Way, Coventry CV1 2TT, 7 for call 024 7645 3720. and original." For details, 7.30pm. A talk by Andrew Lound 20 – Christmas Candle check out Baileyface Dramatic Lectures. Although the Making, War Memorial Park, Productions on facebook. towns of Belfast and 11am-1pm. Meet at Visitor Southampton claim the Titanic as their own, over 70 per cent of Centre in centre of the park to JANUARY create some Christmas candles 7.30pm. A musical evening from the ship’s interior was for the festive season. Cost 1 (available from) –Themed 1912. The Titanic has sunk on manufactured in the Midlands. £2.50 per child. Suitable for ages Walks, Coombe Country Park, her maiden voyage and you are Based on his own research, Andy six and over. Call 024 7678 6280 10am-4pm. Get started on those invited to join the ‘Great tells the story of the Midlands’ or check noticeboards around New Year’s resolutions and get Tottering Music Society’ at a industrial work on the ship and the park. out into the park on one of our Titanic Relief Fund concert. the fate of the local passengers. 23 – Santa’s Secret Grotto, fantastic themed walks. Pick up Advance tickets available from Advance tickets for this event are Coombe Country Park, 1-4pm. your 30p trail sheet in the www.titanicheritagetrust available from www.titanic Follow the elf-guided trail into Information Centre. Booking .org.uk, contact Titanic Heritage heritagetrust.org.uk or contact the magical deer park to find essential – call 024 7645 3720. Trust on 024 7623 6556 or e- Titanic Heritage Trust on Santa’s secret grotto. Every child 13 – The Edwardian Cello by mail enquiries@titanicheritage 024 7623 6556, e-mail will receive a small gift – the Michael Lunts & Melanie trust.org.uk enquiries@titanicheritagetrust perfect Christmas treat. Cost £5 Dennerly, Titanic Heritage Trust, 18 – Ranger Volunteer Day, .org.uk with free parking. Booking The TechnoCentre, Puma Way, various locations, 10am-3.30pm. 28-29 – Big Garden Bird essential – call 024 7645 3720. Coventry CV1 2TT, 7 for Contact the Park Service Watch, Coombe Country Park,

For a full list, visit www.coventry.gov.uk/events

20 | citivision | december 2011 what’s on

... a family ticket to see ... a family ticket to see WIN!WIN!WIN! the city ice-hockey stars WIN!WIN!WIN! the Mother Goose panto Fancy a fun, family night Tickets to see this out watching the fastest year’s Belgrade team sport right on your Theatre panto doorstep? The CPP performance are up Coventry Blaze ice-hockey for grabs in another team play at the Skydome festive Citivision arena in Coventry city competition. Mother centre, and Citivision has a Goose promises to be family ticket up for grabs a production full of for the home clash with Sheffield name, address and contact fairytale fun, magical Steelers on Friday, January 6, at telephone number. Closing date for enchantment and ‘egg- 7.30pm. To be in with a chance of entries is Thursday, December 22. scruciating’ jokes and winning, just answer the following And even if you don’t win, you japes. With question: Where do CPP can still enjoy all the thrills and spills Coventry’s Dame extraordinaire following question: What was the Coventry Blaze play their on a great night out at a great price, Andy Hockley in the title role, the title of last year's Belgrade home fixtures? E-mail your with tickets starting at just £8. Visit timeless tale of Mother Goose is Theatre panto? E-mail your answer to blazeoffice@btconnect www.coventryblaze.co.uk for bound to be a hit with audiences answer to communications@ .com, not forgetting to include you fixtures and to book tickets. of all ages. To be in with a chance coventry.gov.uk or post it to of winning tickets – valid for two Belgrade competition, Room 27, adults and two concessions, one The Council House, Earl Street, 10am-3pm. Follow Rooney the air for crafts and games. These of which must be a child – for the Coventry CV1 5RR, by Wednesday Robin down to the bird hide to events are open access, all under 7pm performance on Thursday December 28. Don’t forget to help him count his special eights must be supervised and all January 5, simply answer the include your contact details. woodland friends. Free, drop-in over eights must have a day – no need to book. Ask at completed parental permission Make a date for Council carol service the Visitor Centre when you slip (available from the arrive. Rangers on the day). You are invited to attend a carol service on Monday December 15 – Bird Buddies, War 19, 1pm, at Holy Trinity Church, Coventry, organised by staff FEBRUARY Memorial Park, 11am-1pm. Meet from the Council and the NHS. The theme is ‘Coming together 10 –Titanic Costumes of a at the Visitor Centre and at Christmas’ and refreshments will be served from 12.30pm. Guilded Age by The History become a buddy to the birds by Wardrobe, Titanic Heritage Trust, making them a feeder in time for The TechnoCentre, Puma Way, spring. Cost £1.50 per child. Coventry CV1 2TT, 7 for 7.30pm. Suitable for ages four and over. “This first voyage is going to Call 024 7678 6280 or check make history in ocean travel,” noticeboards around the park. said a White Star Line booking 15 – Ranger Volunteer Day, clerk to Lady Lucy Duff Gordon various locations, 10am-3.30pm. in 1912. Journey back to April Contact the Park Service that year for an evocative journey Rangers for details of where this into Edwardian society. Advance activity will take place. Suitable tickets available from for 16+, and booking essential – www.titanicheritagetrust.org.uk call 024 7683 3633 option 3. If or contact Titanic Heritage Trust the Ranger is not available you on 024 7623 6556, e-mail can leave a message. [email protected] 16 – Fun with Herons, g.uk Coombe Country Park, 1-3pm. 14 – Build a bird a home , Exciting afternoon playing Coombe Country Park, 10.30am- heron-based games and noon. As part of National Nest activities. Cost £2.50, and Box Week, have a go at making booking essential – call 024 7645 your very own nest box. Cost 3720. £7.50, with free car parking for all 16 – Half-term fun, Allesley who attend. Suitable for families, Park by play area, 1.30-3.30pm. and booking is essential – call Details as at Caludon Castle 024 7645 3720. Park on Feb 14. 14 – Half -term fun , Caludon 18 – Half-term fun, Holbrooks Castle Park, 1.30-3.30pm. Join the Park, 1.30-3.30pm. Details as at Park Service Rangers in the fresh Caludon Castle Park on Feb 14.

If you’ve an event you’d like listed, contact the Citivision newsdesk, Room 27, The Council House, Earl Street, Coventry CV1 5RR or e-mail [email protected]

december 2011 | citivision | 21 your council e-mail [email protected] I BABLAKE 024 7683 1039 (Council House), or e-mail Cllr Rachel Lancaster: Call 024 7636 0021 [email protected] Cabinet members or e-mail rachel.lancaster@coventry Cllr John Gazey: Call or fax 024 7633 Cllr Gary Ridley: Happy to help where I .gov.uk for an appointment. can, please feel free to call 024 7683 1039 Cllr John Mutton, Leader 3780 for attention or appointment. Will Cllr Ann Lucas: Call 024 7633 2084 for a visit you. (day). e-mail [email protected] for Policy, Leadership and Governance chat or appointment. Surgery on first an appointment. Cllr David Kershaw: Keresley surgery Monday of each month 9.30-10.30am at Cllr George Duggins, Deputy Leader held at the Coronation Club, Keresley Cllr Damian Gannon: For an appointment Holbrook Health Centre, Wheelwright call 07985 811877 or e-mail Strategic Finance and Resources Road noon-1.30pm the first Saturday in the Lane. Cllr Joe Clifford month. Allesley surgery held at Allesley [email protected] Health and Community Services Parish Church Hall, 5-6pm on the second I LONGFORD Monday of the month. For an appointment I UPPER STOKE Cllr Lynnette Kelly - Education please call 07985 811885 or 024 7671 Cllr Linda Bigham: First Friday of every Cllr Russell Field: First Wednesday of Cllr Linda Bigham - City Development 1107 or e-mail david.kershaw@coventry month 3.30-4.30pm at the Longford Cllr Lindsley Harvard - City Services .gov.uk month at St Albans Centre, Mercer Avenue, Primary Care Centre, Longford Road, and 7-7.30pm. Or call 024 7661 2689. e-mail Cllr Tony Skipper - Neighbourhood Cllr Andrew Williams: Call 024 7683 1039 5.30-6.30pm at the Scout Headquarters, or e-mail [email protected] [email protected] or Action, Housing, Leisure and Culture Aldermans Green Road. Last Friday of [email protected] every month 6-7pm at the St Thomas’ Cllr Jim O’Boyle - Children and Young I BINLEY & WILLENHALL Cllr Sucha Bains: Barras Green Social Club, Parish Church Hall, Longford Road. Please Coventry Street, between noon-12.45pm People phone 024 7636 0898 to confirm an every first and third Saturday. Cllr Phil Townshend - Community Cllr Dave Chater: For an appointment, call appointment. 024 7667 2619 or 07759 062733. Happy to Or call 024 7645 9484. Safety and Equalities Cllr George Duggins: Second Saturday of Cllr Colleen Fletcher: For an appointment Cllr Abdul Khan - Sustainability and make a home visit or e-mail every month noon-1pm at Bell Green [email protected] call 07939 111992, or 024 7683 1039 or Community Centre, Old Church Road and e-mail [email protected] Local Infrastructure Cllr Ram P Lakha OBE: For an 1.15-2pm at Royal Hotel, Old Church appointment, call 024 7645 6161 or Road. Second Sunday of every month I WAINBODY 024 7683 1039. Happy to make a home 11.30am-1pm at Bell Green Working visit. Committees Men’s Club, Roseberry Avenue Cllr John Blundell: Call 024 7683 1276 e-mail [email protected] or or call 024 7683 1003 (daytime) or Licensing and Regulatory [email protected] (weekdays) or 024 7641 9794 (evenings and e-mail [email protected] weekends), or e-mail C Cllr Abbott DC Cllr Singh Sehmi Cllr John Mutton: Call 024 7683 2672 for Cllr Lindsley Harvard: First Saturday of an appointment or advice. john.blundell@ coventry.gov.uk for an Planning every month 10.45-11.45am at the Scout appointment; will gladly visit. Headquarters, Aldermans Green Road C Cllr Maton DC Cllr Walsh I CHEYLESMORE Cllr Gary Crookes: For an appointment, and noon-1pm at the Bell Green call 024 7646 1777 (after 6pm) or Audit Community Centre, Old Church Road. e-mail [email protected] C Cllr Chater DC Cllr Blundell Cllrs Foster and Noonan hold regular First Sunday of every month 11am-noon surgeries at the Cheylesmore Community Cllr Tim Sawdon: (Deputy Lord Mayor) at the Church Hall, St Thomas’ Parish Call 024 7641 5771(after 6pm). Scrutiny Co-ordination Centre at 6.30-8pm on the last Church, Longford Road, and 12.15-1.15pm C Cllr Lucas DC Cllr McNicholas Wednesday of each month (Except at the Bell Green Working Men’s Club, I WESTWOOD Council Resources Communities and December) and at Whitley Community Roseberry Avenue. Call 024 7667 5717, Centre every second Saturday of the Sport e-mail lindsley.harvard@ Cllr Marcus Lapsa: Call 024 7647 4540 or month between 1-2pm. You can also coventry.gov.uk (Scrutiny Board 1) contact them directly on the details 024 7683 1039 (daytime) for an appointment or e-mail [email protected] C Cllr Ruane DC Cllr Bains below. I LOWER STOKE Cllr Kevin Foster: 024 7683 1276 Cllr David Skinner: Call 024 7646 8106 or Children, Young People, Learning e-mail [email protected] and Culture (Scrutiny Board 2) (daytime) or e-mail kevin.foster@ Cllr John McNicholas: If you have a coventry.gov.uk Cllr Richard Sandy: Surgeries will be held C Cllr M Mutton DC Cllr B Singh problem, need help or advice, can visit you at The Lime Tree Club, Templar Avenue Cllr Hazel Noonan: 024 7683 1039 in your own home and can be contacted on Economy, Regeneration and Transport (daytime) or 024 7650 5109 (evenings), or second Saturday of the month from 024 7683 1039 (daytime), 024 7650 4037 noon-1pm and every fourth Saturday of the (Scrutiny Board 3) e-mail [email protected] (evenings) or e-mail john.mcnicholas@ Cllr Harjinder Singh Sehmi: Last Friday month from 11.30am-12.30pm at Canley C Cllr Lakha DC Cllr Noonan coventry.gov.uk Library, Prior Deram Walk. For an of the month at Cheylesmore Social Club, Cllr Phil Townshend: Call 024 7683 1034 Environmental and Community Safety Quinton Park, 6-7pm or call for an appointment please call 07949 900445 or (daytime) for details of dates and venues of e-mail [email protected] (Scrutiny Board 4) appointment on 07507 687268 or e-mail surgeries. C Cllr Lancaster DC Cllr Auluck [email protected] Cllr Catherine Miks: Call 07759 676 490 I WHOBERLEY Health and Social Care or e-mail [email protected] I EARLSDON (Scrutiny Board 5) Cllr Dan Howells: Call 07985 811883 or I RADFORD C Cllr Welsh DC Cllr Sweet Cllr Allan Andrews: Happy to help where I e-mail [email protected] can. Call 024 7683 1039 or e-mail Cllr Roger Bailey: Call 024 7683 1039 C = Chair DC = Deputy Chair Cllr Mal Mutton: Call 024 7630 4497 for (daytime) for an appointment or e-mail [email protected] an appointment. www.allanandrews.com [email protected] Cllr Keiran Mulhall (Lord Mayor): Every Cllr Bally Singh: Call 07779 256898 for an Coventry MPs Cllr Michael Hammon: Call 024 7644 Tuesday at Jaguar Sports and Social Club, 8585 for an appointment or e-mail appointment, or e-mail bally.singh@coventry Middlemarch Road, 6.30-7.30pm. Also .gov.uk Regular Surgeries are held every Bob Ainsworth MP [email protected] Radford Social Club on the first Sunday of Coventry North East Cllr Ken Taylor OBE: Call 024 7667 3717 third Saturday of the month 10am-noon at the month 11.30am-12.30pm. Or call 024 Call 024 7622 6707 for an appointment. the St Mary Magdeline Centre, Sir Thomas 7683 3048 for an appointment. White Road. e-mail [email protected] Cllr Tony Skipper: Available to see I FOLESHILL Jim Cunningham MP Radford residents at Coventry I WOODLANDS Coventry South Coachmakers’ Club, 72 Radford Road, CV1 Call 024 7655 3159 Cllr Tariq Khan: For an appointment, call 4BY. For details and to make an 024 7683 1039 or 07983 600286 Cllr Patricia Hetherton: Please call 07985 e-mail [email protected] appointment or to leave a message, call 024 811881 for an appointment or e-mail Geoffrey Robinson MP e-mail [email protected] 7683 1039. Cllr Abdul Salam Khan: Call 024 7683 [email protected] Cllr Heather Johnson: Call 024 7683 1039 Coventry North West 1039 (Council House) or 07903 847160, or I ST MICHAEL’S Call 024 7625 7870 e-mail [email protected] (Council House) or 024 7667 0901 (home) for an appointment. Alternatively e-mail e-mail [email protected] Cllr Malkiat Auluck: Last Monday of each Cllr David Welsh: First Saturday of each month, 6-7pm at the Indian Community [email protected] month, noon-1pm at the Redeemed Cllr Julia Lepoidevin: For an appointment, Centre, Cross Road, 2nd Tuesday of the Christian Church of God (former Howitzer month 6.30pm-7.30pm at the Foleshill call 024 7683 1039 (daytime) or e-mail European MPs Club), Albert Street. Third Friday of each [email protected] Community Centre, Foleshill Road, or call month, 3-4pm at the Regeneration Office, West Midlands Region 024 7663 7965 for an appointment. 121-124 Far Gosford Street. Call 07956 307 I WYKEN CONSERVATIVE - Malcolm Harbour, 437 or e-mail [email protected] I HENLEY Philip Bradbourn. 285 Kenilworth Road, Cllr Dave Nellist: First Friday of month St Cllr Susanna Dixon: Call 024 7683 1039 Balsall Common, CV7 7EL Peter’s Church Centre, Charles Street, Cllr Lynnette Kelly: 024 7671 1682. (daytime), 024 7662 2206 (evenings), or Call 01676 530621/01676530297 Hillfields, 6-7pm and third Friday of each e-mail [email protected] e-mail [email protected] LABOUR - Michael Cashman. month at St.Anne’s and All Saint’s Church, Cllr Faye Abbott: For an appointment call Cllr Kevin Maton: 07941 827229. Acacia Avenue, Charter House 6-7pm.. Terry Duffy House, Thomas Street, e-mail [email protected] 07944 996294 or e-mail Alternatively call 024 7683 1039 (daytime), [email protected] West Bromwich B70 6NT Cllr Ed Ruane: 07817 218137. leave a message on 024 7622 9311 or Call 0121 569 1923 e-mail [email protected]. If there is Cllr Hazel Sweet: For an appointment or e-mail [email protected] home visit call 024 7661 6273 or LIBERAL DEMOCRATS - Liz Lynne. something you need us to help with, call us Cllr Jim O’Boyle: Second Saturday of each 55 Ely Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, or visit us at 4pm on the 3rd Thursday of e-mail [email protected] month, noon-1pm at Zeenat Restaurant, You can visit Cllr Abbott or Cllr Sweet every Warwickshire, CV37 6LN every month at Moat House Leisure Cambridge Street, Hillfields, fourth Saturday Centre, Winston Avenue, Henley Green. Friday 6.30 - 7.30pm at Wyken Working Call 01789 266354 of month, noon at Transport House, Short Mens Club, Ansty. UKIP - Mike Nattrass. Street. Call 024 7669 4873 or 024 7683 I HOLBROOKS 123 New John Street, Birmingham, B6 4LD 1032, or e-mail jim.o’[email protected] Have a say in what happens in Call 0121 333 7737 INDEPENDENT - Nikki Sinclaire. Cllr Joe Clifford: Every Weds 6.30-7.30pm I SHERBOURNE your area. For details visit at Holbrook Community Care Association, 123 New John Street, Birmingham, B6 4LD www.coventry.gov.uk/wardforums Call 0121 359 5933 Holbrooks Lane. Call 024 7646 5315 or Cllr Seamus Walsh: Call 07956 546983 or 22 | citivision | december 2011