A 4-star council Awarded top marks by the Audit Commission May 2007 Providing • education • highways • trading standards • social services TEXTILES £250m FUTURE SAVE A STAMP You can help to pick up Sneak a look at Vision comps, letters the thread regeneration plans and picture – all online Page 9 Page 5 See page 3 FACT: Children thrive best in a loving family

WE NEED

50more foster parents now THE SEARCH This coincides with a national the best place for children who is on for people awareness campaign, Care cannot live at home or with other Fortnight, from 14 to 27 May. family members." with hearts of The county council’s initiative He added: "Fostering still gold to dramati- will involve a two-week advertis- remains a major part of our chil- cally change the ing campaign and a series of local dren's social care policy for looked- lives of children information events where people after children. in Lancashire. considering fostering can speak to “We are seeking to recruit At least 50 more fos- current foster carers and find out around 50 more foster carers ter carers across the more about full-time, part-time across the county to provide vul- and respite fostering. nerable children with safe and county are urgently need- More foster carers are desper- caring homes on a temporary or ed to provide our vulnera- ately needed, particularly those permanent basis while they are ble children with safe and looking after sibling groups and unable to live with their own fam- caring homes. older children that can not be eas- ilies." Of the 1,250 children looked ily adopted and need a permanent "If you have the commitment after by Lancashire County foster home. and a desire to support children in Council, more than 750 are The county council currently care, then fostering could be for placed in foster care – with the enlists the support of over 650 you. We would love to hear from numbers being fostered falling. approved foster carers across the you." "A wider pool of foster carers county, as the single largest would drastically increase the agency in the North West. chance of finding the right foster Paul said: "Fostering helps pre- For more information family for the right child", says vent children being moved from about fostering in service manager Paul Hegarty. home to home, having to live a This month, the county council long way from their friends and Lancashire contact is launching a new recruitment family, and ensuring brothers and freephone 0800 195 1183 or campaign to appeal for more fos- sisters remain together. visit www.fosteringinlan ter carers. “Foster care is overwhelmingly cashire.co.uk

A cassette version of Vision is now available for visually impaired people from Galloway’s Society for the Blind by calling 01772 744148

The presence of promotional leaflets delivered inside Vision does not imply Lancashire County Council endorsement. YOUR LANCASHIRE: A PLACE WHERE EVERYONE MATTERS 2 May 2007 Providing • nurseries • pedestrian crossings www.lancashire.gov.uk New look for outdoor Ask Shirley play at Don’t know who to contact when you need help? Are you baffled by bureaucracy? Ring Shirley on 0845 0530000 nursery or email Shirley on [email protected] BIG changes are planned for a small piece of land at Little Fishes IF you are having problems Nursery in Langho which will getting hold of someone to make a major difference to help, Lancashire County outdoor play activities for young- Council has staff trained and sters. willing to assist. Lancashire County Council’s Sometimes you just can’t think Community Design programme has who to ask - and this is where produced plans which will see a small Vision’s Shirley comes in. lawned area turned in to a vibrant Shirley answers all the letters outdoor planting and play facility. she receives and some will feature Caroline Pope, who is co-ordinating the on this page. Others may take a improvement works, said: “Thanks to the while as Shirley will seek respons- county council’s investment we are now es from other council teams. able to begin raising money for the proj- Shirley is not able to offer legal ect. The initial £500 the council has spent advice. designing the scheme will get the ball rolling and attract the funding we need to get the work done.” Blue badges in the pink Mr B from Preston writes: am in the process of filling in an application form for a Blue Badge. I I need a bit of help filling it in as I don’t understand one of the questions. As I understand it, all Blue Badge applications and renewals are being dealt with at the Red Rose Hub, so could I arrange to come in to discuss SCHOOL dinners are getting tastier all the time - and cash help may be available (see Help with meals). this with someone? All that is done is a street sweeper Is the shopkeeper obliged to provide brushes the dirt off the concrete. Help! disabled access? urrently there is no front-facing service at the Red Rose Hub so you will not be ny problems relating to street lights or ain entrances should be accessible for C able to go in for advice. However, they overgrown trees positioned on the adopt- both able and disabled users alike, have an excellent telephone helpline for Blue A ed highway should be reported to M although there are some small shops or Badge queries. The contact number is: 0845 Lancashire Highways on 0845 053 0011 or businesses that do not comply. 0530049. by email at: [email protected] You need to contact Lancashire Highways A customer service officer will answer any and a customer service officer will arrange on the number below and they will arrange questions regarding your application. for the problem to be investigated. for a highways inspector to visit the shop When completed you should return the I have contacted Lancashire Highways and discuss access requirements with the form to Blue Badge Scheme, Red Rose Hub, and informed them of the footpath concerned owner. Bluebell Way, Preston, Lancashire PR2 5PZ. and they are looking into your enquiry. Lancashire Highways, telephone: 0845 053 0011; email: Ask Amey Help with meals [email protected] Mr J from Lancaster writes: Miss T from Chorley writes: Online vacancies an anything be done to clean up the y daughter is about to start at our M6 verges, particularly the slip local primary school this Mrs S from Preston writes: C roads around Lancaster and M September. I am a single parent y husband has recently been relo- TIM Blythe is seen here handing over plans to Carnforth? and was just wondering if my child may cated to the Preston area by his It looks as if one authority cleans the M Caroline Pope, from Little Fishes nursery in be eligible for free school meals. employers. Langho, Jenny Pelech of the parent and toddler motorway verges and another the main If so, how do I apply? Until we moved house I worked as a roads but no-one ever does the slip group with Harry Pope (2), and Thomas clerical assistant for the local council so Woodward (3). roads. The only word for them is dis- ou would be entitled to free school meals I would be extremely interested in graceful. Y if you get Income Support; income-based working for Lancashire County Tim Blythe, from the Environmental Jobseeker’s Allowance; support under Council. Projects Team, explained: “It is far easier or queries regarding maintenance of part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act Where should I send my CV to? for active community organisations to see adopted roads within Lancashire you 1999; guarantee element of State Pension their local project ideas realised if they F should contact Lancashire Highways on Credit or if you get Child Tax Credits (but ancashire County Council only accepts have a decent set of professionally pro- 0845 053001. without any Working Tax Credit and have applications that are submitted using duced plans to work with and help them Depending on the nature and location of the L an income of less than £14,495). one of our standard application forms. along the way.” query they will establish who is responsible. This is a national policy therefore free All our job vacancies are advertised on our Motorways and slip roads are usually the school meals cannot be granted on a discre- website at: www.lancashire.gov.uk/vacan- responsibility of the relevant Highways tionary basis. cies Agency. To apply, you need to complete an applica- Each vacancy will include information on £12,800 path plan For this particular area you should contact tion form available from your child’s school how to apply and many have an online appli- Amey Mouchell Area 13 on: 0845 600 1628 or your local Area Education Office. cation form. AN area of Preston has benefited from or by email at: mac13.ncc@amey- Vacancies are also advertised in local £12,800 of improvements thanks to a mouchel.com Shopkeepers’ duties papers throughout Lancashire. major partnership project. Lancashire County Council environmen- Highways obstruction Mr B from Fulwood writes: tal project officers have been working with ust down the road from where I live Email: [email protected] or Holme Slack Community Primary School, Mr C from Lancaster writes: is a small grocery shop that I have Preston Council’s park section, and the here is a neglected footpath close to J problems getting into. write to: Ask Shirley, Customer Service Environment Agency to restore part of a T where I live that has been an eye- I am disabled and in a wheelchair but Centre, The Red Rose Hub, Bluebell Way, footpath, which has been eroded by a brook. sore for about 10 years now. Trees most shops do provide ramps to Preston PR2 5PZ. Telephone 0845 0530000. The county council’s Environmental are overgrown and street lights unlit. improve access. Projects Team and the school have devel- oped an agreement where the school Don’t forget - your county councillor can help. Contact details are available on 0845 0530000 or at: www.lancashire.gov.uk donates part of its playing field so the foot- You can also try your area’s County Information Centre where staff are trained to help the public path can be moved from the brook. The playing field will be drained and levelled. A full job description of all vacancies is available on our website www.lancashire.gov.uk/vacancies www.lancashire.gov.uk Providing • information centres • hotlines May 2007 3 Open wide and say ‘aah’ County ‘watchdog’ seeking your views on the current state of NHS dentistry across Lancashire CAN you find an the contract would be your views. NEWS IN NHS dentist? implemented in Engaging with the Being able to find an Lancashire. public is something What do you think? NHS dentist is a topic of “The NHS told the overview and scrutiny in BRIEF committee that almost local government sees as Your view can make a difference by helping interest to health scruti- the county council in making recommen- ny members of all the dentists would be a priority. Forward for Lancashire County signing up to the new Councillor Ormrod dations to the NHS. Council. contract.” added: “Finding out the the over 50s Extra funding, togeth- views of Lancashire peo- Since the introduction Do you consider it easy or difficult A NEW scheme to support of the new NHS dentist er with the funding from ple on an important pub- to access an NHS dentist? the over 50s across Lanc- contract in April 2006, those unsigned contracts, lic health issue such as aster and Morecambe has how has accessibility to would be reinvested by this is crucial to our role. EASY: Text 81800 LancsA then the been launched. an NHS dentist changed? Primary Care Trusts to “We must examine how The 50 Forward scheme Members of the Adult provide more NHS dental the NHS and other agen- first half of your postcode aims to help people live active Social Care and Health places. cies are providing servic- and independent lives by In addition, a new es which contribute to DIFFICULT: Text 81800 LancsB Overview and Scrutiny SCRUTINY: County offering easy access to infor- Committee want to find Dental School in Preston improving peoples health Councillor Tim Ormrod then the first half of your postcode mation and the creation of a out your views. will encourage dentists to and well being and new employment agency and County Councillor Tim stay in the county once reduces inequality.” County Council, PO For example, to vote EASY volunteering bureau. Ormrod, chair of the qualified. You can submit your Box 78, County Hall, Known nationally as The scrutiny commit- views by writing to Preston. Alternatively text 81800 LancsA BB4 Linkage Plus, the scheme is Health Scrutiny Comm- run by the Department for ittee, said: “In June last tee decided to review the [email protected] you can complete an on- Standard network rates apply. effect of the introduction ov.uk or Overview and line questionnaire at Please obtain permission from the bill payer before Work and Pensions (DWP) year the Adult Social texting. Details will not be passed to a third party and and is one of only eight proj- Care and Health of the new contract and Scrutiny, County Sec- www.lancashire.gov.u k/corporate/overview_ will be used only for the purposes stated above. SMS ects around the country. Overview and Scrutiny as part of that process retary and Solicitors services are provided by g8wave London, N7 9AH. Group, Lancashire scrutiny/ Locally, 50 Forward is co- Committee looked at how they are keen to find out ordinated by Lancaster City Council, with support from Lancashire County Council, Age Concern, DWP and the Right Start for pupils’ road safety help Lancaster District Older Cream of the county People’s Partnership Board. SCHOOL dinner staff in Lancashire are offi- LANCASHIRE’S successful child pedestrian “Our planned growth up to 2010 will see 350 schools Older people are involved safety training course is to go one step further delivering the programme.” to make sure it meets the cially way ahead of caterers nationwide. Children are taught in three stages through theory needs of local communities. Hundreds have now attended training sessions - with thousands more youngsters set to join. The scheme plans to pro- The county council’s Right Start child pedestrian and practical training. So far 186 schools have taken classes that are so thorough that trainers have won part in the scheme. vide a service which meets the right to teach catering teams from other councils. training programme has trained 45,000 children older people’s needs and since its launch in 1999. By 2009/2010 this will result in 37,000 children Staff also learn how to produce balanced meals and receiving training. encourages them to take an how to market them to pupils. With the backing of a report from Edge Hill active role in determining their University, more funding is to go into the casualty For more information on Right Start call 01772 534514 future. It means that the county’s children are eating bet- or visit www.lancashire.gov.uk/roadsafety ter than many other children nationwide. reduction scheme. “We are the first school meal service in the country Roadside testing, focus groups and interviews with to become a licensed centre for the Assessment staff and parents revealed that the Road Safety Syndicate for Education and Training”, said training Group’s hard work was paying off. manager Janette Mason. Clare Farrer, Deputy Group Manager for the Road “Everyone who saw the Jamie Oliver programmes Safety Group and Dr Karen Leeming from Edge Hill 18 months ago will know how important it is to pro- University presented the findings at the national vide good food - and provide it in a way that children ROSPA congress. will like. Clare said :“Right Start was set up to bring about “The accreditation means we can show the way positive changes in the behaviour of children ahead to school dinner staff from other parts of the towards road safety, and the research shows that it country.” is succeeding. Science goes Mad

REACTION: Chelsea Smith, 10, from Brabins Endowed School in Chipping and Henry Smith, 11, from St Wilfrid’s RC School in Longridge cook up a potion with Crazy Caroline, Mad Scientist. SIXTY children from Preston of entertaining Mad Science work- The Preston Partnership primary schools gathered at shops. Project has been holding a series the University of Central Sue Bramwell, manager of the of Mad Science workshops in Lancashire (UCLan) recently Partnership Project, said: “Science Preston as part of its aim to help is such an exciting subject area children and young people engage to find out at how to make and children need to find this out slime slimy, electricity static at an early age for them to engage with school and learning. and create optical illusions. with the topic. Although this year’s prog- The event was organised by the “Our team has used the Mad ramme has now ended the team Preston Partnership Project to Science project to hold sessions hope to continue its success in the mark the culmination of a series that are educational and fun.” next academic year. 4 May 2007 Providing • bridge maintenance • paths www.lancashire.gov.uk WIN garden New life for the furniture YOU could be the owner of a £295 picnic table or a waste in your bin bird table – made from PEOPLE in Lancashire will Prosperity, a regis- recycled soon be sitting on their own tered charity. Until “waste”. rubbish – literally. now, however, the Prosperity Recycling and A new recycling deal means the plas- plastic used by Lancashire County Council have tic that people send for recycling will Prosperity has been teamed up to reduce Landfill Tax be made into maintenance-free and bought already by using domestic plastic waste extruded into planks. vandal-resistant seats, picnic tables, to make garden furniture. The heavy-duty garden decking and litter bins. Your waste can feature in your products look similar to Even better, the deal to recycle an garden! wood but, unlike wood, The company also makes gar- annual 3,000 tonnes of plastic waste they never rot and will provide accredited employment den seats, playground equipment, never need painting. benches, planters, raised flower and training for 30 people with learn- The Fairfield Street beds from recycled plastic. All of ing difficulties. factory already recy- it is rot-free, maintenance-free, “We’re using the stuff that people cles waste wood from vandal resistant and features an used to throw away like bottles and local businesses into a attractive wood effect. LANCASHIRE’S waste food containers to get people into variety of products. Available in black and brown, now provides work for work”, said Graham Chadwick, direc- The factory itself is the furniture is as good as wood – many, including Javid Pillar tor of Accrington’s Prosperity heated by old wood! only it willl last almost for ever. (pictured). Recycling. Cardboard is also To win, all you need to do is “The plastic will be ground up into collected from PLASTIC from Lancashire bins is finding a new home in play- answer the simple question Prosperity granules and then reformed into every- Hyndburn firms and grounds, gardens and public spaces everywhere. below. The first correct entry to Recycling offers day objects such as garden equipment made into new pack- be drawn will win the picnic and play equipment. and qualifications so they can lead the work opportuni- aging and animal bedding. table while the second will win “It’s an environmentally friendly The firm’s play equipment is used in life the rest of us take for granted. the bird table. ties for people substitute for wood that also lets a number of school playgrounds – and “It is also Lancashire waste material Delivery to your home is free. with learning Lancashire County Council reduce its staff go to schools to give recycling les- so it saves on carting it around the Entries must be received by Monday 21 Landfill Tax bills.” sons. country as happens in some areas. May at: Picnic competition, Vision, Corporate difficulties. The annual 3,000 tonnes will be a “Most of the workers here are on “Even better, if you get fed up of your Communications, County Hall, Preston PR1 large proportion of the plastic waste work opportunity – people who would picnic table or chair you can just send 8XJ. Don’t forget - you can now enter Vision Tel 01254 that Lancashire people save for recy- once have gone to day care centres. it back for recycling. Everyone wins competitions online at: 230123 for cling. “This is a new approach to helping with this scheme.” www.lancashire.gov.uk/corporate/vision. More details on 01254 230123 or Employees of Lancashire County Council details. A number of schools and parks have them lead a full life. Working here are not allowed to enter. already bought equipment from gives them confidence, new friendships visit www.prosperityrecycling.org Garden waste adds up where climate change is areas free of plastic bags. Climate change going, we just don’t know how My husband and I fre- is global far. quently use the cyclepath and to 475 A AUSTIN were shocked at the amount R TURNER says we Great Harwood of litter around. We regularly need a cool debate on tell people how good it is and jumbos M climate change Young recyclers how people are trying hard to (Vision, April). make it better for everyone. SPRING has already make me smile How long will we be able to That happened at the say this and will people sprung and Vision Intergovernmental Panel WONDER how many believe us when they first see readers are being on Climate Change, com- elderly people had a the area? urged to get into the posed of 300 delegates I grin on their faces SANDY and RAY composting habit. from 113 countries, plus while they read Sarah Morecambe Compost Awareness 600 scientists. A report Lawrenson’s letter Week takes place in May summary is available at (Vision, April) in which – a time when many NoWCard saver householders will be out www.ipcc.ch she wrote that something with their mowers. The climate has changed needed to be done to get Y NoWCard plastic There are many ways faster in the last 100 years the “older generation” to M wallet fell into two to be green in than in the previous 10,000 buy in. halves due to con- Lancashire. years. Milankovitch’s theorem She said that some older stant use. Replacing it More than 350,000 can’t explain such rapid people “feel they may not be involved some cost. households receive a change. around, so it is not important separate garden waste Secondly, the climate is It meant the cardholder for them”. I am 78 – and paying for a phone call and collection in addition to changing on a global, not expect to be around for some the services offered at merely local, scale. then Lancashire County time yet! Recycling started for Council paying for a stamp to Household Waste The north European freez- us while we were children. Recycling Centres. ing event 15,000 years ago post one out (it was a great Now about recycling. service, by the way). From April 2005 to was balanced by above aver- Having lived in this house for March 2006 these two age temperatures in the However, if a small stock 35 years, it means I was recy- was held at the county coun- schemes saw more than southern hemisphere, so cling here five years before 78,000 tonnes of rubbish there is no global change cil’s information centres and Sarah was born. In the also town hall information composted - the same there then. Second World War we recy- weight as 475 jumbo jets. Thirdly, the sea-level rise is TRAVEL NoWCards are great - but the plasticcover could be better centres then the cost of cled everything out of necessi- (see NowCard saver”. replacement would be cut for On top of this, more measured across the world, ty. than 160,000 homes not just in Britain, and is the holder and also for the Clothes, bedding, brown council workmen after I have they were called the “national county council. have received free home caused by thermal expansion paper, string and hundreds of flattened them and placed flower”. compost bins. of water, not isostatic changes D PRATT other things were used and them in a bag. The countryside is now Accrington Clare Atkinson, from of landmasses. reused over and over again. MRS B E SMITH beautiful once again because the Waste Minimisation You can visualise this by Nothing, repeat nothing, was Skelmersdale about two years ago the gov- A good idea – and one we Team, said: “It’s never thinking about mercury rising ever wasted by us then or ernment introduced a law been easier to do your in a thermometer – the prin- Let’s beat this will look at more closely – now… that plastic bags in stores had editor. bit for the environment. ciple is the same. I recycle all paper items, to be purchased and people “You would be amazed It is, however, correct to bag menace were encouraged to use green wash out tins and remove Letters at what can be used. write of water vapour having their labels to put them in the holdalls when shopping! Teabags, paper and hair the greater effect on the RECENTLY returned In a country where people bins provided. from South Africa containing a name can all go into compost greenhouse effect. All teabags, eggshells and I can generally afford to buy and address will be along with other green Even so without the natu- where plastic bags used bags and much more of the plant cuttings go in my com- given priority in waste.” ral greenhouse effect we post bin along with vegetable to litter the barb wire refuse is recycled, surely peo- For more information, would all be living at minus- scraps. fences in cities, towns and ple in Lancashire should be publication. Letters visit www.lancswaste- 15C. Milk and fruit juice cartons countryside. encouraged to keep our beau- may be edited. info.com or call 0845 Plenty of people know are also taken away by local The local joke was that tiful countryside and natural 0500 110. www.lancashire.gov.uk Providing • adult education • libraries May 2007 5

First for NEWS IN fairness Pupils see the future BRIEF Royal in world murder ‘trial’ Building well under way on £250m school scheme at castle of work WORK on the AN interactive drama £250m Building based on the trial of BEING flexible has Richard III following Schools for the the murders of his landed Lancashire Future pro- County Council a top nephews - "The gramme in Princes in the Tower" - award in the busi- Burnley and is to be staged in Shire ness world. Pendle is well Hall, Lancaster Castle. A flexible working Based on known his- policy has notched a under way. torical fact as well as major award with the The scheme will informed conjecture, North West Employers’ bring state-of-the-art this is a premiere of a Organisation praising schools and econom- play by Michael S Lancashire County ic regeneration to Bennett. Having heard East Lancashire. evidence both for Council’s far-reaching Richard and against, attempts recruiting and Students and teachers will move the audience is then retaining a more invited to decide his diverse work force. into the first three new sites in guilt or innocence. As a major employer, The drama has been the county council now September 2008. produced by the operates more flexible At the Shuttleworth acclaimed Demi- working options and College site on Paradise productions business opening times. Burnley Road in and will be premiered It not only meets legal Padiham work is a over three nights from requirements but leads week ahead of sched- 3-5 May at 7:30pm. to efficiency savings to ule. The old build- Tickets cost £12.50 ings have been with a limited number cut down on space used available to full- time as offices. This also demolished and foundations are students at £7. Contact reduces running costs – the box office on and ultimately costs to being laid. 01524 64998. the taxpayer. At the Burnley GLIMPSE: children and staff at Barden Lane Nursery School, Burnley, peer through a hole in the building site fence to County Councillor Campus site on see the new school being built next door Vali Patel said: Barden Lane a 50- Held to “Flexible working tonne long-reach account attracts people from all crane has started different backgrounds erecting giant gird- SENIOR decision-mak- ers as the structure Young-worker jobs boost as ers will be open to public bringing experience and diverse skills. of the new sixth scrutiny at Cabinet “We aim to retain form centre begins Question Times in skilled, motivated staff to emerge out of the Whitworth and Whalley who in turn provide ground. schools lead regeneration this month. County Councillors improved services for At the Pendle Vale College and Pendle Hazel Harding, Doreen Lancashire people. Pollitt, Chris Cheetham, “Being more flexible Community High YOUNG people from east Lancashire Marcus Johnstone and in work patterns – such School site on Oxford have the chance of a future in the build- Alan Whittaker will as home-working - is Road Nelson, terrac- ing trade thanks to the massive invest- answer questions from also expected to provide ing work which was ment taking place in schools in Burnley the public at 7.15pm on financial savings, needed to level-out Tuesday 22 May at the sloping ground and Pendle. Riverside Community reduce sickness absence The first 20 vacancies for apprentices to work on and create a workforce has been completed Centre, Market Street, on time despite a sus- the project have already been advertised. Whitworth. of secure and productive Careers evenings drew 80 interested school employees.” tained period of Whalley Abbey is the inclement weather. leavers to find out about job opportunities. venue for Ribble Valley Excitement will The events were hosted by Lancashire County question time at 7.15pm build over the next Council and Catalyst Lend Lease - private sector on Thursday 31 May when county councillors Shortlisted month as the school partners in the £250 million Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme – and held at Marsden present will include Hazel really starts to take Harding, Doreen Pollitt, for lottery shape with the com- Heights Community College and Springfield Primary School. Marcus Johnstone and pletion of the founda- Tony Martin. support tions and towering Catalyst is seeking school leavers aged 16 to 18 to JAMIE O’Horo picks up ideas from Claire Ferguson, of structural steelwork train in construction, management, civil engineer- Keith Walton Brickwork, at the recent open evening at £200 night THE proposed linear moved into place. ing, architecture, information technology, finance, Marsden Heights Community College in Nelson. park on the old and accountancy or to do trade apprenticeships with SOCIAL services staff “For these young people it’s not only an opportuni- Padiham - Rose sub-contractors. teamed up in “We had a lot of interest in both evenings,” said ty for personal development but also to be part of a Rossendale to raise Grove linear park in Out with David Snowdon, Catalyst’s general manager. sustainable community.” more than £200 for the Burnley area has “There was a good turnout from the schools and The first wave of the 10-year BSF programme Comic Relief. been included in a excellent participation from contractors who will be involves funding, building and maintaining seven Community Support shortlist of projects the old, involved in the new buildings. new secondary schools and a sixth form in east Team staff and clients “The BSF programme is all about community Lancashire. joined with service for a £50m bid to the users, local hospital Living Landmark in with development, aiming to improve academic stan- Work started last year on the first three and these dards through better schools and also the creation of will open in September 2008. The remainder will fol- staff and people from Lottery. Making Space and local employment. low in 2009 and 2010. The bid outcome will the new Bacup Road Resource be determined by a TV School leavers can apply for the first wave of apprenticeships. For more information Centre to take over a vote in the autumn. Rawtenstall social club THE classroom fur- contact Connexions in Burnley on 01282 478600 or in Nelson on 01282 613067. for a night. The Sustrans bid – niture used by gen- Sustrans is a sustain- able transport organisa- erations of east Support for tion - is the only project Lancashire children centre to benefit Lancashire. is to be shipped to Eco-battlers win The national list of Pakistan. MEMBERS of Burnley’s bids has to be reduced The old desks and Rosegrove Working in number – and you chairs, no longer need- war on waste Men’s Club are planning can help the Padiham ed here because of a a darts marathon, bid by registering your £250m new-school pro- snooker events and a support at: www.sus- gramme, will find a CHILDREN have claimed a victory in the raffle to raise cash for transconnect2.org new home with schools nearby Springbank Day People can also show in the Gujurat region of battle against waste in Lancashire. Centre. support by writing to: Pakistan where pupils Pupils at Quernmore Primary School near Staff at the centre National Cycle Centre are educated without Lancaster wrote to supermarkets to ask that they plan an annual ball for Network, 2 Cathedral basic equipment. issue fewer plastic carrier bags. their clients – and the Square, College Green, East Lancashire’s Their eco-campaign took a step forward when club members volun- teered to help raise the Bristol. programme of new and Booth’s supermarkets agreed to promote reusable bags and look more closely at the number of free £1,300 needed. Once the route to merged schools are The centre helps peo- Padiham is complete, coming about in the bags issued. Each carrier bag issued takes decades to decom- ple with learning disabili- subject to property Building Schools for the ties to lead a full life, negotiations it is hoped Future programme. pose, so any reduction is a boost to Lancashire’s countryside. which includes support to extend the path to The authorities in KARA Bateson, Booth’s customer service manager, with in getting people into Great Harwood via Pakistan are paying to Children have also been persuading their parents to use fewer plastic carrier bags. eco-committee members Ben Forber (11), Fergus Walsh work and also in social Martholme Viaduct. ship the furniture. (10), Elizabeth Simpson (10), Elizabeth Reade (11). activities. 6 May 2007 Providing • youth services • tourism www.lancashire.gov.uk Cinema Action not talk - county council leader

Lancashire County examination of Lancashire's Lancashire County Council Councillor Harding said: "In we should just get on with arts Council’s leader claims boundaries in 14 years. as among the best in the every debate, it has been the the job of improving their there is little public sup- "Now some MPs want to country.” politicians who have been quality of life. group port for a possible reor- reopen that debate. Councillor Harding was trying to change things. Four “Changing structures does ganisation of local gov- "I know how Lancastrians speaking after some MPs councils recently bid unsuc- not necessarily mean ernment in the county. value their heritage - but called for a reopening of the cessfully for unitary status. improving things. steals County Councillor Hazel equally want quality services debate on a possible local "In all of this, no one has "A great deal of money has Harding said: "The govern- and value for money. government reorganisation. seriously asked the people of been wasted on this over the ment has just closed the "The government's own Ministers recently rejected our county what they want. years - money that would the door on what was the fourth inspectors have judged change for Lancashire. "I believe they would say better be spent on services." show

A GROUP of young filmmakers from Lancaster has scooped a top The secret of long life national award. The Youth Arts Cinema is one of only 15 groups in the coun- Stay active and try to win a prize in the final of the National Youth happy - birthday Challenge Compet- ition, “Actions Speak Louder”. And their award has girl Ethel, 100 netted £40,000 of fund- ing to enable them to WHAT have Lawrence Olivier, John develop their filmmak- Wayne, Katherine Hepburn and Ethel ing activities. Robinson have in common? The winning project, They were all born 100 years ago. And unlike the Wells Lab, is a futuris- Hollywood movie stars, Ethel from Lytham is very tic film dealing with much alive and kicking. issues of humanity and Ethel, whose husband Albert died 20 years ago, the chemical industry. has been a resident at Stanner Lodge extra care All aspects of planning sheltered housing scheme in Lytham St Anne’s for 16 and production have years and was the first tenant to move into her own been undertaken by flat. the young people Born in April 1907 and originally from Halifax, involved. Ethel worked in a factory making rifle cases and mil- The group, based at itary equipment during the war. the Dukes Youth One of five, her mother died at 93 and her remain- Theatre on Moor Lane ing sister still lives in Lytham. She met her husband and run by Lancashire on holiday in Morecambe and then moved to County Council’s Lancashire. Youth and Community Family, friends and staff recently celebrated Service, found out Ethel’s landmark birthday at a special pink-themed about their win at a party. glamorous ceremony Asked what her secret to long life is, she said: at the BFI Imax cine- “They tell me it’s because of my healthy living – as ma on London’s South I’ve never drunk or smoked. I’ve always enjoyed Bank, attended by the being active.” 15 winning projects. A keen tennis player in her youth, Ethel said: “I Young People’s used to go dancing and loved playing tennis at Minister Beverley Sunday school. I still watch Wimbledon on TV every Hughes, who present- year. I can’t walk very far now but I used to be able ed the awards, said: to walk to town on my own.” “The standard of Managed by New Fylde Housing, Stanner Lodge entries has been was the first extra-care scheme developed in the HAPPY 100: Ethel is Lancashire’s first resident of the county council’s extra-care scheme. extremely high. Fylde in partnership with the county council. “It’s been really fan- The scheme enables residents to live independent- tastic to see how young Baden-Powell leads the first Award ly in their own self-contained flat with on-site flexi- Key 1907 facts scout camp on Brownsea Island people have risen to ble care available 24hrs a day. the Youth Challenge for child “The staff here are so kind to me”, said Ethel. Albert Einstein proposes theo- The first black cabs with taxi Competition — with “I get on well with them all. They help me to go creativity, passion and ry of relativity E=mc2 meters operate in London downstairs to meet with my friends and play domi- centre commitment that noes. You’ve got to have a laugh and enjoy life.” Henry Campbell Bannerman is The Caravan Club was formed would put many adults Mandy Robson, scheme manager, said: “Ethel is Prime Minister MOVERS and shak- to shame.” The National Union of Women’s very popular and well liked by the other residents Theodore Roosevelt is 26th Suffrage Societies organise first ers at Lune Park The success story and our staff. began when the Duke’s President of the United States of national demonstration Children’s Centre in “She knows everyone’s names and has a great Lancaster are cele- Den group at the youth sense of humour. America Florence Nightingale is award- theatre applied to the brating their “As the first resident in the scheme, Ethel’s birth- Australian Norman Brookes ed the Order of Merit Youth Opportunity achievements – and day is a particular momentous occasion as her birth- becomes first Wimbledon Men’s Fund for a small grant. Manchester United wins some of them are day symbolises how this scheme can really support singles champion Football League Division One Unlike the group’s older people as an alternative to residential care.” only two years old. talented young people, The centre’s Mini the theatre’s equip- Movers parent-and- ment was putting in a toddler group was poor performance. runner-up in the Youth worker Guy Daycare Trust’s Morris said: “We were Petrol checks target bike pests national annual limited because we Partners in Excellence didn’t have our own awards. that while more illegal and unsafe bikes seized mini-motorbikes including inade- editing equipment, FILLING stations could be fuelling County Councillor and the existing cam- illegal use of mini-motorbikes by sell- were being taken off the streets, he had quate fuel-caps which could leak fuel or Niki Penney visited era was old and had to ing petrol to under-16s according to received reports of filling stations selling vapour causing a fire or explosion risk. the Children’s Centre be shared between all Lancashire Trading Standards. fuel to minors. County Councillor Jean Battle, Cabinet in Ryelands Park to of the Youth Arts Councillors on the Lancashire Local Mr Potts added: “Petrol filling stations member for Community, Planning and meet the women Cinema’s groups.” require a licence to store petrol and a con- Partnerships, said: “Underage sales laws behind the successful Their £6,000 award Preston committee are backing a campaign urging garages to stick to the law after dition of that licence prohibits sales of protect young people and communities by venture which helps allowed them to buy mums, dads and tod- petrol to under-16s. To breach the condi- restricting access to goods which can lead the professional equip- they received a report from chief trading dlers learn to move ment needed to take standards officer Jim Potts. tion is an offence”. to anti-social behaviour. and have fun together film making up to the Trading Standards and police have been Now garage owners are being targeted “Filling stations now need to realise that at the city’s Ludus next level, including taking action over recent months to reduce with a new poster as part of Trading children may be illegally buying petrol to Dance centre. two mini DV cameras, the availability and use of mini-motos Standards’ Age Check campaign reminding run their mini-motorbikes which could She said: “I am two laptop computers which are not legal for use on roads and they could be prosecuted if caught selling result in prosecution for the licensee. delighted to be here for editing, and also today to see this fan- sound recording equip- pavements. petrol to under-16s. “I would urge anyone who knows of Trading Standards officers have identi- garages which sell fuel to under-16s to tastic partnership ment. But Mr Potts told the committee – which coming together.” makes local decisions on county matters - fied safety problems with a number of report them to Trading Standards.” www.lancashire.gov.uk Providing • information centres • hotlines May 2007 7

GRANTS for Growth changes lives – that’s not wishful thinking Now is but a fact and was shown at a recent event the time to celebrate those who Thanks a million have been helped by the project. to learn Wendy Dwyer, vice-chair- man of Lancashire County Dozens of firms have gained from over-£1m share-out LANCASHIRE Council, welcomed to County County Council will Hall more than 60 organisa- this event are evidence of the be hosting a series tions that have benefited from compassion and kindness that of events in May as Grants for Growth. abounds in Lancashire and part of Adult The money has been used that the Grants for Growth Learners’ Week to for schemes from drugs and scheme is helping to create.” alcohol counselling to training Grants for Growth is inspire people to unemployed people to become European Social Fund money pursue courses in accredited coaches. matched by and made avail- adult learning. Three organisations and able through LCDL, the coun- Adult Learners’ individuals told what they had ty council’s economic develop- Week, from 19-25 May, achieved with Grants for ment department. is a national campaign Growth help. which promotes educa- First up was Steve Duffy, a tion and training for prison warder from Liverpool’s CASH HELP adults, provides access Walton Prison. Steve has to information and started a project called Choose guidance, and aims to Life Lancashire which encour- AT HAND motivate more adults ages those who have suffered to participate in learn- from addictions to teach of the These three projects are ing opportunities. damage addictions can cause. just the tip of the iceberg Lancashire Adult From staging plays showing of the help that Grants Learning service and the dangers of substance for Growth has provided its adult colleges will abuse to educating and advis- since its start. The proj- be encouraging adults ing bodies such as schools and ect has awarded more across the county to the police, Choose Life than £1m in funding. try new courses and Lancashire has given those Almost 190 projects learn new skills. whose lives have been blighted have been funded all It will also provide a by addictions the chance to over the county, 36 of great opportunity for warn and help others of the which involve working people to learn about dangers. HUNDREDS of people have gained: civicleaders welcome guests - some from Berlin - and social entrepre- with young people. the many different Youth worker Steve Proctor neurs to the Grants for Growth celebration. Twenty four informal job courses that are avail- spoke next of his Action for clubs have been set-up, able in their area and Youth project. Based in By Mark McAdam Graham could not work, able to help so many.” 12 projects that help across the county. Clitheroe, the project was cre- became depressed and suf- County Councillor Hazel develop the skills of dis- A number of free ated following a meeting Steve fered from substance-abuse Harding, council leader, said: abled people, six home- taster sessions will be had with young people to ask ing studio and a games room. problems. After meeting Joan “It was a pleasure to address less projects and 14 offered in the week. what they wanted in their Finally, Joan Brindle from and receiving her help which and meet so many of the peo- women’s group. Whether you want area. the Moving on Project spoke. included taxi fares for him to ple who have received funding Grants of up to £6,000 to learn something They wanted a place where Joan talked about how her attend the project, Graham from the Grants for Growth are available to groups new, start a new hobby, they could go to be with their project helps those who have was able to get the help and project. This is a project that or individuals for proj- just out of interest, or friends. Steve and his group suffered difficulties in their counselling he needed. enables people to help others. ects that either create you want to gain new managed to obtain the lease to lives get back into full-time He has become a trained The scheme is a huge benefit employment or move skills or qualifications to improve your job a disused garage in Clitheroe employment. counsellor himself, and start- to Lancashire.” people nearer to employ- Joan then handed over to prospects, information and have used Grants for ed working again in January. And County Councillor Niki ment through training or Graham McGrath, one of about the range of Growth funding to gut the County councillor Wendy Penney, Lancashire County volunteering. those she has helped. Graham Dwyer said: “I am hugely courses is available. building and remodel it – with Developments Ltd (LCDL) Anyone wishing to spoke of how he suffered from grateful to have had the chair, added: “There is still tradesmen teaching building know more can contact For more information agoraphobia and post-trau- opportunity to welcome to funding available for those and maintenance skills. Lancashire County on Adult Learners matic stress following a County Hall so many people organisations and individuals The building, which is due Week and enrolment vicious attack. who, through the Grants for that need it. Developments Ltd on to open soon, will feature a for courses visit Because of the attack Growth Project, have been “Those who have attended 01772 551888. cafe, computer room, record- www.lancashire.gov. uk or contact: For Lancaster and Lessons of yesteryear Morecambe – AN exhibition of slavery – and its abolition – 01524 581 269 will be held in Preston this month. For east Lancashire – Extra benefits checks 0845 056 1886 The Lancashire County Council-backed display will be staged in the Harris library from 1 to 9 May For Preston and south and then in Plungington youth centre from 9 to 18 Lancashire – lead to £300,000 bonus May. 0845 600 1331 A PROJECT set up to help Bank Hall, Gannow, Trinity and reach group whereby take-up lev- pensioners across Burnley Daneshouse/Stoneyholme. els for benefits are low, with through the benefits maze In particular, people over 70 many missing out when it comes years of age were targeted. to making a claim for benefit for has been hailed a huge suc- In addition to providing bene- a variety of reasons.” cess following additional fits advice and assisting with In January 2007, Lancashire entitlement pay-outs of more claiming benefits, the project County Council celebrated 20 than £300,000 for local resi- endeavoured to help identify years anniversary of its Welfare dents. other needs that pensioners Rights Service. A splendid £250m The “Take Up Benefit Check” might have and referred them to of benefits has been raised for project was set up last year by the relevant support agencies. people. Lancashire County Council’s This included advice on health Benefits advice and help from Welfare Rights Service in efforts and social care support in efforts the Welfare Rights Service is free to target and provide tailored to improve the quality of life and and confidential to all Lancashire benefits checks and advice for health of residents. residents. pensioners across Burnley. County Councillor Jean Battle, For more information or to The main aim of the project cabinet member for Community request a benefit check contact was to identify over-65s in need. Planning and Partnerships, said: Lancashire Welfare Rights Areas included Brunshaw, South “It is a well-known fact that pen- Service on 01282 470570 or visit West Burnley, Burnley Wood, sioners are the biggest hard-to- www.lancashire.gov.uk University opens doors to elderly

NOW is the time for older Courses starting next month (starts 18 June). adults to sign up to a new for older learners – retired or Students need not be retired. range of Lancaster not – are Older People in the For more details about the University courses. Political Process (starts 18 Senior Learners’ Programme, or Four courses start in June – June); Brush Up Your French to register, contact the universi- and each includes a range of (starts 4 June); short course ty’s Department of Continuing opportunities to talk to tutors Alexander Technique (starts 18 Education on 01524 592623/4 about study plans and also the June); Introduction to or visit: possibility of swapping research Information Technology and www.lancs.ac.uk/depts/ ideas with other students. Computer Animation conted/openstudies 8 May 2007 Providing • food safety • welfare advice www.lancashire.gov.uk

Summer listings

Saturday 5 May 01200 429832, 100 years of 10.30am to 12.30pm. Fun www.dalesrail.com workshop exploring who we are and how we want others Monday 28 May to see us. Uses museum’s Noon-5pm. A Victorian Bank portrait collection as inspira- Holiday. Try aspects of tion; create your own self-por- Victorian life, including wash- trait. Suitable for all the family. day and Victorian games. women in politics Lancaster City Museum Test your nerves in a class 01524 64637. taught by a Victorian-era teacher. Dressing up fun for 11am to 11.30am; 1.30pm to children and handle Victorian Watch out for our informative exhibition at your local library 2pm; 3pm to 3.30pm. objects. Queen Street Mill Wartime Tales of the King’s Textile Museum, Burnley. Tel Own told by World War Two 01282 412555. reenactor. Suitable all the Get Knotted! A fun session ANCASHIRE’S fasci- The exhibition also features election addresses from family. Lancaster City (Below) teaching how to tie knots. Museum 01524 64637. nating role in the Memorabilia Chorley, Nelson and elsewhere. Suitable for all the family. Lancashire County Council’s slow start with regard to struggle for women’s from the fights Sunday 6 May Lancaster Maritime Museum emancipation is to for women’s women elected to its ranks has changed over the years Choose one of five guided 01524 382264. L so that, in the 1990s, the leaders of all three major par- walks north Lancashire and be shown across the rignts. ties on the county council were women. Yorkshire area, from very Tuesday 29 May county. strenuous to easy. Organised 10.30am to 12.30pm; omen from across local government in Lancashire were Worse Socialist Ramsay MacDonald, by DalesRail trains. Details 1.30pm to 3.30pm. invited to County Hall last month for a celebration of Things Happen at Sea. writer Bertrand Russell, 01200 429832, women’s role in democracy and to preview the exhibi- Workshop looking at local sea Conservative Katherine Orme – www.dalesrail.com

Lancashire tion which is shortly to tour the county. heroes. Poems and pictures. figures from across the political Monday 7 May Suitable for all the family. spectrum have raised the profile 2pm-4pm. Wizard woodpeck- Lancaster Maritime Museum of women on Lancashire’s public ers – learn about the birds 01524 382264. stage over the decades. that live near Turton Tower. Also, craft activities. Suitable Wednesday 30 May in But it is 100 years since Fishy Goings On in the after- for all the family. Turton women got the vote and women noon. Find mermaids/sea Tower. Tel 01204 852203. still account for far less than half creatures hiding in the furni- the elected representatives in Saturday 12 May ture. Also, craft activities. the county. Noon-5pm. Free admission Suitable for all the family. as part of National Mills’ Turton Tower. Tel 01204 The new exhibition, with 852203. many exhibits from Weekend. Suitable for all the family. Queen Street Mill Lancashire’s Record Office, will Textile Museum, Burnley. Tel 10.30am to 12.30pm; African tour a variety of Lancashire 01282 412555. 1.30pm to 3.30pm. libraries from June until the art and printing. Suitable for all the family. Judges’ end of the year. Sunday 13 May Noon – 5pm. Free admission Lodgings, Lancaster. Tel Exhibits include: 01524 32808. Life as part of National Mills’ • Letters from suffragette Weekend. Suitable for all the Kids’ activity tour. Ages Emmeline Pankhurst to family. Queen Street Mill 2pm. 5-12, accompanied by adult. Textile Museum, Burnley. Tel So much Nelson campaigner Selina Lancaster castle 01524 01282 412555. Cooper. 64998. to see • Photographs of Lancashire Sunday 20 May suffragette meetings. Choose one of five guided Thursday 31 May • Election addresses from walks north Lancashire and 10.30am to 12.30pm; Viva Yorkshire area, from very 1.30pm to 3.30pm. the very earliest women elec- Mexico! Use exhibition as strenuous to easy. Organised tion candidates. The con- inspiration and create your by DalesRail trains. Details cerns they express give a own piece of work to take 01200 429832, home. Lancaster City unique insight to the issues www.dalesrail.com of the day. Museum 01524 64637. • A note from Ramsay Saturday 26 May MacDonald urging 12.30pm to 3.30pm. Bug You can find lots of infor- Hunt. A hunt for life around Lancashire women to the outside of the museum. mation about events on: seek influence in the Draw the creepy-crawlies www.lancsmuseums. trade union movement. found. Suitable for all the fam- gov.uk and at ot all women won ily. Museum of Lancashire, the vote in 1907, Preston. Tel 01772 534075. www.lancashire.gov.uk/ however, and it environment/ Sunday 27 May countryside was not until after Noon-5pm. A Victorian Bank the 1914-18 First Holiday. Try aspects of N Useful phone numbers World War that all Victorian life, including wash- women were given the day and Victorian games. Bowland Visitor Centre, power of the ballot. Test your nerves in a class Beacon Fell Country Park taught by a Victorian-era 01995 640557 Despite Lancashire’s teacher. Dressing up fun for role in fighting for votes for Wycoller Country Park children and handle Victorian 01282 870253 women it was not until objects. Queen Street Mill 1922 that Lancashire Textile Museum, Burnley. Tel Spring Wood Picnic Site County Council gained its 01282 412555. 01254 825187 Lancashire Countryside first woman elected member Choose one of three guided – Katherine Orme who won Service main office walks north Lancashire and 01772 534709 Clitheroe for the Yorkshire area, from very Museums’ main office Conservatives. strenuous to easy. Organised by DalesRail trains. Details 01772 534061

Shop around to cut your power bill

stories about people being swapped There are now literally hundreds of Writes to different suppliers without their different charges for gas and elec- consent were common and an under- tricity available and, while it may trading standable mistrust about the whole seem complex at first, there are process arose. This is no longer a organisations available to help. major problem and many people The best advice must be to shop standard could be paying considerably more around and check the price you pay than is necessary. Lancashire con- on a regular basis. A deal which is officer sumers could make considerable very competitive one quarter may saving by checking out whether they not be so the next. While everyone’s are on the best tariff and supplier for usage will be different the range of Julian gas and electricity. savings can be considerable, for the If you were buying a product cost- medium usage (3500Kw of electrici- Edwards ing over £500 most consumers will ty and 21000Kw of gas per year) gas shop around to find the best price. costs can range from £475 to £709. WHEN the gas and electricity mar- Most households will spend more Electricity cost can range from £279 ket were opened up to competition than this on gas and electricity in a to £461. there was a general concern that year and exactly the same approach You can check the best deals by some customers were confused and should be used. contacting Energywatch, the inde- misled into changing suppliers. But Understandably, some consumers pendent gas and electricity watch- the new set-up actually provides have been historically happy with dog, on 0845 906 0708 or www.ener- opportunities for consumers to save their supplier and have been reluc- gywatch.org.uk who will direct you money. tant to change. However, this can to one of the accredited price com- Aggressive doorstep selling and sometimes result in significant cost. parison services. www.lancashire.gov.uk Providing • youth services • tourism May 2007 9 So much Life in Lancashire to do Lots to do this Lancashire textiles – spring!

WHATEVER the weather, there's plenty to see and do at your local it died with museum and gallery across the county this spring. From line-dancing – Tudor-style to bug hunts, Victorian games, a whimper African art to cloth caps and clogs during National Mills weekend, Lancashire EMORIES and records of County Council's the textile era that shaped Museums Service has life in east Lancashire are a fun packed itinerary to be recorded in a major of events for the family. M A host of activities two-year project. and events during May Museum staff and former cotton work- has been organised as ers are teaming up to piece together a part of this year's post-1945 history of the industry – an national Museums and industry that shaped social lives, family Galleries month which life, the appearance of towns and even the takes place from 1 to fortunes of the nation. 31 May. The industry changed massively after Many of the events the Second World War, including some are detailed on page 8. short-lived booms, the arrival of tens of A number of the thousands of migrant workers and its county's museums eventual demise. No more than a dozen have recently reopened weaving and spinning firms still exist in following a spring Photo loaned by George Howarth the area. clean. David Chadwick, museum service head These include the of learning and access, said: “The project Days gone by: Fleetwood Museum, will generate a huge amount of first-hand our pictures Queen Street Mill information – and it will be recorded for show textile life Gone but not forgotten. Textile Museum in future generations of children and adults. from not too long Burnley, Cottage “If we don’t record this information now, ago. Museum in Lancaster these memories will be gone forever. Much Tell us your memories. and Gawthorpe Hall in history is carried in people’s heads and Padiham. this is a way of unlocking it. THE “hidden history” of textiles “I liked the smell of the factory – it brought “Recording these experiences gives older could, it is hoped, bring together back so many memories of my working life.” people a sense of worth and helps younger east Lancashire’s varied communi- people understand where they have come We’d like to talk to anyone with ties through shared experience. memories of the textile industry in east from.” The industry’s 40-year decline means it is ther industries, such as coal and Lancashire. Tell us your life and now beyond living memory for the third and experiences - and you will be help- steel, have suffered similar fourth generations of the indigenous popula- declines. Their high profiles, how- ing future generations. Ring tion and also for the second and third genera- Rebecca on 01706 226459. ever, have meant their fates have tions of economic migrants. O been better documented than that Our project will One Bangladeshi man said: of textiles. record everyday “It was hard to talk at first – but then it Libraries in east Lancashire have memories of a started to bring back a lot of memories. already staged exhibitions linked to the once great “We went to the museum at Helmshore and “hidden history” project. Visitors have industry. I felt like a young man again. been asked to share their stories through “hard copy” formats such as photographs and written accounts, while other reminis- cences have been recorded on tape. The textile workforce also changed with the arrival of Poles and Italians after the war. Subsequent arrivals included Pakistanis and Bangladeshis. “Lancashire’s textile trade has always been a magnet for new arrivals,” David said. “Many Lancastrians can only trace their county roots back three or four genera- tions because their own forefathers came from elsewhere in Britain – Lancashire used to be, in terms of prosperity, what the south-east is today. “We truly have a shared heritage. “We want to take older people into schools and museums to tell young people of their experiences. “It is a story that needs to be saved as the industry shaped so many things, from the look of towns to the holidays that peo- ple took. “There used to be a mill on almost every street and some were a third the size of the Titanic. “We’re already calling this a hidden his- tory as changes in textiles were drawn out over such a long period.” The finished project, it is hoped, can be adapted for school use through things such as dance, drama, music, exhibitions and photography. David added: “Such creative work should not be restricted to schools. People within the voluntary and community sec- tors should also be involved to help devel- What are your recollections of textiles? op a sense of time and place for the descendants of migrant workers.” Write to: the editor, Vision, County Hall, Preston, PR1 8XJ or email [email protected] 10 LOOKMay 2007 Providing • youth LIVELY services • tourism www.lancashire.gov.uk

Voice of Enthusiasm - the pupil’s friend I CAME into teaching my pupils’ faces. They and used wisely and at a time of great were keen to find out what appropriately they are a change – the National happened next. great stimulus. So I read to the end of But . . . Curriculum was in the the book! I waited for the There is no substitute process of being imple- Literacy Police to come for an enthusiastic and mented. and get me but they didn’t knowledgeable teacher. I Then came literacy and come. can talk about science for numeracy hours. All these This taught me a valu- hours on end. I take any changes brought about able lesson that can be chance to instigate a sci- many benefits to the stan- applied to any area of ence experiment. dard of education taught teaching if you are keen The same is true of in most schools. and interested this will other teachers with other Hamer Brenda As a newly qualified influence the children and subjects. teacher I took all the they too will be enthusias- With the advent of the changes on board and for a -customer service officer tic. Creative Curriculum ini- time the content of the les- Anyone working in edu- tiative there is more scope son was sometimes lost in cation knows that today’s for teachers to teach a sub- LIFE is getting easier for members of the the prescribed structure children are usually highly ject they enjoy and public wanting help from Lancashire which we were supposed to ICT literate. PS2’s, Xboxes enthuse about. County Council. Michele Grimshaw follow. and MP3 players all rattle Engaging and motivat- Some public bodies are infamous for pass- One day I was using an off their tongues as easily ing children in the class ing people from pillar to post with the sim- extract from a particularly a Sooty and Sweep did off room is challenging but plest inquiry. exciting book and had mine at that age. teachers who ooze a pas- Brenda is one of a new breed of county Science teacher of the reached the point where There is a wide variety sion for their subject have council staff whose job has only one pur- year, Marsden Community we moved onto a different of ICT resources available already won a major part pose - either getting answers for members of activity when I looked at for use in the classroom of the battle. the public or routing them through to some- Primary School, Nelson one else who will help.

What does your job involve?

My job is to answer calls from the public about a vari- Residents refuse ety of Lancashire County Council services, including registration services, schools transport and vacancy to duck the issue inquiries. I also respond to e-mails about Lancashire highways THIS duck has clearly got “tyred” of the issues and, as a more experienced member of the team, state of his local watering hole. I am involved in coaching and mentoring other staff. But, there is good news for our feathered friend When I am not answering the telephone I also get to as residents from Fern Gore in Accrington have work on specific projects within the Customer Service teamed up with the county council’s Centre, all aimed at improving the accessibility and Environmental Projects Team to work on plans to quality of our service. transform three disused lodges in the area. The site was recently acquired by the Fern Gore What do you like most about your job? Residents’ Association with the aim of developing it as a community facility. Without sounding too “cheesy” the best part of my job It will be suitable for use by all residents, is being able to help someone who is worried, upset including those with disabilities, for recreation and in need of assistance. In some cases this can be and will also provide educational opportunities for life changing. schools and local community groups. Plans for the project have been drawn up What is a typical week? through the county council’s Community Design scheme and funding is now being sought. The day starts with reporting any Lancashire high- ways issues that have been received via e-mail and forwarding the information to the highways inspector. (Right) DUCK, tyre and parking clamp at Fern Gore. This service deals with street lighting repairs (more than 153,000 street lights), highways repairs (more than 3,528 miles of roads), and many other highways- £445,000 related issue. I then start answering the telephone which is where A mouse for Megan the diverse nature of the work is most apparent. new look The calls can include Lancashire highways repairs, solution designed just for her. gy like her peers. Megan can school transport; NoWcard-concessionary bus travel; TECHNOLOGY wizards in Lancashire have been put- “It sounds simple, but I know make herself understood verbal- for centre Blue Badge application/renewal arrangements; anti- that a huge amount of work went ly, though it helps if people social behaviour on buses; job applications etc. ting their heads together to enable a disabled little into this as it had never been know her well and are familiar A COMMUNITY done before. And as Megan’s con- with her speech. day centre for How did you become a customer service officer? girl do what most girls her dition deteriorates, the team will And so weeks of hard work age want to do – gossip keep adjusting the system so it began, led by Barry Breslin, sen- adults with mental I’ve always worked within the customer services with her friends on the continues to meet her needs for ior ICT technician at LEIS, and health problems in arena. Prior to Lancashire this included BT and as long as possible.” including input from Megan’s Burnley has Littlewoods Home Shopping. internet. But the team working with Megan, who has a form of parents, physiotherapists and reopened after a My previous job was more of an administrative role 12-year-old Megan Owen were spinal muscular dystrophy and occupational therapists, the and I really missed the contact with the public. £445,000 makeover up against a challenge, as lives at Hoghton with her par- SEN team, wheelchair engineers to improve facilities. Megan cannot use a computer ents and older sister, cannot and a number of software and What is the most memorable call you have ever The Fernandes mouse or keyboard because of stand or sit without support and hardware companies from all taken? Centre at North her condition. has only a small amount of use over the UK and – in one Street in Burnley is Now staff at Lancashire’s of her right hand. instance – Canada. One lady called and told me that the door had come off owned and run by Education Inclusion Service When attending school, she Barry said: “One of the things a street light column and the wires were exposed in Lancashire County (LEIS) are celebrating a techni- has to rely on teaching assis- we learned was that for pupils Warton, near Carnforth. Council. cal first, having “convinced” the tants to help her use technology like Megan to be included, agen- I reassured her and said that I would ask the engi- The centre provides joystick on Megan’s electric to take part in lessons. cies have to co-operate together. neers to look into this as a matter of urgency. a range of community wheelchair that it is in fact a This often made use of scan- That may sound obvious but it The engineer attended within the hour and sorted services for around computer mouse – and linking it ning – a laborious method of can be difficult, lengthy and the problem out. sixty adults (aged 18- up to a laptop so Megan can surf selecting different options on the expensive to put into practice. 64) with long term the web. screen using a switch. Because “But it has all been worth- What qualities and strengths do you need to do and enduring mental “I am incredibly proud of she was not able to use a mouse, while. Megan can now email her your job? health problems everyone who has worked it also meant that she could not friends independently, which is across Burnley and together on this,” said Maureen use any computer programmes very important at her age, use I think it’s important that you’re positive, patient and Padiham, including Davenport, head of LEIS. independently. the internet and write without friendly but also professional and assertive without those with mixed “It is a great example of peo- Megan’s parents were keen for adult support. Our next goal is ever being aggressive. anxiety and distress, ple from different disciplines staff to try to find ways for her for her to be able to use an The ability to have a “happy voice” when you might depression and looking at a child’s individual to continue to communicate X-Box games console through be having a bad day can be very useful indeed! phobias. needs and coming up with a independently and via technolo- her joystick.” www.lancashire.gov.uk Providing • youth services • tourism May 2007 11 Ready to help you Get a face-to-face response to your council inquiries GET your county council County Councillor Doreen Pollitt, queries answered in person. county council deputy leader, said: Do you find it difficult to contact us “This is a very exciting development by telephone? Do you have difficulty for improving access to services for the accessing the internet? people of Lancashire. Would you prefer to have the option “We know that for many customers of being able to pop into your local using the telephone or internet is not school, library, district council office, an option, so the face-to-face provision etc. knowing that a trained and friend- that will be provided across the county ly officer will be there to help? should make accessing council services Well soon you’ll be able to do just much easier for those customers.” that. Looking for a job? The face-to-face aspect of Lancashire Getting a job working for Lancashire County Council’s Customer Access County Council has now been made Strategy is now being planned. that much easier. This means that you will soon be The vast majority of applications are able to go into designated local facili- now available for completion and sub- ties and get help using the internet or mission via an online facility, thereby telephone to access county council reducing the time and cost it can often services and also talk face-to-face to a take to print, post, complete and trained customer service officer, who return forms. will help you to get the answer to your Details of Lancashire County query. Council job vacancies can be accessed The county council recognises that at: www.lancashire.gov.uk/ not everyone wants, or is able, to use vacancies the telephone or internet. A further improvement to the job This face-to-face service aims to vacancies system is that all associated assist those people who prefer to sit telephone calls, including advice about down and talk in person to someone. the online process or any general Research and analysis is currently inquiries, will now be dealt with by the taking place to ensure that the most Customer Contact Centre at the Red appropriate venues are chosen to Rose Hub. ensure we meet the needs of those peo- If you need help or advice on an ple and communities for whom face to online application for a county council face service is crucial. job, contact 0845 053 0008. New county High Sheriff LANCASHIRE’S new High Sheriff was officially sworn in recently. Mrs Ruth Roderick Winterbottom from Caton, near Lancaster, continues an office stretching back to the middle of the 10th cen- tury. The High Sheriff is appointed by Her Majesty The Queen in Her right as Duke of Lancaster. Mrs Winterbottom said: “I am privileged yet humbled to hold this prestigious position.”

WELCOME:Mrs Winterbottom is congratulated on her appointment by county council Chairman Terry Burns. Go out and about with DalesRail A NEW free leaflet along the route at many from 29 July until 9 has been launched to of the villages and September 2007. help you get more out towns, where you can DalesRail is a joint explore local history, or venture between Lanc- of the Dales by rail simply enjoy a leisurely ashire County Council, this summer. day out browsing in local Northern Rail and the The full-colour Dales- shops or enjoying a Rail Ramblers. Rail 2007 guide is now relaxing pub lunch. For more information available. For the more active, about DalesRail contact The special train serv- guided walks take in the 01200 429832. ice takes in some of breathtaking country- Timetables are also Lancashire and York- side and hills. available from your local shire’s finest countryside Fares start at £15.50 County Information and stops at some of the for adults, £7.75 for chil- Centre, Tourist Inform- most picturesque towns dren, with discounts ation Centre or railway and villages in the available for groups. station. Dales. The service runs on Further details are There are plenty of Sunday 6 May, 20 May also available online at attractions on offer until 1 July and then www.dalesrail.com 12 May 2007 Providing • food safety • welfare advice www.lancashire.gov.uk Project Watchdog praise for rescue plan plants LANCASHIRE County Council’s factory work contracts were ended after Lancashire County Council, of Poles is helping them understand efforts on behalf of ill-treated prematurely. Hyndburn Council, police, Jobcentre their legal rights. workers have been singled out by Lack of knowledge about employ- Plus, the Catholic church and others Workers are also helped to save for mental ment law, housing law and benefits teamed up to help. the future by a credit union. Audit Commission public spend- entitlements left them penniless. Many still owed money to the ing watchdogs. Some took to sleeping on the streets. agency that brought them to England. The lessons learned in Accrington About 200 Polish workers were left The episode, in the Accrington area, More than 20 per cent of the work- are being spread across the county health without work and with the threat of has been singled out as an example of ers were helped into new jobs within and – thanks to the Audit Commission being made homeless last year when good work by the Audit Commission five months and a new self-help group – across the nation. roots World of work beckons for newcomers POLISH workers are being helped to a brighter future by the county council’s HIVE worker Wayne adult learning tutors. Hallam felling trees. The tutors are setting up English classes in the A NEW woodland proj- Hyndburn area to help workers take their place ect taking root in in English society. Burnley is bringing They meet socially at St Joseph’s RC Church in peace, better prospects Accrington and more than 60 of them now attend and an improvement a series of classes that will continue at least until in the mental health of summer. local people. Andrea Cowton, one of the course organisers, A team from the said: “These are often skilled and qualified people Hive, an occupational who need the English language as a passport to therapy service at taking a full part in English life. Burnley General Hos- “Without English they can be unaware of the pital, has been plant- legal rights that everyone else takes for granted ing trees at Crow Wood as workers and as citizens. Leisure Centre and “Some are parents and need the language for improving a wooded their children’s sakes.” area at Coke Oven by Contact 01254 222730 for course details. GET ahead: tutor Pam Barton teaches English to Joanna Brodzik and Greg Sidek. felling small trees. The events were organised by the Lancashire Woodlands No charge Project to improve the local environment and for badges help the Hive workers ALL application develop new skills and and renewal fees for Safe buses for all, work towards inde- pendent living. Blue Badge parking Andrew Statham, a permits have been Hive worker, said: “It’s abolished from nice to give something February. back to nature. Fees for online appli- “Being in nature cations were abolished makes me feel calm some time ago. thanks to Frank and relaxed. It would Improvements to be nice to visit Crow Lancashire County THERE’S a new block- series of innovations pioneered Emmerdale, Heartbeat and majority of Lancashire bus Wood again in 30 Council’s customer buster on the way fea- in Lancashire by the county Phoenix Nights. operators will show the DVD as years to see how our access strategy now turing a new breed of council’s Safer Travel Unit to “Its also been written by the part of formal training for their woodland has grown.” mean that written and hero… who drives a bus. make travelling on public trans- Safer Travel Unit to cover local employees. However, each of The planting includ- telephone applications port a better experience for all. ed native trees such “Frank Foster – Superstar” is problems. the county’s 5,000 bus drivers are also now free. Rick Wilson, Safer Travel as oak, ash and alder the name of a new training “There is so much technology will receive a personal copy, via The badges allow peo- Unit Manager, said: “This is the and a hawthorn DVD which is being filmed spe- available to bus companies their employer, of the DVD to ple who are registered first time anything like this has hedgerow. cially for bus drivers. these days to make journeys watch at their leisure. blind or have mobility been done by the unit. The DVD safer and more pleasant. The project also has the sup- The conservation problems to park near Ordinary bus driver, Frank, work involved felling teams up with school pupil Alex is very useful as it tackles all “Many vehicles are now kit- port of bus operators, the police shops, stations and some small trees. to discuss how problems such as the important issues that bus ted out with CCTV, which is a and trade union representa- other facilities. The increased light litter or rowdy behaviour on the drivers face each day. great help, and this DVD will tives. Approximately levels on the ground bus should be tackled. “Training videos can often be give drivers’ added confidence The DVD was shot entirely 24,500 Blue Badge will encourage a range Everyday procedures such as unrealistic. But Frank Foster is and knowledge. on location in Lancashire by applications and of wild flowers to grow checking the vehicle is safe to actually played by Tim Paley, “Most importantly it will Pleased Sheep Productions; renewals are made and encourage birds use before setting off are also in someone who has 20 years underline our key messages to with casting support from Our each year. and butterflies to use the storyline. experience of driving buses as support them in their work.” Lady Queen of Peace High People can apply by the woodlands. The film is the latest in a well as having parts in It is envisaged that the School, Skelmersdale. contacting the county Paul Bullimore, of council’s customer the Lancashire service centre on 0845 Woodlands Project, 0530049, by visiting New law will said: “The team have www.lancashire.gov DNA detectives on been great to work .uk or by picking up an with and a big help in information pack at a affect vulnerable creating and manag- local social services ing woodlands which office. food safety trail EVERY day we make decisions about our the public can enjoy. A TEAM of Lancashire County The £9,000 grant has paid for a new “They have learned lives. practical woodland Learn from People may have difficulties making some deci- Council scientists will use DNA instrument, called a bioanalyser, skills and had a really the past sions due to dementia, a learning disability, a men- tests to check whether food is which can single out individual DNA tal health problem or medical condition. strands and help to identify the origin enjoyable time into contaminated after winning a of thousands of products. the bargain. CHORLEY Central The Mental Capacity Act 2005 came into force cash award from the Food Library welcomed last month and sets out the legal rights for support- County Councillor Jean Battle, “I am currently look- ing and protecting vulnerable people who do not Standards Agency. Cabinet member for Community ing at ways to develop youngsters and Lancashire County Laboratory is have the mental capacity or ability to make their Planning and Partnerships, said: their skills further their families this developing techniques to test whether own decisions. “Genetics is the science of the 21st through more formal genetically modified ingredients or April to a Showcase This includes financial matters, social care, med- century and this equipment will training leading to potentially harmful products are being of Second World ical treatment, and everyday decisions about per- allow the laboratory to keep up to nationally recognised served up by restaurants and take- War memorabilia sonal care. date with food fraud and the contam- qualifications.” aways or sold by other retailers. last month. The law makes clear who can take decisions, in ination problems associated with The work was car- As the best equipped council labo- The special collec- which situations, and how they should go about genetic modification of food crops. ried out in partner- ratory in the North West, scientists tion of Chorley during this. It also enables people to plan ahead for a time “People’s concern over genetically ship with the Forest of at the facility provide a service to the war years included when they may lose mental capacity. modified ingredients means food Burnley and Trading Standards and old photographs, news- For more information visit must be correctly labelled and we Lancashire County Environmental Health services paper articles and air www.lancashire.gov.uk or contact your local will soon be able to test whether Council Countryside across the region. raid precaution lamps. social services office. manufacturers are complying.” Service.

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