Warrior Gateway

City News 1 3/3/16 13:05 Page 1 City NewsSpring 2016 stoke.gov.uk STRONGER TOGETHER

STAFFORDSHIRE HOARD EXCLUSIVE

SUPPORT is growing fast for an 114ft bronze 114 f t Saxon Warrior – as big as the world famous Angel of the North – to be built on a site in the city. Seen here in an artist’s impression, it is estimated the statue could attract millions of WARRIOR visits a year, and contribute a huge amount to the local economy. TO‘GUARD’ FIND OUT MORE ON PAGE THREE GATEWAY PAGE 3 Lord Mayor invites all over-90s to tea party

PAGE 9 INDOOR ARENA Horrible ingredients put students PLAN UNVEILED off smoking

MBITIOUS plans have been City moved to the Britannia map, while unveiled to build an athletics Stadium in 1997 – was unveiled an indoor Stadium and stadium, major swimming in the documents approved by arena is a A the city council’s Cabinet. must to complex and prestigious indoor Councillor Terry Follows, the assert our arena in the city. Cabinet Member for Greener place as a Olympic size As part of its £473million City and Development, pictured, major city, capital programme for the next said it was a “no brainer” to take capable of five years, councillors have given the ideas forward and the plans hosting the pool also the green light for a feasibility would have a major knock on for very biggest study on the project investigating the rest of the city. events. sites including the former He said: “We are looking at a “It will Victoria Ground. number of sites but The Victoria transform PAGE 18 lined up as It is possible the development Ground site, which has been a which ever site it is built on and would involve replacing Fenton source of frustration for create a need for restaurants, Manor and Northwood Stadium, residents and the council alike, bars and other facilities in the although there is still a lot of could be the heart of one of the city. It would also need to make study looks work to do on the detail of the UK’s most exciting sports and the most of transport links to get scheme. leisure developments, hosting people in and out. What a view to Couples tie The city council’s vision which events the like of which we have welcome visitors arriving here.” could involve the Victoria never seen in this city. ■ See page five for more the knot at at key sites Ground site – empty since Stoke “It would put our city on the information. historic SCHOOLS – win a state-of-the-art metal detector... see page seven bandstand City News 2 3/3/16 09:45 Page 1

2 City News SPRING 2016 Council’s change in direction means major improvements across the city By City Council Leader Councillor Dave Conway

BY now the people of Stoke-on-Trent will be noticing the difference being made by this new Council administration. When we were elected we moved quickly to stop the ship and change its direction. That meant rethinking palatial offices and top heavy senior management. It meant reinforcing our Former Stoke City boss and Manchester United legend Lou Macari at commitment to invest in all six the launch of the centre for homeless people which bears his name, with towns of the city. his friend and former Potters kitman Neil “Nello”Baldwin. It meant spending money wisely on our roads, making them fit for purpose so they last longer, rather than scurrying around repairing when things have gone wrong. And it meant tidying up the pavements and verges, and encouraging others to do the same. Since then we’ve scored significant successes. The Ceramic Valley Enterprise Zone will attract LOU INSPIRED TO top quality new jobs and big name businesses to the area. One of the Smithfield buildings is attracting interest from new tenants, and with them new income. And our £473million investment programme – laid out for the next five years – will deliver real improvements for everyone living in our city. HELP HOMELESS We’re building houses on derelict sites which will create YE-opening walks around The aim is, where possible, to had lost a family member and revenue. refer people on to other now he was seeking comfort Hanley convinced football organisations who can help at the bottom of the bottle. I We’re investing in our museums legend Lou Macari that the and our main library rather than E them with their individual could relate to him because I shutting them down. city needed a homeless shelter. problems. have lost one of my sons. But We’re investing in roads and The former Stoke City and Former Scottish international I told him whatever he was infrastructure which opens up Celtic manager encountered and Manchester United star Lou feeling it wouldn’t get any vast areas of land for employment several people sleeping rough said: “It was last summer and I better by turning more and sites. and begging on the streets, and was walking around the city and more to drink. We’re preserving our historic after talking to them, was moved seeing people begging on the “I found out it wasn’t just a town halls and making sure they to act. streets. I wouldn’t give them any city centre problem – people are used. He approached the city money because I thought this is were frequently sleeping rough We’re listening to what the council to tell them about what just going to be spent on drink in parks and under bridges and people of the city want, and we’re he had seen and what he felt or drugs. just about wherever they can. delivering genuine improvements needed to be done. “But what I would do is buy “My thoughts were that with Flashback: Lou Macari during which boost their quality of life. As a result, a £150,000 them a hot drink or take them winter approaching they needed his time as Stoke City Manager. But it’s not just about roads and homeless shelter has been for a meal and just chat to them a roof over their heads and I buildings. Look at the shelter launched in the city centre to about why they were there – wanted to help them. People responsive to my suggestions. we’ve opened up to help some of ensure the rough sleepers have what had led to them being shouldn’t have to sleep rough in It is really rewarding to see the most vulnerable people in our a place to go at night. homeless. Everybody had a tale this day and age. this shelter up and running society. We’re supporting schools The Macari Centre, based at to tell; they all had different “I know it is a country-wide and it could be a real model and colleges, helping people into the council-owned Regent reasons for being there. Some problem but I wanted to do for the way this city and work and training and we’ve also Centre in Hanley, has up to 18 were very emotional and it something about it here and try others addresses the issue.” launched an initiative to involve beds and also offers people a really got you thinking. to make a difference. The Macari Shelter will run older people in the future of the hot evening meal, shower and “One man was clutching a “The council acted very for a two-month trial period city. breakfast. bottle of wine. He told me he quickly and have been very during which time the needs of For too long Stoke-on-Trent has homeless people will be had a city council saying we can’t assessed. do this and we must cut that. Lou added: “Although I We’ve changed that... we CAN will leave it to the experts do it, and you can already see ‘Value for money’ pledge as Council Tax is frozen I have been back to see what a difference that change in how it is working out and attitude is making. have sat and talked to COUNCIL Tax in the city is Deputy City Council Leader which could have been paid for several of the people being frozen for the next year. Councillor Abi Brown said: by a two per cent increase in using it. It means Stoke-on-Trent “Until we are 100 per cent Council Tax – was being paid for “I think if we can get to Give us your views remains one of the lowest confident that the council is through savings and from the root cause of why they charging authorities in the UK, using its resources effectively, reserves. are there and pass that on WE want to hear your views on City with a band D property less than how could we possibly go and She added: “We are managing News, so please let us know what to others it will be much £4 a day for a huge range of ask for a single penny from the the city’s finances wisely, and better than just giving you like about the new newspaper, services. residents of Stoke-on-Trent? the first step of that process is them a warm bed and what you don’t like and what you’d The freeze takes place while “We have managed to reduce making sure every penny we then sending them out like to see more of. councillors continue a review to waste and inefficiency, but there spend goes the extra mile.” ● into the world in the You can email citynews@stoke. make sure the money spent by is still more work to do.” Staffordshire Fire and Rescue morning.” gov.uk or write to FREEPOST City the council is cost effective and Councillor Brown said has increased its element of the provides value for money. investment in social care – Council Tax by 1.99 per cent. ■ Call the Macari Centre News to have your say. on 07500 771682.

LIVE WEBCAST of full council meetings Web: stoke.gov.uk MEETINGS of the full council can now be viewed online.To see and City News is printed on paper from hear the debates and decisions which affect life in Stoke-on-Trent, Facebook: facebook.com/ sustainable sources.When you have visit stoke.gov.uk/webcasting. sotcitycouncil finished with this publication please A list of dates and times of council meetings and committee meetings Twitter: @SoTCityCouncil help the environment by passing it can be found on our website at stoke.gov.uk/meetingdates on to a friend or recycling it. twitter.com/SoTCityCouncil City News 3 3/3/16 15:48 Page 1

SPRING 2016 City News 3

An Anglo Saxon warrior stands on the ridge, staring out across the kingdom he fought to protect.His thousand year old story is a tale of betrayal,treasure,politics, religion and historic events that shaped modern Britain. His future puts Stoke-on-Trent on the global map...forever. City News reports...

CHEERS...Lord Mayor Councillor Jean Bowers will welcome the city’s over 90s to a very special tea party in honour of Her Majesty The Queen’s 90th birthday. Right royal tea party invite for ‘HIGH’ HOPES the over-90s LORD Mayor Jean Bowers is brewing up a celebration for the Queen’s 90th birthday and 90 years of city status by inviting any over 90s in Stoke-on-Trent to join her at the Civic Centre for a cup of tea. Set to take place at the King’s Hall on April 21, Jean and her team will also lay on cakes and sandwiches for those who want to come along. Also invited are former FOR 114ft HERO Lord Mayors, Freemen of the City and members of the city Sporting Hall of Fame. OMENTUM is growing rapidly “But as well as attracting business and The Lord Mayor said: “It’s a big year for publicity, our own Saxon Warrior situated the Queen and the city this year and we behind the campaign to build wanted to share these special moments a giant bronze statue of a near the motorway would be a signpost M to our city, to learning resources and with some of those in our city who have CITY’S PLACE Saxon Warrior at an important gateway leisure attractions. lived through them. to the city. “The fact that he has waited over “We’d love to see as many nonagenarians IN HISTORY... Almost half the £3.5million needed to 1,000 years to give up the secrets of as possible so we can swap stories about create the giant structure at the important the Hoard and tell his story is growing up in the city over the last 90 STOKE-on-Trent and its gateway to the city has already been raised, symbolic of our city’s patience to years and reminisce about the country’s surroundings have a special including donations from big local wait for it to be our time.” longest-serving monarch. significance in Anglo Saxon businesses. The giant sculpture would be as “I’ll make sure we get our best china ready.” history. Landowners St Modwen have also agreed big as the figure of Christ the ● Metres outside the city a 999 year lease on one proposed site on the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro and Anyone who wants to attend can come boundary is land said to Trentham Estate. almost the size of New York’s along with two companions. To organise have housed the palace of Now the city council is leading the way Statue of Liberty. their invitation they should contact the Wulfhere, the Saxon King of with partners in efforts to generate the rest Visitors would be able to Councillor and Civic Support Team on Mercia at the time of the of the cash and realise the dream. climb its 114ft body and stand 01782 232625. Staffordshire Hoard and a Local sculptor Andy Edwards, the on a viewing platform built powerful overlord. world-renowned artist behind the 9ft Saxon into its 20ft helmeted head. It marks the exact half Warrior on show in the Potteries Museum & City Councillor Terry way point of the 88 mile Art Gallery and famous figures of The Beatles Follows, Cabinet Member for City life soap opera Two Saints Way – the on the Waterfront at Liverpool, said the Greener City and ancient pilgrimage route benefits of the Warrior would be countless. Development, said:“This is between Chester and He said: “The Angel of the North is one of an ambitious project but we makes a comeback Lichfield. the most viewed pieces of art in the world already have significant A radio soap opera launched 25 years ago in One proposed site for the attracting millions of views a year. It’s support and together with the city is making a comeback on a national statue is a few miles from estimated it attracts £4million of income to our partners we are radio station. the site of Stoke Minster, Gateshead every year. determined to deliver. The Colcloughs, which was commissioned where a 7th or 8th century “Authorities in Liverpool estimate the “The benefits would be by the BBC and partly funded by Saxon cross marks a sacred Beatles statue attracts £8million of business huge for the city and Stoke-on-Trent City Council, was broadcast Christian place. to the city each year. county.” by BBC Radio Stoke. And on the nearby It told a gritty tale of the Colclough family Wedgwood estate at and was written by a team led by Coronation Barlaston, the famous Street writer Tony Perrin to include pottery family, helped by Blockbuster plans to expand attraction important public health messages. naturalist Charles Darwin, Producer Mike Hopwood said: “The discovered the grave of a THE Saxon Warrior statue could be just the start As well as creating sculptures, he has also of initiatives to build on the area’s Dark Ages written a screenplay to tell the dramatic story of Colcloughs was a pioneering radio soap high-ranking Saxon. opera, mixing drama with hard-hitting health It contained a pattern legacy and attract visitors from around the world. the people, places and events which shape the A visitor centre, 7th century village simulation, Hoard tale. messages. It’s great that it will now reach a welded sword, a seax (short national audience.” bladed sword) and education facilities and much more could all Andy said: “It’s a real life action packed saga ● follow on. which rivals Lord of the Rings and Game of Starting on 25 April, all 92 episodes of The fragments of a bronze and Colcloughs will be broadcast, one-a-day, at ceramic hanging bowl Sculptor Andy Edwards’ meticulous research Thrones for sheer action, excitement and has drawn together a rich vein of material setting intrigue. 6.45pm, on TV at Freeview 730 or online at presently in the British RNIB Connect. Visit www.thecolcloughs.co.uk Museum. the Hoard in its historic context and telling the “Who knows... our Staffordshire Saxon may be stories of the historic characters involved. the star of a future Hollywood blockbuster.” for updates. City News 4 3/3/16 09:55 Page 1

4 City News SPRING 2016 Why using the wrong bins costs council dearly PEOPLE are being urged to make sure This contamination means that a huge Clare Britton said: “It would help greatly they put the right rubbish in their blue amount of recyclable material is being if lids could be taken off plastic bottles recycling bins to help boost the city’s lost, which also affects how the council before bottle and top are put in the blue recycling rate and save the city time and performs against strict Government bin, and any food or liquid is emptied. money. targets. Plastics such as polystyrene and “We’ve seen everything from rolls of When the wrong waste is put in the washing up bowls cannot be recycled in carpet to nappies in blue bins – these blue bin, the council has to separate out blue bins, while black plastic is now no can’t be processed and have to be useful materials. If this cannot be done longer being accepted and must be rejected as waste.” then the whole recycling load will be disposed of in grey bins. ● For a full recycling list, go to rejected. Council Waste Minimisation Officer stoke.gov.uk/recycling. PUBLIC URGED: CARDBOARD ‘BACK THE BID’ TOKE-on-Trent’s bid to become the UK City of Culture 2021 will reflect the city’s unique Sheritage and gritty character. More and more individuals and organisations are coming on board to support the bid, which would turn the world’s spotlight on the city and could help lever in tens of millions of pounds to the local economy. PLASTICS Work is underway to look at involving as many people as possible, making it a true “people’s bid”, telling the city’s unique story. It will build on the rich heritage of the ceramics industry and the beautiful products which have made a name for The Potteries around the world. But the bid will also include that genuine character of the city, often mentioned by visitors, as a friendly, welcoming, inclusive and sometimes eccentric place. Sport, music, museums, communities, parks and even the mighty oatcake play their part in Stoke-on-Trent’s cultural story. It all adds up to a package which councillors are confident will wow the judges when the bid is submitted in April 2017. Deputy City Council Leader Councillor Abi METALS Brown said: “One of the great things is that since we announced our interest and made it a commitment everyone I’ve spoken to thinks we have a tremendous case to put forward. Our story is obviously one of tremendous creativity, but is also includes civic pride, the strength of our communities, the regeneration of our city... its past, present and future.” Staffordshire University,The Sentinel, BBC Radio Stoke and the Regent Theatre have expressed their support and in the coming months more individuals and organisations will be invited to join the crusade. The Government’s Department for Culture, Media and Sport will open the bidding in early 2017 and bids must be in by spring. Councillor Brown said: “We are working on a bid that is uniquely Stoke-on-Trent. It will be realistic GLASS and relevant and will tell the story of what makes Stoke-on-Trent – its history, people, ambitions and fun.” Colourful fun at one of the family events ■ Look out for ways to back the bid in the next organised by arts specialists Appetite. issue of City News. World-famous artefacts fly flag for city WORLD-famous artefacts from The The exhibition features weapons One of the Staffordshire Hoard are going on a fittings decorated with gold, silver hoard’s prestigious tour to promote and semiprecious gems, and represent treasures. Stoke-on-Trent around the country. the finest quality Anglo-Saxon Treasures from the collection of craftsmanship. Anglo-Saxon gold and silver will visit Councillor Terry Follows, Cabinet The Royal Armouries, Leeds from Member for Greener City, May 2016, followed by Bristol Development and Leisure, said: “More Museum and Art Gallery from than one million people have visited October 2016. our museum and other venues across Warrior Treasures: Saxon Gold from the West Midlands to wonder at and The Staffordshire Hoard will see enjoy these unparalleled treasures. around one hundred items from the “On behalf of all partners, we are collection on display. thrilled that the Staffordshire Hoard – It is the first time UK visitors will including artefacts never before have the opportunity to view such a displayed – can now be seen at other large number of items from the locations across the country.” collection outside the West Midlands Permanent displays of the treasure where it was discovered. will still continue in Birmingham and Some of the objects have never Stoke-on-Trent and at other venues been on show before. in the West Midlands. City News 5 3/3/16 16:27 Page 1

SPRING 2016 City News 5 Special report on massive investment proposal to transform Stoke-on-Trent Spending plan

a ‘brave vision’ Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Transport and Heritage Jack Brereton USINESS and community climbs aboard a refuse collection leaders are backing the city vehicle to announce a new Bcouncil’s ambitious five-year superdepot and salt store. plan to spend more than £600million on major projects across Stoke-on-Trent. The huge improvements have From libraries been hailed as a clear signal of intent to companies that the area is “a good place to invest to link roads... and grow”. They have also been applauded as life changing for something for local people and as a massive opportunity for positive change. A total of £473.5million will be everyone in ploughed into more than a dozen capital programme schemes, while a further improvements £124.1million will be spent on building affordable homes and Staffordshire Chambers Deputy Chief Executive Jane Gratton. YMCA North Staffordshire Chief Executive Danny Flynn. OTHER investments include: continuing to refurbish and ● £8.2m to carry out structural remodel outdated sheltered repairs to Tunstall Park boat accommodation, as well as on completing the Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, said: right skills, drive and passion, to make this a house, cemeteries, Fenton City Waterside project. “Investment in transport and infrastructure reality.” Manor Sports Complex and Projects will include a link road between supports business and the local economy, and The news was also welcomed by Danny Dimensions Leisure Centre Hanley and Bentilee, renovating the King's can stimulate tourism. It sends out a strong Flynn, Chief Executive of YMCA North and enterprise centres. Hall and refurbishing the City Central message to local businesses, and private Staffordshire.Danny, who is also a member of ● £5.5m to upgrade street Library as well as a new super depot, which sector firms thinking of moving to the area, the Stoke-on-Trent Hardship Commission, lighting columns with LED brings waste, highways, environmental and that the city is a good place to invest and said: “I am very excited to hear about these technology to reduce energy parking services together on one site. grow. It can also be a great opportunity to two brilliant capital investments. £600m is a consumption and carbon The council is now working with companies boost the local economy through fair and massive opportunity to improve the city and emissions. and other organisations to attract more than transparent procurement processes, which more importantly the lives of its fantastic ● £1.2m to upgrade car parks £116million of funding to help support the encourage small and medium sized people. and modernise ticket major plans. It will also borrow £184million companies to bid for the work.” “The YMCA loves Stoke-on-Trent and will machines. and generate a further £17.8million by selling She added: “Having great plans and visions always support such investment. Personally, I ● £509,000 investment in off assets. is fine, but what really counts is the ability to applaud the city’s leadership for creating recreational facilities to Jane Gratton, Deputy Chief Executive of deliver. We need talented people, with the such a brave vision and exciting decision.” improve customer experiences. ● £16m to develop a link road between Hanley and Bentilee as part of a multi-million Ambitious pound government growth deal bid. ● £500,000 to renovate the Kings Hall in Stoke to package will increase use of the major venue. ● £450,000 for new public kick start wayfinding signs across the city, promoting walking, cycling and health. ● £400,000 for waste regeneration recovery, to buy equipment to recover good value materials to divert from landfill. ● £350,000 earmarked to of Six Towns purchase land or assets to THE council is proposing to support the strategic development of the city. spend £473million by 2021, ● including £166million on new £200,000 to contribute to projects. They include: the creation of an applied ● £55m investment in new materials and research innovation centre in the city. private sector housing to address ● shortages and deliver income for £75,000 to improve access the council, a total programme and landscaping at the Golden over 10 years of £250million. sculpture site at Chatterley ● Valley. £14.2m for a new super depot City Council Leader Dave Conway and Deputy Leader Abi ● and salt barn – a move to more Brown on the site at Wellington Road, Hanley, where the 50,000 on improvements to efficient service delivery by council wants to build dozens of affordable homes. strategic gateways into the bringing depots across the city city. onto one site and providing Councillor Abi Brown, better storage for improved Market and Hanley Town Hall. accommodation to support city for ourselves, our children Deputy Leader and Cabinet winter road maintenance. ● £12m for a major Staffordshire University and and their grandchildren. Member for Finance and ● £4.5m in the Ceramic Valley refurbishment of City Central provide a return on investment “I want them to be proud to partnerships, said: “We are Enterprise Zone to enable the Library and Archives and to subject to agreeing the scheme live and work here and I also committed to making our city infrastructure works which will provide a suitable display space and commercial terms. want people from out of the area stronger together, through job open up the development sites for the Minton Archive. ● £1m to buy four large scale to want to come and live and creation, economic prosperity and promoting inward within the zone. ● £10m to support city centre generators to help the council work here. investment – which will ● £1.9m to revamp and improve infrastructure, including public generate electricity for sale to “To do that we must borrow provide a financial return to the Gladstone Pottery Museum, realm works at Stafford Street, the National Grid during peak and spend to kick start the protect services as well as which remains the city’s number Market Square/Lamb Street, demand. regeneration that is needed. increase the health, wealth and one visitor attraction, and the Upper Market ● £884,000 grant funding to We will also work with wellbeing of the city. Potteries Museum & Art Gallery. Square/Parliament Row, and contribute towards various companies and organisations to “Our approach is sensible, ● £3.4m for a major programme Tontine Square, Fountain Square sustainable transport schemes bring in external funding. thorough and prudent from an to restore historic buildings and Crown Bank in the city within the city. “All this will pay off because authority that is working for its including Longton Town Hall, centre. Council Leader Dave Conway we are investing money now to residents and communities.” Tunstall Town Hall, Longton ● Up to £25m to develop student said: “We must regenerate this generate income in the future.” City News 6 3/3/16 10:45 Page 1

6 City News SPRING 2016

TAFFORDSHIRE Police are moving into the city Scouncil’s Smithfield development as talks with other potential tenants continue. The force is taking an entire floor of One Smithfield where council employability and skills POLICE MOVE TO teams are also moving in as facilities for Stoke-on-Trent’s young and adult learners are ramped up. A spokesman for the Police and Crime Commissioner said: “We've worked with the council to make this happen as the principle of bringing public SMITHFIELD SITE services together is absolutely the right thing to do. “Having a police public Centre Team began offering a enquiry desk and police range of customer services on officers based in a partnership the ground floor. hub is very sound for Marketing and letting of operational reasons and will space in the building next provide a more joined-up door, Two Smithfield, has service to local people. been put in the hands of “The roll-out of mobile council-appointed agents GVA technology – which will help Grimley Ltd, one of the UK’s free up an extra 250,000 hours largest commercial property of police time to be out on the advisors. Their brief is to beat each year – means we can attract new businesses into the take advantage of downsizing city. ageing buildings and get more Adult and Community officers onto the streets.” Learning is expanding the Councillor Jack Brereton, range of courses it offers, it Cabinet Member for will operate from seven Regeneration, Transport and purpose-built classrooms with Heritage, said: “It’s fantastic state of the art facilities. news that Staffordshire Police Gemma Pilling, Adult Skills will be moving all services in and Community Learning Hanley into One Smithfield. Manager, said: “We hope to up “This will mean police and skill more adult learners and council officers can work Smithfield is so accessible it Adult Skills and together more effectively to should boost the number of Community improve services. More joined learners we support. Learning Manager up services means we can do “About 3,000 people a year Gemma Pilling with more to reduce crime and use our services but we are ICT Curriculum Lead make our communities safer.” already on target to increase and Tutor Dave Elsewhere more than 65 staff that by 5 per cent.” Bloor in one of the from Adult and Community Careers Service Manager new classrooms Learning, apprenticeship Paul Chambers said: “All three over-looking the training provider Learn4Work services on this floor now 1st floor. and the Careers Service are complement each other and taking over the first floor of it’ll make it much easier for us One Smithfield. all to help improve people’s It comes as Hanley Local employment prospects.” Here to help... Customer Service Advisor Amy Davies gives advice to a member of the public in the Smithfield building.

Sessions will help local companies learn what makes a great tender

SPECIAL breakfast sessions are being councillors do want to help businesses by staged to give local companies a lift when giving advice on what a high quality bids bidding for council contracts. looks like. Small and medium-sized companies Council Leader Dave Conway said: “We from the city are invited to the first need to help local businesses by giving session in the King’s Hall, Stoke on May them advice on what we look for in a high 18. quality bid. The process must be fair but The event, staged jointly by the city ultimately we would rather local council and Staffordshire Chambers of businesses get our contracts. Commerce and Industry, will give “Sometimes local firms have missed out businesses who attend a greater because their tenders did not contain understanding of the council’s sufficient supporting evidence. procurement process and how to “The advice we can give will help them complete a tender. address that.” Council contracts valued above a If the King’s Hall event is a success the certain threshold have to be widely plan is to stage similar sessions in the advertised, some even throughout north and south of the city, possibly in Europe. Tunstall and Longton. But the city council has a commitment ● Anyone interested in attending the to support local businesses, and while it session in May should email cannot give an unfair advantage [email protected] City News 7 3/3/16 14:41 Page 1

SPRING 2016 City News 7 Partners to tackle health and poverty challenges FOUR-year plans to address real life and prospects for everyone living has been proposed to run parallel, health concerns in the city and drive and working in Stoke-on-Trent, focusing on key issues including up people’s quality of life have been starting with giving children the very healthy living, reducing teenage drawn up by the city council and its best start in life. pregnancy, cutting the number of City Day partners. The Children and Young People’s smokers and alcohol-related harm They aim to work together to tackle Plan is committed to making a and improving mental health. deep-seated issues like child poverty difference for every child in the city Councillor Ann James, Cabinet and development, unemployment, including reducing the impact of child Member for Health and Social Care, FORMER World Squash Champion and skills and training and health issues. poverty, improving early help and said: “These are very key strategies Chairwoman of the European City of A huge range of organisations, from support for families who need it most and plans that will shape work to the NHS and schools to community and improving emotional wellbeing protect the most vulnerable people in Sport Local Organising Committee groups and charities will work with and health. the city. We are committed to working ANGELA SMITH describes how she the city council to improve quality of The Health and Wellbeing Strategy with partners to address challenges.” would spend her perfect day in the city. LOANS BOOST BUSINESSES ORE business loans are on offer in Stoke-on-Trent now the city council Mand partners have put a £300,000 fund together. The council and scheme administrators BCRS Business Loans have each invested Our peaceful £150,000 at the launch of their latest partnership to support business across the city over the next three years. Loans of between £10,000 and £50,000 havens... are now available to small businesses, social enterprises and other organisations that contribute to the social, environmental and economic and the Brit wellbeing of the area but cannot access finance through traditional sources like I would start with a jog around Berryhill banks. Fields, gone are the days when I would Former master technician mechanic Neville Smith and his partner Karen sprint up and down the hills. Now I can take Armistead expanded their microbrewery time to admire the view as far as Mow Cop RAN Ales Ltd with a £25,000 BCRS loan on a clear day and look out towards the six which enabled them to move into larger towns as I go. premises in Fenton and buy new After a shower and breakfast, I may equipment to increase capacity. catch up with friends or on a really nice Established in 2014, it supplies light day head off to one of the city’s lakes or and dark ales locally. parks for a wander around and a drink. One went on sale at the House of They are great peaceful havens where Commons as a guest ale while the firm you can escape the bustle of the city and also produced limited edition beers for relax or follow a trail. the Rugby World Cup. The aim now is to After that I’d head off to Hanley to do a increase production to 50 barrels a spot of shopping, visit the Potteries month. Museum and admire our famous Spitfire Neville said: “Obtaining a loan from that is on display there. BCRS gave us the chance to move CHEERS... Neville Smith, of RAN Ales, shows products he is producing with help from a city In the football season my Saturday forward and transform our hobby into a council business loan. afternoons are taken up with a visit to marketable business. the Britannia Stadium or wherever Stoke “It was our accountant that advised us Wilkinson took the weight off our would have otherwise proven difficult to City are playing. to contact BCRS after we were unable to shoulders and made everything feel secure from traditional sources such as It might be the most inhospitable cold secure finance from our bank. BCRS was possible.” banks.” and windy stadium to many but to me it’s a breath of fresh air and proved to be The council’s Enterprise Zone Project ■ Businesses interested in applying to like a second home and the atmosphere helpful and professional throughout the Manager Steve Lovatt said: “We rely on BCRS Business Loans for finance is hard to beat when Stoke are on form. application process. partners like BCRS to help maintain the should use the fastrack online The club is such an important part of the “We were at a low point but the can do city's economic growth by ensuring small application facility at bcrs.org.uk or call community and it’s great to be a part of attitude of our loans officer Zoe businesses have access to finance that 0845 313 8410. its fan base To finish off the day, a nice meal in one of our increasingly varied restaurants. Then home. COMPETITION Schools can win a

Student Emad Kabiri, aged top metal detector 12, hunts for treasure at the Haywood Academy, Burslem. BUDDING treasure hunters can boost their chances of finding another Staffordshire Hoard if they win a state-of-the-art metal detector in our fun competition. Many schools in Stoke-on-Trent already use metal detectors as a fascinating way of merging scientific studies with a look into Stoke-on-Trent’s past. It’s amazing what can be found beneath the gardens and playing fields of our city. We want schools to write in to Freepost City News or email [email protected] with news of what they have found in metal detecting sessions and a photograph of their find. The most interesting or amazing find – judged Stoke by Council Leader Councillor Dave Conway, will City striker win a new metal detector to add to their Joselu celebrates equipment. his goal in the 3-1 The closing date for entries is 30 April 2016. Happy detecting! win over Norwich Picture courtesy of greigphoto. at the Brit. City News 8-9 3/3/16 11:23 Page 1

8 City News SPRING 2016

Warning over tax text scam RESIDENTS are being warned to ignore a scam text message which tells them they are due a Council HUNDREDS USE Tax refund and asks for payment card details. The text messages require customers to open up a link, before asking for card details including a sort code and account number, as well as their name and address. The council is asking people to avoid clicking on BENEFITS HELP the link and reminding them to never give out card BENEFIT claimants can now calculate their details without knowing the sender of the message. exact Universal Credit entitlement thanks to Residents who think they an easy-to-use online tool launched by are due a refund can visit Stoke-on-Trent City Council. www.stoke.gov.uk/counciltax Users simply enter their details and or speak to a member of the the calculator gives them their exact team on 01782 234234. Lines single payment. A companion budgeting are open between 8am and tool also introduced by the council then 8pm on Mondays to Fridays, helps customers manage their monthly and 9am to 1pm on income. Saturdays. Council Benefits Manager Dan Marson said: “We launched the calculator after the Hardship Commission revealed that £50 million of benefits go unclaimed in the city and we want to make sure people get everything they are entitled to. Tree surgery “Our online tool calculates all means-tested benefits, not just Housing starts in park Benefit and Council Tax Support. TREE maintenance and “People can either print out their result removal work has started or receive it as an email so they can see ahead of a £4.5million exactly what to claim and how. restoration of Hanley Park. “Alongside that, our budgeting tool is a Tree surgeons are also great way of helping people better removing some trees, which manage their single Universal Credit are dying, diseased or payment. unsafe. “Both tools have only been up and Later this year work will running for a few weeks but we’ve start to refurbish the historic already had over 300 people use the pavilion, boathouse and calculator identifying in excess of £50,000 other buildings, HERE TO HELP... of unclaimed benefits.” gardens and Benefits Assessor Mark Rogers ■ To use the benefits calculator and bridges on the using the new benefits calculator budgeting tool simply visit Victorian site. in the Stoke one stop shop. www.stoke.gov.uk/benefits or pop into your local centre for help. City News 8-9 3/3/16 16:22 Page 2

SPRING 2016 City News 9

SPOTLIGHT ON WORK TO IMPROVE PUBLIC HEALTH IN STOKE-ON-TRENT HIV testing helps break Team gives down stigma low down on A campaign is helping break down the stigma associated with HIV and legal high risk promote locations where people can be quickly and DRUG and alcohol service confidentially tested across provider Lifeline Stoke-on-Trent Stoke-on-Trent. is helping spread the word about Free Point of Care the dangers of legal highs and Testing – which involves a increase awareness through simple finger prick with community-focused workshops. results in 20 minutes – is Legal highs are drugs offered throughout the city, designed to replicate the effects while drop-in sessions and of illegal substances. the Sexual Health Most are controlled under UK Prevention Team’s law and soon all variations will outreach services are be, as the dangers are no available at colleges and a different to those of their illegal range of community counterparts. settings. Lifeline works alongside Cobridge Community academic partners including Health Centre’s integrated Manchester Metropolitan sexual health service is University and the Centre for also open six days per Public Health to provide week to both walk-ins and workshops, training days and appointments. information sessions across the PC Mark Quick shows Meanwhile, workshops city to inform people of the some of the confiscated are held within local Black negative effects of the drugs. legal highs kept at Hanley and Minority Ethnic and ■ For more information, Police Station which have Lesbian Gay Bisexual and contact the Hanley branch on been taken off the streets Transgender groups 01782 283113 or the Tunstall of Stoke-on-Trent. focusing on promoting HIV branch on 01782 818570. testing and safe sex. For more information, visit www.20mintesting .co.uk or call the confidential Sexual Health Information Line on 0300 STUBBING UT 123 0970. Ratings help public choose where to eat

LOOK Before You Book is the advice to people SMOKING HABIT eating out in restaurants, pubs, cafes, FEWER young people are taking up takeaways, smoking thanks to a scheme aimed at PULLING A FACE NOW hotels, offering peer support to help increase THEY KNOW WHAT GOES supermarkets awareness of its dangers. INTO CIGARETTES... and other food The council runs a Stop Smoking in Excel Academy students shops. Schools (ASSIST) programme that sees Joseph Daniels and True Peace of mind groups of Year 8 pupils act as peer Machin, both 12, after a on hygiene standards supporters who chat informally to other special ‘cookery’ session in places like restaurant children about the risks of smoking and reveals the horrible kitchens can be guaranteed the benefits of being smoke-free. ingredients inside every by checking via the Food Rates of young people smoking in the ‘cancer stick’. Hygiene Rating Scheme. city have been steadily dropping over The scheme rates each the past few years and it is estimated business on its food hygiene that 18 per cent fewer will take it up standards. each year as a result of the programme Following a visit by a food being in place. safety officer from the local Pupils at Excel Academy have authority, the outlet is given completed the Stop Smoking in Schools one of six ratings from 0-5. programme for the fourth year. Assistant The top rating of five Headteacher Richard Harvey said: means that the business has “We’ve found the ASSIST programme “very good” hygiene has been a great success. standards when measured “The pupils have really valued the across a range of criteria project and have all said they have a including how the food is better understanding of the risks of prepared, cooked and stored, smoking and the benefits of being the cleanliness of the smoke free as a result. Not only has the facilities and food safety programme raised the students’ level of management. awareness but it has also increased their People can check the confidence when talking to their peers rating by looking for the and adults about the risks of smoking.” green and black sticker in ■ To find out more about local Stop the window, asking the Smoking clinics, call the Living Well staff or going online at hub on 0800 085 0928 or text food.gov.uk/ratings smokefree to 60777. Healthy advice To find out more, CAMPAIGNS are hoping to reduce follow Public the number of teenage pregnancies by increasing awareness of Health Stoke-on- contraception and healthy relationships. Trent on Facebook They will focus on delaying sexual or Twitter @healthysot activity, developing aspirations as well as promoting the Sexual Health or visit the city council’s team’s C-Card free condom scheme and encouraging conversation website at among young people. ■ For more information, please stoke.gov.uk/health call 0330 7900 165. City News 10-11 3/3/16 16:39 Page 1

10 City News SPRING 2016

Website Healthy lives to host funds boost

STOKE-on-Trent has been SPORTING chosen to receive a share of a £4.5million cash pot to be invested in physical activity. Get Out & Get Active is a UK-wide initiative that focuses STORIES on encouraging people to be active and aims to increase SPORT-related stories from participation so that disabled Stoke-on-Trent residents are and non-disabled residents can being published as part of a new enjoy recreational time project that aims to encourage together. people to try their hand at The council submitted a bid writing. to the project for funding and Sporting Stories will give has been awarded £245,000 to anyone and everyone the chance deliver the programme in the to share the ways in which sport city. has had a positive impact on their The money will be used to lives, regardless of whether they develop and deliver extra sport, have any writing experience. wellbeing and fitness activities People can submit stories about and sessions, which are anything from archery to yachting inclusive for people of all ages. and everything in between and Councillor Terry Follows, their writing can take any form, Cabinet Member with including poetry or drama. responsibility for Leisure, said: All stories sent to “We are only one of 10 places www.sportingliteracy.com that Publisher Peter Hooper and former Coronation Street actress Deb in England to receive funding meet the simple submission McAndrew, who are putting together to Sporting Stories collection. from the project and that is guidelines will feature on the site, really pleasing, particularly while a selection of the best will with us being the European be published later this year in a City of Sport for the UK. book to celebrate local voices and squash champion and chair of celebrating sport across the city.” Matthews Coaching Foundation, “We will make sure this the city’s title as European City of Stoke-on-Trent’s European City Peter Hooper, founder of Cox which aims to make sport more money is used to help improve Sport. of Sport organising committee, Bank Publishing who will be accessible to young people.” ■ people’s long-term health and Help will also be on hand in the said: “Participating in sport at any producing the book, said: “All For more information on wellbeing, and hopefully form of creative writing sessions, age and level can have a hugely proceeds will go back into Sporting Stories and the encourage people to lead which will provide tips and positive impact on people’s lives promoting sport in the city by creative writing sessions, or to healthier lifestyles and get support for those keen to and it’s great to see a project developing new initiatives, plus submit a story to feature on involved in physical activity.” contribute. capturing all these wonderful every book sold will generate a the website, please visit Angela Smith, former world stories and turn them into a book donation to the Sir Stanley www.sportingstories.com City News 10-11 3/3/16 11:40 Page 2

SPRING 2016 City News 11

World Cup legends celebrate 50th anniversary of victory Companies FIVE of England’s 1966 World Cup John Rudge, Peter Coates and Norman Potteries businessman Carl Holness is heroes will be attending a gala dinner Hunter. promoting the event and said: “In the flock to talk in the city to celebrate the 50th The 50th anniversary black tie event – 50th anniversary year of the World Cup anniversary of their triumph. being held at the King’s Hall, Stoke – is win and in The Queen’s 90th birthday about jobs Hat-trick hero Sir Geoff Hurst, set to attract up to 400 people for the year it would seem fitting to mark their goalkeeping legend Gordon Banks, unique occasion. achievement with knighthoods for all Martin Peters, Roger Hunt and George People are also being encouraged to the players.” and growth Cohen will be at the lavish event on sign a petition to get the remaining ● For more details about the event, or April 22. They will be joined by other squad members knighted so they can be to sign the knighthood petition go to sporting stars and local celebrities, placed alongside teammates Sir Bobby www.66winners.com or by calling in Ceramic including Lou Macari, Nick Hancock, Charlton and Sir Geoff Hurst. 01782 777724. Valley zone AT least 28 enquiries have been made by businesses interested in moving into Ceramic Valley now the Government has granted the area Enterprise Zone status. They cover six sites totalling 140.8 hectares – Tunstall Arrow, Chatterley EVENTS, FUN AND Valley East, Chatterley Valley West, Highgate / Ravensdale, Etruria Valley and Cliffe Vale. The council’s Enterprise Zone Project Manager Steve Lovatt said: “All enquiries are in an early discussion phase, however a number of them look FREE SPORT SLOTS quite promising. “Developers and landowners alike have series of sporting contests and fun- welcomed the packed activities, attracting a whole announcement of the A host of international stars, are set to Enterprise Zone and the pique the interest of people of all ages benefits it can bring which in turn has led to an throughout the year as Stoke-on-Trent plays increased appetite to bring host to the European City of Sport. forward development From the Lord Mayor’s Games and a activity across the range of city-wide mass participation fun run, to the sites.” famous Potters’ Arf Marathon and a Councillor Jack Brereton, world-class table tennis tournament, there Cabinet Member for will be a full range of activities throughout Regeneration, Transport 2016. and Heritage, said: “It’s There will also be plenty of other related fantastic that we won the activities like the Sports Personality of the Enterprise Zone bid and it Year awards and a historic 1966 World Cup shows the Government’s Anniversary Dinner, which will bring that we will deliver on our together some of the all-conquering England ambitions. players who lifted the Jules Rimet trophy 50 “We’ve had very years ago. significant interest so far As part of the celebrations, taster days and and in terms of that discounted – or free use of – facilities at the interest, it shows how we’ll city’s sport and leisure venues will be have to bring forward offered and new and expanded health, development of these sites wellbeing and sports sessions will be much more quickly than delivered in community settings such as we first anticipated. parks. These will complement existing “That’s great news for initiatives such as the StreetGames the people of the city in programme. that we’ll be able to bring The full list of events include: new businesses here and Friday 22 April: 1966 World Cup in turn the high quality anniversary dinner at the King’s Hall, jobs that will flow from Stoke. Ticket details to be announced in that.” the near future. Sunday 15 May: Douglas Macmillan Bike Ride, at Michelin Athletics Club. Thursday 19 May: Sports Personality of the Year awards, King’s Hall, Stoke. Saturday 21 May: Run for Fun, city wide PCC election mass participation event. Sunday 22 May: The Donna Louise in May 2016 Children’s Hospice 10k* and 5k Family Fun Run 2016. ELECTIONS for Friday, Saturday, Sunday 27, 28, 29 May: Staffordshire’s Police European Corporate Soccer Cup. and Crime Commissioner Tuesday 7 June: Cancer Research UK Race will be held on 5 May 2016. for Life, Trentham Estate. The PCC is the voice of the Sunday 12 June: The Hanley Economic people, holds the police to Building Society’s Potters’ Arf Marathon. account and are responsible Saturday 18 June: Aviva Women’s Tour for all policing matters. cycling, city centre stage finish. Rising soccer star Megan Hunt, who It was set up to cut crime Wednesday 22 June: Multi-sports event for has been selected to play for England. and deliver an effective and 7 to 11 year-olds at Northwood Stadium. efficient police service within Sunday 3 July: Potteries Marathon. their force area. Saturday 9 July: Douglas Macmillan For more information on mini-moonlight walk, Fenton Manor Sports the election please visit Complex. www.staffordshire- Sunday 17 July: Stoke-on-Trent Pretty Megan’s England call-up pcc.gov.uk Muddy for women only, Central Forest Park. To vote in a Police and Friday, Saturday, Sunday 16, 17, 18 Crime Commissioner election September: European Corporate Netball a person must be registered Cup, Fenton Manor Sports Complex. TALENTED footballer Megan Hunt has can’t wait to pull on my England kit and to vote and also be one of the Sunday 18 September: Nuffield Health made the international breakthrough she be part of the squad. It will be a brilliant following: Stoke-on-Trent 10K. has been working towards after being experience. It is also a proud moment to ● 18 years of age or over on Saturday, Sunday 24 & 25 September: selected for the England Women’s Under represent Haywood Academy and polling day Junior, fun and Olympic distance triathlon at 15 squad. Stoke-on-Trent as a whole.” ● a British citizen, a Trentham Gardens. The 15-year-old Haywood Academy Haywood Academy Head of PE Paul qualifying Commonwealth Tuesday, 1 November: Table tennis England student was picked after taking part in a Rutter said: “We have a great tradition citizen, or a citizen of the men V Greece in their 1st qualification final trial match, which saw her play in for producing sporting talent at the European Union match to reach the top division of the an England North v England South game. Academy and Megan really does ● resident in the UK European Championships Finals in 2017.To Megan, who already represents the epitomise everything we are trying to ● not be subject to any legal be held at Fenton Manor Sports Complex. County of Staffordshire Under 15 achieve. incapacity to vote ■ More events are regularly being added Football team, had to overcome a “She has worked really hard to get into ■ To register to vote please at www.stoke.gov.uk/cityofsport16. hamstring injury before being passed fit the England squad and we are very follow this link Community groups can add their to play in the crunch match. proud of her and look forward to her www.gov.uk/register-to- associated event by visiting the site and She said: “I am absolutely thrilled and playing in an international match.” vote are encouraged to get involved. City News 12-13 3/3/16 16:19 Page 1

12 City News SPRING 2016 SPRING 2016 City News 13

Werrington resident Rod Barker buying fresh goods from Arthur BURSLEM LONGTON Derbyshire from his stall (A&J Derbyshires greengrocers) in Longton market, where a £75,000 refurbishment is going to boost facilities. Food health News from SIX around conscious the employers appeal towns rewarded in new drive EMPLOYERS in Stoke-on-Trent are being FENTON rewarded for their efforts to promote healthy food options. Stoke-on-Trent City Council is recognising a commitment to supporting people to live their lives well as part of its Eating Well to be Well campaign. The initiative, which was launched last year, aims to promote healthy food options in schools, and businesses near to schools, in order to try Moorland Pottery Managing and encourage young people Director Jonathan Plant drinks a toast to make healthier food and to investment that has helped him drink choices at lunch time. expand the company’s factory. Awards are given to places that have shown a commitment to the scheme, with Staffordshire University being the latest to receive one. All food outlets on the Stoke-on-Trent campus have met the criteria. The awards, which can be displayed on the premises like the food hygiene standards ratings, are designed to help people easily identify businesses that offer healthy COMMITMENT TO ALL TOWNS food. Councillor Randy Conteh, the city council’s cabinet member for housing, communities and safer city, said: “This is a really positive initiative, which is helping Events and Commercial Manager Chris Austin businesses to think carefully and Councillor Terry Follows, Cabinet Member about the kind – and range – of for Greener City, Development and Leisure. food they have on offer. It also IS GATHERING MOMENTUM encourages young people to make healthier choices, which HE city council’s commitment to will ultimately have a large continue investment in all Six impact on their future lifestyle Towns is gathering momentum Make-Up artist Becci habits.” T ■ For more information across the Potteries. STOKE Mapes using one of the TUNSTALL As the council announced its studios at the Spode Works. contact eatingwell@ HANLEY exciting programme of capital stoke.gov.uk development for the next five years - totalling almost £500million – projects and initiatives across the whole city are already delivering huge improvements. In Tunstall, the community are Hauliers sign drawing up innovative plans for the future development and continued regeneration of the town. up to support Work to develop a Community Economic Development Plan has already come up with ideas to clean air push develop two key passageways COMMERCIAL fleet between the High Street and operators have signed up to Alexander Park retail development, a new scheme – backed by which will improve pedestrian the city council and seven connections. They are also looking at other Staffordshire local how to bring spaces, above shops, authorities – to improve air into use as flats or offices and how to quality on local roads. make better use of the historic Tower The ECO Stars initiative Square. encourages and supports Regeneration specialist John operators of HGVs, vans, Webbe, who is co-ordinating drawing buses and coaches to run up the plans, said: “We are also Regeneration advisor John Webbe talks to their fleets more efficiently. starting to bring people together by Tunstall traders Jo Porter, of Dream walls , left, Each fleet is assessed and relaunching the town’s Chamber of and Lesley Adams from the Rosie Leigh vintage awarded a star rating based Trade and encouraging ‘buy local’ tea room, about an initiative involving residents on current performance. initiatives.” in setting priorities for the town’s future. A ‘roadmap’ of The council is currently exploring recommendations is how it can improve facilities for provided, which will help residents in the town. This includes Moorland Pottery has returned 2,000 People’s views were sought in A total of 43 creative studios have being fitted out with kilns and Manchester and Birmingham. being spent refurbishing toilets and operators to reduce vehicle restoring and making better use of square metres of previously unused drawing up the plans which aims to been built at a historic pottery factory machinery.They have excellent Meanwhile, new covers are being other facilities, adding new signage emissions while also some of the towns important historic space into a showroom and provide a better environment for site in Stoke as part of £700,00 natural light from large windows bought for the pool – saving money and enhancing the entranceway of bringing down operating buildings such as the town hall and warehouse thanks to a £94,000 grant visitors, shoppers and support the scheme to transform the building and overhead skylights in the steel on energy loss and reducing the the 19th century building. costs. Membership is free Victoria buildings. from the Burslem and Longton night time economy. into a hub for artists. The Upper decking suspended ceilings. council’s carbon footprint. In addition, All the projects are based on to all fleet operators, As well as The Prince of Wales’ Building Improvement Scheme. It is the fourth phase of work China Halls section at Spode Factory A film company is already an inflatable aqua-run platform has consultation with traders and are irrespective of their size. much-publicised support of Managing Director Jonathan Plant under the public realm has been transformed to help both occupying a number of the studios been purchased which can be laid on aimed at making the venue more Darren Shaw, commercial Middleport Pottery and the said: “This gives us a third more improvements programme, and is budding and established artists while shooting a film on the site. The the water’s surface and is ideal for enjoyable for shoppers. director of Fenton-based Wedgwood Institute, other working space which is essential for supported by the Staffordshire Local further their careers. remaining studios will be ready for children’s summer activities and Any work carried out will also be company JD Commercials Ltd, said: “There are many regeneration initiatives in Burslem future growth and expansion. The Enterprise Partnership. Money for the scheme has come occupation by the end of March. birthday parties. Funding is coming sympathetic to the historic nature of are bearing fruit. advantages to being part of help we have had from the council Other schemes have taken place in from the city council (£283,000) Arts Plans are also in place to transform from the council’s Capital Programme. the building. the scheme. It gives us a Hot on the heels of the opening has been fantastic and the scheme Albion Square, Albion Street, the Council England (£245,000) and a one of the buildings on the sprawling Events and Commercial Manager Work will start in July and all structure to approach drivers of its new Sixth Form Centre in the has made a massive difference.” western end of Old Hall Street, further £173,000 from the Association Elenora Street site into office space Chris Austin said: “Fenton Manor is a improvements will be completed in about improving their Old Town Hall, the Haywood In Hanley, the latest phase of Lichfield Street and most recently of Cultural Advancement through and accommodation for start-up venue of international, let alone time for Christmas. driving habits and routines, Academy has launched a public realm improvements are set Piccadilly, Stafford Street and Warner Visual Artist (ACAVA).With the match companies. regional significance, and the money Ian Tamburello, Strategic Manager and it also helps us to £1.5million refurbishment of the to take place later this Spring. Street adjacent to Smithfield. funding, the council has undertaken Investment in three new schemes will be used to help boost facilities for for Enforcement and Operations, said: reduce our fuel consumption historic Burslem School of Art. Work will begin on Trinity Street The cost of these earlier phases works to make the shell weather at Fenton Manor Sports Complex is the 750,000 people who visit every “The investment will support our local – bringing with it the From September this year students to widen pavements, install new were met by the European Regional proof and sound, while ACAVA has set to boost the number of people year as well as save money in the case market traders and takes into account obvious environmental Norma Tooth, from Sneyd Green, left, will take some of their lessons in the lighting, street furniture and better Development fund. been responsible for the internal fit who visit every year. Money is being of the pool covers.” what they think needs to be improved. benefits.” and Alison Ratcliffe, of Milton, enjoying the building, which will also continue to CCTV. New traffic regulations will Work on phase 4 will begin in the out of the 17,200 square feet premises. spent on revamping the popular café In Longton, investment has been “For customers it means there are ■ To find out more visit new street furniture on Piccadilly. provide facilities for community also be introduced on the key city next two months and is scheduled to The studios will be let at affordable bar at the venue, which is the biggest secured to improve the town’s better amenities and an enhanced stoke.gov.uk/ecostars groups. Elsewhere in Burslem, centre route. be completed by early 2017. rates and will range in size with some sporting facility of its kind between Victorian market. A total of £75,000 is shopping experience.” City News 12-13 3/3/16 16:19 Page 1

12 City News SPRING 2016 SPRING 2016 City News 13

14 City News SPRING 2016 Businesses back age-friendly bid

BUSINESSES are joining an initiative to change “We hope that the award to Steelite International attitudes towards older people. will be the first of many to employers in the The city council is working in partnership with the Potteries.” Beth Johnson Foundation to achieve the World The Beth Johnson Foundation is delivering a Health Organisation’s Age Friendly City status, while Commitments Programme for the city council to a group of independent Citizen Champions has been change attitudes towards ageing and find set up to promote the cause. collaborative ways of working towards age-friendly These volunteer champions – known as the Senior attitudes. Free training courses are being provided to Think Tank – have recognised a leading ceramics businesses to help them become more age-friendly. manufacturer as the city’s first Age-Friendly The council’s aspiration is “to make Stoke-on-Trent Champion employer. a great place to grow old” with an emphasis on Steelite International has been recognised for the ensuring social participation, transport availability “significant arrangements” within its employment and personal safety both at home and in the conditions to give people pre-retirement training, community. preparing them for the time when they are no longer Members of the community are being urged to at work. help tackle loneliness, become a Dementia Friend Cliff Hathaway, the Chairman of the Senior Think and listen to older people to understand what they Tank, said: “The company’s recruitment and need. retention policies demonstrate that they have an * Stoke-on-Trent is already a member of the UK Senior Think Tank Chairman Cliff Hathaway age-friendly approach. network of Age-Friendly Cities. talks to Steelite Caster Dave Capewell.

LDER residents will soon start to move into the first of Othree retirement villages commissioned by Stoke-on-Trent City Council in partnership with a housing consortium. Willow Barns in Consett Road at Blurton provides 75 spacious VILLAGE OPENS apartments designed for over 55s. On-site community facilities include a restaurant, hairdressers and beauty salon, launderette, library and IT suite, communal lounge and gardens as well as the security of 24-hour staff and CCTV. The second village of 175 apartments at Oak Priory in TO RESIDENTS Abbey Hulton is due for completion this August with phase three, Maple West at Chell, Extra Care Housing Contracts the importance of somewhere to “Older people know they will be connection to Stoke-on-Trent and consisting of 140 apartments, due Manager said: “We are delighted call home with help and amenities moving to a safe and secure has health, care or an existing to open in early 2017. that people will shortly start to close at hand. environment and do not have to housing need can apply. The schemes help residents live move into the first Sapphire “The aim is to create balanced worry about moving again should ■ For more information visit independently and maintain Retirement living Scheme. The communities with people having a their circumstances change in the sapphire consortium.co.uk or privacy but give them access to developments give residents the range of care and support needs future.” call Stoke-on-Trent other facilities and services. freedom to live independently and which will be met by the dedicated Anyone over 55 who lives within City Council on Amanda Moxon, the council’s securely but Sapphire understands on-site care teams. Stoke-on-Trent or has a local 0800 561 0015.

Lettings and Moving In Co-ordinator Andy Keelan, right, and Scheme Manager Mick Taylor in a show flat at the Willow Barns development.

£110m investment to fight crime CUTTING edge technology is set to help Jane Sawyers said: “Our officers have police officers on the city’s streets fight been hampered by out-dated technology crime and boost public safety. and a lack of real-time information to A £110million investment covering help them do their job. During the last Stafordshire for the next 10 years will couple of years we’ve seen progress to help the police work even more closely make sure police can stay out and about with other agencies including the longer with the information they need council. New mobile technology has and for us to know where our resources already been rolled out to all police are in real-time. officers and PCSOs which will make “This IT partnership with Boeing them more available to local people takes us to the next level and will see than ever before. our officers and staff equipped with Meanwhile, new hi-tech SPIRIT state-of-the-art technology, which will technology for the first time gives a put them at the forefront of policing in real-time picture of where local police the UK. vehicles are and what skills the officers “Police will also have better in those cars have – improving police information than criminals leading to deployment and service to communities. earlier intervention. A contract has been signed with “This will help officers spot warning global specialist Boeing. signs earlier due to the information Staffordshire Police Chief Constable they will have access to.” City News 14-15 3/3/16 12:49 Page 2

SPRING 2016 City News 15

Older people needed to CITY SET FOR BIG have say on city policy OLDER people who want to have their say on developing services and the city‘s future are being asked to join a ground-breaking committee. HOUSING BOOSTS The group will be asked for an older person’s perspective on a huge OZENS more prestigious range of subjects, from dementia, health services self-build homes are coming Councillor Randy Conteh, Cabinet to Stoke-on-Trent when more and benefits to the city’s D Member for Housing, outside the bid to become the UK City sites are opened up for sale by the council’s first successful self-build of Culture 2016. city council later this summer. project at Penkhull. The committee is one of It follows the success of six the first initiatives under self-build homes which have the new Older People’s been completed at Penkhull. Engagement Service in Three more sites will be Stoke-on-Trent and not announced in the summer with surprisingly one of its first space for up to 75 more houses. tasks will be to choose a The news comes as the council new name for the progresses an exciting package organisation. designed to revitalise It is being delivered by council-owned and private city-based Christian housing. charity Saltbox, who have Eight housing zones set up in been commissioned by the the city with support from the city council and Government’s Homes and Stoke-on-Trent Clinical Communities Agency are already Commissioning Group. bearing fruit. It will give decision Planning approval has been makers at the council, granted for a further 111 homes NHS, police, fire service at Wellington Road on the City and many more Waterside development, with organisations a direct route another application in for a to listen to older people. It further 53 homes on the site. will also give older people Other housing zones are a site an opportunity to raise off Waterloo Road in Cobridge, important issues with the whole of the city centre, the these key organisations. Lear site at Vale Place in Hanley, Gill Butler, Operations the clearance area at the top of Director at Saltbox, said: Bucknall New Road, Pyenest “We want people to come Street in Shelton, and Melville on board and set their own Street, Hassall Street and Lord housing initiatives by the properties for sale or rent around build homes for sale or rent and agendas – no-one can tell Nelson, all in Hanley. Housing and Finance Institute, the city. refurbished existing council an older person what it’s Negotiations are underway whose Chief Executive Natalie This will provide much-needed homes to breathe new life into like to be an older person with a developer interested in Elphicke praised the city when affordable housing in the city and some of the city’s estates. and what their needs are another of the sites. she visited last year. will also generate an income Councillor Randy Conteh, other than older people Meanwhile the city is pressing She said: “Stoke-on-Trent can stream for the local authority Cabinet Member for Housing, themselves. Government with a strong case to present a clear and confident which can be reinvested in more said: “Good quality affordable “We want to tap into a be named as a lead authority and case for its track record in housing initiatives. Because homes are the building blocks for rich vein of life experience one of the UK’s first starter delivery and effective culture of pressure to make profit would a higher standard of living for in people who may have homes zones. business collaboration. Site visits, not be as great as it is for a our communities. When people lived all their lives in The scheme would mean any discussion of strategy and proven private developer, it is expected are worried about paying the Stoke-on-Trent or may first time buyer under 40 years track record all show that the the local housing company would rent, about whether they have a have moved here recently. old could buy a home for 80 per council is able to do business.” be able to make a success of a roof over their head, it’s all the “It’s important that we cent of market value. After five In April the council’s cabinet is wider range of sites in the city, harder to find and keep work, engage people from all years they would be eligible to being asked to approve the developing a whole range of improve your skills and build a communities and faith sell the home for the full market creation of a local housing different kinds of homes. better future for your family. groups.” value. company which will act as the This approach would also Good homes really do provide An older person is The city has been certified as council’s own property developer, enable the council to look at the foundations for a better life classed as anybody aged 50 “business ready” for all these building a wide range of making the most of a mix of new for all.” or over, and the team are hoping to reach out to as wide an age range as possible. Councillor Ann James, Cabinet Member for Health Fun story sessions tour and Social Care, said: “We need to know older people’s views on our plans and understand what is city in library van important to them. By having this two-way A dragon-themed mobile been decorated by a local conversation with local storytelling service will artist, Kate Leake, and residents we will be better travel to families across we’re hoping that enabled to ensure our the city to encourage nurseries, schools and services are fit for purpose parents and their children community groups will get and meet local needs.” to read together and spark in touch and book it to ■ A new round of Age a love of books from an visit them. Friendly City Small grants early age. “The service is all about to help projects working Launched by encouraging families to with older people will be Stoke-on-Trent Libraries, share stories and read announced soon. Look out the van will visit a range of together so that young in a future issue of City venues and allow families children can experience News. to jump onboard and enjoy books from an early age – stories, rhymes and songs it’s never too early for which help to develop them to enjoy stories and speech and language skills. begin a love of books and A reading champion will reading.” Council Online be on hand to share ■ For more information or stories, answer questions to book the library van for about books and provide your nursery, school or information about the community group, call city’s library services. Jayne Stanley on 01782 Parents will also have 238496 or email jayne. the chance to sign both [email protected] themselves and their Web: stoke.gov.uk children up for library Clockwise from left, author and Facebook: facebook.com/ memberships. illustrator Kate Leake with Reading Stoke-on-Trent Libraries Champions Emma Davies and Anna Lloyd, Isaac stokeontrent.citycouncil Principal Librarian Jayne Lloyd,aged four,and Flint Turner,three,on board Twitter: @SoTCityCouncil Stanley said: “The van has the mobile library twitter.com/SoTCityCouncil City News 16 3/3/16 14:14 Page 1

16 City News SPRING 2016 Volunteers needed to throw spotlight on housing MEMBERS of a community and carry out audits and mystery to boost their numbers by group who help review and shopping exercises. They also recruiting more volunteers who scrutinise the city council’s lead consultations on behalf wish to continue their hard work housing services are calling for of tenants relating to and help make a difference to more residents to join them. housing policies other tenants across the city. The Tenant Board of and procedures. ■ For more information, Stoke-on-Trent City Council Board telephone 01782 235916 or currently consists of seven members email tenantinvolvement focus volunteers who request are looking [email protected]

Treasurer John Salmon, left, and Chair Jim Gibson discuss the new Federation of Stoke Residents’ Associations. Residents support each other through

Blurton Residents’ citywide network Association member Kerry ALL residents’ associations across the city are being Edwards planting hanging baskets encouraged to share ideas and support each other by with Alfie Loveday, 8, and Chloe joining a citywide network. Goodwin, 6 in the Blurton Hub. The newly formed Federation of Stoke Residents’ Association aims to organise training events in everything from First Aid to face painting and website design, so that members can share skills and knowledge. A total of 14 local community groups are currently involved, and two committee members from each will Community spirit attend quarterly meetings to map out plans for the variety of training schemes that will be offered. Tenant Involvement Officer Linda Davies said: “We wanted to bring everyone together so that they can learn new skills to take back to their individual groups and become more empowered and self-sustainable. “Members have the chance to suggest ideas for is blooming great different schemes and training sessions, and we’ve got a real variety of things to offer over the coming months.” School have started a beekeeping participation and environmental ■ For more information please call Linda Davies on REEN-fingered community groups project and are in the process of responsibility. 01782 238969 or email [email protected] in Blurton are working together to transform outdoor spaces into designing a sensory garden, while Local Matters Officer for G learning disability charity Landau Stoke-on-Trent South Charlotte flower-filled gardens and sustainable has been making planters. Eccles said: “All of the community allotments for this year’s Britain in Community members will then groups in Blurton have been Bloom campaign. submit a portfolio to the Royal working on environmental projects Panels help make Schools, residents’ associations and Horticultural Society for the regional and the campaign is a chance for charities are working with the city heats, while the finals will take place them to see what they can achieve council’s environmental services in the summer. together and celebrate their efforts. team to plant and tidy community The Britain in Bloom campaign “Everyone has really pulled places safer to live gardens, litter pick as well as sees more than 1,600 towns, cities together – the community spirit and develop a gardening hub and and villages across the country sense of pride is fantastic and it’ll be NEW Safer Neighbourhood panels are allowing allotment. assessed on their horticultural great to see them getting recognition residents to examine, shape and challenge the work of Children from Sutherland Primary achievement, community for all their hard work.” police across the city. The city council has been given funding by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Staffordshire to set up three panels – one for each of Joining together to the North, Central and South policing teams. All residents are encouraged to join the panels, which are made up of one city councillor and one improve environment magistrate as well as local people. They meet formally once every three months and RAISING community spirit and improving the local look into issues specific to each area, examine what is environment is top priority for members of the newly being done by local police officers to tackle them and formed Mount Pleasant Residents Association. suggest ways to improve. Plans to clear up the railway line, litter pick and tidy Local Matters Co-ordinator for Stoke-on-Trent up the area in Fenton were discussed at the group’s first South Kevin Hawkins said: “The Safer Neighbourhood meeting as well as a range of ideas for future social panels give people the chance to work in partnership events. to help improve policing and have an active role in Working in partnership with the police, council, making their communities better places to live. Grocott Centre and Regent pub, the 10-strong committee “Over the next couple of years we’re hoping that the also aim to build relationships within the community. panels will help make neighbourhoods safer in Local Matters Officer Charlotte Eccles said: “Forming a Stoke-on-Trent and we’re encouraging people to get Mount Pleasant Residents’ Association was much in touch.” needed. It is important that the voices of residents are ■ Residents should call 01782 235105 if they are heard and they can work together to build community Left to right: Residents’ association members John Cooper, Angela interested in joining their local panel. spirit and support each other.” Maitland and Jennifer Cooper, take a stroll with Councillor Mick Bell at ■ For more information, call 01782 237863. Mount Pleasant.

Contact the council via social media on Facebook.com/sotcitycouncil or Twitter @SoTCityCouncil City News 17 3/3/16 15:14 Page 1

SPRING 2016 City News 17 TV,music and gaming studios at heart of hi-tech hub City turns tide STATE-of-the-art media facilities are on training coming to Stoke-on-Trent as part of Staffordshire University’s £40million and education campus transformation. The former Pavillion Cafe area at GOVERNMENT statistics College Road is being completely rebuilt show Stoke-on-Trent is to provide a TV centre, music studios, turning the tide and raising games design and motion capture expectations of education in facilities. the city. Brand new technology available to The number of young students in the new Cadman Studios will people not in education, be in line with the very best the employment or training – industries have to offer, and will open in sometimes called NEETS – September this year. has been reduced by 30 per A futuristic glass frontage, pictured, cent in the last 12 months. will allow passers-by to see the amazing The number of 16-18 creative industry facilities in use. The year-olds in education is mirrored frontage will also physically way above the national reflect the new building opposite which average and the number of will house teaching facilities, breakout NEETS in Stoke-on-Trent is rooms and a stylish new cafe. way below the average for Judy O’Brien, Marketing and the rest of the country. Communications Manager for the Campus Councillor Janine Bridges, Transformation Programme, said: “The Cabinet Member for building will be packed with Education and Economy, state-of-the-art facilities and equipment said the city council had used by the very best in creative proved its success in getting industries. We will be staging a launch teenagers back into event in October to give the public the education, training or work. opportunity to see the results of this huge She said: “This intensive investment in Stoke-on-Trent, and approach is helping young welcome our local community to come on people break through the campus and explore what the university qualification barrier.” has to offer.” Deputy Council Leader Councillor Abi Brown said: “Things are really looking up for Stoke-on-Trent and the trends are in the right direction. “The next generation are determined to make their mark on the world. This is a city with a great future.” Web warning of Pottery earns rave reviews WORLD-famous pottery from Stoke-on-Trent is attracting rave reviews as part of a Europe-wide traveling exhibition. sex abuse threat The exhibition forms part of a major new EU initiative called Ceramics and its new website has been set up to warn Dimensions, which is raising parents,carers and anyone working ■ If you think a child is awareness of Europe’s Awith children of the signs of child at immediate risk then ceramics regions and cultural sexual exploitation (CSE). heritage, and includes partners It gives the stark message that phone 999. from Germany, Italy, Spain, children in Stoke-on-Trent and ■ If you have concerns Serbia, Ireland, Estonia, Latvia, Staffordshire are becoming victims of Finland and the Czech these terrible crimes. that someone you know Republic. And the website encourages anyone is being exploited and Potteries spotting the signs to help protect the Museum & child or children involved by reporting if the child lives in Art Gallery the issue. Stoke-on-Trent contact Audience Development Officer CSE is a hidden crime that can happen Melanie Firman said: “The first to anyone under the age of 18, whatever the Safeguarding Referral touring exhibition, European their sexuality or background. Team on 01782 235100. Cultural Lifestyle in Ceramics Offenders can be men, women and – from Baroque until Today is children from any ethnic background. It ■ You can also call the currently showcasing some of could be anybody. our city’s finest ceramics Victims of abuse are unlikely to tell Police on 101 or call the heritage to audiences across anyone that they are being abused. They NSPCC on 0808 800 5000. Europe, and has already been may think they are in a loving well-received in Serbia, relationship, or that they have no choice. Germany and Spain.” But they may show some of the This major collection of following signs: historic European ceramics ● A new, older friend. will come to the Potteries ● Sudden, unusual mood changes. Museum & Art Gallery in autumn 2016. ● A new phone or other gifts appearing out of the blue. ● Having marks or scars on their body that they try to hide. ● Avoiding usual friends and family. ● Taking excess alcohol or drugs. ● Spending a lot of time online or on mobile phones. ● Skipping school. ● Not coming home/going missing. Abbey site to CSE can include being forced or pressured to have sex, receiving gifts in exchange for sex, being asked to have sex with other be refurbished people, being asked to share sexual photographs of yourself or being threatened if you do not continue to have sex. HISTORIC Hulton Abbey is Jan Norton, Child Sexual Exploitation Co-ordinator for being refurbished with the Staffordshire and Stoke, said a number of different agencies aim of turning it into a including the city council and police were working together to spot tourist attraction. the signs and intervene at an early stage to protect the children Around £13,500 – involved. supported by Historic She said: “Being able to work closely with so many agencies and England – is being spent on organisations and pool their expertise is the best way to safeguard the 13th century monastery against it and helps us to spot the signs of risk early and intervene site, in Abbey Hulton. with appropriate measures. Masonry will be stabilised, “In Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire we have a positive while vegetation which is approach and the new initiatives demonstrate that commitment. damaging the remains will "For instance, the new website is proving to be a great benefit to be removed and new grass parents and other carers because it is an easily accessible resource seeds sown. providing them with a wealth of information on the subject.” Two new information panels will also be designed ■ To find out more visit www.knowaboutcse.co.uk and installed. City News 18 3/3/16 14:19 Page 1

18 City News SPRING 2016 Spectacular Couples say ‘I military show TICKETS are on sale for do’in historic Stoke-on-Trent’s very own Military Tattoo in aid of ABF The Soldier’s park bandstand Charity. Supported by the city ROMANTIC couples can tie the knot at council as part of its Burslem Park now it has the only covenant to support the publically-owned bandstand in UK’s Armed Forces. Staffordshire licensed for weddings. The Military Tattoo, Staff at the Grade II star listed Victorian takes place on Saturday park which has undergone a £2million 7 May in the King’s Hall. refurbishment in recent years go all out to Doors open at 5.30pm make it the perfect setting – dressing the with the performance bandstand with flowers, rolling out a red starting an hour later. carpet and providing seating for 50 guests. This year’s event The bandstand is located in a restored features The Military formal garden complete with terracotta Wives Choir, massed balustrades and two fountains which are military bands, concert working for the first time since 1895. music, marching And just in case the weather refuses to displays, Beating Retreat, play ball and the wedding party need massed bands finale and more shelter, the bandstand is just yards a Sunset Ceremony. from a beautifully restored pavilion. Tickets, which cost £10 Parks and Community Liaison Officer each, are available from David Grice said: “It’s a unique, award Music Mania, Piccadilly winning park and we only charge a £400 Arcade, Hanley, tel. 01782 Photo courtesy of James Andrew Photography. hire fee. It’s great for the wedding and for 206000. VIP packages are the pictures afterwards when the formal also available – gardens are a riot of blooms and colour. telephone 01952 674323 Newly-weds Kirsty and James For more information about weddings at “That’s when we believe the park is at for details. Wiltshaw pictured in Burslem Park Burslem Park, call 01782 234030 or it’s best and would really suit a couple ● To find out more about after tying the knot. Inset left is the 07826 891834 or email looking for a beautiful outdoor wedding. thew work of ABF The fully-decorated bandstand. [email protected] The bandstand is ideal with its red carpet Soldier’s Charity visit and banqueting chairs.” soldierscharity.org, or follow the charity on Facebook or Twitter. £4.5m station access boost TRAFFIC congestion around City leads way: Stoke-on-Trent’s main railway station is set to be eased as the city council prepares to spend another £4.5million on much-needed improvements in the area. At least £500,000 has already been spent on improving the area and now changing lives the council is drawing up further plans that could TOKE-on-Trent is pioneering a include a new drop-off area as well as improved new way of helping families pedestrian links to the S and individuals address a range Experts back nearby Staffordshire of problems and become more University campus, the city independent centre and Stoke town. Cooperative working brings bold progress Councillor Jack Brereton, together a huge range of agencies Cabinet Member for like the council, NHS, police, PROFESSOR Paul Hickman, Regeneration, Transport and Citizens’ Advice Bureau, the of Sheffield Hallam Heritage, said: “We are probation service and leading University, has been currently looking at how we charities like the YMCA. commissioned to undertake can best improve pedestrian A single key worker is assigned an independent evaluation links and reduce congestion, to each family and they are study of Cooperative Working particularly on Leek Road. responsible for pulling in the in Stoke-on-Trent. “We want to support the services and support they need to He said: “Cooperative aspirations of Staffordshire fix any issues. Working is a bold initiative University as well as The aim is to save money in Pictured after signing their commitment to Cooperative Working are, back row: designed to transform the improving access for both the long run by helping Helena Evans (Brighter Futures), Andy Oakes (North Staffs Combined Health Care), way services are provided to vehicles and pedestrians to individuals and families stand on Simon Harris (Staffordshire North and Stoke on Trent Citizens Advice), Nick vulnerable households. In the station.” their own two feet, without Adderley (Staffordshire Police), Danny Flynn (YMCA North Staffs), Glynn Dixon many ways, Stoke-on-Trent continuous and costly (Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner), Leanne Eardley (Staffordshire and City Council and its partners interventions by all those services. Stoke on Trent Partnership NHS Trust). Front row: Becci Bryant (Staffordshire Fire are entering uncharted Indeed, the three pillars of and Rescue Service), Councillor Randy Conteh, Doreen Dowd (Stoke Clinical territory as the scheme is the New chapter Cooperative Working are early Commissioning Group), Karen Litherland (Department for Work and Pensions) first of its kind. intervention, prevention and “The findings of the independence. evaluation will therefore be for libraries The aim is to identify the core now been rolled out across the city improved, according to the with £5million of additional households themselves, and 32 of national relevance and A new service for library problems of around 9,500 Government funding. per cent have been resolved. should inform the customers has been launched households in Stoke-on-Trent The Cooperative Working pilot At a launch event in the King’s development of similar in the city which allows who repeatedly need support in the north of the city achieved Hall, all partners involved in schemes elsewhere.” people to download e-books from public services, at a high significant successes, including: Cooperative Working signed up to Joe Tuke, Director of directly to their computers, cost to the taxpayer. It is ■ 4.7 per cent reduction in an agreement to create a city Troubled Families and Public tablets or smartphones. estimated the new way of reports of antisocial behaviour. where residents can live Service Reform, said The 3M Cloud Library working will save £26million over ■ 41 new families in council independent, fulfiling lives Cooperative Working is in line provides people with an three years. houses. through timely support to help with Government plans to innovative way to browse, Issues facing households can ■ A 15.2 per cent reduction in them address the issues they face. transform public services. borrow and read popular include worklessness, education, rent arrears. Councillor Randy Conteh, He said: “Cooperative titles. health, crime and antisocial ■ A 4.2 per cent reduction in Cabinet Member for Housing, Working is a great example of Members can register their behaviour, housing and many reported incidents of crime. Communities and Safer City, said: ambitious public service library card on the digital more. Residents who have taken part “Cooperative Working is about reform and an impressive app and start downloading By identifying these issues the so far have reported significant turning people’s lives around, example of getting in early to books straight away. To aim is to tailor a plan to address improvements in their mental helping people to live their lives help people with their download the app, visit them all and help everyone in the health, keeping their properties well. You can’t change the world problems. I am so pleased to Google Play or the iStore and household to live well. clean and tidy and in good repair, on your own – you need partners. see Stoke-on-Trent sharing search for 3M Cloud Library There is also a significant feeling safe at home, “If you want to influence whole its learning and ambition. I app. For more information knock-on for the communities understanding Council Tax and communities you have to start by look forward to telling other about the service, people are around these households, who benefits payments, and in seeking working with individuals and places about the value of encouraged to visit their may be affected by their issues. and being prepared for work. couples and families, which is Cooperative Working and the local library. This way of working has already Stoke approach.” succeeded in a pilot scheme in the To date, 91 per cent of the 1,096 what Cooperative Working is all north of Stoke-on-Trent and has issues reported by residents have about.”

To contact the council by email [email protected] City News 19 3/3/16 14:31 Page 1

SPRING 2016 City News 19

Free parking boost on busy street P VICTIMS URGED NEW parking bays are being created to give shoppers 30 minutes’ free parking. Traders on Stoke Road, Shelton, have welcomed the move, which is part of a wider £185,000 traffic and pedestrian improvement scheme between the road’s TO SEEK HELP junctions with Queen Anne Street and Avenue Road. The work will involve: ● Creating 30-minute free Domestic violence parking bays for up to 30 cars, to encourage people to use the shops on the street team support men and discourage long-stay parking. ● Improving the existing and women who pedestrian crossings on the road. ● Resurfacing the road and suffer home abuse pavement and putting down new road markings to replace existing worn ones. ORE male victims of domestic abuse are ● The removal of some being encouraged to come forward by existing double yellow lines Neil Poole – one of the city council’s and ‘no loading’ restrictions. M ● Right turn lane created at three Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVAs) in the field. Queen Anne Street to He supports both men and women improve traffic flow. escaping domestic abuse through the The work is being carried criminal justice system, who have been out following requests from highlighted as high risk. the local business Based in the council’s northern locality and community for parking an advisor for six years, Neil said: “I support arrangements to be between 80 and 100 domestic violence reviewed on the road. victims each year of which very few are men Businessman Malcolm and we know from experience and statistics Bagnall, co-director at that there are far more male victims out Shelton Auto Spares on there than that. Stoke Road, said: “Having “It’s very rare that males come forward and parking bays which are free pursue a prosecution against their partners. for up to half an hour is They think I’m a man, I shouldn’t be good for customers and suffering and I won’t be taken seriously.This shoppers and should tends to be a barrier, along with the usual hopefully encourage more barriers of the fear of losing their home, people to visit the shops.” losing contact with their children, losing friends and social circles and many other fears that all victims face. Special advice “I would say to them that you’d be is being provided surprised how many men are affected. Each to support men Fly-tippers year 2.1 million people suffer domestic who are the victims abuse, 1.4 million women (8.5% of the of domestic population) and 700,000 men (4.5% of violence. up in court population). “There are two female IDVAs and myself Domestic Violence “A recent review in how Staffordshire working for Stoke-on-Trent City Council. Advisors support male and Police deal with domestic abuse cases means “We support both male and female female victims through the courts and with a FIVE people have been more are being referred to support services. victim/survivors, people in same sex variety of issues ranging from housing and fined a combined total of We are here to offer one-to-one support and relationships and also no gender specific and financial problems caused by the violence more than £3,500 after we're not judgemental. We understand how transgender people. There is an assumption they have suffered, to additional family being found guilty of victims are controlled and face not just sometimes that people will want to work with problems like child contact and applications fly-tipping. physical violence but emotional abuse. someone of their own gender. We have all for emergency protective orders. Now Stoke-on-Trent City “My message to any men or women who found that this is not the case and we have They work alongside the charity Arch Council hopes the are suffering abuse is that they are not all worked successfully with both men and which supports people with a wide range of prosecutions will send a isolated. There is plenty of support so they women. issues including those affected by domestic clear message to dumpsters should call a domestic violence helpline and “I have been told by female survivors that abuse. that they will be pursued, report it to the police. they were glad they had a male supporting ■ To contact Arch, telephone 01782 205500. caught and punished in “We act as the voice of the victim through them and it was encouraging hearing another IDVAs are contactable on 07900 135734 court if necessary. the process and we will make sure that they man acknowledging an understanding what (Central), 07584174463 (North) or 07824 Those involved in the are kept at the centre of the process and they had been through. Also we have had 496275 (South) or by email at separate crimes have been chase up any poor responses from agencies. male survivors who felt more comfortable [email protected] left with bills totalling We will support them so they can make working with a female IDVA.” Police are 101 for non emergency and hundreds of pounds and informed decisions. The three city council Independent 999 emergency. criminal records for their actions after being found guilty at Stafford Magistrates’ Court. Councillor Terry Follows, Cabinet Member for Cleaning up communities to celebrate royal birthday Greener City, Development and Leisure, said: “These PEOPLE are being encouraged to make a prosecutions send out a right royal difference and spruce up their really strong message to streets in the run up to Her Majesty’s 90th anyone who is thinking of birthday. fly-tipping. Environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy “It’s really not worth has launched a Clean for the Queen ending up in court, getting a campaign ahead of the monarch’s milestone criminal record and being birthday, which will be officially celebrated hit in the pocket with a in June. large fine. A clean-up weekend took place in March “When we launched our and saw schools, community groups and fly-tipping taskforce in the businesses take action and enjoy litter summer, we were picking sessions and tidying up their local determined to not only areas. clean up the city but go The campaign hopes to inspire people to after those who were continue improving the quality of their blighting our communities streets and public spaces and protect and neighbourhoods wildlife, while working together to instil a through their selfish sense of pride in their community. actions. A number of free resources are available “I’m very pleased to see Cleaning for The Queen at Parkhall Country Park are, left to right, residents’ association member including Clean for the Queen litter sacks those responsible are now Patricia Parkes, Local Matters Officer Kris Hallam, 13 year old Mitchell Clay, Local Matters Officer and educational materials. starting to pay the price and Kevin Hawkins, residents’ association member Teresa Plant, City Councillor Ross Irving, residents’ ■ For more information or to get involved, I hope these prosecutions association members Louise Nosedale and Steve Jenkinson. visit www.cleanforthequeen.co.uk or call the will act as a deterrent to Local Matters Team on 01782 233265. others in the future.” City News 20 3/3/16 15:30 Page 1

20 City News SPRING 2016 Public have Have your say on city’s future development their say on RESIDENTS, community groups and Heritage, said: “We want to develop a here in the city. People love the idea of businesses are being urged to have their stronger and more prosperous city, but this growth, but when it comes to building near say on deciding how the city should must be done in a planned way. We will set them it’s a different matter. fuel poverty develop over the next 20 years. out the issues and principles to guide “That’s why we need clear and objective PEOPLE are being asked to The latest version of a local plan is future planning decisions.” guidance to help direct where give their opinion on being drawn up to advise where new As well as guiding important development goes and how it works for proposals aimed at tackling housing, roads and development will take developments like buildings and highways, everyone’s benefit. fuel poverty in the city. place. the local plan will also focus on protecting “Business and developers need clarity The city council has The city council has joined forces with green space, wildlife and architectural about what this city wants and where it is launched its draft fuel poverty neighbouring Newcastle-under-Lyme heritage. going, and so do communities.” strategy and needs to hear Borough Council to put together a plan for Councillor Terry Follows, Cabinet Comments will be accepted up until 29 what people think about it. the main North Staffordshire conurbation. Member for Greener City, Development March. Anyone can get involved and have Priorities are: Councillor Jack Brereton, Cabinet and Leisure, said: “People tell us they want their say by visiting ● To reduce energy Member for Regeneration, Transport and to see more jobs, homes and prosperity stoke.gov.uk/jointlocalplan consumption through behavioural change. ● Improve building fabric and reduce cold-related illnesses. ● Maximise household income. ● Increase the amount of energy generated from renewable and low carbon sources. Councillor Randy Conteh, Cabinet Member for Housing, Communities and Safer City, said: “Fuel poverty can have a E-NEWS LINK TO negative impact on people’s health as well as causing considerable hardship, and it’s important that tackling it remains one of the authority’s key priorities. “This strategy aims to tackle the root causes of fuel poverty – low income, energy inefficiency and high energy prices – and I want to HOTTEST TOPICS encourage as many people as possible to contribute.” ORE than 17,000 people have ● Residents are being urged signed up to a new city council to have their say about the plans by viewing the draft Mservice which delivers news strategy and completing an about more than 40 key topics direct online questionnaire at to their inbox. stoke.gov.uk/fuelpovertystrat Email newsletters are sent out egy. They can also request a on subjects from weather warnings hard copy of the proposals and school closures to scam alerts, and the questionnaire by job vacancies and contracts with calling 01782 233330. the council. There are bulletins on school meals, business news and even information for taxi drivers on training opportunities open to Apartments them. When users sign up to the service they can choose which set for refurb bulletins they want to receive. MAJOR refurbishments have Digital Manager Karen Steel begun on five blocks of said: “Our winter weather topic has high-rise apartments in the been particularly popular with City Centre to improve their more than 1,300 subscribers. The appearance and increase gritting team who monitor the energy efficiency. weather complete this and send it It will take around 30 out, including an explanation of weeks to complete each what the weather is likely to be block of 46 apartments in and details of the time gritting will Wellington Court, Lindop start.” Court, Westwood Court, St Scam alerts are a new service in Luke’s Court and Seddon which trading standards can warn Court, all located in Hanley. the public of any bogus callers or Stage one of the £5million online frauds targeting the city. programme will involve fire And for younger users the alerts safety improvements, an give updates on a huge range of upgrade to communal activities, from DJ masterclasses to electrics, new entrance doors, to an Alien Encounters signage and lighting as well competition, tea dances, Teddy as a new mains water feed. Bears’ Picnic and much more. Environmental upgrades ■ To sign up for the service visit will comprise external wall stoke.gov.uk/stayconnected and Iris Stevenson and “Tango”Terry Whitmore, both aged 71, at Swan Bank tea dance in Burslem.The event, and many insulation, windows and choose the subjects which interest more, are publicised on the city council’s new e-newsletter service – find out how to sign up at stoke.gov.uk/stayconnected roofs, all designed to you the most. maximise energy efficiency and improve the look. Inscription sparks book mystery

Fun sessions A romantic message handwritten in a book more than 70 years ago has sparked a mystery that the for fathers public are being asked to unravel. Staff at the City Central Library unearthed the DADS and their children can factual work – William Wordsworth of Rydal Mount enjoy a host of fun-filled by Frederika Beatty – in their archive store earlier activities at The Crescent this year. Children’s Centre’s free Dads2 Inside, it carries a handwritten inscription dated sessions. November 9, 1945 and reads: “To my dearest From 9:30am until 11:00am Geoffrey, with all my love. ‘Tis thee my love I do on one Saturday each month, adore, and shall, my love, for ever more.” It is then children up to age 11 can signed Olwen. Records show the book came into the come along with their dads, library’s possession just six years later in 1951. Now granddads, uncles and the hunt is on to find out more about the book, who brothers for a morning of Geoffrey and Olwen are and what happened to them. sports, crafts and games. Librarian Amy Capewell said: “We would love to The sessions give all male find out more about Geoffrey and Olwen. Were they carers the chance to have married at the time, or did they get married and have enjoyable one-to-one time a family? And why did the book arrive at the library with their children – and they Librarian Amy just six years later?” can also tuck in to a free Capewell with the ■ Anyone with any information can call Amy on breakfast. The mystery inscription. 01782 238455 or email her on amy.capewell@ book that started ■ For more information, call stoke.gov.uk the appeal. 01782 238038. City News 21 3/3/16 14:39 Page 1

SPRING 2016 City News 21 bet365 chief’s foundation joins £1m bid to boost maths achievement A £1million link up between the Denise Coates Foundation and the city council aims to boost city students’ achievements in maths. The aim is to recruit high quality teachers and give better training to existing staff. All 14 Stoke-on-Trent high schools have signed up to the Maths Excellence Partnership. A network will also be developed to give teachers the chance to share ideas, while incentives will be offered to attract experienced teachers and encourage graduates to train in the city. Stoke-on-Trent Central MP Tristram Hunt is also involved in the initiative to give every child in the city a better chance of achieving higher grades in Maths at GCSE and beyond. Denise Coates CBE, Trustee of the Denise Coates Foundation and Joint Chief Executive of bet365 Group Limited, said: “This is a major step forward for maths education in Stoke-on-Trent. “The Denise Coates Foundation has provided significant financial support to the partnership in order for it to realise its objectives of raising educational attainment and aspiration in Stoke-on-Trent schools. “The Maths Excellence Partnership will train a new generation of maths teachers, who will lead the way in providing a world class education to the children of the City. “I am excited by what this initiative will Pictured during a maths lesson at St Joseph’s College, Trent Vale, are, standing, left to right Ethan Phajurey, 12, Jyothy Joseph, 12, achieve, local children will have a fantastic Maths Teacher Anna Loveridge and Head Teacher Roisin Maguire. Seated are, left to right, Olivia Miceli, 15 and Thomas Killeen,15. opportunity to realise their potential.”

AMILIES in the city who face complex issues from antisocial behaviour to Fmental health are turning their lives around with support from the Cooperative working teams. The Government-funded Troubled Families initiative gives families with problems in up to six key areas the Family support support they need to clear the issues. In turn this has a positive impact on the whole family and for the communities around them. Phase two of Troubled Families was officially launched in April 2015, and is already making a massive difference. The Government has backed Stoke-on-Trent City Council to support 2,180 families in the city by 2020. In Stoke-on-Trent the Troubled Families benefits us all initiative runs under the umbrella of Cooperative Working, which means a whom are affected by all six issues, are have so far turned around 111 families. Once network of services and agencies is already given the highest priority. we have addressed the major issues affecting in place to get involved early and work with An action plan is developed with the them they carry on receiving a seamless families to resolve their issues. family covering the different needs of every support service to make sure they continue Single mother The project aims to identify and engage single family member and the service to progress. families struggling with: coordinator works with all agencies involved “We find that families are very positive ● crime/antisocial behaviour. with the family to coordinate working about the work we’re doing to help them and turns life around ● worklessness together to achieve positive outcomes want to work with us to improve their lives.” ● education issues like truancy identified from the action plan. Over 130 service support co-ordinators with team’s help ● health problems Early Help Services Lead Claire around the city work with the families ● domestic violence Williamson said: “The programme is proving identified and call in the specialist support SINGLE mum of four Emma (not ● children who need help. to be very successful and we have identified they need from a range of different her real name) said without the Families with the biggest need, some of over 840 families who meet the criteria and organisations. help of the Family Support service she and her children would not be where they are today. After her marriage broke down, Emma was left battling depression while working full time as a bar manager and caring for her four children, who were all aged between seven and 13. Her eldest son was hardly attending school and ended up having to be removed from the family home due to his difficult behaviour. She said: “Working full time while making sure the kids were getting what they needed and trying to cope with my own mental health issues was a struggle. I ended up receiving benefits and my eldest went to live with his auntie. “The team at Family Support have been absolutely brilliant. They helped rebuild my relationship with my son and he’s now living back at home – his school attendance has gone from around 40 per cent to 90 per cent. “They gave me advice on where to get help with my depression, and I’m back to work behind a bar doing what I love. My 12-year-old who suffers from anxiety and learning difficulties now also has the best possible support. If I need advice all I have to do is give them a ring. “The team has literally turned things around for me and my Just some of the team delivering support to troubled families in the city are, standing, left to right, Service Co-ordinator Kerry Fullwood, family – there’s no way we’d be Deputy Safeguarding Officer Sharron Gwilt, Learning Pathways Co-ordinator Paul Clorley and Special Educational Needs Coordinator Ruth where we are today without Cope. Seated are, left to right, Education Welfare Officer Phyll Hartshorne, Families Matter Manager Jo Plimbley and Team Manager Sue Kelly. them.” City News 22 3/3/16 14:45 Page 1

22 City News SPRING 2016 Road boost Volunteers needed to support young offenders will improve VOLUNTEERS are needed to join panels Now the team want to build on that Projects completed by the young people which help young offenders back onto the reputation, and a re-offending rate below hoping to make a positive new start in life straight and narrow. the national average, by recruiting more have included a link up between residents safety for The city’s Youth Offending Service, or people to help make a difference. and businesses to smarten up an area of YOS, needs members of the public to sit on Lead for the Youth Offending Service land near McDonalds in Sandyford. pedestrians panels which help first time offenders Hazel Williamson said: “We need more help Elsewhere, young people have worked at make amends to the community for their to change the narrative of some young the Ducklings Nursery in Meir to tidy up a WORK is underway to crimes. That could involve meeting with people from ‘I am an offender with a children’s play area and regularly complete improve safety for their victims or doing work to benefit their problem’ to ‘I am a young person who can work for the Douglas Macmillan and the pedestrians at a local community like weeding, litterpicking stay out of trouble’. Donna Louise Hospice busy junction. and gardening. “We would like to recruit more volunteers ● To find out more about joining one of the The £130,000 Inspectors from Her Majesty’s Probation who will receive comprehensive training volunteer panels or suggest a reparation project will see Service who inspected the service in and are seen as a integral member of the project for the young people please contact changes made to January stated that there is some learning Youth Offending Service. We would also like Referral Order Coordinator Sheetal Mistry the junction of City but said it should be seen “in the context of to find more reparation projects across the on 01782 238830 or email Road and Glebedale a good, well-managed and successful YOS”. city that our young people can complete.” [email protected] Road, next to Fenton Health Centre. The work involves: ● Turning existing uncontrolled pedestrian crossing points into traffic signal controlled crossings. ● Installing an additional traffic signal controlled pedestrian crossing. ● Widening part of the pavement on City Road. ● Switching the straight SUPPORT MAKES ahead traffic on Glebedale Road into the right-hand lane to improve traffic flow. The improvements are being carried out as part of a wider scheme to improve City Road. Earlier this month, work finished on a £15,000 scheme to extend an existing BIG DIFFERENCE cycle lane on the road between its sections with Erill Close and Napier Street. RACE Ector was finding it Pedestrian crossing points difficult to sleep because a were also improved. Ability Aware were painful condition in her feet was Councillor Jack Brereton, G Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s being aggravated by the bedclothes. Cabinet Member for absolutely wonderful... Her diabetes was preventing Regeneration, Transport and doctors taking off the ingrowing Heritage, said: “This scheme they helped me choose toenails that caused the problem, will increase the crossing and it began to seem like a good facilities for pedestrians, a bed cradle which will night's rest was a thing of the past. making it much easier and Then her daughter told her about safer to cross what can be a keep the sheets from Ability Aware, the independent very busy road. living centre in Trentham which “We also hope the works chafing my feet has a vast array of mobility aids at will help improve traffic flow affordable prices. on City Road once complete. Grace, 79, visited the centre with The work will be done her husband Arthur, 78, and found between the hours of 9:30am the perfect solution. and 3:30pm Monday to Friday, “The staff at Ability Aware were with some work maybe taking absolutely wonderful to me and place on Sundays to minimise they helped me to choose a bed disruption at peak times.” cradle which can be fitted round Temporary traffic lights and the bed and will keep the sheets lane closures will be in place from chafing my feet,” said Grace. while the work is carried out. “We also came away with a foot Fountain Street will be closed scrubber for the shower which will to through traffic at its mean we don't have to bend down junction with City Road to wash our feet.” during the works, although The couple, who celebrate their vehicular access to frontage 60th anniversary later this year, properties and businesses will were both highly impressed by the still be maintained. The range of mobility aids and disability scheme is expected to take six aids available at Ability Aware, a weeks to complete. social enterprise company enabling independent living. Showrooms are at Trentham Trade Park, Stanley Matthews Way, Trentham Lakes, ST4 8GA and are open to the public from 9am to Cadets learn 5pm, Monday to Friday. The range of aids supplied by the team are designed to help the skills for life elderly and disabled remain POLICE cadets in Longton independent and live at home are making the most of skills more easily. They include grab training to help them prepare rails and seat assists for for future life. bathrooms, walking frames, bath It includes teaching on how boards, kitchen aids, night light to deal with difficult sensors and personal aids such situations, tips on CV writing, as products to support with interview skills and personal incontinence, eating and financial management. drinking, going to the loo or The courses strengthen getting out and about. links between the police and “We were delighted to be able to young people while help Grace,” said Stephanie King, promoting good citizenship. Customer Service Advisor at Ability Businesses are being Aware which works in partnership invited to become patrons to with Stoke-on-Trent City Council. help fund uniforms and “We assess people's equipment for the cadets. In requirements either when they visit return for becoming a patron, or over the phone, with safety as a businesses’ contributions are priority, and we have a kitchen, recognised through publicity, bedroom and a bathroom set up at a framed certificate and other our centre so that people can try opportunities. things out.” ■ For more details visit 79-year-old Grace Ector with the ■ cradle which fits on her bed and To find out more call Ability www.staffordshire- Aware on the local rate number pcc.gov.uk/police-cadets helps her get a good night’s sleep. 0845 3301144 or visit www.abilityaware.com

For more information visit stoke.gov.uk City News 23 3/3/16 11:46 Page 1

SPRING 2016 City News 23

Abbey Hulton and Townsend MELANIE BADDELEY RICHARD BROUGHAN (City Independents) (Non-aligned) Your (01782) 859354 07881 332870 07979 508837 richard.broughan@ melanie.baddeley@ stoke.gov.uk Councillors stoke.gov.uk Baddeley Green, Milton and Norton Bentilee and Ubberley JACK BRERETON DAVE EVANS ANTHONY MUNDAY STEPHEN FUNNELL SHEILA PITT (Conservative) (Conservative) (City Independents) (Labour) (Labour) (01782) 541368 07447 914011 (01782) 239737 07919 564369 07957 948896 07855 916134 dave.evans@ 07743 876421 stephen.funnell@ sheila.pitt@ jack.brereton@ stoke.gov.uk anthony.munday@ stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk

Birches Head and Central Forest Park Blurton East Blurton West and Newstead Boothen and Oakhill JEAN BOWERS SABRINA BOWERS JOAN BELL LLOYD BROWN ANDY PLATT (City Independents) (City Independents) (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) (01782) 262613 (01782) 534797 (01782) 341398 07824 496282 07946713893 07919 564493 07827 281594 07757 708703 lloyd.brown@ andy.platt@ jean.bowers@ sabrina.bowers@ joan.bell@ stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk Twitter: @CllrAndyST4

Bradeley and Chell HeathBroadway and Longton East Burslem Central Burslem Park Dresden and Florence GURMEET SINGH CHRIS ROBINSON ALAN DUTTON JOY GARNER LILIAN DODD KALLAR (Labour) (City Independents) (Labour) (City Independents) (Labour) 07720 975697 07982 231567 (01782) 768846 (01782) 319285 07900 604232 chris.robinson@ alan.dutton@ 07986 442770 07880 179802 gurmeetsingh.kallar@ stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk [email protected] lilian.dodd@ stoke.gov.uk Twitter:@button1001 stoke.gov.uk

Eaton Park Etruria and Hanley Fenton East Fenton West and Mount Pleasant Ford Green and Smallthorne RITA DALE MAJID KHAN PAUL SHOTTON MICK BELL CANDI CHETWYND (City Independents) (Labour) (Labour) (UKIP) (Labour) (01782) 285075 07989 441707 07769 697771 (01782) 847760 07910 534163 rita.dale@ majid.khan@ paul.shotton@ mick.bell@ candi.chetwynd@ stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk

Goldenhill and Sandyford Great Chell and Packmoor Hanford and Trentham MARTIN GARNER JANINE BRIDGES ANN JAMES TERENCE FOLLOWS DANIEL JELLYMAN (Labour) (City Independents) (City Independents) (City Independents) (Conservative) (01782) 768846 (01782) 851842 (01782) 836766 (01782) 643553 (01782) 899000 martin.garner@ 07771 331893 ann.james@ 07944 055379 daniel.jellyman@ stoke.gov.uk janine.bridges@ stoke.gov.uk terence.follows@ stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk

Hanley Park and Shelton Hartshill and Basford Hollybush and Longton West Joiner’s Square Lightwood North and Normacot AMJID WAZIR SHAUN PENDER KATH BANKS ALASTAIR WATSON SADAQAT (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) (Labour) MAQSOOM 07747 830461 (01782) 632104 (01782) 399759 07736 837822 (Conservative) amjid.wazir@ shaun.pender@ 07790 699379 alastair.watson@ 07595 531859 stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk kath.banks@ stoke.gov.uk sadaqat.maqsoom@ stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk

Little Chell and Stanfield Meir Hay Meir North Meir Park Meir South DAVID CONWAY CRAIG BEARDMORE RUTH ROSENAU ABI BROWN DEBBIE WHEELDON (City Independents) (Conservative) (Labour) (Conservative) (Labour) (01782) 232468 07941 098364 07870 503575 07793 844169 (01782) 595043 david.conway@ craig.beardmore@ ruth.rosenau@ abi.brown@ 07870 777807 stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk debbie.wheeldon@ Twitter: stoke.gov.uk @CllrRuthRosenau

Moorcroft Penkhull and Stoke Sandford Hill Sneyd Green Springfields and Trent Vale MOHAMMED PERVEZ RANDOLPH CONTEH OLWEN HAMER JOANNE JACKIE BARNES (Labour) (City Independents) (Labour) POWELL-BECKETT (City Independents) 07919 917632 (01782) 256869 07717 714207 (City Independents) (01782) 845619 / mohammed.pervez@ 07920 835902 olwen.hamer@ 07816 518275 07813 539410 stoke.gov.uk randolph.conteh@ stoke.gov.uk joanne.powell- jackie.barnes@ Twitter:@pervezstoke stoke.gov.uk [email protected] stoke.gov.uk

Tunstall Weston Coyney FORTHCOMING PUBLIC MEETINGS AT THE CIVIC CENTRE, STOKE: LEE WANGER ROSS IRVING Cabinet meetings take place at the Civic Centre at The next full City Council meetings will be at 2.30pm (City Independents) (Conservative) 1pm on the following dates: 29 March, 26 April, 31 on 17 March, 19 May (Annual Council at 11am) and (01782) 856712 (01782) 335982 May, 5 July (tbc) and 9 August (tbc). 7 July. 07971 303729 07842 709011 lee.wanger@ ross.irving@ For more information on your Councillors go to stoke.gov.uk/councillors stoke.gov.uk stoke.gov.uk Councillors can also be contacted through the Councillor and Civic Support Team who can take messages and forward them on.They can be contacted on (01782) 231922 or 231924.

Information on city councillors was correct at the time of going to press. City News 24 3/3/16 14:51 Page 1

24 City News SPRING 2016

VERYONE will have the chance “It also fits perfectly with to climb and canoe around Stoke-on-Trent being named Stoke-on-Trent as part of a new European City of Sport this year Investment in new kit will E and will play a part in promoting programme that aims to introduce the city’s sporting achievements the sports to public spaces. and encouraging people to be boost sporting participation The City Adventure healthy and active.” programme will see a mobile ■ For more information, please seven-metre climbing wall being call 01782 234957 or email as adventure programme set up in parks and open spaces, [email protected] as well as canoes being made available on waterways. is rolled out around city Sessions will begin this summer and will initially be free of charge, with the aim of encouraging people to go outdoors and experience something new. Activities will be run and managed by qualified instructors, who will then be able to connect participants with local climbing and canoeing clubs if they wish to develop further. Canoes will also be available for people to hire from different canal points across the city, for those to want to spend a couple of hours exploring the local area without an instructor. Cabinet Member for Greener City, Development and Leisure Councillor Terry Follows said: “The programme is all about giving people opportunities to get involved with something a bit different in their local area, something that they perhaps wouldn’t get a taste of otherwise. Mike Fennell of the “The city is close to the Potteries Paddlers shows Roaches and also features some how it’s done in a canoe. brilliant waterways so we’re hoping to make climbing and canoeing more accessible for everyone.

WHODUNNIT?... Packed diary Ms Claire Voyant (played by Hazel Bevington), on show at Detective Dick Tracey (Paul Kelsey) and Mona Lotte (Donna Hammersley) look over the victim ‘The Mitch’ Ben Dover (Cameron Hancock) in rehearsals for a murder HARPER Lee’s courtoom mystery appearance at clasic movie To Kill a The Potteries Museum Mockingbird screens at the & Art Gallery. Mitchell Arts Centre on 22 March at 11am, just over a month after the enigmatic author’s death. It is part of a packed spring programme at the popular city centre venue which also includes the Castle Capers Gang Show 2016, between March 29 and 2 April at 2.15pm and 7.15pm. Children’s animated favourite Hotel Transylvania 2 could be an Easter holiday winner, with a showing at 11.30am on 30 March while classic musical fans can enjoy Singin’ in the Rain, starring Gene Kelly, on 5 April at 11am. It is the latest in a series of Mitchell Matinees including Roman Holiday and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. 29 April sees the monthly Restoke Friday Dance Class – a challenging workshop between 10am and noon. And early Panto planners Fun-filled events a big hit at museum should put a date in their diary for 3 December, a FROM Saxon sagas to Shakespearean how they were enslaved through either Baker Street is the backdrop for 2.15pm, when Stoke Amateur sonnets and the sleuthing of Sherlock – famine or over gradually pressed over theatre company Don’t Go Into The Theatre Society open the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery has generations into giving onerous service to Cellar’s presentation The Singular Robinson Crusoe and the it all this April. their Lord. Exploits of Sherlock Holmes on Friday, 29 Carribean Pirates, dubbed a Life in 7th century Mercia comes under Fast forward to 1616 and the death of April. laughter packed traditional the spotlight in the Staffordshire Hoard William Shakespeare is commemorated This one-man show features the great family pantomime. Gallery on Tuesday, 5 April when on Saturday, 23 April when museum detective recounting highlights of his ■ members of the Angelcynn Re-enactment visitors can join players from a travelling crime-busting career as well as sharing To find out more about Society reveal what it was like for the Elizabethan theatre as they rehearse details about his life and times. From any of these events visit poorest Anglo-Saxons. their lines, mend props and prepare for 7-9pm, adult tickets cost £7, concessions www.mitchellarts Slavery and Status tells the story of plays like Romeo and Juliet and Henry V. are £5. Call 01782 232323 to book. centre.co.uk