South Tyneside HELLO TOMORROW, CHANGE IS HAPPENING

04 South Shields 365 07 Improving services for older people 12 Our Guide to Christmas 24 Managing our budget 26 Council achieves national recognition 32 Big Local Jarrow needs you

November 2014

Partners: A year to remember Your Council is committed to improving the quality of life for all residents, creating new jobs and driving forward regeneration – in spite of a tough financial climate. 2014 was a year to remember with highlights including 18,000 people joining in the celebrations at the opening of award-winning Littlehaven Promenade and Seawall, millions of BBC viewers watching as Bents Park hosted The Great North Passion, the return of the refurbished Tyne Lifeboat and the signing of the City Deal with Sunderland which includes the building of an International Advanced Manufacturing Park - securing thousands of high-skilled jobs for the future. Our primary and secondary schools are now amongst the best in the country, the public health team won an award for their innovative programme Every Contact is a Health Improvement Contact and investment has continued to build new homes across the borough. We certainly won’t be losing momentum in 2015. Next Year will see the opening of Hebburn community hub with state- of-the-art facilities in a world-class building, plans for the Integrated Care Service Hub - a major part of the Council’s response to the borough’s ageing population and of course the start of the transformation of South Shields town centre. Work starts on the new Central Library and Digital Media Centre, improvements to Market Place and new car parking in the new year. With further funding reductions for 2015/16 this is your chance to have your say. Please take a few moments to complete the questionnaire within this newsletter and tell us the priorities that matter to you. I’d like to thank the wide range of organisations that contribute to this newsletter providing updates, news and events and I’d like to wish you all a fantastic South Tyneside Christmas with plenty to look forward to in the coming year.

Councillor Iain Malcolm Leader of the Council

02 www.southtyneside.info One in a million Sport and heritage marked the end of a magnificent programme of events over the summer in South Tyneside.

This year’s Great North Run was memorable for so many Heritage Open Days also returned in September with a reasons. Mo Farah won the men’s race – the first British male fantastic line-up of walks, talks and tours at 20 of the to win in 29 years, and Kenyan Mary Keitany stole the course borough’s venues and locations. Residents and visitors got record from Paula Radcliffe by completing the race in 65min to explore the rich architecture and culture on their doorstep 39sec, shaving just 1 second off the record. However the with free access to properties that are usually closed to the spotlight was on 51-year-old grandmother Tracey Cramond public or normally charge for admission. Some of venues who became the one millionth finisher. Tracey, a buyer for to open their doors this year were Bede’s World, St Hilda’s the NHS, was running to raise money for Butterwick Hospice Church, Westovian Theatre, Whitburn Windmill, The Customs in Stockton, said: “I’m just very proud that I could be the House, St Paul’s Church and Monastic Site, West Boldon Lodge millionth Great North Run, that I’m representing the 999,999 plus many more. who have gone before.” Maintaining and delivering a high quality, high profile The Great North Run is the first half marathon in the World to events programme puts South Tyneside on a national and reach its millionth finish and to mark this incredible milestone international stage attracting thousands of visitors and millions a series of art projects and exhibitions have been on display of pounds spend each year. across South Tyneside including Wavemaker and Mortal 8 at Haven Point, Great North Greats and Tyne Voyages. For more information about up and coming events please visit www.southtyneside.info/whatson www.southtyneside.info/whatson 03 Phase one gets the go-ahead

Development partners, Muse Developments, one of the country’s leading names in urban regeneration, and South Tyneside Council have now been given the green light to begin actual construction on phase one of £100million regeneration plans that will transform South Shields Town Centre.

The first phase includes the construction of a new Central Library and Digital Media Centre as well as improvements This visual is for demonstration purposes only and is subject to change to the Market Place and a new 40 space car park on vacant land at Harton Quays. “ The development of the new Central Library and Digital Media Centre will create a superb and unique facility for the town whilst the redevelopment of the Market Place will breathe new life into an important This visual is for demonstration purposes only and is subject to change South Shields landmark. This is just the first

This visual is for demonstration purposes phase, however, of the town’s exciting 365 only and is subject to change plan which will link up the town centre, the Foreshore and the Riverside areas.”

David Wells, Development Director at Muse Developments

04 www.southshields365.co.uk Phase one gets the go-ahead

What facilities will the new What is OpenZone? building include? Openzone is a high-tech ICT centre that delivers innovative and exciting ICT to • Library (central library re-housed) schools across South Tyneside. Moving • Exhibition space – a rolling into the new Central Library and Digital programme for regional and Media Centre will see the current offer national exhibitions extended to support up to 60 pupils at any one time providing them with world- • OpenZone class facilities including a flexible learning • Cafe space with access to ICT equipment, • Outdoor terrace a recording studio for video and radio production and an immersive space that • Rooftop restaurant helps with creative learning. • Performance spaces OpenZone provides pupils with the • Conference facilities opportunity to use ICT to enhance their • Community spaces learning experience, develop new ICT • Meeting rooms skills and have an opportunity to make • Computer stations their own computer games as part of the computing curriculum.

This visual is for demonstration purposes only and is subject to change This visual is for demonstration purposes only and is subject to change

This visual is for demonstration This visual is for demonstration purposes purposes only and is subject to change only and is subject to change

Work on the new development will begin early in 2015 with the aim being that the building opens to the public in the middle of 2016. Further consultation will take place with businesses and market traders over the next few months in the run up to starting on site. For more information about the regeneration of South Shields and the 365 Master Plan please go to www.southshields365.co.uk As construction work commences please visit www.southshields365progress.com for live updates.

www.southshields365.co.uk 05

HELLO TOMORROW CHANGE IS HAPPENING

WORLD-CLASS BUILDING Work has now begun on the outside of the £12.8million Hebburn hub, which is being clad in special weathering steel panels.

Over 50 tonnes of the robust, low maintenance steel will Facilities will include: be used on the hub which is being developed by the • 6-lane Council and constructed by swimming pool Willmott Dixon as a key part • Learner pool of the town centre’s renewal. • Fitness suite Lee McLaughlin, Project Director The building is scheduled at FaulknerBrowns architects (left) for completion in late • Sports hall and Glyn Jones, Construction Manager at Willmott Dixon spring 2015. • Dance studio • Soft play area The high quality material, famously used on the Angel of the North, Angel of the North, will gradually change colour Gateshead • Library over the coming weeks and months. The steel • Learning centre sheeting, called Cor-Ten, was recommended by architects FaulknerBrowns to reflect the area’s • Customer industrial heritage. It has a natural oxide layer Service Centre which gives it its weathered, rusty tone and the • Cafe colour will change from a bluish-grey through to bright orange and then deep reddish brown.

Weathering Steel colour chart Day 1* Day 10* Day 60* Day 300* * Note: day count is indicative and is affected by prevailing weather and geographic conditions. Time frames noted are typical of the weathering process expected within the UK.

For more information visit www.southtyneside.info/regeneration

06 www.southtyneside.info/regeneration services forImproving older people

In response to an ageing population around 30 older people living on the site A NEW £9MILLION, and increasing numbers of people with and others accessing beds for short breaks dementia, the Council has awarded when their carers are on holiday or before STATE-OF-THE-ART a contract for a new, purpose-built going back to live at home. Integrated Care Services Hub to South CENTRE WILL OFFER Tyneside NHS Foundation Trust. Lorraine Lambert, South Tyneside NHS Foundation Trust Chief Executive, said: A RANGE OF HEALTH • There are currently just over “We are delighted to have this wonderful 26,800 older people in South opportunity to work in partnership with AND SOCIAL CARE Tyneside (18% of total population) the Council and key health, social care and this is expected to increase to and voluntary sector agencies to really SERVICES AND PROVIDE 21% by 2021 drive forward improvements in joined-up care for older people as we go forward. HIGH-QUALITY SUPPORT • There will be a 50% increase in dementia across all ages by 2030 “We know that we are expecting to see TO OLDER PEOPLE with a 138% increase amongst increasing numbers of older people living those over 90 longer and we fully intend to play our AND THEIR CARERS part in delivering the very best support The new facility will offer access to every for them that enables them to have the AND FAMILIES. type of support from one location including best quality of life possible and to make information and advice to older people and choices at every stage about what they their carers, space for pre-bookable respite feel is best for them.” care and help to use technological aids to The site earmarked for the development support independent living. There will also is at South Tyneside District Hospital be rooms for medical consultations and although this is subject to planning assessments of people’s needs. permission. It is expected that the hub will The focus of the new hub is to improve open in 2016. the wellbeing of older people, especially For more information about the plans for those with dementia, and offer them the new Integrated Care Services Hub as much support as possible to enable visit www.southtyneside.info/carehub them to live independently in their community, with appropriate support, for as long as possible. A computer generated image of what the new hub will look like The hub will incorporate 80 beds, with

www.southtyneside.info/carehub 07 Civic pride strong in the borough The Mayor and Mayoress of 3 South Tyneside, Councillor 1 Fay Cunningham and Stella Matthewson continue to enjoy meeting a range of extraordinary people who go the extra mile to make the borough an outstanding place to live and work.

They are raising money for the Mayors Charity which this year is benefiting 2 Cancer Connections, St Clare’s Hospice and the South Shields branch of the Mission to Seafarers. The Mayor and Mayoress enjoy The Mayor said: “I am very grateful to 3a musical treat at the Mayoress the hundreds of local people who have at Home come and supported our fundraising The Mayor and Mayoress spent The Mayor and Mayoress at activities. This means the world to us as 1time with staff and youngsters 4a ceremony to honour Private well as the local charities who will put at KAYAKS - South Tyneside’s Kids’ Thomas Young VC as part of the World the money raised to good use for the and Young Adults’ Klub War 1 commemorations benefit our residents.” The Mayor and Mayoress with The Mayor is pictured with Ron Davison who had a room In addition, the Mayor is also supporting 2 5representatives from local dedicated to him in Marsden Road organisations to boost the Mayor’s young people in the borough at the Health and Wellbeing Centre charity appeal KAYAKS Club (where she is Patron) and South Tyneside’s three Sea Cadet Units as The Mayor and Mayoress enjoyed a performance from the San well as Arts4Wellbeing. 6 Salvatore Orchestra at the Town Hall In addition to their fundraising they to celebrate the exhibition of The Codex Amiatinus have welcomed a range of visitors to South Shields Town Hall – from nursery children to Normandy veterans to 4 international representatives. They have also attended a whole range of events 6 in the borough from flower shows to 5 fun days, sailing regattas to retirement functions.

She added: “It’s a real honour to be Mayor as it has really brought home to me how lucky we are to live among such incredibly generous and kind-hearted people who are willing to go the extra mile to support people.”

08 www.southtyneside.info 9 TAXIS TOUTING Never get into a vehicle that is not displaying The 12 tips of Christmas its licence plate and only use a taxi from a designated On the first day of Christmas, Regulatory Services gave rank or book a car through a licensed company. Look to me, tips to keep my Christmas trouble free. for the driver’s name on their badge or something which identifies the vehicle. There are over 700 5 licenced taxis to help you get around safely. 1 TURKEY BASTING STAR RATINGS Turkey washing is the most common The food hygiene rating tells you 10 ROGUES-A-KNOCKING mistake; it isn’t possible to wash off germs about the hygiene standards in If you are caught out by bad weather this restaurants, pubs, cafés, takeaways, winter and require a roofer, plumber or other from raw meat. The germs will be killed if hotels and other places you eat out. you thoroughly cook your turkey tradesperson always get a written estimate. A top rating of ‘5’ means that If you can, use a trader recommended by friends or (over 75°C in the core or the business was found to have family, or use the Council’s Safetrader list: until the juices run clear). ‘very good’ standards. www.southtyneside.info/safetraders www.food.gov.uk/ratings BOTTLES OF SPIRITS 2 Watch out for counterfeit goods. 6 11 SMOKERS COUGHING Criminals will copy any product, STREET COLLECTORS Sales of illicit cigarettes and tobacco from vodka or whisky to branded While the majority of charitable often go hand in hand with sales to headphones. They will be of a poor collectors are legitimate, at Christmas time children and other criminal activity. quality and could be unsafe. some rogues may prey on your generosity Report a tab house to Crimestoppers and festive spirit. If you are concerned on 0800 555 111 or about the authenticity of someone www.crimestoppers-uk.org collecting cash on the street contact Licensing on 0191 424 7695. 3 UNDERAGE DRINKERS 12 CARDS A-SWIPING If you suspect that your local shop is 7 Pay for goods over £100 using a credit selling age restricted products to children, SCAMMERS SCAMMING card. You may have extra protection if report them on our confidential hotline things go wrong. But remember interest 0800 093 5878 or trading.standards@ ‘Congratulations you have won.....!’ on credit cards can be high, do not southtyneside.gov.uk However you cannot win a lottery or spend more than you can afford. competition you have not entered. Always read the small print as claiming your prize may cost more than you think.

NOISY NEIGHBOURS 4 For consumer advice on goods CHILDREN PLAYING and services please contact If you have a Christmas party, warn your 8 the Citizens’ Advice Consumer neighbours in advance and consider inviting Only buy age appropriate toys from Service on 03454 04 05 06. To them, it is the season of goodwill after all. Keep reputable dealers. Toys bought on the contact South Tyneside Council’s windows and doors shut and if someone does internet may not have had the Trading Standards Service call complain then please turn it down. same safety tests as those 0191 424 7887. To report a bought in the UK. noise nuisance or a food related complaint call 0191 427 7000.

New laws have been introduced that require If you suspect that a collector is unlicensed or anyone collecting scrap metal around the you see anyone entering someone’s property streets of South Tyneside to hold a licence uninvited or looking over walls and fences issued by the Council. As a result no one can looking for metal please report it. collect scrap metal without a licence. 101 for Northumbria Police The collector must have a green permit 0191 424 7695 for the Licensing Team displayed in the windscreen of their van. [email protected]

www.southtyneside.info/safetraders 09 All you want for

Christmas is an opportunity to celebrate Christmas shopping across the borough. shopping experience of crafts, boutique and spend time with your family and ChristmasWhether you are looking for gifts, shopping and local produce. Or pop to friends. If you’re looking to buy gifts decorations or festive food you will find the Visitor Information Centre at Haven for your loved ones or planning everything you need right here in South Point which sells a number of locally Christmas menus, look no further Tyneside. And, if you need to take a sourced gifts including children’s books than what you have on your doorstep break from shopping why not visit one like “Santa is Coming to South Shields”, in South Tyneside. of our many restaurants, cafes or pubs a range of local social history books, for afternoon tea or a hearty meal. From department stores and well a large selection of local landscape known high street brands to popular If you are looking for something a little photographs and watercolours and local shops and market stalls there is different, why not head to one of our prints, hand crafted jewellery, chocolate a wealth of choice when it comes to character-packed villages for a unique treats and much more.

10 www.southtyneside.info/shopping What’s on your Christmas list?

Whatever you need this Christmas, you’ll find it in South Tyneside Accessories Arts and crafts Small Business Saturday, 6 December Christmas decorations Small Business Saturday is a national initiative to support, inspire and Electronics promote small businesses and encourage people to shop locally. To Food and drink support this initiative all Council-owned South Shields Town Centre car Gaming parks will be FREE to park on 6 December. Gifts Health and Beauty Homeware FREE car parking throughout December Jewellery For the whole of December, the Council is making car parking FREE in Council- Kids clothing owned car parks in South Shields Town Centre at the following times: Ladies wear · After 3pm (Mon to Sat) Menswear · All day on Sundays Shoes · FREE on Small Business Saturday, 6 December Toys This does not include seafront car parks. For a list of the participating car parks visit www.southtyneside.info/parking

CHRISTMAS LOAN APPOINTMENTS

ARE NOW For more information about Loans and Savings accounts please contact us today: AVAILABLE South Tyneside Oce - (0191) 454 7677 City of Sunderland Oce - (0191) 514 7491 YOUR LOCAL [email protected] CREDIT UNION www. bridgescommunitybank.org.uk

Working in Partnership with You can now join online and apply online for a loan by visiting our website. “Bringing money and people together” Assisted by a grant from the Northern Rock Foundation Registered Name: South Tyneside Credit Union Limited Registered Office: 287 Sunderland Road, South Shields, Tyne & Wear NE34 6RB Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority Firm Number: 213469 Registered Number: 252 C www.southtyneside.info/shopping 11 Your guide to Christmas in South Tyneside

Christmas WonderlandIn South Tyneside Last year’s Christmas Wonderland programme of events was so popular that this year it returns with more fantastic events and activities for all the family to enjoy. This is our 6 page guide to some of the highlights!

Kicking off the celebrations in the most Throughout December St Hilda’s church period, and this year we will even be perfect way has to be the festive light grounds will continue to sparkle with the welcoming reindeer to South Shields switch-ons, which this year take place stunning light display of festive characters Market Place. Santa of course will also on 21 November (Jarrow), 22 November and shimmering trees, along with a be visiting the area, taking up residence (South Shields) and 24 November traditional nativity display. in his grotto at South Shields Museum (Hebburn). and Art Gallery. Another highlight not to be missed is While on Friday 5 December is another the Christmas Fair at Haven Point. After And that’s not all because throughout must-see event, the return of the Camel proving such a hit last year this will be South Tyneside there’s pantomimes, gift Parade and switching on of the lights at even bigger in 2014 and is the perfect fairs, fun days and lots, lots more. St Hilda’s church. Watch the procession place to pick up a Christmas gift. Read on for more information and be sure to of camels as they make their way along A host of additional entertainment check out www.visitsouthtyneside.co.uk King Street to the Market Place where including school choirs and bands will for a full list of what’s on! there will be an exciting extravaganza of also be on offer throughout the festive entertainment. Great festive fun!

12 www.southtyneside.info/whatson Your guide to Christmas in South Tyneside Looking for a special gift

Christmas Fair Haven Point Saturday 29 November 10am – 5pm If you are looking for a special gift for family and Sunday 30 November friends or for tasty treats, dont miss out on this 10am – 4pm fantastic showcase of local and regional traders. The Christmas Fair this year is even bigger with over 60 stalls selling arts and crafts, trinkets, jewellery, decorations and unique festive food that make perfect presents for the whole family. Experience the sounds and taste of Christmas at this not to be missed event! For more information about the stalls go to www.visitsouthtyneside.co.uk

Sponsors of Christmas Wonderland in South Tyneside:

www.southtyneside.info/whatson 13 Your guide to Christmas in South Tyneside A night to remember Friday 5 December, from 5pm We Three Kings Come and see the three kings and their camels who have travelled from afar to reach South Shields Town Centre. The parade will travel along King Street and end at Market Place where there will be an exciting extravaganza of entertainment including jumping stars, stilt walkers, children with lanterns and Christmas carols and music. Come and line the route and watch what will be a spectacular event. For more information about the camels and how they are looked after visit www.visitsouthtyneside.co.uk

A sparkling display

St Hilda’s Church Gardens A sparkling display of festive characters, shimmering trees and a traditional nativity scene will be illuminated on the night of 5 December. Dont worry though if you cant make it the lights will remain on throughout December so why not pop down and enjoy a stroll through the gardens of St Hilda’s Church.

14 www.southtyneside.info/whatson Christmas Light New for 2014 Switch Ons Get into the festive spirit with the family as the official countdown to Christmas begins with the annual Christmas Light switch ons. Jarrow Town Hall Friday 21 November, 4pm - 5pm Christmas Lights and festive entertainment.

King Street, South Shields Saturday 22 November, 4pm - 5pm Meet 2 of Join us as Joe McElderry switches on Santa returns to South Shields lights and illuminates Santa’s reindeer the town centre as part of a Jingle Bell Square fun-filled afternoon of Christmas Saturday 6, 13 and 20 entertainment which includes a December South Shields Museum & Art Gallery performance from Scarlet Street. 11am - 3pm Saturdays 6, 13 and 20 Santa Claus’ reindeer will be making December, 12pm - 3pm an appearance in South Shields Cost: £5 per child. Pre booking is Market Place this year! Come and essential. say hello before they deliver gifts on Christmas Eve. Santa will be telling stories of Christmases past as well as meeting all the children For more information about the and giving them a special early Christmas reindeer and how they are looked after present. Hugely popular last year book your visit www.visitsouthtyneside.co.uk ticket from the museum shop or go to www.twmuseums.org.uk/south-shields Hebburn’s Fountain Park Monday 24 November, 4pm - 5pm Christmas Lights and festive entertainment.

Christmas entertainment Throughout the Christmas period school choirs and bands will be performing in King Street to entertain shoppers with classic carols and hymns. www.southtyneside.info/whatson 15 What’s on Whatever your interest, age or budget you’ll find lots to do in South Tyneside. Here are some dates for your diary!

Christmas Fairs Santa’s Naughty Elf Christmas Craft Bede’s World The Customs House Saturday 13 - Wednesday Fair at Souter Yule Festival 24 December Saturday 29 and Friday 5 - Sunday 7 December, Elfluent the Elf tries to fix the Sunday 30 November, 10am - 5pm (Friday 3 - 8pm) toy machine after he accidently breaks it and he needs your help! 10am - 4pm A free festive event where you can An unmissable show for the Browse a selection of handmade crafts, buy gifts, listen to music and take a under 7’s. gifts, jewellery and much more! look around the museum and farm. For more information contact To book contact 0191 454 1234. 0191 489 2106. Little Red Riding Hood Peter Pan The Customs House The Westovian Theatre Tuesday 2 December – Friday 23 December - Saturday Saturday 10 January 31 January Join Red Riding Hood as she The retelling of a classic from The sets off on an adventure to Westovian Society. Grandma’s house but beware, an evil wolf is lurking in the woods Tickets can be purchased from and he’ll do anything to stop her! the Visitor Information Centre at Haven Point on 0191 424 7788. As ever this will be a show packed full of laughs, with something for all the family to enjoy. To book contact 0191 454 1234. www.customshouse.co.uk

16 www.southtyneside.info/privatefosteringwww.southtyneside.info/whatson Civic Carol Service Temple Park Centre, Monday 8 December, 7pm Join South Tyneside Orchestra and choirs from South Tyneside schools for an evening of Christmas carols and festive songs. Tickets are £4 adults or £3 child/concessions and can be purchased by calling 0191 424 7311. Santa at Souter Every weekend in December, 11am - 4pm Enjoy crafts with the elves in their workshop, visit Santa Christmas at in his Victorian Grotto before enjoying a tasty cup of hot chocolate. Suitable for children 10 and under. Pre-booking is St Hilda’s Church, essential, call 0191 529 0909 for your tickets. Market Place Christmas Fair Saturday 6 December, 10am From cake and book stalls to crafts and tombola. Hanging the Greenery Service Sunday 7 December, 6.30pm A service reviving the ancient tradition of bringing the greenery into church. Town Centre Carol Service Winter Woodland and Elf School 22 December, 5pm for 5.45pm service Join us in singing all of your favourite carols. West Boldon Lodge Saturdays and Sundays in December, plus Follow the Star Workshop Monday 22 & Tuesday 23 December Friday 2 January, 2 - 4pm Learn skills to become a certified Elf helper, then follow Craft activities and stories for 4 - 11 year olds. the trail through the Christmas woodland to see the Christmas fairy and Santa.

To find out more contact 0191 536 4873. For a full programme of festive events and activities throughout South Tyneside: Whitburn Winter Festival Day www.visitsouthtyneside.co.uk The Barnes Institute Visitor Information Centre at Saturday 22 November, 11am - 3pm Haven Point on 0191 424 7788 /southtynesideevents Lots of festive fun with face painters, bouncy castle, choir and a visit from Father Christmas, along with a selection @stynesideevents of stalls selling food and crafts. £1.00 entry charge for everyone (Free activities). Details are correct at the time of going to print but please check with event organisers before you travel. www.southtyneside.info/whatson 17 Adult social care in South Tyneside Adult social care is one of the biggest challenges facing councils across the country. Demand for adult social care services is rising, at a time when public spending is falling.

As part of the Council’s commitment to adult social care services and the need to provide residents with more information about Demand for adult social care services is rising the challenges ahead and the plans that are being formulated, • There are currently just over 26,800 older people in the Council has produced its first ‘Local Account’. South Tyneside (18% of total population) The Local Account is an annual report providing details on • Approximately 13,200 residents are aged 75 and performance and expenditure as well as the Council’s vision for over and around 3,600 people are aged 85 and over adult social care services in the future. It showcases some of • More than 9,900 older people live alone in the key projects delivered last year to demonstrate the positive South Tyneside impact that projects are having on residents’ lives.

Carers Excellent progress is being made to improve services for carers in South Tyneside. The Carers Strategy provides a clear statement of commitment to carers and a robust action plan which is based on the priorities carers identified. This action plan is delivered through strong partnerships and co- ordinated integrated services. There has been a large increase in the last 12 months in the number of carers receiving support. Karen, a full-time carer for her son Christopher, joined the Carers Association: “This is a great release for me. We exchange information and have Telecare and Telehealth a friendly chat, but most of all we have a laugh. I’ve made some lovely friends. I go bowling with The Community Alarms service currently them and I also go on the annual trips.” supports 5,123 local residents. 783 people benefit from Telecare packages Personalisation (up from 440 at the end of 2012/13), with most packages preventing the need for Strong progress has been made to residential care. ensure people have choice and control over the care they receive. To date, Mrs Reid, who lives in South Shields says: 3,404 service users have undergone the “This equipment is excellent and makes personalisation process, exceeding the me feel safe in my own home knowing nationally agreed target. Currently Direct that I could have help day or night. It’s Payments are made to 1,150 people, helped me to stay independent as I really including 601 carers. want to live in my own home.”

If you would like more information about Adult Social Care in South Tyneside or to access the Local Account: 0845 130 4959 [email protected] www.southtyneside.info/adultsocialcare

18 www.southtyneside.info/adultsocialcare Celebrating 10 years of Shared Lives scheme An innovative scheme which sees people from South Tyneside sharing their lives with vulnerable adults celebrated its tenth anniversary this year.

Carer Linda Noble (centre) with Dot Allen and Maria Sonner (left) and carer Heather Thurgood (top right) with Daniel Whitehead

The Shared Lives scheme, delivered by Linda Noble and Heather Thurgood were family and I find it so rewarding to see the Council, matches vulnerable the first two carers to be recruited to the them coming on.” adults with carers who are happy to scheme ten years ago. provide a home for a night, a week Dot said: “I love living with Linda, or indefinitely. Heather, 53, of Marsden, has opened it’s absolutely brilliant being part of her home to around 20 vulnerable her family.” adults since the scheme started. Some Full training and support is offered to More than 60 local people have stayed for years while others have come for short breaks or for support all Shared Lives carers. Heather said: have been recruited to with basic life skills before moving on to “The manager and link workers of the independent living. scheme really make it work. Their support become carers and currently is outstanding and the training and 38 vulnerable people are Heather said: “We absolutely love the support from professionals, as well as the people who come through our door and wider Shared Lives community in South living with a family on a they feel that. They come and open their Tyneside, is fantastic. We are a very close- long-term basis. hearts to us and let us support them. If knit group, we all know one another and you are kind, honest, caring and open, offer peer support.” they feel that and then they are happy and relaxed.” If you are interested in becoming Sixty three-year-old Linda Noble currently a Shared Lives carer please get shares her home with Maria who has in touch: been part of her family for nine years 0191 424 4439 following the death of her parents, and sharedlivesscheme@ Dot who has been with her for five years. southtyneside.gov.uk Linda said: “We enjoy all the things that a Dot and Maria enjoy visiting Conversation regular family does like days out, holidays www.southtyneside.info/ Piece at South Shields seafront and meals out. They are like part of my sharedlives www.southtyneside.info/sharedlives 19 TOPOF THE CLASS

South Tyneside’s primary Making the grade This is not only evident in Ofsted reports and secondary schools • Over 92% of 53 schools have been but also in this year’s results. Students in are among the best in the rated ‘outstanding’ or ‘good’ following South Tyneside celebrated another set of country with more than inspections outstanding A level results achieving three or more A levels grade A – E. This is an increase • Over 37% of the borough’s 20,210 nine out of 10 pupils being of more than three per cent, jumping from pupils are in schools rated ‘outstanding’ taught in outstanding or 79.3 per cent last year to 82.6 per cent this • A further 55% of pupils attend good schools. year. The success rate for those studying two ‘good’ schools A levels has also increased from 92.1 per cent • No schools are classed as ‘inadequate’ to 93.6 per cent. The borough’s primary and The data, collated by www.watchsted. secondary schools are ranked sixth South Tyneside is slightly ahead of the com, relates to inspections carried out since nationwide, according to latest national average with an overall 98.1 per 2008, however the vast majority have taken Ofsted statistics. There has been cent pass rate. significant improvement over the place in the last two academic years. last couple of years, testament to The figures do not include the borough’s For more information about our local the hard work and dedication of special schools or nurseries. However, all schools or to read the Ofsted reports visit the many talented school leaders, of these are rated ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’. www.southtyneside.info/schools teachers and staff.

Save time apply online for your child’s September 2015 school place! What are the advantages of applying online? If you apply online you will be notified on our ‘Offer Day’ via your • Access to online application forms e-services account - Primary, 24 hours a day 7 days a week up Infant and Junior ‘Offer Day’ is Do I need to apply? until the deadline Thursday 16 April 2015. If your child fits into one of the following • It is quick, safe and secure groups then now is the time to apply: • It’s easy! There are clear simple prompts The deadline for applications • My child is in a year 2 class at an to guide you through your application for Primary, Infant and Junior infant school • You will be sent an email confirmation Schools is Thursday 15 January • My child’s birthday falls between when your application has been 2015 at 4.30pm. 1 September 2010 and 31 August 2011 received • You can change the details on your For further information on the How do I apply online? application up until the deadline date application process please contact Simply go to www.southtyneside.info/ by simply returning to the website and the School Admissions Team on schooladmissions entering your username and password 0191 424 7706.

20 www.southtyneside.info/schooladmissions Reception pupils from CLASS Mortimer Primary School enjoy their milk

More than 1.5 million cartons of school milk are supplied to children at primary, special and nursery schools in South Tyneside each year. Children receive a third of a pint of calcium and vitamin-packed semi-skimmed milk in recyclable cartons*. The cost to parents is £9.10 per term – this is cheaper under the Council-run service than it would be using a private company, thanks to a European Union subsidy. For those households who are entitled to free school meals, the milk is provided free of charge. Geoff Seagrove, Head teacher of Mortimer Primary School said: “School milk has enormous benefits. Not only does it provide our youngsters with the right calcium and other nutrients they need for their physical development, there are also social benefits for our children. “Our pupils all sit together to enjoy their milk and we have Milk Monitors who count out and collect the cartons of milk. This supports children’s numeracy skills and encourages responsibility.” He added: “Having the service managed Cream of the crop by the Council is a huge advantage as it takes away the burden of schools A commitment to keeping youngsters healthy is the having to administer the system. Our driving force behind the Council’s decision to run a pupils thoroughly enjoy their milk and the service is highly valued by our staff, centrally-managed School Milk Scheme. children and parents.”

For more information about the While authorities across the country Every child in South Tyneside School Milk Scheme, contact your have stopped providing school milk, child’s school or call the Catering or transferred the service to private up to the age of 11 is offered team on 0191 424 6710. companies, South Tyneside Council milk and secondary school *Nursery children receive full fat milk continues to administer the service, making it one of only a few authorities in pupils can purchase milk the country to do so. from school dining rooms.

www.southtyneside.info/schoolmeals 21 A Local Offer for families and young people The Government has set out new plans to improve the support provided to families with children and young people who have special educational needs and/ or disabilities.

What is the Local Offer? Why is a Local Offer needed? • Information to help parents and young people understand what they and their The Local Offer provides information for Children or young people up to the age family can expect from a range of local parents/ carers and young people about of 25 who have special educational needs agencies the support and services available for and/or disabilities may need support from • Access to support children, young people and their families a range of services plus information and who have special educational needs and/ support to help them overcome their • Details on your rights or disabilities including: difficulties. This could come from a number • Special educational provision of different professionals and can be very Where to find the Local Offer confusing and difficult to understand. The • Health provision All information relating to the Local Offer aims to give parents/ carers and • Social care provision Local Offer is published on young people the information they need to • Other educational provision www.southtyneside.info/ make the right choices and decisions about sendlocaloffer • Training provision the support they need. • Travel arrangements for children and young people to schools, colleges and The benefits of a Local Offer If you have any problems finding early years education • One central source of information services or information to meet your • Preparing for adulthood, including www.southtyneside.info/sendlocaloffer needs or cannot access a computer then housing, employment and leisure updated every 6 months or when please contact Pupil Services for help on: opportunities amendments are reported 0191 424 7808 The Local Offer has been produced • Support and provision for children and jointly by South Tyneside Council and young people from birth to 25 years [email protected] Health Services in partnership with including information on education, www.southtyneside.info/ parents and carers. health and social care sendlocaloffer

22 www.southtyneside.info/sendlocaloffer Safeguarding @

Christmas Worried Domestic violence tends to rise during the Christmas period. This is often the result of increased financial pressures, alcohol about a child? and drug consumption, family pressures and contact with an abuser; who may be at home more over the festive season. If you are worried or concerned about a child or young person in South Tyneside then call 0191 424 5010 (during normal office hours of Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm) or 0191 456 2093 (outside of office hours).

Are you a victim of abuse?

NORTHUMBRIA POLICE In an emergency call 999, Non emergency 101 FREEPHONE NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HELPLINE 0808 2000 247 (24 hour service) OPTIONS Call 0191 456 7577 for free advice, information and support PLACES FOR PEOPLE Call 0191 454 8257 for Women’s Refuge – offering help and support as well as providing safe, temporary and emergency accommodation

VICTIM SUPPORT Call 0845 303 0900 for help and support

For further information and advice on what to do if you find yourself in a domestic abuse situation please visit www.southtyneside.info/ domesticviolence

www.stscb.org.uk South Tyneside Safeguarding Children Board has recently launched a new website designed to make it easy for children, parents, carers and professionals to find relevant information, advice and contacts. South Tyneside Safeguarding Children Board is responsible for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people, regardless of age, disability, gender, race or sexuality. www.stscb.org.uk 23 Managing our Budget

Having already made over £100m of savings since 2010 Making such changes not only allows us to make savings and efficiencies, but and with further Government cuts expected over the coming also enables us to focus resources on the years, South Tyneside Council is working hard to protect biggest investment programme South local services. Tyneside has seen in years. We also work hard with others, including other Despite significant reductions to You said, We did Councils and with Central Government the money we receive from central to ensure South Tyneside’s priorities are Last year’s survey asked residents to what government, we remain committed to represented in national and regional extent you supported our plans to make our vision of South Tyneside being an investment budgets on key areas such as the Council more efficient in a number of outstanding place to live, invest and bring transport. We are also working to deliver areas. With your endorsement, we: up families. an International Advanced Manufacturing • Integrated housing staff from South Park across the South Tyneside/Sunderland As we plan our finances for the future we Tyneside Homes with Council staff border to stimulate private sector will continue to consult with residents within area management, creating a investment and create more employment and elected members. Public consultation more flexible, effective and efficient opportunities for local people. in 2012 revealed 75% of residents workforce supported the proposed reduction in Have your say grounds maintenance. In response we • Disposed of inefficient Council introduced an innovative wildflower buildings - saving money on energy This year we are asking for your meadow scheme across the borough. and rates whilst generating funds to views again. To have your say on Whilst the scheme was a great success in invest in regeneration the priorities that matter to you, some areas, residents in others preferred please complete the questionnaire • Negotiated with external service a different approach. After careful in the centre of this newsletter providers to get the best possible deal consideration of feedback, South Tyneside and follow the instructions to for our residents Council is now working to address the stick, fold and post to our issues which have been raised. • Increased the use of external funding to FREEPOST address or go online at deliver services. www.southtyneside.info/budget Closing date: Friday 5 December 2014

24 www.southtyneside.info One parent who has found the scheme very successful is Caroline Bell who took part in the ‘BOO Baskets’ club with her daughter Lucy. Since joining the group, she has seen Lucy’s attention span and confidence flourish as a result of the one- to-one adult support.

Caroline said: “Lucy has developed in confidence as she will answer any question she is asked and now takes part Lucy Davies, with dad Nathaniel Davies and mum Caroline Bell, has flourished in everything. I feel that she will move easily into school whereas in the past I A back-to-basics approach to early language learning is paying was worried about her lack of confidence. dividends for youngsters in South Tyneside. “I didn’t realise that Lucy could manipulate the objects to put a bead on the thread or put a block in the shape Families have been encouraged to try With more and more youngsters now sorter as well as she can. a new initiative, developed by the playing with mobile devices such as Council in partnership with clinical smartphones and tablets, this initiative “The Basket of Opportunities initiative psychologist Dr Madeleine Portwood, is about reminding parents and carers really helped with my daughter’s learning called BOO - which stands for Basket of about the importance of playing and and helped with her attention and Opportunities - to stimulate language communicating with their children. concentration.” learning, as well as physical and social Trialled in 18 day care nurseries across For more information about the development in two-year-olds. South Tyneside, the scheme has BOO programme please contact The approach encourages families to already proved very successful. Those your nearest Children’s Centre. use a basket of resources including youngsters who took part were found To find out where this is: threading beads, building blocks, a to be on average 5.6 months ahead in Families Information Service on jigsaw, a ball, a chalk board and a terms of language, social and physical 0800 783 4645 nursery rhyme book and CD that parents development when measured against www.southtyneside.info/ can then use with their child. those who did not take part. childrenscentres www.southtyneside.info/childrenscentres 25 Council achieves national recognition South Tyneside Council has been highlighted as being ONE OF THE BEST LOCAL AUTHORITIES in Britain.

The Daily Telegraph rated the The professional body for IT Council sixth nationwide in an article professionals in the public sector, Increasing resident highlighting ‘outstanding local acknowledged the Council’s website satisfaction authorities that will bring a smile to for its consistently high performance every homeowner’. and customer journey. Five years into its ‘Shaping our Future’ 20 year vision, South Tyneside Council ‘Britain’s Top 20 Best Councils’ identified has achieved record infrastructure areas where homeowners benefit from investment, increased jobs, best ever good local services. South Tyneside was exam results and over £100million the only Council in the North East to be BRITAIN’S efficiencies - whilst still increasing placed in this prestigious league table resident satisfaction. which acknowledged that homeowners The Council was also identified as are likely to get the benefit of good being the best performing municipal local services from the Top 20. borough in England in the latest Local Government Ombudsman’s The article singled out South Tyneside Report, with the lowest proportion of Council’s award-winning website, complaints upheld. While complaints www.southtyneside.info have been more than halved, the Council’s ‘residents first’ policy The website is a key tool in our has also seen a 28 per cent rise in approach to delivering good services. compliments. Residents use it to find out about and access Council services and in a world The Daily Telegraph is not the only where technology is always advancing national newspaper to recognise and more residents are using the 20 South Tyneside. In 2013, The Times internet, it is important that the Council placed South Shields as one of the continues to evolve the website. ‘Top 30 best places to live by the sea’ for its fantastic beaches, excellent BEST school facilities and value for money. This is not the first time the website has been recognised nationally. In December 2013, the website was also COUNCILS awarded the national Web Award from The Council is committed to making SOCITM, the Society of Information South Tyneside an oustanding place Technology Management. The Daily Telegraph to live, invest and bring up families.

26 www.southtyneside.info If you are interested in tracing your ancestors join South Tyneside Libraries and access a range of FREE online tools.

Ever wondered what your Great, Great To access these fantastic resources all you need to Grandfather did for a living or where your Great, do is join South Tyneside Libraries, membership is Great Grandmother was born? South Tyneside FREE, contact your local library to find out more. Libraries can help you find out. All South Tyneside Or visit www.southtyneside.info/libraries Library members can now access a range of FREE online resources including Ancestry, Find my Past and the British Newspaper Archive from any South Tyneside has a library in the South Tyneside. These tools will help you skip back through generations and find rich heritage out where you really come from. The Local Studies Collection at the Central If you’re not sure where to start help is at Library in South Shields, provides a good hand with FREE introductory sessions every starting point to find out about the heritage Saturday morning at Cleadon Park Library. of the local area. Call 0191 424 6194 for more information. Maps, photographs, directories, local Also on hand to help is one of our Local Studies newspapers and news cuttings, family history volunteers, Heather Thomas. Local historian sources, as well as books and pamphlets and Heather is available every Friday at Central Library expert staff provide the means to travel back in South Shields and can support you as you start in time. researching your family tree with FREE one-to-one tutorial sessions. Heather said: “I have helped many people who have been unable to track down /southtynesidelibraries their ancestors, the most rewarding part of my role is when I have been able to find their ancestors in @SouthTyneLibs a census or birth, marriage or death record.” To book a free one to one tutorial sessions all 0191 424 7862.

www.southtyneside.info/libraries 27 Action-packed Adventureland

Thurston’s unique location, sporting opportunities, healthy living ethos and residential opportunity provides the most powerful framework for developing children and young people.

Owned by South Tyneside Council for over 30 opportunity to think about their role on the years, Thurston Outdoor Education Centre is Council, the objective of the Council and set in its own 43-acre grounds in the heart of coming up with new ways of how they can ACTION-PACKED the Lake District National Park. With direct represent and support Looked-After Children access to Coniston Water, the Centre boasts across South Tyneside. Council member Jade ACTIVITIES INCLUDE: its own jetties, slipway and boathouse as said: “Our experience at Thurston allowed • Canoeing well as immediate access to mountains, us to bond and become closer as a group. forests, tracks and rivers – this makes it an We got to know each other more, which will • Kayaking ideal base for a wide variety of first-class help us work together and do a better job!” • Rock climbing sports and activities. Continuing on from the £1million upgrade • Ice climbing Every year over 2000 children and and refurbishment carried out in 2006 in • Gorge scrambling young people benefit from the first-class partnership with the National Lottery, later • Orienteering sporting experiences and quality group this year Thurston will also benefit from accommodation. Schools and community a programme of major energy efficiency • Abseiling groups from across the borough understand improvements as a result of partnership • Mountain biking the benefits of booking residential courses. with Sport England. These investments • Hill walking One group to have recently visited was the clearly demonstrate South Tyneside Council’s newly appointed members of South Tyneside commitment to support the borough’s • Team building / Council’s Children in Care Council. The next generation and Problem solving group of youngsters spent time at Thurston Thurston’s future. • Sailing taking part in activities and using it as an • Mine exploration • Raft building • And much more.... For information and availability: 01539 441 218 [email protected] www.thurston-oec.co.uk

Thurston is registered with the Adventure Activities Licensing Authority and the Royal Yachting Association and is proud to boast the Learning Outside the Classroom Quality Badge.

28 www.thurston-oec.co.uk Takingsport up Supporting children to engage with sport and improve levels of fitness through a borough-wide programme of sporting activities. Over the summer, nearly 9000 people forward to attending each day. enjoyed and participated in the Council’s It worked out great, I would drop them Sport & Leisure Team’s fantastic off in the morning at the early drop off programme of sporting activities. From time of 9am and head to work in Hebburn football to athletics and tennis to multi- and then collect them at 3pm when the sports, the team provided high-quality session had finished. It was excellent value coaching that got people active and for money and the boys made lots of new feeling healthy. friends and developed new skills.”

Over 250 children aged 5-16 years In addition to the paid-for activities there was attended paid-for coaching courses a borough-wide programme of free activities that included football camps, athletics delivered by the Free Activity Express team. and tennis. These sessions ran over the Games such as kwik cricket, kick rounders, 6-week holiday and were bookable frizbee golf, dodgeball and relay races in advance. Operating at nearly full provided fun for everyone. The response capacity these courses attracted lots of was amazing with children of all ages taking new users not only from the borough advantage of the summer weather. The but also from the wider region. end of summer extravaganza held in South Andy Walton, 39, whose son Mac, Marine Park attracted over 1200 over the 7, and nephews Ben, 8, and Owen, 4 days which saw participants getting the 6, attended the football coaching opportunity to play on our new 36metre long sessions told how he travelled from his Olympic obstacle inflatable. home in North Tyneside so the kids could attend the programme. Andy said: “The The team continuously looks for new ways boys attended a full week’s football camp to get residents involved. To find out what at Monkton Stadium and they loved it. The activities they are running please visit coach was professional and Mac looked www.southtyneside.info/whatson www.southtyneside.info/whatson 29 Festive Recycling

Christmas trees - There will be 15 sites across South Tyneside available from 1 - 25 January 2015 to recycle your Christmas tree:

BOLDON, CLEADON JARROW AND WHITBURN West Park Cornthwaite Park Corner Pine St & Sth View Car Park SOUTH SHIELDS Coulthard Park Car Park Mowbray Park Over the festive period we will throw away 227,000 miles Off Osborne Avenue of wrapping paper - enough to go round the world 9 times! Disco Park Rear of Old Store Buildings North Marine Park The packaging from 10 million turkeys and 25 million Opposite Vespasian Ave Christmas puddings will be binned and it’s estimated that Grange Park North Lane Entrance Readhead Park the amount of Christmas waste we produce would fill Big Cemetery Approach Ben 1,500 times. However the good news is that over 60% Oakleigh Gardens Driveway Recycling Village of packaging is now recyclable. Middlefields HEBBURN Make sure you dispose of your waste properly this Temple Park Leisure Campbell Park Road Centre festive season: Corner of Adair Way Next to Recycling Site • Wrapping paper - dispose of your Christmas wrapping paper St. Andrews Centre West Park in your grey refuse bin - not blue recycling bin Church Street Play Area, West Park Rd • Christmas cards - these can be put in the main part of your blue recycling bin - not the black caddy Recycling Village Opening Times • Polystyrene packaging - put in grey refuse bin, not blue The Recycling Village, located at Middlefields, is open for all excess recycling bin materials gathered over the festive period. This includes cardboard, • Glass bottles - these can go in the main part of your blue Christmas trees, cans, glass, plastics and more. recycling bin. If you have excess these can be dropped off Open every day 9am till 6pm (except Christmas Day). Please at any of the recycling sites across the borough try to avoid busy times (weekends and between 11am – 3pm) whenever possible.

30 www.southtyneside.info/recycle Festive Recycling Changes to collection dates Below highlights any changes to bin collection dates over the Christmas and New Year period:

Normal collection day Revised collection day Thursday 25 December Saturday 27 December Friday 26 December Sunday 28 December Tuesday 30 December Normal Wednesday 31 December Normal Thursday 1 January Friday 2 January Friday 2 January Saturday 3 January

Pledge 4 Plastics is a government initiative which aims to boost the recycling of plastic packaging in the UK.

Recycling just one more piece of plastic a day will make a real recycle plastic bags, film or polystyrene. If you’re not sure what difference - this includes plastic items of any colour, shape or you can recycle at home visit www.southtyneside.info/recycle size. Over the festive period recycle your plastic bottles, tubs and pots by placing them in your blue recycling bin or taking them For more information on the scheme, or to make your pledge, to your local collection site. Please note that we currently do not visit www.pledgeforplastics.co.uk

For a full list of what you can recycle and where visit:

www.southtyneside.info/recycle or TOP TOP TIP call the Customer Contact Centre TIP How can I reuse on 0191 427 7000 Christmas cards? How can I reuse Cut out a square or (Opening times: Mon - Fri 8am - 8pm Christmas wrapping rectangle from the design Like newspaper, and Sat 9am - 1pm). paper? to use as a gift tag on your wrapping paper is great presents next year for cleaning windows and leaving them streak-free

www.southtyneside.info/recycle 31 BIG LOCAL JARROW Residents across Jarrow feel the benefits as Big Local NEEDS ! projects continue to progress, YOU making Jarrow a better place WHAT IS BIG LOCAL? to live, work and play. Big Local Jarrow is an exciting opportunity for residents to access at least £1million from the Big Lottery Fund to make a lasting and positive difference to their community. It’s about bringing together local talent, ambitions, skills and energy from individuals, groups and organisations who want to make Jarrow a better place to live.

LANDSCAPE AND GARDENING Following consultation the green space opposite St Bede’s Church is now benefiting from a weekly Landscape & Gardening volunteer session which is not only improving the area but providing residents with an opportunity to make new friends and fine- tune their gardening skills. Young people and schools in the area are also being engaged and informed of the opportunities available to improve their skills and employability as part of this project. Volunteer sessions are every Tuesday 1.30-3.30pm at the green space next to St Bede’s Church.

St Bedes RC Primary School Jarrow, Friends of West Park Jarrow and residents of Nolan Hall Sheltered Accommodation celebrating successful grant applications with Roy Merrin Chair of the HEALTHY LIVING NETWORK Big Local Partnership Board, Norman Graham member of the Big Local Partnership Board and Age UK South Tyneside is leading on a healthy Anne Corrigan Big Local Project Coordinator. living project which supports local people and raises awareness of professional health services available. FUTURE PROJECTS It encourages local people to maintain a positive, safe and healthy attitude towards their own and Engaging with young Community Banking family’s health. people South Tyneside Credit Union A joint scheme with YMCA North Ltd will be developing projects COMMUNITY GRANTS Tyneside to support young people to provide local residents with in Jarrow with issues such as financial help and advice including Community groups and organisations serving the gender, drugs and alcohol misuse. new savings schemes for children. Big Local area can apply for a grant of up to £500 to improve the services they provide to local people. To To get involved, apply for a community grant or request date 12 organisations across Jarrow have benefited more information contact Groundwork STAN: from the grant scheme including St Bedes RC Primary School Jarrow, Friends of West Park Jarrow 0191 428 1144, and Nolan Hall Sheltered Accommodation who email [email protected] or ‘LIKE’ purchased new gym equipment for their residents. www.facebook.com/biglocaljarrow

32 www.southtyneside.info Darker Nights Campaign

South Tyneside Council has been A number of actions were taken as part of working alongside Northumbria the campaign including: Police, Tyne and Wear Fire • Trading Standards worked with partners to talk to local retailers about and Rescue Service and South the sale and safe storage of fireworks Tyneside Homes as part of the The • Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service annual Darker Nights campaign. visited secondary schools in South Tyneside and talked to children and Community The campaign, now in its eighth year, and young people about bonfire-related endorsed by Northumbria Police and Crime anti-social behaviour Commissioner, Vera Baird, tackles problems Trigger that tend to peak around this time of year • A programme of diversionary activities The Anti-social Behaviour Crime and such as unauthorised bonfires, underage kept young people entertained and off Policing Act 2014 includes a new firework sales and criminal damage. the streets and educated them on the measure designed to give victims and effects of anti-social behaviour on the Neighbourhood Inspector Dave Hudson communities a say in the way anti-social whole community said: “It is simple - fireworks are explosives, behaviour is dealt with. The Community they are not toys, and can be extremely • The Council’s Anti-social Behaviour Trigger gives victims the ability to dangerous if not handled correctly. What Team joined the Community Wardens demand action, starting with a review may seem a bit of fun can have devastating and the Police in high visibility patrols of their case where they meet a defined consequences and can result in a criminal in hotspot areas threshold. record. It is illegal for fireworks to be set off or thrown in a public place.” • The Bulky Waste team removed bulky If you have complained about three items stored for use in illegal bonfires separate incidents in the last six months and you consider no appropriate action has been taken, you can request a case How to make a complaint review to be conducted by the partner To report anti-social behaviour: agencies. Anti-social Behaviour Unit on [email protected] To ask for a review, contact the Anti- 0191 424 7999 or Customer Contact Text ASB to 07786 200 802 social Behaviour Unit on 0191 424 7999 Centre 0191 427 7000 or email [email protected] www.southtyneside.info 33 8000 tonnes of salt Plans are already in place in case we experience a winter freeze, with over 8000 tonnes of salt stockpiled for use. The Council maintains around 165 grit bins across the Keep warm borough, to help clear major roads, bus routes, steep banks and priority footpaths in shopping areas, around schools and on this winter banks, steps and footbridges. It is essential to look after yourself • Keep active. Move around at least Gritting routes, grit bin locations and severe during winter and there are some once an hour and don’t sit for long weather warning notifications can be found simple cost effective things you can do periods of time at www.southtyneside.info to keep warm and stay healthy. • If you are in a high risk group • During the day set your thermostat (over 65, pregnant, have a long- to around 21°C (70F) and heat the term health condition, weakened Christmas and rooms you use immune system or care for people in the ‘at risk’ group) then you New Year office • Set heating to come on before you can receive a free flu vaccination. get up and switch off when you go Please refer to page 40 for more closures to bed information Over the Christmas and New Year period Council • At night keep bedroom temperature buildings will close at 4pm on Wednesday 24 above 18°C (65F) and ventilate the What should you do if you December 2014 and re-open on Monday 5 room if using a fire or heater suspect hyperthermia? January 2015. • Keep warm with an electric blanket Temple Park Centre, Hebburn Swimming Pool, or a hot water bottle but never use If you see someone showing signs Jarrow Community Pool and Monkton Stadium them together of hypothermia: very cold skin even will close at 4pm on Wednesday 24 December under clothes; drowsiness and slurred 2014 and will re-open on Friday 2 January • Wrap up warm, inside and out. speech or loss of sensation, dial 999 for 2015. Haven Point will only be closed on 25 Wear plenty of thin layers made an ambulance immediately and try to & 26 December 2014 and 1 January 2015, of wool, cotton, or fleecy synthetic warm the person gradually by warming however opening times will vary so please fibres the room and giving them a warm check www.southtyneside.info/leisure. • Put some extra blankets on to keep drink. Don’t give them alcohol or try to Exceptions include Emergency Services: warm at night or wear bed socks warm them up quickly. If you have an • The Initial Contact team: 0845 130 4959 and thermal underwear for bed older neighbour or relative, look out for • South Tyneside Homes emergency repairs: • Have hot meals and drinks regularly them during winter to make sure they 0300 123 6633 are safe and well. throughout the day • The customer contact centre will be available • Stock up on food essentials to make on 0191 427 7000 at the following times: sure trips outdoors are limited Mon 22 Dec and Mon 29 Dec from 8am – 8pm Tues 23 Dec and Tues 30 Dec from 8am – 8pm Further Advice Wed 24 Dec and Wed 31 Dec from 8am – 4pm Fri 2 Jan from 8am – 8pm For more information on how to keep your home warmer or how to reduce Sat 3 Jan from 9am – 1pm your energy bills please see page 35 or visit www.warmupnorth.com In the event of an emergency outside these hours call 0191 455 6111. 34 www.southtyneside.info Warm up your home

Warm Up North can help you access funding for Cavity Wall and Loft insulation; we can provide you with a subsidy to reduce the How to apply amount you pay. The amount of the subsidy will vary depending 3 simple steps on your property and your insulation could even be Free!* Email the team info@ warmupnorth.com or call Warm A fully insulated loft reduces outside, the faster heat from your home Up North FREE† on 0800 294 will escape into the surrounding air. heat loss by up to 25%** 8073 Around one third of all the heat lost in an Warm Up North will then carry out Heat rises, and in an uninsulated home uninsulated home goes through the walls. an assessment of your home and one quarter of heat is lost through the roof. Most houses built from the 1990s onwards prepare you a quote. Insulating your loft is a simple and effective were built with insulation in the walls way to save that waste and reduce heating to keep the heat in, but if your house is If you are happy to proceed, bills. Warm Up North can insulate your loft older than that it may not have any wall Warm Up North will then arrange to reduce heat loss and make it easier for insulation at all. If you have a typical house with you the best time for the you to keep your home warm. with cavity walls you could save up to £140 installation. Top-up your loft Insulation per year in heating bills just from insulating † Calls are free from a BT Landline, the walls. other networks may vary. Calls may be We can also offer loft insulation top-ups to We can insulate most types of cavity walls, recorded for training purposes ensure you save the most energy possible. even if previous energy schemes have told You may have had your loft insulated you that your property is too difficult to some time ago, but if it falls short of the insulate. recommended 270mm, then you could make further savings on your energy bills At Warm Up North we can give you a by topping it up. FREE no-obligation assessment of your home to find out how we can help you. Cavity Wall insulation reduces * Subject to funding and a Free no- heat loss by up to 35%** obligation survey Heat will always flow from a warm area ** Based on independent research from the to a cold one. In winter, the colder it is Energy Saving Trust www.warmupnorth.com 35 Volunteers are making a real difference to families in South Tyneside CSV, in partnership with South Tyneside Council, is providing extra support to families through the Volunteers Supporting Families project.

CSV is the UK’s leading volunteering “Volunteering makes me feel a sense of my money, house work, to appreciate charity with over 50 years of experience accomplishment but also grateful to be my children and have stable balanced running volunteer programmes. The a person they can rely on for support. meals. CSV should carry on helping South Tyneside project is one of seven There is no better feeling than being other families.” mum supported by CSV Volunteers Supporting Families projects able to lighten the burden of another, Volunteers Supporting Families South funded by the Department for Education as a small act of kindness is worth more Tyneside. (DfE). The project recruits, screens, than the biggest intention.” trains and places local volunteers with Sophie, Volunteers Supporting Families “ It’s an extremely valuable service.” families whose children are subject to a South Tyneside volunteer. Family Worker, South Tyneside Council safeguarding plan or who have additional needs. The project has been going for The role of the volunteers 8 months and has: Volunteers provide support to families Volunteers visit the families at least once a • Received 111 volunteer enquires with day-to-day tasks such as de- week and build a strong relationship with and 53 volunteer application forms cluttering, cleaning, cooking, budgeting, the parents, listening to problems and making links with the community and offering practical help. CSV has a proven • Delivered 6 training courses for offer a listening ear. Help with day-to-day track record of reducing the number of new volunteers, resulting in tasks assist a family in creating a happy, children on child protection plans and 36 trained volunteers stable and safe environment in which reducing the level of risk. • Completed 81 family visits and provided 103 hours of support families can thrive. “After my retirement from a busy career I to families If you would like to find out more felt lost, being a volunteer with CSV has • 31 children have been supported given me purpose and structure to my please contact Alison or Tracey: life. I feel useful and valued once again.” “CSV have helped me gain confidence, 0191 424 6213 Dawn, Volunteers Supporting Families self-esteem, independence and helped [email protected] South Tyneside volunteer. me realise I can manage on my own. My volunteer has shown me how to manage www.csv.org.uk/supportingfamilies

36 www.csv.org.uk/supportingfamilies Paul Freeman, Healthwatch South Tyneside board member and volunteer.

Have you used health and social services in South Tyneside? Be a part of something big –

Paul Freeman, Healthwatch South we need your expertise Tyneside board member and volunteer, explains why he feels it is important to volunteer for Healthwatch South Tyneside, “Health and social care in an area like Healthwatch South Tyneside aims to improve the South Tyneside is of great importance. experience of South Tyneside residents who use health We have an industrial past which has and social care services. To do this we need you! left people with industrial injuries and diseases, we also currently have fairly high levels of workless people. South Tyneside residents deserve a quality health and social care system that meets health inequality challenges. I want to be The role of Enter part of improving the system.” and View volunteers Paul currently has responsibility to lead Enter and View volunteers play a key on the “Enter and View” project. Paul We need you role in improving health and social care explains, “Enter and View is a statutory If you are motivated, willing to undertake services. As a trained member of a small responsibility of Healthwatch South training and undergo all of the necessary team of Healthwatch Associates, the Tyneside. The scheme supports us to be checks to maintain Healthwatch standards Enter and View volunteers visit a service the voice of some of the most vulnerable in terms of contact with the public, and provider and talk to people using the people in society, for example those would like to become an Enter and View service, gather opinions, observe and suffering from age related degeneration Volunteer, contact Healthwatch South evidence the standards of health and who are in the care system. Tyneside: social care offered. A typical example of “Enter and View gives Healthwatch South this would be observing a meal time at 0191 489 7952 / Tyneside the right to physically visit places a care home and talking to the people 0808 801 0381 where people are at their most vulnerable receiving the care and their families. for example care homes, hospitals and GP An evidence-based report would then info@healthwatch surgeries amongst others.” be produced about the visit including southtyneside.co.uk findings and recommendations. www.healthwatch southtyneside.co.uk www.healthwatchsouthtyneside.co.uk 37 Looking after your h ealth and wellbeing The Council is driving forward the public health agenda and residents can look forward to improved health and wellbeing thanks to a range of initiatives that are taking place across the borough.

Local resident Marjorie Byrne quit smoking with support from South Tyneside’s Stop Smoking Service

The smoke disappears

Thousands of South Tyneside smokers were urged to swap their fags for gags as quit attempts got underway for this year’s 28-day Stoptober challenge. The challenge from Public Health England It was only after being diagnosed with backed by the Council and Fresh saw some Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder of the nation’s top comedians including Paddy (COPD) that Marjorie, who smoked up to McGuinness and Al Murray, bring the British 70 cigarettes a day, decided to quit. sense of humour to help quitters through the She visited South Tyneside’s Stop Smoking challenge. Service for help to quit smoking and has 69-year-old Marjorie Byrne, a retired remained smoke free since finishing the 12- hairdresser from South Shields, backed the week quitting course. campaign and told how her “breakfast “Quitting smoking has made such a big would consist of five cigarettes and two cups difference to my life. Although my COPD of tea”, before reaping the benefits of won’t ever go away, I know now it won’t get a smoke-free life. any worse which is a big relief.” Are you looking to quit? If you want to quit, you’re also up to four times more likely to succeed with local NHS Stop Smoking Service support. See your local pharmacy or GP, or call South Tyneside NHS Stop Smoking Service on 0800 531 6317.

38 www.southtyneside.info/health Looking after your h ealth and wellbeing 17-23 November Alcohol Awareness Week 2014 As part of this year’s Alcohol Awareness Week (17-23 November) the Council is working with Balance, the North East Alcohol Office, to highlight some of the real health harms that local people potentially face from drinking too much too often.

Alcohol is in the same cancer-causing category as tobacco smoke and asbestos and is responsible for around 12,500 cases of cancer each year.

Alcohol increases your risk of seven different cancers and the more you drink, and the more often you drink, the greater the risk. For further information visit www.reducemyrisk.tv

We’ve also joined up with Balance to once again challenge people across South Tyneside to stay dry Drink within the limits for 31 alcohol free days by taking part in Dry January.

Simply stick within the following low-risk guidelines: More than 17,300 people signed up to take part in last year’s campaign – with over one in four sign- ups coming from the North East. Half of the top 10 Women should – that’s no more locations across the UK for sign-ups were from the not regularly than a standard North East – including the top three. Let’s continue to drink more than 175ml glass of show the rest of the UK how it’s done! 2-3 units a day wine (ABV 13%) Why not get involved, either on your own or as a group, and set yourself the challenge of giving up the drink for a month? Men should not – that’s no more drink regularly than a pint of For further information or to sign up visit www.dryjanuary.org.uk more than 3-4 strong lager, beer units a day or cider (ABV 5.2%) If you are concerned about your own or someone else’s drinking call Drinkline on 0800 917 8282.

www.southtyneside.info/health 39 If you’re eligible for the flu vaccine, don’t put it off, get it now! Local people who are eligible for the flu vaccine are being reminded to protect themselves with a free vaccination which saves lives. The Council is supporting the NHS Flu campaign which is encouraging those who are eligible for the free flu vaccination to take up the offer. Those who have long-term health conditions and those who are pregnant are at greater risk of developing complications as a result of flu. The campaign is also aimed at parents of children aged 2-4. This is to protect them against flu and help to reduce its spread to those around them. South Tyneside’s Director of Public Health Amanda Healy said: “Flu is a highly infectious disease with symptoms that come on very suddenly. Healthy individuals usually recover in two to seven days but for some, the disease can lead to hospitalisation, permanent disability or even death. “Those considered most at risk and in need of the vaccine, include pregnant women who can suffer from serious complications such as pneumonia, miscarriage or having a baby too soon as a result of flu. “People who have a long-term health condition, even one that is well managed are also at increased risk of complications as a result of flu.” If you consider yourself to be part of an ‘at risk’ group get in contact with your local GP and See www.nhs.uk/flu for more details. get yourself the seasonal jab for free.

40 www.southtyneside.info/health Be alert to the symptoms of Just tell me bladder and kidney cancers South Tyneside Council is supporting the Be Clear on Cancer campaign which is raising awareness of a key symptom of both bladder and kidney cancers - blood in pee.

The campaign is encouraging or kidney cancer, you will be people who notice blood in Other bladder cancer urgently referred to a hospital their pee to see their doctor symptoms include: and they will then organise tests, straight away. These cancers and if necessary, treatment. • Needing to pee very often are more treatable if they are You will either get reassurance or very suddenly diagnosed early. that it isn’t cancer, or if it is you • Pain while peeing will have a better chance of Around 17,000 people in successful treatment. England are diagnosed with Other kidney cancer bladder or kidney cancer symptoms include: “You’re not wasting anyone’s each year and these cancers time by getting your symptoms • A pain below the ribs that account for around 7,500 checked out – it might be a doesn’t go away deaths each year. sign of something else that • A lump in your stomach needs treatment. And if your Visible ‘blood in pee’ is a key symptoms persist, go back to symptom for bladder and kidney your doctor – they’ll want to cancers yet most people do not Amanda Healy, South Tyneside’s help.” associate unexplained bleeding Director of Public Health added: with a need to see their GP. “It’s very straightforward for For further information your doctor to examine you about the signs and and decide whether to arrange symptoms of bladder and for further tests. If your doctor kidney cancer please visit suspects it might be bladder www.nhs.uk/bloodinpee

www.southtyneside.info/health 41 Keep calm and be ready for winter During the winter months, the demand for NHS services increases significantly as cold weather means there are more slips, trips and injuries. Generally more of us feel unwell during the winter as we spend more time indoors and coughs and colds are passed around our family, friends and colleagues at work. This all adds up to more of us having an healthcare and health services for the accident or becoming unwell with a winter people living in South Tyneside, is leading bug, meaning more people want to see the campaign to promote self-care their GP, attend accident and emergency or when appropriate and encourage people call 999. to use services like their local pharmacy. NHS South Tyneside Clinical Commissioning For more information, please visit Group, the NHS body who plans and buys www.southtynesideccg.nhs.uk

KEEP CALM AND LOOK AFTER YOURSELF

Colds, sore throats, hangovers, upset stomachs and headaches can all be treated by you at home.

Make sure you get plenty of rest ✔ Take a painkiller if needed ✔ Keep a well-stocked medicine cabinet ✔

www.keepcalmthiswinter.org.uk @keepcalmne

Keep Calm LAY175x121mm ST council ad .indd 1 15/10/2014 16:33

42 www.southtynesideccg.nhs.uk A well stocked medicine cabinet Many winter bugs can be treated at home and NHS South Tyneside Clinical Commissioning Group has pulled together a guide for medicine cabinets and what should be in your first aid kit.

Medicine or first aid What it’s used for Aspirin, paracetamol and ibuprofen Effective at relieving most minor aches and pains such as headaches period pain and inflammation in arthritis and sprains. Aspirin must not be given to children under 16

Oral rehydration salts Fever, diarrhoea and vomiting make us lose water and essential minerals, and can lead to dehydration. If you have these symptoms and can’t continue your normal diet, oral rehydration salts can help to restore your body’s natural balance of minerals and fluid, and relieve discomfort and tiredness. They don’t fight the underlying cause of your illness, such as a virus or bacteria. Loperamide (sold under the names Imodium, Loperamide is an anti-diarrhoea tablet and it works by slowing down the action Arret and Diasorb, among others) of your gut. Diarrhoea is caused by a range of things, such as food poisoning or a stomach virus, and can happen without warning. It’s a good idea to keep an anti-diarrhoea medicine at home. Anti-diarrhoeal remedies can quickly control the unpleasant symptoms of diarrhoea, although they don’t deal with the underlying cause. Don’t give this to children under 12 because they may have undesirable side effects. Speak to your pharmacist for advice about a child with these symptoms. Antacids (comes as chewable tablets, or tablets We normally over indulge during the festive period and this can bring stomach that dissolve in water, or in liquid form) ache, heartburn or trapped wind. A simple antacid will reduce stomach acidity and bring relief First aid kit: You should also keep a well-prepared first aid kit as this can help • Bandages to treat minor cuts, sprains and bruises, and it can reduce the risk of • Plasters cuts becoming infected. • Thermometer • Antiseptic • Eyewash solution • Sterile dressings • Medical tape Health commissioners ask for patients’ stories NHS South Tyneside Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) wants to hear about your experience of South Tyneside health services. NHS South Tyneside CCG’s Operations and help us learn from what has worked well Engagement Manager, Helen Ruffell, said: and identify what can be improved.” “The most complete story of a person’s treatment comes from the patient and their If you have a story you want to share relatives or carers. contact Helen on 0191 283 1903, [email protected]. “We want to hear first-hand experiences of patients’ treatment in South Tyneside to www.southtynesideccg.nhs.uk 43 mattershousing South Tyneside Homes’ newsletter - Housing Matters - has now been merged with South Tyneside Council’s newsletter to deliver cost efficiencies and savings. Key information and stories for South Tyneside Homes’ tenants are featured on pages 44-47. South Tyneside Homes welcomes new apprentices Ten new apprentices training either in trades or office-based work have joined the South Tyneside Homes team. Andrew O’Connor, Adam Shaw, Matthew Dowell, Thomas Goodman, Danny Lydon, Jade Spencer, Amy Lannigan, Amy Punshon, Daniel Atthey and Jemma Langley joined the company after a rigorous selection process and are now working in their respective disciplines. Five of the young newcomers will be working in the Property Services section learning trades, and five will be doing office-based work in Housing, Customer Services and Business Admin. Matthew Dowell from South Shields, who is training as an electrician said: “My dad is an electrician and I am really looking forward to following in his footsteps and learning a trade.” South Tyneside Homes was classed as one of the Top 100 Employers of Apprentices in the UK as recognised by the National Apprenticeship Service. South Tyneside Homes welcomes ten new apprentices

44 www.southtynesidehomes.org.uk South Tyneside Homes Annual Report 2013/14 The Annual Report is written by the tenants, for the tenants and concentrates on the things you want to know about. It looks at the performance of South Tyneside Homes from 1 April 2013 to 31 March 2014.

Decent Homes 3207 Repairs homes were made decent 2016 is the agreed year for all South Tyneside Council-owned £34.5 properties to be made decent million was spent on Decent Homes 99.66% 99.89% 99.61% of customers of emergency of routine repairs were satisfied repairs were were completed 280 170 with the repairs completed within the 20 day homes have staff and 40 tenants have service within the 4 hour timescale benefitted from solar all received energy efficiency timescale panels training

Investment in Housing Plus Keeping your estates safe The £8 million funding from the Homes and Communities Agency will include: of customer’s were satisfied Construction of 95% with the way the anti-social 19 conservatories/ New CCTV systems behaviour team dealt with 19 sky rooms 26 in 26 schemes their case.

Installation of Upgraded telecare estate walkabouts were 4 4 sensory rooms 26 in 26 schemes 53 carried out each month

Looking after estates Collecting rent

tonnes of rubbish were was saved by no 1,100 disposed of by the Handy £40,000 longer sending out Estates Team paper rent statements of all rent was collected; up job requests were responded 99.78%from 99.64% in 2012 /13 to by the Handy Estates team 2,800 tenants were trained in Welfare Reform to 40 support other tenants clean-ups took place referrals were made to help tenants 61 across the borough 170sustain their tenancies

These are just some of the highlights. The full report is available in local housing offices and at www.southtynesidehomes.org.uk www.southtynesidehomes.org.uk 45 MONEY MANAGEMENT CHRISTMAS EDITION A guide to managing your money from South Tyneside Homes. This edition we focus on planning your Christmas finances.

Rent Free Weeks There are four Rent Free Weeks every year when we don’t charge you any rent. The next Rent Free Weeks this year are Warm Homes Discount Scheme 22 and 29 December 2014. If you have any arrears we expect you This winter you could get a disability within your household then to keep up with your normal rent you may qualify for the discount. payments so now is the time to start a one-off discount of £140 thinking about what to do in these weeks. on your electricity bill The discount will not be awarded This is an opportunity for you to reduce automatically. Check with your supplier what you owe over the festive period through the Warm Homes now if you think you might qualify. and start the New Year with less debt. Discount Scheme. Payments from the scheme are usually If you are in arrears and you have a put on your bill between October and People receiving the Guarantee Credit court order in place you must continue March. You can qualify for the discount to make payments in line with your court element of Pension Credit will usually if you use pre-pay or pay-as-you-go order. This is the only way to avoid have the discount applied automatically. electricity meters. The discount won’t further action. Most suppliers also offer discounts in affect cold weather or winter fuel If you think you are going to have any certain situations. Each supplier has payments. problems paying your rent at this time, their own rules about who can qualify For advice please call the Welfare now is the time to get advice. There but if you have a low income and you Reform Team on 0300 123 6633. is often a lot we can do to help so have young children or someone with please contact the Income Team on 0300 123 6633.

46 www.southtynesidehomes.org.uk MONEY MANAGEMENT CHRISTMAS EDITION

Paperless Direct Debits

Direct Debit is the best way to keep a clear rent account and we can now set up your Direct Debit over the phone. With automatic entry into our quarterly prize draw for £100* there’s no time to waste! You can set up your direct debit to pay your rent: • Weekly on a Friday • Fortnightly on a Friday • monthly on 1st and 15th of Top Tips for Christmas 2014 worst time for this happening. Always each month write a list of what you need to buy Further dates will be available from Christmas is a costly time of year and it and stick to it when you go shopping December 2014. Take advantage of can feel like money just won’t stretch far for food, presents and other Christmas our new service today; simply contact enough. Don’t worry there is still time purchases. to get your finances in order before the the Income Team or Welfare Reform 4 Make what you can – The homemade festivities start. Team on 0300 123 6633*. look is back in fashion and shops across *Provided you keep a clear rent Here are our top five tips for making the borough have free magazines with account. sure you don’t start the New Year with creative ideas to help you save the more debt. pennies at Christmas by making things **The Direct Debit guarantee will yourself. The internet can also offer 1 Work out your Christmas budget apply and we will always confirm inspiration. the content of these calls to you in – when planning a budget you need to writing. know what you’ve got coming in and 5 Make the most of the sales and what you plan to spend it on. Work out Christmas offers – take advantage a budget for all the things you need to of special offers, BOGOFs and coupons. buy and stick to it. Remember that a lot of food items can be bought in advance and stored so 2 S ave a little where you can – even why not pop one or two things in your if you just put £5 to one side every basket or trolley whenever you can over week in November and December that the next few weeks. still means you will have a £40 to treat yourself and your loved ones by the We’re always happy to help with budget time Christmas day comes around. planning and making sure your money is going as far as it can. For advice 3 Write a list and stick to it – everyone call the Welfare Reform Team on at some point has come out of a shop 0300 123 6633. and wondered what they’ve spent their money on and Christmas is possibly the

For all South Tyneside Homes enquiries: Call: 0300 123 6633 Email: [email protected] Visit: www.southtynesidehomes.org.uk

www.southtynesidehomes.org.uk 47 in 2015 NEW Add health and fitness to your New Year’s resolution list for FOR 2015 2015. With memberships designed to meet your individual needs at unbeatable prices and our continued investment in World-class leisure new leisure facilities, there’s no reason to delay. facilities will open in We offer: Hebburn2015 in summer Multi Activity – Unlimited access to gyms, pools, saunas and fitness classes Duo Activity – Choose any two activities from gyms, pools/saunas or fitness classes

Young Person Joint Memberships Adult (18+) Adult Household Concession (8 to 18yrs) Multi £28.50* £20 £16 £50* Duo £25 £17.50 £14 £44 Prices are per month. Look out *Includes free car parking permit. Our staff are here to help - for new (0191) 424 7800 or visit: call today on offers www.southtyneside.info/leisure coming for more information. soon

We have changed the format and paper stock of the South Tyneside newsletter to make sure we keep costs down and provide you with as much news and information as possible. If you live in South Tyneside and don’t receive this newsletter to your home address by Friday 14 November, or if you would like to provide feedback or comments, please call 0191 424 7385 or email [email protected] to let us know. If you would like the newsletter in a different format we can arrange this for you. If you would like to receive enewsletters from South Tyneside Council visit www.southtyneside.info/email This issue includes information from South Tyneside Homes, if you have any queries please call 0300 123 6633 or visit www.southtynesidehomes.org.uk

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