Healthy eating in our schools

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A 4-star council Awarded top marks by the Audit Commission June 2006

Providing • schools • highways • trading standards • social services Sikh birthday party Straight talk Family’s full house Nation’s historic 70,000 of you have used 290 children and pals celebrate their our new easy-to-use counting. You too time in Lancashire customer service centre could foster children

Page 6 See centre pages Page 3 Red Rose ORDER ON pride returns

ORDINARY people with extraordinary achievements are to be honoured this year in the third annual Red Rose Awards. THE BUSES Winners of the awards, backed by the county coun- cil and partners, may have made a mark on the world Undercover enforcers keep the peace as incidents stage – like cricket ace Andrew Flintoff, one of last year’s winners – or they may simply have shone in fall by a forecast their work, in the commu- nity or as a parent. Nominations, which 48 per cent Categories „Lancastrian of the Year „Parent of the Year TRANSPORT troublemakers are being „Community Team – for warned they will be brought to book by voluntary groups. plain-clothes “enforcers” if they contin- „Community Champion - for building communi- ue their anti-social ways. ty spirit. The enforcers embark on a bus a few stops „Young Person of the before the police also climb aboard – and then Year point the finger at the troublemakers who strike „Amateur Sportsperson fear in other passengers. „Professional Lancashire County Council’s Safer Travel Unit has Sportsperson worked with bus companies and police for several years to „Businessman/woman reduce misbehaviour on the buses. of the Year New methods and new technology may mean that nui- „Teacher of the Year sance travellers will become a thing of the past. „Entertainment Award One recent operation saw police board a bus in east „Lancashire Hero Lancashire – and then have a Safer Travel Unit informer Nominations will open next point out the unruly. month. Watch Vision for fur- Rick Wilson, Safer Travel Unit manager, said: “Many ther details. buses have video cameras recording everything that goes must be made by a third on. You would be amazed at some of the things people think party, open next month and they can get away with.” judging is in November. Rick said: “We will tackle any route where there appears County Councillor to be a problem. Dorothy Westell said: “A “That includes normal commercial services that are used new category this year is by all members of the public. the Parent of the Year. “Travelling easily and feeling safe are key objectives of “That reflects what these Lancashire County Council and we are determined to zHARMONY on the buses: a variety of measures drove down anti-social incidents by 21 per cent last year and figures are expected awards are about – they uphold those values.” to drop another 27 per cent this year. Pictured here are Joe Hegarty and Pauline Thompson of the Safer Travel Unit. are about honouring ordi- Closed-circuit television cameras have been installed on nary people who make some buses for a number of years. They are hidden so that their mark in their own passengers do not always know they are being filmed. family or workplace, for Those caught threatening other passengers or damaging example, as much as being property will face the full force of the law. Cafe wins Balmoral crown about the famous. Some schools are studying the “right to travel safely” as “Nearly everyone can a key concept in their good citizenship classes. landed the regal honour. It is not only the queen who can think of one of these Rick added: “No-one should think they can behave intol- THE queen is to enjoy a slap- unsung heroes. Waterslack Farm Shop, Café and enjoy such a tasty treat – first-class erably on buses and get away with it. up Lancashire feast at her “Our winners will be an “In 2004/5 incidents of anti-social behaviour on buses birthday bash. Garden Centre, in Silverdale, is one of cuisine is available to all in the example to everyone.” dropped 21 per cent on the previous year. This month’s celebrations will see Lancashire’s newest businesses. licensed café. The premises are locat- Previous winners have “It is expected that this year will see a further 27 per cent food travelling to Balmoral castle It has been helped to expand with ed in a 16th century farmhouse and included ex-England soccer fall. from north Lancashire where a com- the help of a Rural Small Business the site can offer plants, fish, water ace Sir Tom Finney. For more information on the work of the Safer Travel pany backed by the county council’s Grant from Lancashire County features, garden furniture and an ani- Partners include the Unit visit: www.safertravelunit.co.uk economic development company has Developments Ltd. mal and bird park. Lancashire Evening Post, Radio Lancashire, Magic The presence of promotional leaflets delivered inside Vision does not imply Lancashire County Council endorsement. YOUR LANCASHIRE: A PLACE WHERE EVERYONE MATTERS 999 and Rock FM 2 June 2006 Providing • nurseries • pedestrian crossings www.lancashire.gov.uk Life is grand Ask Shirley when help Are you having difficulties knowing who to contact when you need help? Are you baffled when you open the phone is at hand book to ring for help? Then this new section is for you.

IF you are having problems get- ting hold of someone to help, Lancashire County Council has many staff trained and willing to assist. Sometimes you just can’t think who to ask - and this is where Vision’s Shirley can help. Shirley answers all the letters she receives and some will feature on this page. Others may take a while as Shirley zVOLUNTEER fun for Kirsten, left, and will seek responses from other council Janet. teams. Shirley is not able to offer legal advice. LIFE has been transformed for supermarket worker Kirsten Greaves – thanks to Safer cycling a volunteer helper. Volunteering means a lot for hun- Mrs D from Longridge writes: dreds of people across Lancashire. For Kirsten (25), from Haslingden, help y 10-year-old daughter loves from volunteer Janet Melling means going out with my husband many chances to shop, go to the cinema, and I at the weekends for long swim and even go to the pub. M Janet is only one of 400 volunteers bike rides. I have taught her basic road safety zSCHOOL meals are more balanced than ever and can be enjoyed by everyone. across the county who give time through Lancashire County Council’s skills but I would like to know if there penalty points I have the option of themselves. Volunteer Service. A DVD offering are any training programmes that she attending a speed awareness course. The Bottom Line has converted 785 babies out of dis- guidance to effective volunteering is could attend? posables meaning that approximately 785 fewer tonnes now available to mark Volunteers’ Could you provide me with further have been sent to landfill sites around the county. information regarding this course? Week. ancashire County Council operates a free For more information regarding this project please Outgoing Kirsten was 12 when diag- contact the Waste Helpline on 0845 0500 957. nosed with cerebral palsy. Her lively Passport to Safer Cycling training programme he scheme is based on referrals from the delivered mainly through schools. personality ensures she lives life to the Lancashire Constabulary, which is the refer- full – and she works at Morrison’s L You should contact your child’s school to see ring authority on behalf of the Lancashire if it takes part. Your daughter is at the correct School league tables supermarket with help from T Partnership for Road Safety. Lancashire County Council’s age to participate as the programme is only available to The scheme provides an alternative to prose- children who are in their final year at primary school Employment Placement Service. cution involving the payment of a fee and the comple- Mrs D from Chorley writes: Student Janet’s efforts pay off after (Year 6) and they must be 10 years of age or over. tion of a Speed Awareness Course. You may volunteer to be a trainer yourself! have just moved into the Chorley work when the two get together for a If the course is not completed prosecution should nor- good chat. mally follow. A fine and the possibility of prosecution area and at present I am looking into schools that my daughter At a special event to mark this sum- School dinner swap should provide the necessary incentive for the driver to I mer’s Volunteers’ Week Richard Jones, make a success of the re-training. could attend when she starts executive director of the county coun- Mrs P from Burnley writes: Not all offenders are eligible to attend a speed aware- school in September. cil’s Adult and Community Services, ness course. I would like to know how I can access said: “Good community care relies upon y son receives free school Further information can be obtained by calling the information on School League Tables a caring community. meals as I am in receipt of speed awareness team on 0800 3281635. “It relies upon people of all ages and Income Support. He is in his before applying to a specific school for backgrounds who give a little time M my daughter to attend. final year at high school and is because they want to make a difference planning to continue his education at These days are our to other people’s lives. chool Performance Tables can be viewed on the “All our volunteers and organisations his school’s sixth form. Department for Education and Skills website: that selflessly give up valuable time Will he still qualify? nappy days www.dfes.gov.uk S If you do not have access to the internet or LANCASHIRE’S Volunteer Service es, your son will continue to qualify. have more questions please contact Lancashire Mrs R from Balderstone: has launched a promotional DVD Students aged 16-plus whose parents are in am the mother of twins aged eight County Council Professional Support Team on 01772 receipt of Income Support, Jobseekers’ 531555. Members will be happy to help you further. entitled “A Volunteer’s Guide to Y Allowance (income-based) or who get Income months and as you can imagine I Lancashire”. Support in their own right will get free school go through an enormous amount It tells real-life stories of volunteering in meals if they are attending a school sixth form or spe- I of nappies each month. Sheltered housing the county. Volunteering can range from cial school but not if they attend a sixth-form college or I recently heard that Lancashire from helping people with washing or cooking further education college. County Council has people offering to going for a walk or a bike ride. For further information contact your local Area Mrs C writes: The Volunteer Service offers training and Education Office: Lancaster, Wyre, Fylde, 01524 advice on various issues including the am 83-years-old and live alone education opportunities. For more details 581207; Preston, South Ribble, West Lancashire, changes that have been made to cotton and would like to put my name call the helpline on 01257 248118 or visit: Chorley, 01772 531812; Ribble Valley, Hyndburn, nappies to encourage parents like me down for sheltered housing. www.openingdoors.lancashire.gov.uk Burnley, Pendle, Rossendale, 01254 220711. There is to convert from disposables to cotton. I also a section about education benefits on: www.lan- Please could you give me some cashire.gov.uk I am keen to help create a better envi- details of how I apply. I would really ronment but at the same time dispos- like to move back to the Burnley area New look for ables are convenient. Do you have any as my grandson lives there and I would Speed awareness tips on how I can get information on be able to see him more? weddings the modern-day cotton nappy please? ACCRINGTON Register Office Miss D from Preston writes: ll sheltered housing issues in Burnley have is back in its permanent home recently received a notice from ast year Lancashire County Council launched been taken over by private companies. my local constabulary informing the “Bottom Line Nappy Project”. Over the last If you give them a call on any of the contact following extensive re-modelling. year the team has had the task of dispelling A numbers listed below they will register you Normal services have resumed at the I me that I have been speeding. L the myths surrounding cotton nappies and has and send you details of available properties in Willow Street office, part of the The notice informed me that been offering parents all over Lancashire the the Burnley area: Anchor Housing – 08457 758595, Mechanics’ Institute building. instead of being issued with three opportunity to try the modern-day cotton nappy for Calico Housing – 01282 686500. The investment has provided modern, light offices with improved privacy for local couples attending to give notice of Don’t forget - your county councillor can help. Contact details are available on 0845 0530000 or at: www.lancashire.gov.uk their intention to marry.

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 June 2006 3 Happy families With 290 children - and still counting - Bill and Joan lead one of county’s largest foster families TWO children are enough of a handful for most parents – but Joan and Bill Robinson are mum and dad to 290. The Burnley couple started with five children of their own and then adopted five others. Even then they did not want to stop – so they fostered 280 more. Fostering is rarely easy but Bill and Joan, who started fostering children 41 years ago, say their efforts are repaid ten-fold when they see a distressed and fearful waif blossom into a cheerful and confident child. “Children all need stability and lots of love”, said Joan. “They can be difficult at first but they usually settle in with- in three weeks. “You have to love children and be very patient to do this job and be prepared to treat them as you do your own.” zIRENE wears Lancashire’s T-shirt at Everest base camp. For Joan and Bill that means taking their foster children for family holidays in their caravan – and remembering hundreds of birthdays. Contrary to popular belief you do not need a massive Parent plea goes house to be foster parents. Bill, Joan and their children live in a typical terraced house. Neither do you need a massive income as financial help to Himalayas is provided. “You need love and time”, said Joan. “Some come here SOCIAL workers will go to any lengths to get unable to talk and some just stand and stare because their children into happy homes – even to Mount natural parents have not given them any attention. Everest. “They need the attention and you soon see them turning Burnley-based Irene Milnes was so keen to spread the message of fostering in Lancashire that she took county council T-shirts on a walking holiday in the Himalayas. EVERYONE MATTERS Irene took four shirts – one for her and one for each of three sherpas who accompanied her party in the Everest Our objectives are to ensure that section. Lancashire is a place where people can: „Feel safe „ Lead healthy lives „ Get help if they need it „ Learn and develop „ Work and prosper „ Enjoy a high-quality envi- Could you ronment „ Travel easily and safely

into well-adjusted and loveable youngsters. “They need simple things like regular mealtimes – and to be a super know that someone cares and that there will be a nice, warm bed and clean clothes for them. “Our own children have also benefited by seeing a differ- ent side of life.” Whereas most families boast a handful of family photos parent? in their homes, Joan and Bill have 40 in their living room. Typical foster placements last for less than a year, but AT any one time about 1,200 children and the duo remember each child and still send them all birth- day cards. young people are looked after by Joan added: “They are never forgotten by us and many Lancashire County Council. More than have remained in touch well into adulthood. I now see them half are placed in foster care. with their own children and one has become a TV produc- About 50 more foster carers are needed – so er. Lancashire County Council has set up a freefone “Everyone with patience and a love of children should telephone line and a website to explain fostering to zPHOTO album of happy memories for Bill and Joan, pictured with adopted children Emma and consider doing it.” people. Daryl. Lancashire’s super-parents still send birthday cards to all the children they have fostered. Adopted daughter Emma (15) added: “She is just a great Foster parents are needed for all types of situa- tions, but the biggest need just now is for people who can look after children from the same family and Public opera in Cosi castle also look after children long term. Free Nursery Education places in County Councillor Clive Grunshaw, Cabinet mem- MUSIC fans have an opportunity to see a clas- ber for Children and Young People, said: “We want to increase our pool of foster carers so we can best Lancashire for all 3 and 4 year olds sic opera performed in one of Lancashire’s most match children to foster homes. historic venues this month. “The people we want are very special people – peo- If you have a child born on or between 1 April 2001 and 31 March 2003 your child is entitled The Shire Hall at Lancaster Castle will host the Heritage ple who can give the same life chances to foster chil- to a free part-time pre-school nursery education place from the start of the Summer Term 2006 Opera’s production of Cosi Fan Tutte on June 9 and 10. dren as they would give to their own.” commencing in April. Tickets (£15 adults, £12.50 concessions) are on sale at the For further details, ring 0800 1951183 or visit: A free place consists of a maximum of five sessions per week and no more than sixty five sessions Shire Hall on 01524 64998. www.fosteringinlancashire.co.uk for the Summer term. A free session is for a period of 2.5 hours in length. There are three terms in the year, covering a total of 38 weeks per year. Places are available from any of Lancashire County Council's eligible providers of pre-school nursery education. Share your car to beat These can be Local Authority (LA) maintained nursery schools and nursery classes, providers in the independent, private and voluntary sectors or accredited childminders on an approved National Childminding Association (NCMA) Children Come First Network. traffic - and save cash Further information including a parent LIFE is getting easier for com- cially later this month but actually muters with a new car-share started working last week. guide and lists of eligible providers Officials are now working on the scheme that promises to cut next step which they expect will within your area may be obtained from congestion and costs. involve free parking spaces for the Childcare Information Service on Congestion is the bane of more and SharedWheels vehicles. more lives – while no one likes paying The project simply requires people Freephone 0800 195 0137. thousands of pounds each year to keep to register – all aspects of the scheme even a small car on the road. now get in touch with each other. are free – at the SharedWheels web- Lancashire County Council has now “As well as petrol costs it will avoid site with details of their journeys. teamed up with partner organisations congestion and parking fees. Jane added: “We know many people to put drivers in touch with would-be “Not everyone wants to use the bus want to reduce their use of the car. passengers. to cut congestion, yet everyone wants This way allows them to save money Lancashire County Council’s Jane to save money. Our SharedWheels and beat congestion.” Heath said: “This simply co-ordinates project will get them well on their To start saving cash almost immedi- a list of people who make the same or way.” ately, register at: similar journeys. At no cost, people can The scheme will be launched offi- www.sharedwheels.co.uk 4 June 2006 Providing • bridge maintenance • paths www.lancashire.gov.uk www.lancashire.gov.uk Providing • adult education • libraries June 2006 5

HELP WHEN YOU NEED IT - special report on our new customer service plans If you need Lancashire County Council help, tel 08450845 05300000530000 Join us and pedal to happiness and health THE OLD WAY - ageing and THE MODERN WAY - purpose-built Red Rose CYCLISTS of all abilities are being on Sunday 11 June. The Pendleside meet- urged to oil their sprockets for a ing room has long been a haven for trade unsuitable buildings. They unionists, walkers, cyclists and politicians. Hub improves service access for you series of guided rides. Also on 11 June, departing at 10am from Pendle, Lancaster, Rossendale, Ribble the community centre car park on will be disposed of Valley, Burnley, Wyre and Fylde are all Garstang’s High Street, is a 38-mile ride to included in the next four weeks. The guid- Glasson Dock and then to Lancaster’s We answer ded ride programme runs until October. Millennium Bridge. The fun starts at 10am on Wednesday 7 Mountain bikers should enjoy a 10am June when cyclists will meet at Spring eight-mile ride round the hilly Clowbridge Wood information centre car park in area between Burnley and Rawtenstall on Whalley before setting off on a 22-mile ride Saturday 17 June. Led by ranger Bill through Sabden, Barley and Downham. Brady, the ride should take up to four hours. The famous Clarion House tearooms in Details of rides are available by ringing Roughlee are the destination for bikers 01772 534609 or visit: www.lanc- when you departing Oakhill College, Whalley, at 9am ashire.gov.uk- click on cycling routes. ‘The Magic of Mozart’

Friday 23rd THE PROGRAMME FOR THE EVENING IS: need us Mozart Overture – Don Giovanni K.527 June at 19.30 Mozart Ah! lo previdi – Ah, t’invola – Deh, non vacar K.272 Bella mia fiamma – Resta, oh cara, K.528 Marine Hall, Fleetwood (Amanda Roocroft – Soprano) Four-stage plan will aid public access to CBMP Christopher Brooks Memorial Prize - Lancashire’s Young Composer of the Year Saturday 24th Schnittke Moz-Art à la Haydn services. Easier phone contact is step on road June at 19.30 Mozart Symphony No.40 in G minor, K.550 that includes county-wide walk-in ‘gateways’ St. Peter’s Church, Burnley Guest Director – Lyn Fletcher ** Pre-Concert Event – 18.45 (FREE to ticket holders) ** UTTING people first is the main Tickets are available from: message behind a new set of cus- Sinfonietta box office tel: 01772 531794. Open Monday - Friday 9.00 - 17.00 tomer-access initiatives from Telephone payment by credit/debit card Tickets are also available on the door on the night of the concert. PLancashire County Council. The authority has put in place major initiatives to enable Prices: £7.50 (£4.50 Concessions) residents to access the 700-plus services it provides with the minimum of fuss. Adult and Community Services zFORMER office space in Lea, near Preston. County Councillor Hazel Harding, Lancashire County Council leader, said: “We have always worked to ensure the people of Lancashire receive the services they need. “Our new customer-access plans will strengthen this and provide people with quick and easy access to our services. “It is the way forward for us, to show that Lancashire is a place where everyone matters and that we always School Admissions endeavour to provide the best services we can deliver.”

he initiatives are split into four parts: putting the in Lancashire customer first, telephone contact, face-to-face contact and self-service. Each phase is designed September 2007 to put customers first. TThe Customer Service Centre, based at The Red Rose From September 2006 apply on-line at www.lancashire.gov.uk/e-admissions ...an authority that delivers Primary Schools If your child has a 5th birthday on or between 01/09/07 and 31/08/08 then he/she will start primary cost-effective services at a local level school in September 2007. You must obtain and complete Lancashire’s common admission zWALK-IN Gateway centres in which staff help customers find - deputy leader application form if you want a place for your child at a Lancashire primary school. their way to the services they need are planned for across The closing date for applications is 24 November 2006 Lancashire. This one is in Rawtenstall library. Hub, Fulwood, is just one strand of the initiative that will Secondary Schools improve how we interact with people. If your child is currently in his/her final year at primary school (Year 6) then you must apply for a The centre went live in February and has already dealt secondary school place for September 2007 during September and early October 2006. with over 70,000 calls from the public. If you live in Lancashire you must complete Lancashire’s common admission application form Office review It is designed to enable people to phone one number and Conference facilities (even if you want a secondary school situated in another authority) receive a first point of contact answer to their service The closing date for applications is 20 October 2006 enquiry. Should they need further information they will swiftly be LATE APPLICATIONS MAY NOT BE INCLUDED IN THE INITIAL ALLOCATION aims to save put through to the relevant department. PROCESS FOR SCHOOL PLACES. The centre is also part of the Shared Customer Service Centre Partnership. are now available If you do not receive information about primary or secondary admissions for September 2007 during early public cash he partnership involves six district authorities - September 2006, you must urgently contact the Ribble Valley, Chorley, Burnley, Rossendale, AS one of the largest councils in primary school which you are interested (or which Pendle and Hyndburn and we are working the country, many county coun- your child is attending) LANCASHIRE County Council is together to enable the public to phone customer cil meetings and conferences reviewing all its office accommodation Tservice centres in any of the districts and receive informa- need to take place during an at the moment with the aim of cutting tion on county and district services. You may also contact The next initiative is face-to-face and will see a series of average week. your local Education Office: costs. Gateways to council services available throughout Suitable conference and training facil- With staff presently based in scores of different Lancashire where people will be able to gain access to the ities, such as The Red Rose Hub in locations across the county, the recently opened Primary authority’s services. Preston and Woodlands in Chorley, are North Lancashire...... 01524 581112 Red Rose Hub is a golden opportunity to relocate therefore important tools for conducting staff to better premises and save money at the Already sites at Accrington library and Rawtenstall South Lancashire...... 01772 532191 library have started pilots of this initiative. council business. same time. In older buildings, access to meeting East Lancashire...... 01254 220742 The Hub is already providing a new home for In the future information and resolution of enquiries from other public and voluntary organisations will be possi- rooms can be a problem for wheelchair Secondary employees who were recently based in ageing and users and people with reduced mobility. expensive-to-maintain buildings. ble through the Gateways. North Lancashire...... 01524 581163 The final initiative is utilising the authority’s website to Lancashire County Council believes reduced by allowing other groups and Lancashire, boosting the local economy Staff from a number of departments have made organisations to hire the space and South Lancashire...01772 531813/531819 enable people to get fast and convenient access to services that access should be available for all. and raising the county’s national profile. the move – saving Council Tax cash by ending Modern conference facilities ensure that access the facilities. The needs and desires of Lancashire’s East Lancashire...... 01254 220708 leases while generating a gain from sale of unused electronically. Access will be available 24 hours a day, seven days a everyone can attend. This benefits groups which don’t have residents can then be heard by a wider sites. their own facilities. week. A range of high-quality, audio-visual audience. Staff from Emergency Planning, Adult Services, External customers to The Red Rose County Councillor Doreen Pollitt, deputy leader, said: equipment ensures that everyone can Easily adaptable rooms and settings Children’s Services and Information Technology Hub provided 20 per cent of the centre’s are available for various meetings and “These initiatives set the scene for the future in showing participate in presentations and confer- now have staff at the Hub. ences. Creative presentations hold the income between September 2005 and different-sized groups. Lancashire County Council as an authority that can deliv- Employees previously working in one depart- attention of the audience and allow March 2006. In the same period, the er services that are cost-effective and delivered at a local ment but actually based in different buildings can meetings to be more effective. centre welcomed 25,500 visitors. For details about arranging conferences level. Education and Cultural Services now work more efficiently and enjoy a much With first-class conference facilities, In addition, it is also possible to contact: Lesley Ord on 01772 537 102 or “The days of one-size-fits-all services are well behind us improved working environment. the costs of running the building are attract regional and national events to Emily Swift on 01772 537103. in this day and age.” 6 June 2006 Providing • youth services • tourism www.lancashire.gov.uk LOOK LIVELY Activities for long hols AN unprecedented nine weeks of that children will never forget. excitement and fun is planned for About 35,000 summer guides are being sent home with pupils and a website and helplines the lucky children of Burnley and have been established to assist parents. Pendle. County Councillor Alan Whittaker, Lancashire Every child’s dream is coming true this summer County Council Cabinet member for Schools, said: when changes in the school year mean that pupils “The activities we have worked on with Burnley will enjoy an extra-long summer holiday. and Pendle councils mean that young people in Delight for children can mean hard times for the area will have more to do over the long sum- parents trying to keep them entertained – so Lancashire County Council and partner organisa- mer holidays. tions are teaming up to offer a massive range of “Even now we are still developing ideas. It is activities. already looking very exciting.” zCRAFTY: Madelaine Aspin (5) makes a birdbox helped by, left, Literally hundreds of activity sessions ranging Telephone information lines are 0800 1950137 dad Lee and voluntary ranger Ian Fairnie. from football to swimming, painting to trampolin- for primary school age and 0800 511111 for sec- ing, canoeing to scarecrow-making, and pond-dip- ondary age. The website is at: ping to crafts are planned to make this a summer www.Lancashire.gov.uk/schoolholidays2006 Plenty to do in the

Andrea Gray, head, country in summer Knuzden St Oswald’s A HOST of fun activities has been organised CE Primary School for country-lovers this month. Literature and rural beauty will be mixed at Wycoller Country park, near Colne, on Saturday 10 June when there will be a Bronte Country Discovery Walk led by Lancashire County Council’s Countryside Service. The best job Wycoller Hall is better known as Thrushcross Grange in Wuthering Heights – the hall which Heathcliff and Cathy dreamed of and which, to Heathcliff’s sorrow, later became home to Cathy and Edgar Linton. A ghost on a in the world horse reputedly gallops past on some dark nights. SUMMER in primary school is Cyclists will enjoy a four-hour mountain bike ride a really lovely time. Fine around the Clowbridge area – between Burnley and Rawtenstall – from 10am on Saturday 17 June. The weather provides opportunities route is off-road and helmets must be worn. for outdoor learning and a The aisled barn in Wycoller will be the venue for a chance to use the grounds for “world of wool” day between 1.30 to 4pm on Sunday 18 all aspects of the curriculum in June. Activities will include demonstrations of wool spin- ning, sheep shearing, walking-stick craftsmanship and a much more creative way. associated arts and crafts. In winter, the field is too icy or too Other activities – all organised by the county council’s wet. It’s blowing a gale in the play- Countryside Service – include a 50-mile 21 June cycle ride ground and the wind whips round on the Mary Towneley Loop between Rawtenstall and your legs. In summer, the breeze is Burnley, a Clowbridge orienteering cycle ride on 24 June light and the field is full of daisies. and a “flower power” day on 25 June at Scorton picnic site. Perfect. Telephone 01995 640557 for further details of any This term we have been experi- events. menting with creative ways of helping our children learn. Trying to make school a little out of the ordinary to inspire and fuel our children’s imagi- Your chance to give nations. Our school is part of the Creative DRUMMER Jotinder Singh with Bob Wilkinson, Lancashire County Council chairman until May, both front, with Partnerships’ East Lancashire z councillors a hot time Deepak Singh and Monica Rai. Programme enabling us to invite actors, musicians, poets, dancers, MEMBERS of the sculptors - you name it - into school to public will get the work with pupils towards an educa- Sikhs on chance to grill tional objective. decision-makers We also have the opportunity to net- work with other schools on different mission to when the county projects and receive funding to help us council’s Cabinet to do this. Question Time We are right at the beginning of this rolls into Burnley journey in creativity and have under- explain taken one project with Creative and Hyndburn. Partnerships so far. THE historic ties between The question-and- This involved turning our school Britain and Sikhs were answer open forums into “other worlds”. Each classroom move around the coun- demonstrated when the ty so that people every- was transformed into a different place. county’s Sikhs held anniver- We had a storyteller inside a tent, where can put council- complete with campfire and darkness. sary celebrations. lors on the spot. We had a cloud room where chil- Lancashire’s Sikhs, mainly living The Burnley evening dren were able to discuss their dreams in Preston, took the opportunity to will start at 7.15pm on and hang them on a dream tree. A launch a series of exhibitions detail- Tuesday 13 June in the mime artist “lost her baby” and the ing their role in the two world wars, George Bray suite at Turf Moor. County children were engaged to help her find Anglo-Sikh heritage, modern-day zCHILDREN and headteacher Karen Cartwright (left) and teacher Carol Knowles sit where the new class- Bhangra music and their religious councillors include it without speaking. Definitely a chal- room and hall will be built. lenge for some! faith. Hazel Harding, Anne We recently started to do five min- The culture week was organised Brown, Marcus utes of aerobics each morning to ener- by Preston Sikh Cultural Society, Johnstone, Tony Martin gise children, and five minutes ER celebrating its 20th year, and mem- and Alan Whittaker. (Exercises for Relaxation) in the after- bers of Preston’s Guru Nanak Schools share £22.4m The Sparth House noon, to prepare them for learning Cultural and Recreation Centre. Hotel in Clayton le after a busy lunchtime playing foot- Not many people realise that the They are also putting a money we have received from Moors is the venue in British Army has recruited Sikhs for STAFF and pupils at ball. The children love it (so do staff!). further £60,000 of their own the county council and have Hyndburn when county 150 years. More than 83,000 Sikhs Burscough Bridge St I have the best job because I can money towards the scheme been working hard to raise councillors will include choose a different class each day to have been killed fighting with the John’s CE Primary which headteacher Karen Hazel Harding, Doreen British. the ‘match funding’ we need- join in with. It’s wonderful to see School are celebrating Cartwright says is much ed to make the project a suc- Pollitt, Jean Battle, happy, smiling faces in the morning More recently the worldwide needed. Tony Martin and Alan growth of Bhangra music has after receiving vital cess.” and shouts of “See you tomorrow!” at She said: “At the moment Whittaker. Starting brought Sikh culture to a wider cash to help build new Vision reported last month half past three. This is what makes time is 7.15pm on audience. facilities. we are teaching some chil- on the funds allocated to my job the best in the world. dren in a room in the local schools around the county Wednesday 28 June. I think I’ll come back tomorrow too! Performers at the celebrations The school is set to build a parish hall. Although the through the council’s Capital Further information To find out more about Creative included Bhangra band Apna brand new hall and create a Sangeet, Bhangra dancers Nachda new classroom after receiving room itself is OK we really Strategy. We will be telling on Question Time can Partnerships East Lancashire look at want all the school facilities be seen at: www.lan- www.creative-partnerships.com Sansar, Dhol (drum) group the PR £688,212 through the county you more about some of the Dholies and a martial art display by council’s 2006-2008 moderni- together in one place. exciting projects in the com- cashire.gov.uk/corporate/ca Gatka. sation programme. ”We are delighted with the ing months. binetquestiontime

Shortage of space means this month’s letters will be held to the July edition. Communications Group, County Hall, Preston PR1 8XJ. You’re Telling Us! All letters should be addressed to: You’re telling Us, Vision, Corporate Or email to: [email protected] www.lancashire.gov.uk Providing • information centres • hotlines June 2006 7

Lancashire Local for: Lancashire Local for: waste recycling lollipop patrols LCDL Responsibility for location of recycling centres. Power to run the school crossing patrol service. update Lancashire County Developments Ltd The County Council’s economic development department

Lancashire Local for: Local safety schemes zACCIDENT blackspot - but safety hopes are rising at the fatal junction. THERE was cross-party agree- roundabout at Britannia crossroads. ment that something had to be Work is expected to start later this year. zPictured, above, at the crossroads done after a number of acci- are, from left, County Councillor dents at an Oswaldtwistle Doreen Pollitt, Lancashire County blackspot. Council deputy leader, Hyndburn MP Members of Lancashire Local Greg Pope and County Councillor (Hyndburn) voted to build a £700,000 Dorothy Westell.

Local deals Gateway 2 Rosebud - Making Learning Fun – Gateway 2 yield swift Flexible Finance For Cyber-culture has come to Rossendale, thanks to Rosebud, Lancashire’s unique source of finance for Lancashire Business growing businesses.

The Rosebud scheme, offered by Lancashire County Newly established Gateway 2 has opened its doors at Developments Ltd, the County Council’s economic 16 Bury Road, Rawtenstall offering an Internet Gaming advance development department, allows new and existing and Learning centre. Parent company Cybergames.org companies in Lancashire access to loan and equity has been set up with a special mission – to integrate A NEW form of local govern- tion’ – this is real power and real money.” ICT, entertainment and education, giving access for all ment is now in operation to Lancashire Locals now work right across funding at competitive rates and is designed to encourage the county. to the fascinating world of computers and cyber space. hand control and influence of new business set up and expansion in the county. In addition to the “delegated decision- The company, which has been set up on a not-for-profit many local services down to making” in spending outlined above, the 12 districts of Lancashire. Lancashire Local members from county Recent recruits to the growing list of companies basis, also offers mobile ICT training. Operating on a cross-party basis, the council and district council will be able to helped by Rosebud include: county’s 12 Lancashire Locals have author- “shape and influence” policies such as safe- The Chair and Vice Chair of LCDL, County ity to spend part of Lancashire County ty cameras, public transport provision, pro- Councillors Niki Penney and Hazel Harding stepped Council’s £600m annual budget in areas posed sites for waste facilities and aspects of such as car parking, social services and into this exciting new world when they visited the bus shelters, 20mph adult education. premises and met the people behind this exciting zones, pedestrian cross- Case studies Equal numbers of ings, “lollipop” staff, representatives from development. Sara Jayne Pelling and Sandra special maintenance of „Lancashire Local members in the district council and Harrison bring a wealth of knowledge and training streetlights and local South Ribble were concerned that county council serve on skills to the business, but more importantly really each Lancashire Local safety schemes on roads. very young children were not using believe in the benefits they can bring to local people. Library and museum libraries enough. Closer links are - so the majority party opening hours and loca- now in place between nurseries and at county council level tion of recycling centres libraries. may or may not be the County Councillor Harding said: are also now devolved majority party at local Works With Water Nutraceuticals Ltd to committees formed „Revised parking restrictions were level. introduced in Wolverton, West in the Ribble Valley. “Gateway 2 is a unique way of delivering education in of county councillors County Councillor a fun way. and district councillors Lancashire, after Lancashire Local Bernard Whittle, a across the county. members heard of parking difficulties. Conservative member Based in Grindleton, this exciting new company is County Councillor „Staff from the county council, of Lancashire Local working in partnership with others to launch a special “Computer games are the ideal way of engaging with Hazel Harding, county South Ribble Council, the NHS and (Fylde) where the range of fortified and functional waters that are bottled in young people, but Gateway 2 is bringing in people of council leader, said: other agencies have teamed up Labour Party has no all ages to take part in the play - learn experience. I “Much of this is unique through Lancashire Local (South elected members in the controlled conditions to ensure they are preservative free. nationally. Ribble) to ensure that services for area, said: “We have to am delighted to see this company basing itself in “It will put locally older people are actually what older deliver. The range of water available covers three key health Rawtenstall and I am sure it will be a huge success, elected members in people want. “We are asking a dis- benefits – fibre enrichment, prebiotic that enhance bringing benefits to many local people.” charge of decisions in „Plans for a waste transfer station in trict council represen- their area – no matter Stacksteads, Rossendale, were tative to be vice-chair of friendly bacteria and improved and increased calcium what party they are dropped after Lancashire Local each Lancashire Local absorption. As a social enterprise company Gateway 2 has also members of or which (Rossendale) expressed concerns precisely so we are seen benefited from LCDL’s Grants For Growth scheme council they represent. about traffic levels. to be transparent and The WWW (Works With Water) products are the first which offers grants up to £6000 to help move people “No-one will be able accountable. to claim that decisions are being made by “For me, the Lancashire Local on Fylde in the UK to carry the Beneo symbol, recognised into or towards work. people who are not familiar with the area. will bring together the aspirations of local across Europe as a sign of quality. “This is a genuine attempt to share real people as expressed by Fylde Council and power. It is about more than mere ‘consulta- the county council.” For a free Rosebud or Grants for Growth Directors Julie Birch and Bob Davey are planning to information pack contact LCDL on 01772 make these beneficial drinks available through major 551888. supermarkets.

Lancashire County Lancashire Local for: Lancashire Local for: Lancashire Local for: Developments Ltd. Bus shelters Streetlights Museums

Real power for passengers. Streetlight special maintenance. Power over opening hours. 8 June 2006 Providing • food safety • welfare advice www.lancashire.gov.uk

Bake Basicsto Dinner ladies are dishing up top treats.

Visitors to school kitchens across the county are being met When the courses with bustling activity as catering staff prepare fresh delights for have finished, pupils. Training Officers continue “Home cooking” is back on the menu as catering staff in Lancashire to offer support and advice to bring back the fondly-remembered staff. traditional skills associated with our Whilst it’s important that the grandparents. Pre-packed skills and knowledge are put into Pre-packaged foods are on the way out, action following training, school catering staff usually replaced instead with freshly prepared need little encouragement. lunches, “homemade” soup with a crusty lunches Roger Eakhurst, assistant director of Lancashire roll and plenty of fruit and vegetables to are on the County Commercial Services (LCCS) - the county’s provide a balanced diet. way ... school meals service - explained: Skills that used to be passed from generation“ out “Our staff are delighted to return to cooking the food to generation are being brought back, in a bid themselves. They’re all passionate about their work and to encourage pupils to swap crisps for carrots want to make the best possible meals for the pupils" and fizzy drinks for fruit drinks. “Although the skills have never totally disappeared from our Training sessions are also helping staff update the skills they need kitchens, we’re providing updated advice and even introducing new to have to make food look and taste more appealing. They are technology to help our teams.” also being taught how to use the new blenders which are used to "Our customers have been really supportive and have seen the produce fresh soups. benefits of moving back to basics and we look forward to rolling out Despite often having many years experience in school kitchens, this more” training programmes in the new academic year" cooking revolution has been widely welcomed by catering staff eager For more information about LCCS and school meals visit to have a more “hands on” approach. http://www.servinglancashire.org.uk or contact your local school.

Janette Mason Training and development manager, LCCS

want to use our training sessions to get feed completed a Health and Nutrition course and back from the front line staff. achieved their Advanced Food Hygiene I’m here to help deliver the new school meal Diplomas. Brenda has also just completed the standards and training is a major part of my role. Team Leadership Course, that I organised in I've worked for the county council for 30 years partnership with Edge Hill College, near and my heart has always been with training, it’s Ormskirk. a passion of mine. The best advice I offer to our own staff and I have to develop material for our own training would offer to any aspiring cooks and chefs is courses including presentations, handouts and “try to be creative”. lesson plans. From time to time, I also organise Think about presentation, colour, variety, and formal training through external bodies. flavour. Most of all, enjoy your job! I’ve been involved in training for most of my When I was at school, I remember sitting at very A typical day for me involves meeting up career. I was a part time lecturer at a college for long tables and enjoying Butter Pie and red with the Training Officers, who are always busy 12 years, and now I’m keen to see that all our cabbage, which I am pleased to say is still preparing for training sessions and discussing staff have the skills that they will need in the featured on our menus and enjoyed by pupils ways to improve our work. future. today. I have a lot of regular contact with schools, local It’s wonderful to see our staff members become We find it frustrating that our service is so highly colleges, the Healthy Schools team and of motivated to develop themselves even further regulated and has to compete with packed course operations staff. and “catch the learning bug”. lunches - an option that is not usually regulated. We have to change our menus according to Brenda and Amanda, two of our staff members, However, by working closely with staff, we can people’s tastes and appeal in new ways whilst have enrolled on their NVQ Level 2 in Food still find some very creative and exciting ways to keeping good nutrition in mind. Preparation and Cooking. They’ve also excite our hungry customers! We want to inspire our staff to encourage and persuade children to try new dishes. We also Primary school lunches remain excellent value at around £1.65 per day

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

Produced by Corporate Communications Group, Lancashire County Council (tel 01772 531095/533536). Printed by Morton’s Print Ltd.