east durham 16pp:issue 24 24/1/07 11:29 Page 1

informnorth magazine special feature East Durham turning the tide

The North-East has never been afraid to embrace change - after all, we were at the forefront of the first industrial revolution - but it has also managed to retain strong core values such as hard work, a willingness to cooperate and pride in the region and its achievements and nowhere more so than in East Durham as informnorth discovers...

LSP - A Partnership for Change

ast Durham Local Strategic Partnership is an organisation comprising of community stakeholders Efrom the public, voluntary, community and private sectors. Its role is to work out what the community wants and needs, where it is needed most and to develop a Local Neighbourhood Renewal Strategy and Community Plan to achieve these aims. The Partnership’s overall vision is that by 2010 everyone will have worked together to create a sustainable future for East Durham resulting in a thriving The opportunity ahead is one that economy, an improved environment, a strong learning represents a positive bright future culture and safe, healthy communities. for East Durham. A lot of work has Formed in March 2001, East Durham LSP is committed to finding better ways of working to benefit all those who “already been done and much of the live, learn, work in and visit the District by bringing together partnership work has been put in different initiatives and services that support rather than place that will really enable the area contradict each other. Just like all the other LSPs throughout the country, East Durham LSP is expected to to move forward at a pace set targets for how things will change over time in its most Alan Napier, LSP Chair disadvantaged neighbourhoods, especially in terms of reducing unemployment and crime and improving skills, ” health, housing and the physical environment. east durham 16pp:issue 24 24/1/07 11:29 Page 2

informnorth magazine special feature east durham local strategic partnership New Path Groundwork in East Durham East Durham Community Transport The Youth Workers Training Programme provided by service providers. The Set for Groundwork East Durham has been a resounding success capacity for these to date. Supported by Neighbourhood Renewal Fund, organisations to deliver European Social Fund and the Northern Rock Foundation it youth services is enhanced the Future was created in response to the need for more qualified whilst providing work youth workers in the District of Easington. experience and a he successful Neighbourhood Ten participants have already achieved the Level 2 supportive environment Management Pathfinder Scheme qualification, with eight submitted and awaiting for participants to progress T(NMP), launched in Horden and their youth work confirmation, and ongoing evaluations show that five years ago, is now qualifications. their lives have certainly been changed for the better. about to hit North . Participants receive the Not only have participants gained valuable experience and In April last year approval was given by minimum wage for an nationally recognised qualifications, they have also attained Government Office North East (GONE) to average 30hrs per week East Durham Community Transport Prices a host of other certificates including: minimum standards in develop the Neighbourhood Management and are subject to the (EDCT) was formed as a charity in Prices for both vehicle hire and training youth work; four-day appointed person first aid; conflict initiative in the target areas of Acre Rigg, normal terms and 1989 to meet the growing needs are very competitive, and subsidies are management; food hygiene and risk assessments. Eden Hill, and parts of the Passfield and conditions, policies of local groups, who were finding available to sporting and not for profit Opportunities for different levels of qualification are also Dene House areas of the town. and procedures of all Groundwork East Durham staff. They it difficult to secure affordable and groups. provided to reflect participant ability and the different The recently formed Neighbourhood also follow an application, interview, enrolment, and accessible travel on a local level. Advertising Space demands presented by employers. induction process, followed by regular reviews. Barriers to Programmes Team (NPT), formerly the Through capital & revenue funding The EDCT fleet travels on local roads Clifford Remmer, a Level 3 Trainee, has recently secured gaining further employment are actively addressed with the Neighbourhood Management Pathfinder secured from various grant-making throughout , 365 days further employment with his placement provider, intention that all participants will leave the programme with Team, aims to improve the quality of life trusts and statutory agencies, the per year. In 2007, the fleet will cover School of Technology, as a Learning Support Officer. “The the qualifications, experience, and most importantly, the for residents in the target areas. organisation has proven to be highly 100,000 miles. experience I have gained from the placement and the confidence to gain further sustainable employment. The expansion comes after the project adaptable and a continued success. Private companies can take advantage training courses has given me the confidence to make The Key Objectives: brought huge positive changes in Horden EDCT provides low-cost, accessible of this exposure and advertise on the something more of my life,” remarked Clifford. • To deliver a unique bespoke youth workers training livery of vehicles within the EDCT fleet, and Easington Colliery. The scheme and employment programme transport and training services for the To date, the service has provided 31 local people with providing inexpensive advertising and helped launch the district’s first street benefit of local groups, projects and a six month, fixed term contract of employment and the • To recruit participants onto the programme who are aids local community giving. wardens, brought in police community long term unemployed and face multiple barriers to communities within East Durham. opportunity of achieving a level 2 or level 3 NVQ Success and the future support officers to patrol the streets, and Hire Services equivalent qualification in Youth & Community Work. engaging with the labour market The 32,332 passengers carried in 2006 launched a scheme that has wiped out 95 Vehicles from their 6-strong fleet of Groundwork East Durham employs the participants and was an increase of 35% from 21,016 per cent of graffiti in the two villages. • To enhance the qualifications of participants, 16-seater minibuses can be hired helps place these individuals with local partnering youth passengers in 2005 using the same The NMP in Horden and Easington particularly concentrating on achieving a Level 3 with a driver or on a self-drive basis. number of vehicles. Colliery continues to be a thriving and qualification Both electric and manually operated This is due in no small way to an NRF innovative partnership that invites the local • To raise awareness locally and nationally regarding wheelchairs and similar mobility aids (Neighbourhood Renewal Fund) award community to play a key role in its delivery. the need for suitably qualified and experienced people can be safely carried on 3 of the buses. enabling EDCT to engage the services The local community work closely with when working with young people. All vehicles undergo 6 weekly safety of a Fleet Administrator and 2 full-time many service providers such as the Police, Liam Weatherill, EDC T manager inspections (MOT’s) as well as daily drivers. PCT and Fire Brigade to bring about To find out more about Groundwork East Durham and the maintenance checks by trained EDCT 2007 promises to be even more successful improved service delivery. work we undertake and support please visit www.groundworks-eastdurham.org.uk or call 0191 527 3333. staff. for EDCT with a move to larger premises “We provide minibuses, It is hoped that the continued success If a driver is hired as part of the service, and a change of legal status from a driver training and can provide gained by the Horden and Easington clients can be confident in knowing that charity to a Limited Company. PCV drivers for your vehicles” Colliery Pathfinder will be repeated in the which pre-empted the growing trend for environmental all EDCT drivers are CRB (Criminal EDCT provide driver services for target areas of North Peterlee. Partnership issues and collects and recycles both household and office items. These are then refurbished to meet exacting quality Record) checked and hold current Council for the Blitz Anyone interested in finding out more pays off for standards before being made available to local residents MiDAS (Minibus Driver Awareness Bus, Mobile Skateboard Park, Sports information can contact either Rob and businesses, who can access the service to purchase low Scheme) certificates. Development and also operate a number Chapman or Michael Wilkes on cost office furniture and equipment. Training Provision long term contracts with other agencies. (0191) 5870752. East Durham From this site Crate also plays host to a new Enterprise and MiDAS and Passenger Assistant training EDCT will be searching for new business Training Centre where they offer any residents who may be ast Durham Partnership was established in 1989 is delivered in-house or on-site. Both and new contracts to ensure continued unemployed within the Easington area access to free, to help support family learning, community enterprise, qualifications are nationally recognised. and lasting success. accredited training and work experience placements in job creation, work placements and a wide range of E Enterprise, Retail, Customer Care, Computers, Literacy and For more help or information educational and health related programmes. Numeracy. Eligible participants may also receive a weekly regarding EDCT please call: The Partnership is a registered charity and umbrella training allowance, call 0191 5183 691 for details. “Our aim is to provide affordable, high quality organisation that encompasses the local voluntary sector and easily accessible transport services for the 0191 5184 321 helping to improve the quality of life of local residents which For further information on East benefit of our partners and the continually www.eastdurhamcommunitytransport.co.uk had been affected by the downturn in manufacturing and Durham Partnership please call: Fax: 0191 5182 633 the collapse of the mining industry. 0191 586 8493 or CRATE then expanding membership.” [email protected] Most recently, the Partnership started a social enterprise please telephone: 0191 518 4394. [email protected] called CRATE on the Seaview Industrial Estate, Horden, Liam Weatherill, Manager 2 informnorth informnorth 3 east durham 16pp:issue 24 24/1/07 11:30 Page 4

east durham local strategic partnership informnorth magazine special feature

shop improvement grant of up to East Durham Business Infrastructure - • Protection of the natural environment. £10,000. Existing companies within the The lead partners involved in this • Street cleaning, litter abatement, district will benefit from this service service improvement are East Durham abandoned vehicles and arson improvement, as well as new businesses, Business Service, District of Easington and initiatives making the district cleaner. the local population and the local Durham County Council. The aim is to The Learning Culture economy. For more information about help improve and develop the business Improving the learning culture within the the Business Service and the grants and infrastructure of the district to benefit district is key to the LSP through the support on offer to businesses in East existing businesses, attract new Learning and Skills Group. Durham visit: www.edbs.co.uk or email businesses and to enhance the overall Key improvements made so far include: [email protected] or telephone environmental quality of business areas • Support for parents and 0-12 year 0191 586 3366. Alan Napier, LSP Chair, for employers and employees through olds through Sure Start and On Track A Quality Learning and Business producing an Industrial Re-use Strategy. programmes. Environment The Local Environment • Engaging people in learning through Novus Business Centre is a prestigious, Improving the environment is a key issue sport and leisure. new, £2.5m development for the district for the LSP and the main groups taking established as part of the Government’s • Providing learning opportunities in the that provides new, high quality office this forward are the Environment Neighbourhood Renewal Initiative, which workplace and supporting businesses. space to assist new start businesses and Implementation Group and the Action for aims to improve the quality of life in the existing businesses in the district. Housing and Communities Implementation • Aim High Centres - to enable local area by improving services in 6 key areas The Centre has recently welcomed Group. people to access information, advice of Health, Housing, Environment, Lifelong and guidance about education, skills, Training Assessment & Consultancy Key Environment Improvements include: Learning, Community Safety and training and career opportunities. Services (TACS) as its first tenant through • The award winning £10million Economic Development. the doors. Sarah Slaven, EDBS Manager millennium project ‘Turning the Tide’ • The six secondary schools attainment The Network works quite simply because said, “Novus Business Centre was built to which has cleaned up the East Durham at GCSE level has been twice the rate people from community groups, faith FOUR THEMESFOR SUCCESS provide businesses like TACS with high coast. of the national average since 1997. groups, voluntary organisations and • Free internet access and informal charities want to work together to build hether it’s tackling existing barriers to Membership includes East Durham and Houghall As a social enterprise the project is collaborating with quality office accommodation in the heart • The remodelled promenade at Seaham of the Peterlee business community. learning programmes at all libraries. a better future for East Durham. development, building better links between Community College, Primary Care Trust, Jobcentre Plus, other private sector partners to generate income from Harbour. Novus Business Centre provides a much The Community Some of the improvements made so far businesses or creating increased awareness, the East Durham Partnership, Community Empowerment the sale of reusable furniture, clothing and bric-a-brac. • Six former colliery sites landscaped W needed resource of small office units Part of the work of the LSP via the include: LSP’s role is to seek a tailor-made solution and improve Network, East Durham Business Service, Business Link The income is used to create further employment and and brought back into use. ideally suited for start up and small Community Strategy is to improve issues • Making the community safer through the quality of life for everyone in East Durham. County Durham, District of Easington Council, expand the business. The project is not for profit and • The attraction of housing investment businesses located in the District of relating to the community. The main LSP Street Wardens in the district. Groundwork East Durham and the Acumen operates as a charity for the benefit of the residents into communities at , Vane A commissioning approach to ensure funding is Easington.” The offices range in size from Implementation Groups that look at this • Making homes safe, secure and warm. channelled to those with the highest priority. Members Development Trust. of the District of Easington. Tempest, Parkside, Thornley, Easington 85-961 sq ft and are offered on an "easy area are the Community Safety • Improving the health of residents Within this theme three priorities were identified, Building Businesses: Advice & Support Village and Colliery. of the LSP decided on four broad themes based on the in-easy out" basis. As well as offices, the Partnership and the Health through health improvement schemes, namely: tackling barriers to employment; building Within this LSP priority East Durham Business Service • Support for failing housing markets in views of local people gathered through consultations Centre has conference and meeting Improvement Group. including smoking cessation, healthy areas suffering from lack of demand. undertaken over a two-year period, namely: economy, businesses; and a quality learning and business (EDBS) provides tailored support for a variety of facilities that are equipped with the latest The involvement of the Community eating and the proposed establishment environment, communities and learning culture. environment. So far projects have been developed, businesses, from new starts to helping develop skills multi media facilities available for hire. • A new sewage treatment works in Empowerment Network is also crucial as of a Healthy Living Centre in Easington Economic Infrastructure approved and are currently being implemented to within the workforce and includes: Marketing and Promotion of the Dawdon and Horden to improve sea local people are involved in decision Colliery. meet these priorities including: • Business Advice to Retailers water quality. The Economy Group is responsible for delivering one of District - This projects aims to market making via the Community Network. The Each of these key themes is crucial to the the main themes within the Community Strategy by Tackling Barriers to Employment: Positive Pathways • Support for New Start Businesses and promote East Durham as an • Improved local community shop fronts. East Durham Community Network exists continuing success and development of East increasing Employment and Enterprise. The Group meets This project provides support for people not currently • Support for Businesses to Survive and Grow excellent inward investment location and • Redevelopment of Peterlee town to enable the community and voluntary Durham and as such they are constantly at least every quarter to monitor Neighbourhood Renewal engaged in active work to enter the labour market and •Support for Workforce Development promote the business services available in centre. sectors to be fully involved in the evaluated and updated. If you would like to find out more then please contact us direct on Fund (NRF) projects, and to discuss general initiatives it has helped establish a social enterprise, Greenworks The funding available covers all sectors of business at all order to support and develop the local • Smoke control areas covering 88% of decision-making processes, which affect 0191 5270501 or E-mail: and issues affecting East Durham’s economy. East Durham, part of the CRATE initiative. stages of their life, from a start up grant of £500 to a economy. the district to improve air quality. local communities. The Network was [email protected]

Open Invitation to Join the Local Strategic Partnership directly with funding ensure that the LSPs priorities are backed by sound plausible interventions and that the Community Spirit s have been established right across England, also being encouraged to get involved in LSPs, they offer the NRF allocated is spent in accordance with the aims within the area is LSPespecially within the 88 most deprived local authority ideal forum for businesses to have direct contact with other upon which it is given. This is done through a variety Bloomin’ Marvellous areas, including Easington, and they receive additional funding major groups and organisations, shaping the future of their of monitoring and reporting process but is mainly Horden Parish Council, in partnership with local businesses, resources through the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund. local area. undertaken by regular contact with those delivering They were created to help tackle deep-seated, multi-faceted Make A Difference Through Becoming More Involved services to communities in East Durham. The team voluntary organisations and residents are celebrating after receiving problems which require a range of responses from different Membership of the LSP is open to any group who are from a feel that building strong relationships within the a Bronze Award alongside Awards of Merit for Cotsford Infants public, private, voluntary or community sector organisation. It bodies and are central to the delivery of the New Commitment School and Bloomin’ Marvellous - where everybody came together is important to join, as through membership you can influence partnership is key to better service delivery. to Neighbourhood Renewal - National Strategy Action Plan, for a full day of community activity - in Northumbria in Bloom the LSP and the Community Strategy. The team has many years experience of dealing with which was established by the Government to narrow the gap NRF Team Proves The Community Strategy brings local and regional priorities external funding programmes from many different 2006. between deprived neighbourhoods and the rest of the country. together in one document, and outlines the main actions needed Real Success sources which is critical in supporting and Samantha Shippen, Clerk to the Parish Council says, “Lots of activity Businesses are urged to get involved in LSPs because they are to turn the challenges the district faces into opportunities, and administering the LSPs Strategic Funding Group. that take’s place throughout the year within the local community the key consumers and contributors to local activities and services improve the quality of life for everyone in East Durham. This group appraises interventions commissioned by and Bloomin’ Marvellous acts as a real catalyst and focal point for and play a vital part in the health of local neighbourhoods. The For further information contact John Murphy or Jane Bellis at he Funding and Programmes team at the District local knowledge and expertise of local businesses is vital for of Easington oversee the LSP’s Neighbourhood the LSP and report to the LSP and other bodies on a the whole village to become more involved. Anybody who would Facing the Future: John Murphy and East Durham LSP on 0191 527 0501 ext 4756 or 4571. effective economic, social and environmental improvements. E-mail: [email protected] or TRenewal Fund allocation as well as a variety of regular basis and fulfil the District Council’s obligation like to get involved from the area or from further afield is really Jane Bellis, Local Strategic Partnership With public sector bodies and community and voluntary groups [email protected] funding from other sources. The team of five dealing to account for the spend to government. welcome and can contact me on 0191 518 0823.” 4 informnorth informnorth 5 east durham 16pp:issue 24 24/1/07 11:30 Page 6

informnorth magazine special feature informnorth magazine special feature Planning for the Future East Durham and Houghall Community College has exciting plans that will make a major MakingMaking aa contribution to local regeneration as well as create a brand new, £31m campus in Peterlee.

his state-of-the-art development to open September will mean a move to a single site 2008, will provide “the T campus, having previously operated best education facilities out of two centres for decades. Plans in the area”, and see DIFFERENCE include the disposal of the existing the new development building in the Town Centre, which is likely as having huge to see new development in its place and potential forbuilding on the creation of a complete new building recent success, which on the Howletch site adjacent to includes Ofsted figures Way. When building work is complete the showing the institution in the top ten current Howletch Centre, which has been percent of UK colleges. criticised for its unsightly appearance “I am delighted with the progress we and poor disabled access, would also are making with the new build, and the be demolished. support we are receiving from the LSC”, Early in 2006, college chiefs were in said College Principal Ian Prescott. discussions with the Learning and Skills “Seeing the actual drawings brought this Council (LSC) to spend £24m on the long-awaited dream one step closer to project, but after the LSC’s local capital reality. We are working hard on designs committee met in October, and the to provide the best education facilities in national capital committee discussed the area, while taking into account the the plans, college chiefs have been given needs of the local community and the approval to spend £3lm. The cash boost comments we have received during public will pay for rising construction costs and also the size of the new campus will be consultations. We have engaged the slightly increased to provide a spacious public in the process of creating this major and modern three-storey centre, with open landmark in the history of our district as areas containing trees and bushes.The it’s an exciting opportunity and the new current entrance and exits will remain in building will play a major role in the Neighbourhood Ability & Initiative use and the centre will have its own destiny of future generations.” Artist impression of the on-site parking. he Neighbourhood Initiatives Unit is support for victims of domestic violence and well as international performers. Running every people in the For further information please contact impressive new facilities a people based service that seeks to improving services to tackle substance misuse. autumn, this years festival featured brass, rock, district, whilst College officials reckon the campus, due Sasha O’Neill: 0191 518 8276. improve the quality of life of local folk and dance events amongst the 49 the Youth T Autumn 2006 saw the launch of a new Pride residents. Providing support to some of the performances which took place at venues Forum provides in Easington initiative which will deliver over most disadvantaged people in the district of across the district. The team also co-ordinate an opportunity £1.5m of activity to address the strong links for young Easington, the Unit delivers a wide range of a ‘Defining the Future’ programme which has between poor environmental standards i.e. opened up new opportunities for young people people to get Planning for Greater Success initiatives and services that aim to make directly involved levels of litter and graffiti, etc and public to experience taster sessions in music, art and communities safer, open up new leisure and in the work. perceptions relating to fear of crime. drama workshops. learning opportunities and address the Over the last e may not realise it at first but planning affects spaces that are vital resources for everyone and a good of Seaham and Peterlee, to capitalise on their assets and underlying causes of social exclusion. The Sports Development Team delivers The Social Inclusion Team was formed in two years Steve Arkley, all our lives. From the homes and areas that we quality of life. opportunities for regeneration within a framework that Based within the Community Services organised sessions to people of all ages 2005 to tackle the causes of social exclusion Forum members Head of service live in, through to the facilities and services we respects the environment. have been W Dolly Hannon, who is the Council’s Principle Planning Directorate, the unit is made up of five teams; across the district. Working closely with and to help drive forward initiatives that involved in use and the jobs we do, all are affected by planning Services Officer says, “It’s not all about boundary walls “We want to create thriving communities in Easington, Community Safety, Sports Development, Arts, schools and community groups the team run reduce exclusion in the district. Since its decisions. formation the team has supported the exchange visits to Lithuania, developed a Peer and conservatories, important as these are. Planning attractive to residents seeking a good quality of life, work Social Inclusion and Youth Strategy. after-school clubs, co-ordinate extensive Diaries DVD to share work based training holiday programmes offering hundreds of free development of the Easington Positive Government national planning policy and the Regional issues within the modern environment dictate that we and decent homes. We need to make sure that future The Community Safety Team co-ordinates the experiences, worked to improve healthy option places for young people to engage in sport Inclusion Partnership (EDPIP) which addresses Spatial Strategy for the North East set the scene for much take in to consideration a broader range of needs and development contributes to the creation of sustainable council’s involvement in the Easington Crime menus in schools and organised campaigns to and leisure activities and provide support to the needs of disabled young people. It has address bullying and mobile phone theft. of the District’s Development Framework, so options for do so with whilst working with other key partners and communities. Put simply, the idea is to ensure a better and Disorder Partnership. Based at Lee House also established a Baby Mondays group to the development of many local sporting clubs. development are often limited by policy at that higher stakeholders. We also need to take a longer viewpoint quality of life for everyone, now and in the future.” Dolly in Peterlee, the team is part of one of the support teenage parents and organised Steve Arkley, Head of Neighbourhood The team also monitor the councils Initiatives said: “The work of the Unit is level. and look at future trends and anticipated demands.” continues. biggest multi-agency partnerships in the ‘Learning’s Not For Me’ workshops to region, working alongside Police, Fire Service, partnership arrangements with Leisure encourage and enable people to re-enter very diverse and challenging. In an average day the teams could be National planning policy is set out in a whole series of The regional strategy considers how the wider economy The Easington Development Framework identifies a vision County Council and Primary Care Trust officers. Connection Ltd, the company runs the education and training provision in the involved in strategic operations to reduce documents, but an underlying principle does exist to of the North East can grow to its full potential, but also of how the District should develop in the future, explored The partnership has been highly successful district’s two leisure centres. district. crime, facilitating sports sessions and arts create more sustainable communities with homes, jobs defines how much employment land the District should through four themes relating to the social, economic, and and since its establishment in 1999, house The Arts Team aim to increase the range and The Youth Strategy Team was first established workshops, organising the activities of the and better opportunities for all. This is done whilst make provision for too, and sets a limit on the number of environmental needs of the district and defines what burglary in the district has more than halved. number of opportunities for people to engage in 2003 and only a year later a Youth Forum youth forum or delivering support services protecting and enhancing the natural and historic new houses that the District can plan for. It requires the needs to be achieved though development control Significant progress has also been made in in cultural activity. The district’s annual music was formed. Youth Strategy sets out aims and to some of the most disadvantaged people environment and conserving the countryside and open majority of new development to focus on the main towns policies. tackling anti-social behaviour, increasing festival attracts artist from all over the UK as objectives to improve services for young in the district.”

6 informnorth informnorth 7 east durham 16pp:issue 24 24/1/07 11:32 Page 8

easington district council neighbourhood initiatives unit informnorth magazine special feature EASINGTON LOCALS TO GET IN THE SWIM

pioneering project to get more people into swimming pools Swim is about getting more people active through aquatic activity and across Easington and improve the health of the district is set to get breaking down the barriers that prevent people from visiting their local Aunderway in 2007. pools,” he explained. “Swimming is the most popular participation sport in ‘Everyday Swim in Easington’ is part of a national pilot to break down the the country and can be enjoyed by people of all ages and at a variety of ast Durham Positive Inclusion Partnership’s barriers to swimming and get more people into their local pools as part of levels, which provides the flexibility needed for a project like this to work.” a healthier lifestyle. The project is jointly funded by Sport England and the (EDPIP) aim is to advance the ‘positive inclusion’ District Positive About Inclusion District of Easington and is one of eight ‘Everyday Swim’ initiatives that are “In Easington we’ll be looking at new and innovative ways of getting people Eof all disabled children, young people and their taking place right across the county. Joining up with existing projects and of all ages into their local pool and it won’t be just about swimming. We’ll families within all mainstream services and facilities working with partners to develop new initiatives, ‘Everyday Swim in be taking the time to find out exactly what kind of pool-based activities that in the Easington Local Authority area. Easington’ will focus on tackling obesity in young people but just as people in the region really want to do and will be looking at how we can importantly, aims to increase the level of activity in the district as a whole. make sure they get access to those sessions.” EDPIP provides health, education and training support for Paul Irwin - Senior Cultural disabled young people in the district while working to Duane Newton, Amateur Swimming Association (ASA) ‘Everyday Swim’ Everyday Swim is set to launch in early 2007, so keep an eye out for special improve the services provided by statutory and voluntary Development Officer Coordinator for Easington, is very excited about this new project: “Everyday sessions at your local pool. agencies. A group of disabled, young people, called the ‘Out of Shadows Group’, has been created to act as a ‘watchdog’ POSITIVE FUTURE FOR DISTRICT for EDPIP and their role is to influence existing provision ‘Positive Futures’ is a national, sports-based programme designed to reach disengaged schools in the district. We currently offer outdoor education, and to work with all leisure and out of school play young people living in areas of high deprivation. The programme targets young people aged ten swimming coaching, multi sports, as well as peer education providers. to nineteen with a specific emphasis on those ten to sixteen. in drug and alcohol awareness, sexual health and teen talk issues. To date we have had twenty-five young people pass In April 2006 the group held their Fun and Promotion ‘Positive Futures’ uses sport as a catalyst to encourage participants to make decisions for Day at Shotton Hall Conference Centre. The day was a themselves which improve their lifestyles. The programme aims to strike a balance between swimming certificates, seven gain outdoor awards in canoe educational workshops, focusing specifically upon drug and alcohol education, smoking cessation star level one, while over fifty have attended drug and huge success with 193 young people and 90 adults and anger management with practical sports sessions. alcohol workshops and a further thirty benefited from sexual attending. 20 organisations supported the day with health education. The programme is really there to help information stands and interactive workshops. Organisations the project works closely with, and who can refer onto the program every six young people get their lives back on track. The activities are months, include schools, youth offending teams, social services, community safety, police and designed to be fun and enjoyable, but underneath we are To find out more about EDPIP and its services contact Alison Maxine Glew, Positive Development days provide excellent council departments. trying to help each young person address serious risk factors Donahue direct on 0191 586 5708 or email: feedback for EDPIP users and members Maxine Glew, Positive Futures Co-ordinator, said: “‘Positive Futures’ supports four comprehensive to improve their quality of life.” Future Co-ordinator [email protected]

The Neighbourhood Initiatives Unit is based within the Community Services Directorate and is made up of five teams; Community Safety, Sports Development, Arts, Social Inclusion and Youth Strategy. Involving, engaging and working with as many people as possible right across the district is at the heart of everything that we do.

YOUTH STRATEGY PAYS OFF asington Youth Forum has been bringing together doctor’s surgery in East Durham. young people aged 11-16 years from throughout the • Production of 500 DVD’s made by, and for, local young EDistrict over the last three years. The Forum is unique people around the area of Modern Apprenticeships. in that the young people not only debate and present issues, • Commissioning of a professional feasibility study into an but they also have fund-raising and commissioning powers. ice rink. During the last three years the Youth Forum has surveyed over • A £1OOk plan to improve facilities for young people. District of Easington Youth Arts Programme 6,000 local, young people on issues covering Education & Training, Crime & Community Safety, Health and • A three-month Galaxy Radio campaign encouraging youth “Defining the Future” works with young people aged 8 - 25 a taste of many different art forms. The arts can provide a very Leisure/Environment. participation, followed up by a Galaxy Radio micro-site young to provide opportunities for participation in a wide range of art effective means of addressing important issues such as forms. The programme, which has been commissioned through diversity. A recent example is the work we have done with the Working in these thematic groups the young people, supported people’s survey. Youth Forum members by partner agencies, have delivered activities around many • Developed a citizenship toolkit for the EU in partnership with the Local Strategic Partnership, has already enabled many artist Jack Drum where we worked with 30 children for a full topical issues affecting the lives of young people in the District young people from Sunderland & seven other European cities. young people from the district to get involved in art workshops week to create a very lively and colourful production of the including: that they would otherwise not have had the opportunity to epic Hindu story of Gods and Monkey’s, “The Ramayana”. • Exchange visits with Lithuania & a visit to the Houses of enjoy. These workshops and activities have included DJ skills, The young people who took part had the chance to participate • Healthy cooking courses, set in schools, with a professional Parliament. drama groups, sculpture, photography and video design. Arts in drama, music, dancing, mask making and body art as part cook and dietician. • Production of youth Forum guide and a website. Officer, Dave Clarke said “ Defining the Future is all about of a great learning experience which gave a real insight into the • An anti-binge drinking television advert, screened in every • Established mobile skate park and cinema facilities Steve Clarke opening up opportunities for young people and giving them Hindu culture” 8 informnorth informnorth 9 east durham 16pp:issue 24 24/1/07 11:32 Page 10

easington district council neighbourhood initiatives unit informnorth magazine special feature

PRIDEPRIDE inin EASINGTONEASINGTON Acumen Community Trust enjoy great success in helping enterprising individuals in to business

behaviour. Much of the litter and dog fouling problems in the Supporting district are caused by the careless attitude of a minority of Young people, whilst many of those who commit crimes such as graffiti and criminal damage are unaware of the knock-on People effects their actions cause to other members of the community. Programme The second theme is Community Involvement. Pride in Easington will be led by the needs of local communities and ith 25% of all recorded crime attributable to 4% of there will be many opportunities for local people to get involved persistent offenders the need to address the causes through grant schemes, community champions and consultation Wof persistent offending is explicit. In 2005 the groups. The programme will also recognise the efforts of local Community Safety Partnership piloted an innovative ‘Supporting people with the introduction of a Community Award scheme. Young People Programme’ to work with 200 young people Pride in Easington Officers: Clare Hubbard, The final two themes involve the way the District Council and its identified as being at risk of being drawn into persistent partner agencies deliver services. Zonal working was introduced Michelle Morton and Helen Douglas by the Council last year to improve its street cleansing and criminality. environmental operations while Neighbourhood Policing will The idea of the Programme is to bring services together to ensure that the Council and Police are working together to ride in Easington is a major, new, four-year ensure that each young person is offered a package tailored to programme that seeks to improve the environment and improve the environment. Lastly comes enforcement. Pride is Pcelebrate the many positive aspects about life in the District. all about making a difference and improving the district for their individual needs. For example, if a young person has an everyone. interest in sport, ‘Positive Futures’ and ‘Youth Inclusion’ can The programme, co-ordinated by District of Easington Council For those people who continue to commit environmental crime offer structured involvement in various activities, or if they have in partnership with the Police and Groundwork Trust, recognises the message is simple: In Easington, the District Council and the strong links between low-level environmental crime, such as the Police will pursue a rigorous enforcement policy utilising all a drug problem then ‘Out There’ provides an education and graffiti and litter, and a high level of fear of crime. The crime rate in the district is below the regional and national average, of the new powers under the Neighbourhood and Environment support service, while ‘EmpowerU’ offers a mentoring service to yet surveys show that people’s perceptions of crime Act 2005. help young people break bad peer relationships and the cycle of do not reflect this. By tackling vandalism, fly tipping and Cllr George Patterson, Executive Member for Livability, behaviour that leads to criminality. Since the Programme started anti-social behaviour the aim is to improve neighbourhood commented: “This is an exciting initiative that will really make arrest rates have dropped by up to 60% and the majority of environments and make people feel better about their a difference to our local communities. The Council and our young people on the Programme feel that the risk factors that communities. partners are committed to delivering cleaner, safer communities Pride in Easington has four themes. The first is Educational and Pride in Easington will form a major part of our work over have led them into criminality have reduced as a result of their Work to make people more aware of the impact of their the coming years.” involvement. Regenerating Communities Through CCTV Add To Security Enterprise, Employment and Learning The Community Safety Partnership installed two new CCTV systems in January 2006 to add to security and 2006 PROVED TO BE YET ANOTHER WINNING YEAR FOR help reduce the ‘fear’ of crime. A fixed camera system has been installed covering ACUMEN DEVELOPMENT TRUST - AN EAST DURHAM BASED the main street area of Easington Colliery and a ORGANISATION THAT HAS GONE FROM BEING A START UP re-deployable system of 10 cameras is also now available to support enforcement work that tackles BUSINESS - TO ONE RECOGNISED AS BOTH INNOVATIVE AND A anti social behaviour. All of the cameras are LEADER IN ITS FIELD, WINNING THE ENTERPRISING NORTH EAST monitored from Peterlee Police Station by officers Community Safety Team: Caroline Gardener from the Police and Council’s joint anti-social ENGLAND TITLE IN THE PROCESS... behaviour unit. Kathryn Devine, and Kay Woodhall

cumen Development Trust is an East Easington across the North East and Bloomin’ Marvellous Landscapes and Durham based organisation with a are working with partners to ensure that Nursery which helped Horden gain a Areputation for outstanding work in people in Easington receive the best Bronze medal in the Northumbria in the field of employability and enterprise. possible support to find work, start Bloom competition in 2006. businesses or enjoy learning skills. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ANY FEATURED ARTICLES PLEASE CONTACT ONE OF THE FOLLOWING: We use a model of community engagement through fun activities and Acumen was the winner of the Learning learning backed up by one to one support and Skills Council Regional Award for Steve Arkley Sports Development from Skills for Life tutors, employment working in the community and was Tel: 0191 5270501 [email protected] advisers and business coaches working awarded the Enterprising North East [email protected] Arts closely with other partners in each area England title for their work in Horden [email protected] to support people in setting and achieving and Easington Colliery. Chief Executive Community Safety For further information please Social Inclusion their goals. Kate Welch was named as runner up in [email protected] contact us direct: [email protected] In 2006 we supported over 1000 people the woman social entrepreneur of the Pride in Easington into work, 250 into self-employment and year award. Telephone: 0191 518 8810 Youth Strategy Email: [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] engaged over 700 people into learning in Acumen runs three social enterprises, East Durham. We are spreading the good Wheels 4 Work, a transport training and Web: www.acumentrust.or.uk practice that has been developed in leasing company, the Greenleaf Café and 10 informnorth informnorth 11 east durham 16pp:issue 24 24/1/07 11:32 Page 12

east durham local strategic partnership informnorth magazine special feature

• Personal safety • Sources of finance Routeback to Work • Stress busting • Study Skills he Aim High Routeback pilot was introduced in 10,000 people on Incapa city Benefit (IB) and many of November 2005 in Easington - an area with one of them are prevented from returning to work as they have Did you know that: in a survey of young people who Tthe highest concentrations of Incapacity Benefit lost their confidence and don’t feel able to cope in a work had used Connexions, more than 95% were happy claimants in the region. The project tackles worklessness environment. This pilot is looking at ways to address with the help they received? by helping residents of the East Durham area who are in these issues and provide a health-based service which Connexions operates a small grants fund for groups receipt of Incapacity Benefit to manage their health so helps people to manage these fears,” says Cynthia. of young people? One group planned a residential that they are able to cope with the strains of work; and People can either refer themselves or be referred to the event with their youth club. subsequently find suitable employment. Through a service by their GP, nurse, counsellor or community programme of condition management, employment and adviser and are encouraged to become involved in Connexions has organised summer activities for some practical advice, the service aims to engage with people activities such as further education, training and Year 11 school leavers including going abseiling and currently claiming incapacity benefit in Easington and volunteering to help them regain their confidence surfing. help them back into work. This has the additional benefit and return to work. A group of young people have formed “Connecting of aiding local employers who have job opportunities to The project has attracted a full range of people on IB Making Great Connexions Young Voices”? This group has a direct say in what fill their vacancies. from both the young and old, male and female. To goes on in Connexions. Some of them took part in onnexions County Durham is a service for Personal Advisers based in local schools work closely Managed by County Durham Primary Care Trust and date the service has enrolled 170 people onto the recruiting and selecting Personal Advisers supported by Regional Development Agency One programme, with their length of time claiming benefits Cynthia Bartley, Aim High Routeback project every 13-19 year old in County Durham. Their with young people to help with their choices with Connexions Personal Advisers work in all secondary NorthEast as part of the Northern Way Initiative along ranging from two months to 27 years. Of those joining Personal Advisers are experts in helping young school subjects, and going into further education, manager, with Les Howard and Stephen James C employment or training. They also offer one to one schools, East Durham and Houghall Community with other key partners, the project is running for an 60 have started work, 29 have undertaken training people by giving personal support when needed and advice, guidance and personal support for example initial period of two years, up until November 2007, and two have started up in business. Two clients are a wide range of information on choices such as College and Byron College and are also available at with health or family problems. In the past they with a budget of £1.6m. in supported work with a further eight about to start. Murton Family Centre, Horden Youth Club, Haswell employment, education and training opportunities. have provided one to one support with: The project is community based with premises in Dawdon In October 2006 the Aim High Routeback pilot was Community Centre and the Robin Todd Centre. The organisation also offers extra support for those • Confidence building and Community Centre’s plus ten outreach showcased as a European example at a conference Connexions is at Ridgemount House in Peterlee aged 13-24 who have additional needs. One of the • Leaving care centres . Cynthia Bartley manages the scheme, with the organised by Health ClusterNET in Helsinki, Finland. main aims of Connexions in the District of Easington • Housing issues between 8:30 am and 5.00pm, Mondays to help of a multi-disciplinary team comprised of health The event brought together senior finnish government is to help young people get into or remain in Thursdays and 8:30- 4:30 on Fridays, There is also of topics including unemployment and incapacity to work. • Health issues care professionals on the front line, as well as ministers and 13 European countries that work together education, employment or training. • Alcohol and drug problems a part time centre in Caroline House, Seaham. employment advisors. This enables the team to quickly to improve the contribution that the health care sector It was a major achievement for the Easington project to identify specific health related obstacles that are holding makes to regional development. Delegates learnt about be invited to the event where so many policy leaders people back and help to break down these barriers by the objectives and progress of the service from project from across Europe were sharing experience and making Sandra Lovett and Tracy Ward - The Customer offering practical health guidance, advice and support manager Cynthia Bartley as part of a series of debates recommendations on best practice. We have been Jobcentreplus provide Engagement Team could be in contact with you soon, whilst encouraging people to take up activities such as and master classes on employability. recognised as innovative and contributed by discussing and as Sandra says, “ Think before you turn down further education, training or volunteering. Cynthia said: “A panel of key experts from the region our experience with others in the hope of tackling the your invitation to find out more about Pathways to “In the district of Easington alone there are more than engaged in discussion with European partners on a range issue on a wider level.” new Pathways to Work Work, this could be your chance to feel more positive about yourself and will give you access to huge range Sick of Being on The Sick? athways to Work is a Jobcentreplus programme A Customer Engagement team has been developed , of support and advice, you may not have realised Primary Care Trust Serves Community Needs Routeback Support Provides: aimed at supporting people with health existed through Jobcentreplus. • Employment advice, guidance working in partnership with the Local Authority and and support; Pconditions and disabilities claiming Incapacity Jobcentreplus and have been tasked with contacting • One to One Support; related benefits, and has already helped over 800 main sites located in each of the former Incapacity Benefit claimants in various ways to offer • Clinical Support & Pain Advice; people make a smooth and confident return to work, Primary Care Trusts areas, supported by • TENS Machines; them the chance to join the programme. This will headquarters based at John Snow House • Pillows / Mattresses; with a further 1000 customers undertaking training include a direct invite to a specially designed ‘Choices Sandra Lovett and Tracy Ward in Durham City. • Complementary Therapy; or using the Condition Management Programme • Get Active Courses; Open Day’ which offers people the chance to meet Lady Ann Calman is the chair of the PCT • Referral to Expert Patient Specially trained advisers are available in Jobcentres and talk to Pathways to Work Advisers, Condition and Yasmin Chaudhry was appointed as Programme; across County Durham , Sunderland District and South Management Programme NHS Practitioners, and to the Chief Executive. • Route Back to Work Course. Tyneside to give help and support and in particular, • Driving Lessons; also find out more about the local support available The PCT’s role will be to: give advice on the ‘Choices ‘ package. Lady Ann Calman, chair of PCT • Business Start-Up; • engage with local people to improve to help them improve their lifestyle. • Job Search; ‘Choices’ is a package of incentives and support, and Yasmin Chaudhry health and well-being, and reduce health ‘Choices Open Days’ have been successfully delivered • Better Off Calculation. including a £40 a week Return to Work credit and inequalities The programme gives practical help throughout other parts of the region with over 350 as well as guidance and support for access to the NHS Condition Management Programme. ounty Durham Primary Care Trust • ensure that patients have access to and customers having already received advice and support, the health related issues of people Jobcentreplus are delivering the programme in (PCT) was launched on 1 October choice of a range of high quality health claiming Incapacity benefit but wishing some of which have also moved onto the programme. services by commissioning services, within to return to work. partnership with the NHS and are also working very C2006 to serve a population Customers who have attended these events have of just under 500,000 people. The allocated resources To find out more about how closely with County and District council led projects to commented on the positive and pleasant experience organisation replaces the five previous • directly provide high quality responsive Aimhigh Routeback can help ensure that all Incapacity Benefit customers are aware you, contact Cynthia Bartley Primary Care Trusts that existed in Durham and efficient services where this gives best of the Pathways to Work programme and how to gain they have had and how informative and helpful the today on: 01429 821 564 and staff are currently based across five value. access to it. advisers have been.

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informnorth magazine special feature New Community MakingMaking aa DifferenceDifference inin EastEast DurhamDurham Development Trust If you are living in East Durham and thinking about starting up a new business then call 0191 518 8810 Pledges to be ‘Worthy’ Kevin Mangles - Music Promoter Michell Armstrong - Florist Commission and Companies House the potential benefits of establishing Age: 40 Age: 24 and its evolution involves the merger this Trust and we owe it to them and Based: Blackhall of two community institutions - East the Community at large to ensure that Based: Durham Community Network and we make an impact worthy of their Name of Business: BLEND Name of Business: Easington CVS. investment.” Type of Business: Music Flowers by Michell However, as newly-appointed Chief The new Trust will support individuals Promotion Executive, Malcolm Fallow, pointed and Community Groups in ways Type of Business: Florist Number of years trading: out, “The new institution will be so established by the Network and CVS Number of years trading: much more than the sum of the as well as gearing up for the In First Year! In First Year! previous two!” Government agenda which seeks to Contact: 07984 336 329 Contact: 0191 3770 278 He was also quick to applaud the engage Third Sector organisations in Email: www.bangntrax.co.uk far-sightedness of Easington LSP who the delivery of public services.` ground-breaking new conceived the approach to supporting the initiative: AVoluntary and Community “The LSP wingate childcare Sector has been established in East and the I was struggling with the financial side After a worrying few weeks trying to Durham, with the formation of a Neighbourhood amilies in Wingate and surrounding and cash flow when I sought help from secure the premises and the funding I brand new community based Trust. villages have come to expect Renewal Unit Acumen, I now have solid plan to take me was glad to have the support of Acumen East Durham Community deserve huge Fexcellence when meeting the needs forward and I have learnt to seek out usiness Coach. She really helped me believe Development Trust has already credit for of their babies and young children. been registered with the Charities recognising Anyone entering the recently completed support and not try and do everything it was possible, and now I have learnt to Wingate Children’s Centre cannot help myself”. trust my instincts” but be inspired by an environment that has been created to cherish children’s early experiences and foster aspirations. Architects, Burns and Co., worked closely with staff in the Nursery School and Ben Douthwaite - Plasterer Family Centre to design a space that is inspirational and practical. From the layout of the floor space to the design of individual logos, the attention to detail has made this Centre unique and special. BusinessShotton & Conference Hall Centre Here children can construct knowledge of Shotton Hall Banqueting • Smaller, fully equipped their world through encounters with natural and Conference Centre is syndicate rooms are also objects, light, shadows and even technology. Parents can examine their vision of owned and managed by available for hire - ideal Peterlee Town Council. for meetings, interviews, childhood and their role in supporting their children’s creative thinking and all round Conveniently situated just assessments/training days development. off the A19, with ample and secure car parking, • Fully licensed bars and an The Centre has a democratically devolved culture that enables children to connect Age: Ben Douthwaite we also provide: in-house catering service with their community through involvement of the whole family in management of as well as modem Based: Blackhall • Two elegantly appointed developments within the project. Although each partner within the building has a distinct points and portable audio suites are available. The role to contribute there exists an over-arching philosophy inspired by the Reggio Type of Business: Plastering visual equipment including Burdon and Brandling pre-schools in Northern Italy and the forest schools in Denmark. Staff from all areas of loop and PA systems Number of years trading: Suites, can accommodate the Centre have travelled widely, gaining knowledge and experiences that influence ideas up to 350 people and practice. Sharing this vision is an important thread that connects each area of the In First Year • A perfect setting for all Centre, ensuring consistency, quality and unity throughout. Contact: 07984 862 177 kinds of functions - from business seminars to Resident partners within the Centre are Wingate Nursery School, Wingate Community wedding receptions and Childcare, Wingate & Station Town Family Centre, Wingate Research and Training Base social events and Surestart County Durham. Additional services within the Centre are provided by the It's not as easy as you think starting your own business, there local Health Visitor team and Job Centre Plus. is a lot more to it, however after 10 years working on building Shotton Hall, , Peterlee, County Durham, SR8 2PH. Funding for the new build project was provided by East Durham LSP - Neighbourhood Tel: 0191 586 2491 Fax: 0191 586 0370 Email: [email protected] Renewal Fund, Gatsby Foundation, Surestart County Durham, County Durham Community sites for others it is definitely worth it. Project Development Fund and Nursery Support Grant.

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“East Durham 2010 - a great place for everyone” Designed and produced by informnorth creative services, telephone 0191 5866 010 or visit informnorth.com

For information on the east durham Local Strategic Partnership contact: John Murphy on 0191 527 0501 ext 4756. e-mail: [email protected] or contact: Jane Bellis on 0191 527 0501 ext 4571. e-mail: [email protected]