A 4-star council Awarded top marks by the Audit Commission October 2007 ON THE HILLS VALUE FOR MONEY LIBRARY OF HORRORS Lancashire’s beautiful £48m of savings will Archive reveals real-life hills are open to all benefit tax-payers grisly endings Page 9 Page 3 Page 8 Photo: Chris Mason
•Lancashire’s “junior jusdges” will soon be in action. A NEW way to steer City Council, health, and the innovative project that young people away police all involved. enables young people and from trouble before RJ panels are based on a con- the community to become they get into more seri- cept widely used in the USA, directly involved in tackling days to where victims and offenders anti-social behaviour and low- ous offending is being are brought together in a semi- level offending before it piloted in Lancashire. formal setting with the aim becomes serious." Preston has been chosen as that the offender will accept The pilot project will involve the venue for Europe's first responsibility and make young people being trained in justice restorative justice (RJ) peer amends. It also engages com- running panels and drawing panels, which encourage munity representatives and up Acceptable Behaviour young people to face up to the offenders' families. Contracts (ABCs). Peer courts will consequences of their actions The RJ panels are taking The first young people to be and make amends. place in two venues to begin trained for the panel will be What makes with - on the Brookfield estate drawn from Preston high speed offenders’ the process a in the east of the city and a schools but future panelists more powerful bigger office in Winckley will be youngsters who have day of reckoning tool is that it is Square, city centre. been through the system them- run by young peo- There are plans for a third selves. ple themselves, centre in Lancaster next year. Young people will be seen with back-up from The initiative was launched quickly by an RJ panel - ideally police and professionals. at a conference at police HQ in within five days - as opposed to Lancashire County Hutton last month, where top- the months it can take to get to Council's Youth Offending level justice representatives court. The panel will have a Team (YOT) has used from the US joined UK local range of outcomes at its dispos- restorative theory for some and national delegates, and al such as writing letters, time now and has employed young people themselves, in attending the “peer education victim liaison officers in its explaining and promoting the programme”, carrying out area teams, which helped make process. remedial or repair work, com- Preston the first choice for the Simon Evans, Lancashire munity work, behaviour new scheme. area manager for Nacro, contracts and input from part- It is a multi-agency who has first-hand experience ner agencies in areas such as approach, being led by of seeing peer panels work in alcohol and drug education and Nacro, with YOT, Preston the US, said: "This is an parenting programmes. 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 October 2007 Providing • nurseries • pedestrian crossings www.lancashire.gov.uk 1,000-plus Ask Shirley pledge Don’t know who to contact when you need help? Are you baffled by bureaucracy? Ring Shirley on 0845 0530000 or email Shirley on [email protected] loyalty to Shirley can’t help with purely personal problems, such as romance! Britain IF you are having problems getting hold of someone to PEOPLE applying for British citi- help, Lancashire County zenship in Lancashire are increas- Council has staff trained and ing with latest figures showing willing to assist. that the county council’s Sometimes you just can’t think Registration Service has conduct- who to ask - and this is where ed 1,078 citizenship ceremonies Vision’s Shirley comes in. (including 203 minors) between Shirley answers all the letters April 2006 to end of July 2007. she receives and some will feature The Nationality, Immigration and on this page. Others may take a Asylum Act (2002) requires all successful while as Shirley will seek respons- applicants for naturisation or registration es from other council teams. as a British citizen, who are aged 18 or over, Shirley is not able to offer legal must swear or affirm the oath of allegiance advice. to the Queen followed by the new pledge to uphold democratic values at a citizenship ceremony. These provisions came into force Take a look at me NoW on 1 January 2004 with the first ceremony taking place in April 2004 in Lancashire. Mr P from Chorley writes: The citizenship ceremony is intended to have heard a number of rumours FREE bus travel is to be better than ever from April - with the NoWcard (see Take a Look at me NoW, left). celebrate the significance of becoming a recently that there is going to be free nice to look at apart from all the rub- need to apply by. British citizen and welcome the new citizen I travel for over-60s and disabled peo- bish, and unwanted items that people I have visited a few schools in the area into his or her community. It must take ple from next year, as mentioned in the dump here. but as we have not lived here long I place within three months of the applicant 2006 Budget. Someone has even left a mattress don’t know which schools have a good being informed that the application has Is this correct and, if so, do you have before today. Is it Lancashire County reputation. been successful. any more details? Council that would clear this? I also If you have any questions regarding an think it needs fencing off to make o make the process of applying for a application to become a British citizen – rom April 2008 there will be free local access more difficult. place as easy as possible, parents are telephone the Home Office on 0845 010 bus travel for those eligible from 9.30am T required to either apply online or com- 5200 or visit www.homeoffice.gov.uk. If you F until 11pm Monday to Friday, and all ly-tipping is a local district council func- plete a paper application form. Completed have any questions regarding attending a day Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays, tion. The council has responsibility for paper applications should be returned to ceremony in Lancashire – telephone across England. Local authorities may F acting on reports of fly-tipping to both your first-preference primary school. Lancashire County Council’s Citizenship choose to offer additional local concessions. remove the waste and to locate and prose- All applications must be submitted by Ceremonies’ Office on 01772 326890 or NoWcard is making the necessary cute offenders. Friday November 2007. Offers of primary email: [email protected] arrangements to issue National Concession 9 Where the waste is hazardous the council school places will be issued to arrive in travel passes to existing NoWcard holders. has a responsibility to ensure public safety March 2008. However, if you currently have a NoWcard until such time as the waste can be removed. You can find more information on school and have changed address since the card was Weighbridge Please contact South Ribble Council on admissions on www.lancashire.gov.uk or issued you should contact the NoWcard 01772 625625. contact your local Area Pupil Access Team helpline on 0845 0581096 to ensure that through the Customer Service Centre on takes to the road your National Concession travel pass will be 0845 0530000. sent to the right address. New applicants Be a volunteer friend should apply to their district council. Mrs C from Fleetwood writes: Stay warm in winter have recently retired but am still in Childminder career help very good health. I now have more Mr P from Rossendale writes: I time and was wondering if you have have heard you talk before about Mrs K from Ormskirk writes: details of groups that need voluntary help for the elderly during winter. have two young children and as I am staff as it would get me out of the house I My central heating system is very old at home all day I am quite interested and also make good use of my time. and not very reliable and is always I in becoming a childminder. breaking down, these repairs can be Do all childminders have to register he Volunteers’ Service recruits and trains very expensive. or does it depend how many children volunteers to support people who access As a pensioner do you think I may be you take in? Please could you give me T social care services. eligible for some help towards the costs some more details. Volunteers can provide “befriending” sup- of a new heating system as I am very port and assist service users and carers with worried with winter fast approaching. ny person rewarded for looking after day-to-day living activities. Volunteers can children under eight for more than two A NEW piece of equipment will be help- provide vital support to vulnerable people nformation and advice is available for A hours a day must register with OFSTED ing Trading Standards officers to get to and reduce feelings of loneliness. older people and their carers about keep- inspectors. Those working in their own grips with a particularly weighty issue This can be as simple as a coffee and chat I ing warm in winter, and financial assis- homes must register as childminders. with an older person, to more intensive sup- tance may be available from your district in Lancashire. You can get a booklet explaining the whole The county council’s consumer champi- port, for example taking an adult with a council to contribute towards the cost of process from our Childcare Information ons are responsible for checking that learning disability to the cinema or shops. winter supplies. This information varies by Service on 0800 195 0137 or you can find weighbridges are accurate and up to Volunteers do not provide personal care. area so contact Rossendale Council on details online at scratch. And, to help ensure that all is in For more information, visit our email vol- 01706 217777 or the Winter Fuel Helpline www.childcarecareers.gov.uk order, a new test trailer will be taking to [email protected] or on 0845 9151515. A series of countywide day care briefing the highways. contact Volunteer Services on 01257 248118. meetings are being held at the moment. Roy Acomb, senior Trading Standards Make your school choice Email: [email protected] or technical assistant, said: “Weighbridges Fly-tipping help write to: Ask Shirley, Customer Service are there to check the weight of vehicles - something that is particularly crucial if Mrs C from Burnley writes: Mr G from Leyland writes: Centre, The Red Rose Hub, Bluebell Way, you want to know if your HGV, trailer or y three-year-old daughter is due to cross the road from my house there Preston PR2 5PZ. caravan is safely loaded.” start school next September and I is a small grassed area that leads For information on how to hire test equip- M was wondering if you had any Telephone 0845 0530000. A down to a brook. It would be really ment from Lancashire County Council details on how to apply and the date I please telephone 01772 533923; fax 01772 532853 or email: Don’t forget - your county councillor can help. Contact details are available on 0845 0530000 or at: www.lancashire.gov.uk [email protected]. Further You can also try your area’s County Information Centre where staff are trained to help the public information at www.weightsand measures.co.uk
A full job description of all vacancies is available on our website www.lancashire.gov.uk/vacancies www.lancashire.gov.uk Providing • adult education • libraries October 2007 3 NEWS IN Look out London, Lancashire’s children are coming Young BRIEF get busy Revamp for Whalley to give centre new look THE Adult Centre at Whalley has undergone to club extensive building and refurbishment work to ensure facilities are YOUNG people got fully accessible for dis- busy when their abled and older people youth centre need- with mobility problems. ed a new look. The refurbishment is Not only did young- costing around £60,000 and includes a ramp, sters at Whitworth’s fully fitted reception 515 Centre make area on the ground plans for new facili- floor, new IT suite and a ties, they also submit- new toilet with disabled ted their own cash bid access. to lottery bosses – and The centre is a Listed then rolled up their building and currently sleeves and redecorat- held in a trust for use ed the centre them- for educational purpos- es by the residents of selves. Whalley and surround- New paint, new ing areas, principally wallpaper, new games, for adult education new opportunities … classes, but also used the centre can claim to as a pre-school nursery offer everything from centre and by other LONDON’S Albert Hall will Teachers, mums and dads will be Forty five children aged between homework clubs to local community ring to the sound of Lancashire there to cheer them on when the six and eight have been coached by outdoor endeavours, groups. from the internet to Lancashire Adult children’s voices when the infant young group sings a medley of songs drama teacher Joanna Newson to Learning is the county choir from Shakespeare Primary including Lancashire Leads the Way, such a high standard that they beat after-school clubs as council’s adult educa- School in Fleetwood sing When I’m Cleaning Windows, and off competition from hundreds of well as advice on tion service which runs at the School Proms on 12 Wish Me Luck As You Wave Me other schools to be the only infant work, housing and day and evening cours- November. Goodbye. group at the Proms. health. es for adults of all ages Hazel Parkinson, at local venues across senior youth worker at the county. the Market Street cen- tre, said: “They have Sport aids made the centre like new. learning “They submitted the PUPILS from schools in funding bid and have Lancashire have been Services go under made the centre into “Playing for Success” at something the whole Preston North End. community can be This national initiative Value for provides out-of-school proud of. study support for pupils “People in aged 9-14, using sport money Whitworth know there and its environment as a is something here for curriculum tool. everyone. If there is The focus is to raise Audit probe and something we can’t achievement in literacy, help with directly, we numeracy and ICT, devel- A SERIES of inspec- ings” next year – and Council sees this as part are and also at how well quality is can point them in the op self-esteem and inde- Lancashire County of a continuing drive to the various agencies direction of someone pendent learning. tions is underway at Lancashire Council will be hoping to improve performance in work together in provid- who can help.” The learning centre is ing those services. the target the first nationally to have retain its maximum local government by put- County Council to four-star rating for serv- ting people first. It learning mentors obtain a ensure value for qualification with the sup- ice quality. means we can never port from Lancashire money and quality The process involves a stand still. County Council. of service. close look at children’s “We have already SCHOOL ADMISSIONS Whitehall expected services, adult services, made £10m of efficiency £300 clean-up the council to make use of resources, envi- savings in the current IN LANCASHIRE £45m of efficiency sav- ronmental and cultural financial year and are just champion ings between 2005 and services. looking at saving more. SEPTEMBER 2008 THE county council’s 2008 – and the council is County Councillor We were asked to save a Champion for Parishes on target to save £48m. Hazel Harding, county total of £45m by 2008 has approved £300 to The savings, expected council leader, said: and we aim to beat that.” PRIMARY SCHOOLS tidy up an unkempt part from almost all public- “Members of the public Also in 2008, separate of Forton. sector organisations, are need to know that their but related inspections If your child has a 5th birthday on or between County Councillor meant to guarantee cost- money is being well will look closely at the 01/09/08 and 31/08/09 then he/she will start Albert Atkinson’s deci- effectiveness by encour- sion will also result in a spent. council’s corporate man- school in September 2008. new seat for the village. aging organisations to “They also depend on agement and at services The parish “champi- think about how to pro- public services, so we for children in You must either apply on-line or complete Lancashire’s on” role at Lancashire vide or even improve have to ensure that the Lancashire – services primary application form if you want a place for your child at a County Council services at the same or services we provide are also provided by police, Lancashire primary school. You must apply even if an elder sibling involves supporting lower cost. tailored to actual need. probation staff, the NHS is already attending the school which you prefer. parishes – and ensur- The independent The days of ‘one size fits and voluntary bodies. ing their voice is heard Audit Commission will all’ are gone for ever. This Ofsted probe will at the highest level. award councils “star rat- “Lancashire County THE CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS look at how good services IS 9/11/07 APPLY ON-LINE: Local adult ed is free www.lancashire.gov.uk/e-admissions LATE APPLICATIONS MAY NOT BE ADULTS wishing to improve nised qualifications. and moral well-being. INCLUDED IN THE INITIAL ALLOCATION their literacy and numeracy Peter Garrod, head of For more information about PROCESS FOR SCHOOL PLACES. skills are taking advantage of Lancashire Adult Learning, said: courses and enrolment contact “Being able to read and write are your local adult college or adult the range of free courses fundamental life skills. learning service, or visit online at Voluntary Aided and Foundation schools also require a available at local venues “We provide a wide range of www.lal.lancashire.gov.uk supplementary form to be completed. Parents must obtain this across the county. courses to support individuals from the school for which they have expressed a preference. Lancashire Adult Learning, the with the development of literacy YOU CAN DO IT county council’s adult education and numeracy skills. All classes service, runs a range of skills for are free and are held in local com- Lancaster, Fylde and Wyre Advice/information is available from: life courses and day and evening munity venues, adult colleges or 01524 581269 North Lancashire 01524 581112 literacy and numeracy courses for in libraries and are friendly, enjoy- Preston, Chorley, West adults of all ages and abilities. South Lancashire 01772 532191 able and at a pace that suits the Lancashire and South Ribble Courses include basic introduc- individual.” 0845 6001331 East Lancashire 01254 220718 tory and taster sessions, inter- A lack of literacy, language and generational courses for families numeracy skills can often trap Burnley, Hyndburn, Pendle, Directorate for Children and Young People and more formal courses geared people into low-skilled, poorly Ribble Valley and Rossendale towards gaining nationally recog- paid jobs and affect their physical 0845 0561886 4 October 2007 Providing • bridge maintenance • paths www.lancashire.gov.uk
Combine the seaside with the countryside and win a holiday at Objections Ribby Hall Village, 10 minutes from Blackpool in the quiet countryside. delay school Take time out at the fabulous Ribby Hall Village – which has Ribby Hall Village is only 10 minutes from a choice of accommodation including private cottages, Blackpool but set within 100 acres of unique pine lodges and a luxury hotel. countryside offering you the best of both programme worlds with activities such as: The competition is to win a mid-week break in a standard self-catering cottage for six • Adult pool and family fun pool THE county council is pressing on with people and can be taken any time before April 2008 – subject to availability, excluding school • A choice of restaurants and bars plans to build two new schools in east and bank holidays. Lancashire – despite objections slowing the • Horse riding The cottages have a comfortable living room and kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite and process. two separate bedrooms and family bathroom. They also feature facilities such as DVD • Racquet sports Legal procedures mean that the completion date for Marsden Heights Community College in players, dishwashers and BBQ’s with private parking and patio areas. Ribby Hall Village also • A health and beauty spa and hairdressers Brierfield, and Unity College in Burnley is likely offers the latest in luxury holidays in their Pine Lodges, which include outdoor hot tubs and to be put back a year to September 2010. private balconies. • Nine-hole and mini golf Both schools are part of Lancashire’s £250m courses Building Schools for the Future programme. To win this Monday-Friday break, simply answer the following question: • Children’s holiday club Nine sites are involved with Marsden Heights Ribby Hall Village is set within how many acres of countryside? and Unity originally scheduled for the second Return entries, by Friday 19 October, to: Ribby Hall competition, and crèche wave. Vision, County Hall, Preston PR1 8XJ. But some local people have objected to the pro- posed sites of the schools – leading to a public inquiry about Towneley playing fields in Burnley and delays at Bent Head in Brierfield. County Councillor Marcus Johnstone, Cabinet member for Children and Young People, said: “It is a shame that campaign groups opposing the scheme are holding up these new schools are delaying the provision of state-of the-art facilities for local children. “Whatever the outcome of these legal processes we will find sites for the new schools and we will keep our promises to provide the best possible learning environment. Visit www.ribbyhall.co.uk for a virtual tour or to check availability and book on-line. “As things stand it is likely Marsden Heights Alternatively call 0800 085 1717 8.00am-8.00pm, seven days a week quoting RHV 169 and Unity will have to be moved into the third wave of our building programme.” Building at Burnley Campus, Shuttleworth Ribby Hall Village is set within how many acres of countryside? College in Padiham, and Pendle Vale College and Pendle Community High School in Nelson is VOUCHER: Answer ...... Name ...... underway and on target for September 2008. Work at Sir John Thursby Community College Address ...... WIN A RIBBY HALL and Ridgewood Community High School in Burnley has started and is on schedule for Email ...... September 2009. VILLAGE BREAK Entry to be returned by Friday 19 October. Tick box if you do not want to be sent Ribby Hall Village details The third wave schools are Blessed Trinity Roman Catholic College, Hameldon Community College, and The Rose School, all in Burnley. Don’t forget: you can enter Vision competitions online at: http://www.lancashire.gov.uk/corporate/vision/ LANCASHIRE County been running since June 2001, Council’s Road Safety Group has helped over 91,000 is promoting a new fact sheet people drive more safely. It aims to educate drivers and riders to dispel some myths about caught marginally over the speed their pioneering Speed Beautiful Bowland limit in the county and is an Awareness course. alternative to penalty points The course, which has and a fine.
Fighting talk New road: we
HOW pleased I am to see some must go recognition in official circles of the waywardness and lawless- forward ness seen on our streets. What a tragedy that it has taken CONGRATULATIONS to the death young Rhys Jones to really Lancashire County Council for bring the point home – the point an informative display and help- being that adults are now afraid of ful officers at the public consul- young people. tations held in Ormskirk regard- Where are the authority figures? ing the proposed new bypass. Where are the park wardens? Where Ormskirk has always been an are the bus conductors? important crossroads for traffic The point was brought home to me across West Lancashire since stage- two years ago when I and a friend coach days but life for residents has THE Forest of Bowland by the Forest of Bowland Area of All capture the beauty and saw three or four teenagers standing been made progressively worse over Area of Outstanding Outstanding Natural Beauty character of the area in their own at the side of the road throwing beer the last 40 years due to air pollution Natural Beauty will (AONB), features 50 professional way. bottles at passing cars. Upon chal- and the traffic accident rates affect artists from the region. “This is an event not to be lenging them, we ourselves were chal- become an area of out- Each has been commissioned to missed and we are sure that the everyone. standing and beautiful art lenged to a fight! The situation is worse now than produce a self-portrait plus an exhibition at the Maiden Bridge Needless to say, feeling deeply when the previous plans were can- from 22 October. example of their work on a Arts Centre will be very popular. ashamed and morally uneasy, we celled and we look forward to a posi- A new exhibition of specially Bowland theme. It is planned that the works will went away – we both knew the police tive result this time. commissioned original artworks A full-colour book has also been also form the nucleus of a poten- would have arrested us if we had ED DICKINSON inspired by the spectacular produced to celebrate the artists’ tial travelling exhibition together risen to the provocation. Ormskirk Bowland fells will go on show at talent will also be for sale, giving with the full colour book.” I wonder if that is right – and sus- the Maiden Bridge Arts Centre, the public a wonderful opportuni- In addition to the professional pect that there would be less talk of Letters Tatham, Lancaster. ty to view and collect the work artist project the children from “children’s rights” if the people who The exhibition will be open from from the region’s prominent Tatham Fells Primary School, espouse such “rights” actually had to containing a name and September 22 until October 14, artists. Lowgill, are participating. Each live in the more blighted areas of our address will be given from 11am to 5pm on Friday, Mike Pugh, from the Forest of child has produced a self-portrait towns, priority in publication. Saturday and Sunday and other Bowland AONB, said: “The art- and landscape painting to show E MELOY Letters may be edited. times by appointment. works are fantastic and represent the young emerging talent in the Ribble Valley This unique project, supported a range of different styles. area. www.lancashire.gov.uk Providing • information centres • hotlines October 2007 5
NEWS IN BRIEF ‘Eco’ rail station plan Roadworks to begin
WORK to improve the M65 Junction 6 slip roads and Whitebirk roundabout are set to begin on 8 October. on track The 13-week project, costing in excess of £2m, will see the busy round- By Martin Crabtree for the future. about expanded to four “Train and bus stations have the lanes with a traffic signal A BLUEPRINT for a new train potential to become focal points for control system intro- station in Accrington could communities and we hope that duced. Accrington could become somewhere A new outbound bus mean a greener future for where people can travel from, where lane between Red Lion Lancashire. and Whitebirk round- businesses can set up and visitors can abouts in the Blackburn The county council’s public transport get a good impression of the town officers have been busy putting togeth- area is part of the when they arrive. scheme to provide addi- er plans for our first “eco-station” Among the eco-friendly measures on tional priority for public which will result in an environmental- the timetable for Accrington are wind transport. ly friendly building that meets the turbines, rainwater recycling, a Slip roads off the M65 county council’s climate change ground-source heat pump, environ- will also be widened in agenda. order to reduce queuing Richard Watts, rail projects manag- mentally friendly building materials, traffic at peak times. er, said: “Accrington railway station is improved access for all, cycle parking WIND turbines and heating from the ground: Accrington’s proposed “eco” train station. in urgent need of refurbishment and and better information and security. we are looking closely at the opportuni- Richard added: “It is still early days, ties to create something totally new but we have planning permission and and exciting.” are investing £150,000 in detailed “The station is well used but difficult design work. Bin the ID-fraudsters to access as one of the approaches is up “We are working closely with KEEN recyclers are being The county council will be personal information being mis- Hyndburn planners, Northern Rail, a very steep hill. helped to beat the fraud- carrying out a series of initia- used to zero by removing per- “The buildings are also past Network Rail and the East Lancashire sters by a new county coun- tives at HWRCs during sonal details from correspon- their use-by date, so we are looking Community Rail Partnership on this National Identity Fraud dence and ensuring that old at plans that could provide a template project.” cil initiative. Prevention Week in October to computers have a clean hard Lancashire’s Household advise people on how to max- drive.” Waste Recycling Centres imise their recycling whilst A leaflet will be available at Grab a free road safety guide (HWRCs) and doorstep recy- ensuring that their personal the county council’s 23 HWRCs cling collections help thousands from 8 October providing pre-school care providers. details are protected. PROSPECTIVE parents and of residents reduce the waste details of how to protect your- The information-packed road safety Tracie Croasdale, from the young children are learning about they send to landfill. self and what types of informa- guide for playschools, childminders county council’s waste manage- road safety issues in a new way But some items, such as bank tion the fraudsters are looking and nurseries includes information on ment team, explained: “The thanks to an innovative guide. statements, receipts, bills and chances of someone actually out for in your rubbish. pedestrian safety, safer outings with Lancashire County Council’s Road computer equipment could be taking your details from one of For further information con- Safety Group has launched Small children, child car seats, being seen useful to unscrupulous individ- our sites is very low. But you tact the Waste Management Journeys - a handy A5 booklet for and much more. uals if not dealt with properly. can reduce the chances of your Group on 0845 0500957. health visitors and a guide aimed at For a copy, ring 01772 531048.
SURE START, EARLY YEARS & CHILDCARE SERVICE Would you like to work in childcare We will be running courses as follows:
but don't have any qualifications then East Lancashire Date: 29th October 2007 Making Choices could be the course for you! Time: 09.30-12.00 Venue: Haslingden Community Link To find out more Bury Road, Haslingden BB4 5PG How long: 6 Weeks (2.5 hours per week) about this FREE Date: 9th October 2007 course or to book Time: 09.30-12.00 a place please Venue: Walton Lane Children’s Centre Walton Lane, Nelson BB9 8BP contact either How long: 6 Weeks (2.5 hours per week) Francesca Walker North Lancashire or Laura Nicholson Date: 11th October 2007 Time: 09.30-12.00 on 0800 195 0137. Venue: Gregson Community Centre 33-35 Moorgate Lancaster LA1 3PY How long: 6 Weeks (2.5 hours per week)
Central Lancashire Date: 16th October 2007 Time: 09.30-12.00 Venue: Preston West Childrens Centre Ashton Primary School, Ainsdale Drive Ashton, Preston PR2 1TU How long: 6 Weeks (2.5 hours per week)
Date: 29 November 2007 Time: 6:00-8:30 pm Venue: Preston College Fulwood Campus St Vincents Rd, Fulwood, Preston PR2 4UR How long: 6 Weeks (2.5 hours per week) 6 October 2007 Providing • youth services • tourism www.lancashire.gov.uk Lancashire Financial What we spent in 2006-07 Review The figures below show how much we spent on services during the year and where the money came from to finance these services. The County Council The county council’s net cost of services and funding in 2006/07 has significantly reduced. budget for 2006/07 This is because of the government’s new arrangement to fund schools Annual Report was £601m. We by a specific grant. The other services line includes a change in actually spent slightly assessment of pension costs. 2006/07 less than the budget: £599m. During the 2006/07 2005/06 year we made To help us meet the challenges £ million £ million Introduction we face as a council, we have efficiency savings of £17.5m. Spending on services Lancashire County Council has restructured our services and introduced more measures as Education 74 643 continued to work hard to make The under-spend of Social services 315 307 Lancashire a place where part of our Locality Focus Programme. £2 million has been Highways, roads and transport 75 70 everyone matters. In the past added to the County year the council has made Environmental and planning services 46 46 The report describes how we Fund. This is money significant strides towards we keep in reserve to Libraries and museums 25 24 achieving its goals of providing performed over the last 12 months giving details of our meet future spending Other services 22 -4 the best possible services, yet pressures and unex- Net cost of services 557 1,086 again achieving the top results against a range of local and national targets. This leaflet pected demands. rating from the Audit The financial figures Commission 'four star' status is also a summary of the full Other costs and income 42 53 statement of accounts. It gives included in this docu- and been given an 'improving ment are pre audit. Total cost to be funded 599 1,139 well' rating for its potential for a brief overview of the future improvement. council’s financial position at 31 March 2007. Funding Capital Revenue Support Grant from Government 35 430 spending Business rates 187 348 Sources of funding for capital Council Tax income 379 358 In 2006/07 we invest- spending ed £92 million in Total funding 601 1,136 assets such as build- ings, roads and other Net surplus 2 3 items that will have a long-term benefit for the residents of Lancashire. Balance sheet
Projects this year The balance sheet shows our financial position at the end of the year. included: It shows: • continued • the value of land, buildings and other assets we own; upgrading of school • the value of our debts; and buildings; • how these are funded. • new childcare 2006/07 2005/06 centres; • road and bridge £ million £ million maintenance; Assets and borrowings: Capital spending by directorate • a new waste Fixed assets 1,335 1,262 management and Stocks 3 3 recycling site; and Cash and investments 251 155 • upgrading residential homes Debtors (money owed to the council) 202 159 for older people. Creditors (money owed by the council) -271 -196
The money for this Borrowing -509 -468 spending comes from Deferred Liabilities -277 -234 several sources, including government grants, borrowing, Pension liability -503 -572 income from selling other assets, and Total assets and borrowings 231 109 contributions from the revenue account. Financed by: Capital reserves 596 577 What the money was Where the money Pension reserve -503 -572 Earmarked reserves 119 87 spent on across comes from County Fund 19 17 Total financed 231 109 services In 2006/07 our service income was £1,584m. This was made up of fees and charges of The chart shows how the council spent £145m, funding of £601m shown in the “What money across the county to deliver services we spent” table and specific government Fixed assets are items that we (payments) to the pension fund such as adult education, libraries, maintaining grants of £838m (a specific grant must be own and will benefit from over in future years. and improving roads and bridges, public spent on a particular service). several years – for example protection, promoting learning, access to care land, buildings and vehicles. Earmarked reserves are funds and support for young people. set aside for specific purposes Sources of Capital reserves are amounts in the future. They include set aside to fund and revalue unspent school balances income fixed assets. (controlled by individual schools, rather than the council). The pension liability and pension reserve show the difference The County Fund is money set between the amount invested in aside to cover unexpected the pension fund and the future demands or spending amount it is estimated we will pressures. This helps us to have to pay out in future years. make sure we are always in a This shortfall will be made good secure financial position. by increasing contributions www.lancashire.gov.uk Providing • youth services • tourism October 2007 7 Summary of A place where people can get help if they need it performance in Help to people in need comes in many guises. It can be an emergency response to a flooded road or to someone needing a social care service, or it can simply be providing some routine information at a library. Between these 2006/07 extremes our staff provide practical help every day – support care for an older person to live safely at home, support for a parent needing advice on a school place for their child, or welfare rights advice for someone on a low income. Our We aim to continuously improve our services. contribution to the health and wellbeing of the county is significant given the wide range of services we provide for One of the ways in which we measure our some of our most vulnerable individuals and communities. performance is through performance indicators. The following pie charts give a Get help 2006/07 2005/06 brief overview of our performance in 2006/07 using our local key performance indicators Percentage of equipment and adaptations delivered within 7 working days 83.90% 84.70% (KPIs) and best value performance Indicators Adults and older people receiving direct payments 97 80 (BVPIs). LCC Corporate Objectives are the (Number per 100,000 population) seven areas used to report performance below. These translate the Corporate Strategy. More details of this can be found in A place where people can feel safe the Annual Delivery Plan. Lancashire is a relatively safe place to live and has strong, diverse and vibrant communities. Key performance Feel safe Target Actual indicators Average number of days taken in 2006/07 to repair a street lighting 6.28 10.38 fault, which is under the control of the local authority. The pie chart below shows our perform- ance in 2006/07 compared to the targets which we set for ourselves. A place where people can enjoy a high quality environment Our vision for Lancashire is of a clean, safe and healthy county, where waste is minimised and recycling has reduced dependency on scarce resources and costly landfill: an area of attractive communities and open spaces where resi- dents feel confident in and proud of their environment. We provided a waste transfer station for Ribble Valley Borough Council in August 2006 as planned.
High quality environment 2006/07 2005/06 Percentage of household waste which has been composted or recycled. 39.5% 35.15% Percentage of household waste arisings which have been landfilled. 60.80% 64%
Best value A place where people can work and prosper performance Lancashire’s economy continues to grow, unemployment has fallen and the property market is improving. indicators Work and prosper Target Actual Number of jobs created through Lancashire County Development 300 441 The pie chart below shows our perform- Limited activity in 2006/07 ance in 2006/07 compared to 2005/06 based on BVPIs. A place where people can learn and develop The children and young people of Lancashire are the future of our county. We do everything we can to improve their quality of life and chances of success. The aim is for every child, whatever their background or circumstances, to have the support they need to achieve wellbeing based on five positive outcomes set out in Every Child Matters. Organisations involved in providing services to children, from hospitals and schools to police and voluntary groups, will be teaming up in new ways, sharing information and working together to protect children and young people from harm and help improve their lives.
Learn and develop 2006/07 2005/06 The percentage of pupils achieving level 5 or above in key stage 2: English 32.30% 27% Percentage of half days missed in secondary schools 7.78% 7.87% Percentage of 15-year-old pupils achieving 5 or more GCSEs A*-C 58.5% 56.4% Further information A place where people can travel easily and safely Safe and improved transport remains key to protecting the local environment and improving the economy and prosperi- A complete Statement of Accounts 2006/07 is ty of the county. We will continue to work with our partners to provide an effective and safe transport system that serves available on our website at the needs of everyone and offers good access for business, social and leisure opportunities. Last year we promised to www.lancashire.gov.uk/budget/publications/ deliver the NoW Card project by 2007. The project is now up and running with Blackpool Transport. index.asp or at your local library.
If you have any questions, or suggestions on Travel easily and safely 2006/07 2005/06 how we could improve this summary, please Percentage of the local authority principal road network where 5% 5% contact Phil Maynard at: PO Box 100, County structural maintenance should be considered. Hall, Preston PR1 0LD Phone: 0845 053 Temporary traffic controls or road closure on traffic sensitive roads 0.05% 0.25% 0000 Email: [email protected] closed by roadworks If you would like this information in large print or Braille, or a summary in another language, please phone 01772 532690 A place where people can lead healthy lives
We regard health as a positive mental and social state and more than just the absence of illness. It is the basis of everyone having an equal chance to live an active, enjoyable and fulfilling life. We are working with our partners towards the overall goal of good health and wellbeing for the people of Lancashire.
Lead healthy lives 2006/07 2005/06 Percentage of Lancashire schools with National Healthy Schools Status 66% n/a (secondary, primary and special) across the four themes of healthy eating, physical activity, emotional health and well being and personal, social and health education. 8 October 2007 Providing • food safety • welfare advice www.lancashire.gov.uk Why not The take a look? LIBRARIES are an Aladdin’s cave of interesting material. Reference libraries in particular lighter offer a fascinating insight into how people lived in each area of Lancashire – and can even help with tracking your family history. Now there is even an online refer- ence library, providing free access to a wide range of online subscription publications: side of encyclopaedia community legal service local history ancestry library edition – and many more!
Lancashire Private individuals would have to pay hundreds of pounds in subscrip- tions to see this material – but library death staff have negotiated deals for Lancashire library members to use in them for free. Senior reference librarian Susan Halstead explains why hers is With providers like Oxford and Credo Reference providing access to the best job in the world - bizarre deaths notwithstanding thousands of books online, the online library is perfect for homework, seri- THE reason I love being a well the water only nine inches deep”.
(Above) ous study, curiosity and pub quizzes. reference librarian is that I learn The secrets of mazing stories, indeed – stories that I could not have com- All you need is a library card and the past: piled without the meticulous research assistance of historian an internet connection. Remember, something new every day. Ken. I need more volunteers like Ken! A recent letter to Burnley Reference Susan and free internet access is available in There were many deaths in middle age from “mortification Library requested details of unusual deaths Ken take a every branch of our libraries. of the bowels” and “stoppage of the intestines” but, surely, the in church registers. Our research for this macabre trip A You can even JOIN online, browse Life fate of John Howarth in 1800 must have been unique – “indigestion enquiry, aided by local historian Ken down memory after a plentiful meal upon a famished stomach at the last funeral”. and reserve books, and view picture Spencer, revealed some intriguing causes of lane. Although living conditions were very harsh, it is surprising how collections. death (for us and not for the unfortunate So much many people lived into their 70s and 80s, dying at last of “gradual The online library can be visited at: individual involved!). decay”, some even dying of “old age” at 84 years and others lucky http://www.lancashire.gov.uk/onrl t is a paradox that the way someone died to see enough to be “found dead in bed” at 74 years of age. can tell us so much about how they lived. However, some suffered a harsher end and the pauper, John We find poor Ellen Cunliffe of four Schofield, died in 1799 at 70 years from “want of food, cloaths and days “Dying from its birth” in 1797 and bedding in this hard winter, alas!” the sad entry in 1794 for James of four I Next time we grumble about–anything!–maybe we should appre- days who was “a monster unable to take my ciate our comfortable lives a little more. nutrient.” Life was no less difficult for children as All these examples have been extracted from the registers they grew a little older: Harry “died at 2 1/2 for the parish church of Holme in Cliviger 1742-1841, burnt to death by being clothed in cotton” published by the Lancashire Parish Register Society in and helping out on the family farm proved volume 124, which may be found in many reference libraries dangerous for Benjamin of 12 years who was in Lancashire. “killed by a cow to which he had fastened himself by a rope”. n attaining adulthood, there were many ailments to be avoid- COULD YOU HELP? ed which the unfortunate John Chadwick did not do and, at the KEN and Susan, pictured above, work hard to O age of 20 years in 1807, he died index and record Burnley’s history – but more of “quinsy caught by sleeping on the volunteer help is needed. grass”. They need help to index newspapers, books, ONLINE winner: Stephen Booth won a Outdoor pursuits also caused the untime- pamphlets and photographs. Anyone interested, radio in a recent online library competition. ly death of John Faber, a pauper of 26 years contact Susan on 01282 463757. He is pictured with senior librarian Andrew in 1793, from “scrofula and consumption Walmsley. caught by night hunting”. Work on the farm was, however, unrelent- ing and this contributed to the death of John Smith in 1808, “overheated by mowing”, and Ellen in the same year who “drowned in a Summer listings Bamboo Centre, Waterfoot. Tel 01706 Wednesday 24 October 242945. 1-3.30pm. Build your own birdbox and Friday 12 October learn about birds – family fun. Bowland In The Shadow of Trees, play about visitor centre. abandoned girl who grows up nurtured Until 17 October. Jamboree; history of Saturday 6 October only by nature. The Dukes Theatre, scouting. Museum of Lancashire, Lancaster. Tel 01706 242945. Preston. 10.30-5.30pm. Bronte discovery walk – minibus (£3.50) for part. Enjoy magnifi- Saturday 13 October Until 28 October. Rossendale Artists’ cent moorland scenery en-route to 10.30am-3.30pm. Beacon Fell Exhibition. Rossendale Museum, Haworth. Literary exploration with Conservation Crew. Aged 14-18? Whitaker Park, Haslingden Road, guide Peter Short. Tea break at Want to gain experience of work of Rawtenstall. Ponden Mill. Must be booked on 01772 countryside rangers? Meet Carwags, 534709. Meet: Trawden Road car park, Beacon Fell Country Park. Bring You can find lots of Wycoller. packed lunch. Details and booking on information about events on: 01995 640557. Until end October. The Big Draw www.lancsmuseums.gov.uk family workshop. Create your own In The Shadow of Trees, play about and at www.lancashire.gov.uk/ masterpiece with help from profession- abandoned girl who grows up nurtured al artist. Lancaster City Museum, only by nature. The Dukes Theatre, environment/countryside Market Square, Lancaster. Lancaster. Tel 01706 242945. Useful phone numbers Sunday 7 October Sunday 14 October Bowland Visitor Centre, 11am. Bike ride, Barnoldswick to 10.30am-4.30pm. World of wood day. Gargrave and back, canal banks and Tree planting and discovery walk. Beacon Fell Country Park quiet lanes. 20 miles. Meet Crafts associated with wood. Special 01995 640557 Greenberfield Locks, Barnoldswick. willow workshop course (Sat and Sun: Wycoller Country Park Ride led by Fred Higson. £30 per person). Aisled barn, Wycoller 01282 870253 2pm. 9-mile bike ride, Lea to Treales Country Park. Details and booking on Spring Wood Picnic Site and back. Meet junction of Darkinson 01772 534709. 01254 825187 Lane and Sidgreaves Lane, Lea. Ride Saturday 20 October Lancashire Countryside led by Don McQueen. 11am-4pm. Eid extravaganza. Join Service main office In The Shadow of Trees, play about Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations. Children’s 01772 534709 abandoned girl who grows up activities, henna painting, displays etc. Museums’ main office nurtured only by nature. Horse and Aisled barn, Wycoller. 01772 534061 www.lancashire.gov.uk Providing • youth services • tourism October 2007 9 Life in Lancashire So much to do Win Walking boots worth £100 Prestons newest outdoor and travel superstore is offering Vision readers the chance to win a pair of walking boots up to the Terrific value of £100 with a personal consultation and fitting advice. Simply answer the following question and return, by Wednesday 17 October, to Cotswold competition, Vision, County Hall, Preston PR1 8XJ: How old is the Clam Bridge at Wycoller thought to be? *Cannot be used in Present this voucher for 15% discount at Cotswold Outdoor Preston conjunction with any trail of 135 Fishergate, Preston (opposite Waterstones) Tel: 01772 270910 www.cotswoldoutdoor.com other offers or discounts. the trampers Lancastrians love visiting their local countryside. Electric ‘tramper’ vehicles at Wycoller allow disabled people to explore previously inaccessible hills, explains countryside ranger Peter Short...
WYCOLLER'S Bronte scenery For more infor- The robust buggies can handle rough has delighted walkers for years mation and to ground, mud and grass. A new route has - and now everyone can join in book a Tramper, been designed with Trampers in mind, tak- telephone 01995 ing their passengers over farm tracks and the fun. 640557. Book fields to be rewarded with superb views of Located near Colne, Wycoller Country and go! Wycoller Valley, Boulsworth Hill and "Atom", Park nestles in a valley bottom and is one of east Lancashire’s panopticons. famous for its association with Charlotte The new route is way marked with a "T" Bronte who referred to many nearby and directional arrows, starting from the landmarks in books such as "Jane Eyre". A map of the Aisled Barn (visitor centre) and heading up a ntil recently these views and land- route can be tree-lined stream. marks were only accessible by found on the On the route visitors will pass through a able-bodied walkers. Lancashire Lancashire landscape that has been managed by people County Council's Tramper mobility Countryside for thousands of years, as made evident by a U buggies are now available to give Service web site. large stone bridge spanning the stream, called the same chance to everyone. www.lancashire. the Clam Bridge, thought to be more than Building on the success of Tramper gov.uk/ 1,000 years old. mobility buggies at Beacon Fell Country environment/ he new route is part of the ongoing Park, Wycoller Country Park now has countryside improvements in access for all to the two buggies. countryside: Wycoller's main footpaths Not only will people be able to use the will have ladder stiles replaced by kissing Trampers to look around Wycoller hamlet gates, allowing easier access around the and the ruins of Wycoller Hall - associat- T area. ed with Jane Eyre - "The use of electric buggies has opened up the but also the sur- countryside to people who do not walk well and rounding farm- thought they would not be rambling again. land and "Helping people to discover or rediscover their moors. enjoyment of the countryside has been wonder- ful," said Andrew Greenwood, head ranger of Lancashire Countryside Service. Volunteer ranger Bill Purcell is also able to use the Trampers to patrol the Country Park. Loss of mobility meant that Bill formerly had to spend most of his time in and around the visitor centre - the Tramper allows him to roam wider. The Trampers are available free of charge for use by people with limited mobility. Training is available for first-timers. Numbers of trampers are limited so booking is essential.