SPRING [email protected] by 30 APRIL 2015. First correct entry for each...
24
Elections Make sure you’re registered to vote Arts Café open Exhibitions and events at Central Sixth Homelife Homes and neighbourhoods news SEE PAGE 3 SEE PAGE 8 SEE PAGES 15-22 Spring is here See what’s on in Sandwell – Page 2 Why is dog mess such a big issue? “As wardens, it’s the top thing people ask us about. It’s disgusting, looks horrible, makes it slippery underfoot, is a health hazard and costs taxpayers’ money to clean up. Parents are especially worried about mess on school routes or in parks where children play. Dog mess has caused blindness in children, so it can be a very serious issue.” Why do you have to fine people? “We don’t want to have to – it’s a last resort. We’ve done lots of education with dog walkers and given out thousands of bags. Bagged dog mess can go in any public waste bin or your grey waste bin at home – it doesn’t have to be a special dog mess bin. Sadly a small minority of dog owners still try to get away with it, so we’re now taking a zero-tolerance approach. Fining shows we’re serious about having cleaner, safer streets and parks. Word soon gets around when we’ve issued a fine.” How do dog owners react? “Most responsible owners welcome our patrols. Often, they will stop and have a chat, and help us identify ‘hot spots’ and owners who aren’t cleaning up. “When we witness an offence, people sometimes try to claim it wasn’t their dog’s mess, but most admit they’ve made a mistake and accept the fine. We wear CCTV body cameras at all times, which helps us prove it, especially if it goes to court. We’ve also used CCTV footage from our estates as evidence of dog fouling.” How do you decide where to patrol? “Where we get reports, we will target our patrols there. We receive information reported online, on social media or to the council’s Contact Centre, as well as from councillors and community networks. We can’t be everywhere at once – which is why we rely on the eyes and ears of local people.” What else are you doing? “Because we’re out patrolling in the community, it helps people feel safer. It also means we can educate people about littering; not letting dogs onto children’s play areas, sports pitches or cemeteries; and environmental health problems caused by excessive bird feeding. We seize alcohol from anyone causing a nuisance and get abandoned vehicles removed too. We also support the police in partnership work.” Sandwell Council…working for you Page 15 £75 FINE Clean up after your dog or face a £75 penalty Our wardens have fined more than 80 people for not cleaning up after their dogs since we launched our hard-hitting campaign in February 2014. We’ve also successfully prosecuted four people who refused to accept or pay the £75 fine. The Herald went out on patrol with the wardens to ask them about their work. Dog mess patrol Report those not cleaning up after their dogs at www.sandwell.gov.uk/dogmess or email [email protected] or call 0845 359 7501 Councillor Maria Crompton visits one of 130 sites where Serco have painted warning stencils Warden on patrol at Warley Woods Wardens have given thousands of bags to dog walkers to encourage them to clean up after their pets The Sandwell www.sandwell.gov.uk SPRING 2015 Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter for news, events and good stuff about Sandwell. Sandwell @sandwellcouncil
Transcript of SPRING [email protected] by 30 APRIL 2015. First correct entry for each...
ElectionsMake sure you’re registered to vote
Arts Café openExhibitions and events at Central Sixth
HomelifeHomes and neighbourhoods news
SEE PAGE 3 SEE PAGE 8 SEE PAGES 15-22
Spring is hereSee what’s on in Sandwell – Page 2
Why is dog mess such a big issue?“As wardens, it’s the top thing people ask us about. It’s disgusting, looks horrible, makes it slippery underfoot, is a health hazard and costs taxpayers’ money to clean up. Parents are especially worried about mess on school routes or in parks where children play. Dog mess has caused blindness in children, so it can be a very serious issue.”Why do you have to fine people?“We don’t want to have to – it’s a last resort. We’ve done lots of education with dog walkers and given out thousands of bags. Bagged dog mess can go in any public waste bin or your grey waste bin at home – it doesn’t have to be a special dog mess bin. Sadly a small minority of dog owners still try to get away with it, so we’re now taking a zero-tolerance approach. Fining shows we’re serious about having cleaner, safer streets and parks. Word soon gets around when we’ve issued a fine.”
How do dog owners react?“Most responsible owners welcome our patrols. Often, they will stop and have a chat, and help us identify ‘hot spots’ and owners who aren’t cleaning up.“When we witness an offence, people sometimes try to claim it wasn’t their dog’s mess, but most admit they’ve made a mistake and accept the fine. We wear CCTV body cameras at all times, which helps us prove it, especially if it goes to court. We’ve also used CCTV footage from our estates as evidence of dog fouling.”
How do you decide where to patrol?“Where we get reports, we will target our patrols there. We receive information reported online, on social media or to the council’s Contact Centre, as well as from councillors and community networks. We can’t be everywhere at once – which is why we rely on the eyes and ears of local people.” What else are you doing?“Because we’re out patrolling in the community, it helps people feel safer. It also means we can educate people about littering; not letting dogs onto children’s play areas, sports pitches or cemeteries; and environmental health problems caused by excessive bird feeding. We seize alcohol from anyone causing a nuisance and get abandoned vehicles removed too. We also support the police in partnership
work.”
Sandwell Council…working for you Page 15
www.sandwell.gov.uk/dogfouling
£75FINE
Clean up after your dog or
face a £75 penalty
Our wardens have fined more than 80 people for not cleaning up after their dogs since we launched our hard-hitting campaign in February 2014.We’ve also successfully prosecuted four people who refused to accept or pay the £75 fine.The Herald went out on patrol with the wardens to ask them about their work.
Dog mess patrol
Report those not cleaning up after their dogs at www.sandwell.gov.uk/dogmess or email [email protected] or call 0845 359 7501
Councillor Maria Crompton visits one of 130 sites where Serco have painted warning stencils
Warden on patrol at Warley Woods
Wardens have given thousands of bags to dog walkers to encourage them to clean up after their pets
The Sandwell
www.sandwell.gov.uk SPRING 2015
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter for news, events and good stuff about Sandwell.
Sandwell
@sandwellcouncil
MARCH1 March to 27 MarchPhotographic ExhibitionCentral Sixth (formerly The Public), New Street, West Bromwich, B70 7PG
25 individuals on the couch choosing an object or image to tell a story. Meet photographer Dee Patel for a chat on 11 March.
Time: 10am – 4pmPrice: FREEFor info: 0121 569 8236; www.sandwellartsfestival.com
Saturday 7 MarchAround the World Fun DayGreat Bridge Library, Sheepwash Lane, Tipton, DY4 7JF
Family fun day for all ages, in partnership with the Children’s Centre.
Time: 10.30am – 12.30pmPrice: FREEFor info: 0121 557 3277; [email protected]
Saturday 14 MarchLocked In: A Cradley Heath Arts FestivalHollybush Pub Arts Venue, 53 Newton Lane, Cradley Heath, B64 5EA
Cradley Heath Creative, supported by Sandwell Community Chest, presents local music, drama, comedy, poetry, film, dance, photography and art.
Time: 11am – 11pmPrice: FREEFor info: Call Fran – 07952 563725; Visit Cradley Heath Creative page on Facebook
The Hollybush also hosts a free open mic comedy night from 8pm every Thursday.
Saturday 28 MarchPirates and Princesses Easter EggstravaganzaCentral Library, West Bromwich
Family fun day and Easter Egg Hunt, Easter crafts and a film, plus a prize for the best-dressed pirate and princess.
Time: 11am – 2pmPrice: FREEFor info: 0121 569 4904
APRIL Monday 6 AprilEaster Egg RollWarley Woods, Upper St Mary’s Road entrance, Barclay Road, Smethwick
Roll your hard-boiled egg as far as you can. There is also a painted egg competition and an Easter trail through the woods.
Time: 11am – 1pmPrice: £1For info: 0121 420 1061;www.warleywoods.org.uk
Saturday 11 AprilWarley Woof: Pawfect Dog-Scent Treasure HuntWarley Woods, main park area, Smethwick, B67 5ED
Bring your dog and learn about scent trailing with Hannah from Pawfect Dogsense. Donation made to Medical Detection Dogs for each hunt ticket sold.
Time: 10am – 4pmPrice: £5 solo hunt; £15 family; £20 team hunt For info: 0121 420 1061; 07837 377273
Saturday 18 April
St George’s Day Family FunManor House Museum, Hall Green Road, West Bromwich, B71 2EA
Lots of entertainment and family fun, plus free parking available on site.
Time: 11am – 3pmPrice: FREE – with a small charge for some activitiesFor info: 0121 588 2985; www.sandwell.gov.uk/museumevents
Saturday 25 AprilSt George’s Fun DayTipton Library, 17 Unity Walk, Tipton DY4 8QL
Family fun day including music, poetry, crafts, face painting – and even a belly dancing demonstration!
Time: 10.30am – 1pmPrice: FREEFor info:0121 557 1796; [email protected]
MAYTuesday 5 MayI’ll Get My Man by Philip KingAll Saints Church All Saints Way, West Bromwich, B71 1RU
Comedy play set in a vicarage in the village of Stebbington-Fawley.
Time: 7.30pmPrice: £4.50; concessionary £4For info: 0121 588 4786
Saturday 16 MaySpring FairDartmouth Park, Lloyd Street, West Bromwich, B71 4AS
Children’s entertainment, stalls, food, bouncy castle, craft marquee and lots more.
Time: 11amPrice: FREEFor info: www.friendsofdartmouthpark.org.uk
For more information about these and other events
in Sandwell, go to
www.sandwell.gov.uk/whatson
Your essential guide to what’s on in Sandwell
VE Dayand Armed Forces DayOldbury Civic SquareSee Page 14 for details of these two events.
Keep a lookout for details of the Sandwell Show during August Bank Holiday weekend at Sandwell Valley – www.sandwell.gov.uk/sandwellshow
www.sandwell.gov.uk/mycouncil PAGE 3
There’s just over a month left to register to vote in May’s general and local elections. If you’re not registered, you can’t vote.The way you register to vote changed last year. From now on, everyone needs to register individually, not as a household. That includes students who live away from home.
Teenagers aged 16 or 17 should also get themselves registered as soon as
possible, ready for when they turn 18.
Registering to vote is easy and takes less than fi ve minutes. The deadline for registering to vote is 20 April – but don’t leave it until the last minute.
Go to www.gov.uk/register-to-vote on your smartphone, tablet, laptop or PC.
If you don’t have the internet, you can use a computer for free at any Sandwell library or give our elections offi ce a call on 0121 569 3244. You’ll need your National Insurance number to register.
Mayor’s Big Night OutTalented musicians, dancers, a comedian and a magician take to the stage at Wednesbury Town Hall for the Mayor’s Big Night Out to raise money for charity.
Tickets are already on sale for the night, on Saturday 28 March from 6-10pm, to raise funds for the Mayor Councillor Derek Rowley’s charity, Sandwell Women’s Aid.
Acts include headliner Jasun Watkins, a Boy George comedy impersonator, as well as Deckchair Circus performing Beatles and Stone Roses covers, Brandhall Choir, magician Gary Hadley and Tegan singing songs by Adele.
Tickets are £6 – call 0121 569 3076 or 0121 556 4914 to book.
Good luck to Sandwell’s Blind Dave Heeley as he prepares for his latest endurance challenge – this time against the Sahara!In April, Dave will try to become the fi rst blind person to complete the Marathon Des Sables – a 170-mile trek across the Sahara Desert in just six days.
It’s the third and fi nal leg of the Tri-Albion Challenge, which is raising money for The Albion Foundation’s disability department.
Dave, along with Baggies legend Brendon Batson and GB Paralympic and WBA blind footballer Darren Harris, were due to cycle from Southampton to The Hawthorns as The Herald went to print in February. The blind football team was then due to walk to every school in Sandwell.
Find out how to donate atwww.justgiving.com/blinddavemds
Children at Hargate Primary School in West Bromwich got a surprise when David Walliams dropped in to read them a story.The Britain’s Got Talent judge, who was fi lming auditions for the show in Birmingham, read to them from his book – Gangsta Granny.
The school has a new library and headteacher Andrew Orgill hopes the visit will make the children even more inspired to get into reading.
Elections 2015Don’t miss out on your vote!
You must be registered to vote by Monday 20 April 2015
to vote in the local and general elections
www.gov.uk/register-to-voteSo don’t delay – register online today
Blind Dave bravesthe Sahara
David drops in
Showcase your talentsWe’re hosting a talent show for young people to showcase their skills and talents at Sandwell College in April.This follows the Shape Our Future event (see story on page 5).
We are committed to following up our pledge to provide more structured youth events.
We encourage young people – and their schools and parents – to get involved.www.sandwell.gov.uk/shapeourfuture
FAMILY
Son or Daughter, 12 years or
older wanted to fill an empty
space in the lives of a loving
couple.
Large house with your own
bedroom. Must like cats and
muddy bike rides and other
family activities. Stay as long
as you need.
Please respond ASAP to
0800 358 0899
0800 358 0899
Honestly, you can helpwww.sandwell.gov.uk/fostering
Young people had their say about Sandwell’s future at a council event held at West Bromwich Albion.Shape Our Future gave nine to 19-year-olds the chance to meet the Mayor, councillors and representatives from the police, health and other organisations.
More than 50 students from primary and secondary schools and the Youth Parliament voiced their opinions and found out about council services.
We’ve also asked young people about their feelings on safety, education, health, jobs and leisure.
Councillor Simon Hackett, cabinet member for children’s services, said: “It is important that as a council we listen to the voices of our children
and young people. We will use what came out of the event to put together pledges which our children and young people can hold us to.”
Lucky survey prize draw winner Joshua Norton, pictured below, from Abbey Junior School, was presented with an iPad by Councillor Simon Hackett and Mayor Councillor Derek Rowley. Also pictured are MC Dreadlock Alien and director of public health Jyoti Atri.
In Sandwell, we’re working hard to protect children from child sexual exploitation (CSE).It’s a crime that can affect any child, any time, regardless of their social or ethnic background.
CSE involves a young person being groomed, sometimes online, and often offered something in return for performing sexual acts. They might be given gifts, money, alcohol or cigarettes – and in many cases the young person believes they’re in a loving relationship with their abuser.
We’re training hotel staff and taxi drivers in Sandwell so they know what to look out for.
It’s everyone’s responsibility to keep an eye open for CSE. If you suspect a child is at risk, call the police on 101 or ring 999 in an emergency.
Some of the signs that could mean a child is being sexually exploited:
Sexual health and behaviour – including inappropriate sexualised behaviour Absent from school or repeatedly running away Familial abuse and/or problems at home Emotional and physical condition – thoughts of self-harming or low self-esteem Gangs, or older age group and involvement in crime Use of technology and sexual bullying Alcohol and drugs misuse Receipt of unexplained gifts or money Distrust of authority fi gures Entering or leaving vehicles Relationship of concern – having friends who are older
Find out more by searching “See Me Hear Me” online or go towww.seeme-hearme.org.uk
Giving young people the opportunity of a job or training
The Sandwell Guarantee could help up to 4,000 young people aged 16-24 on bene� ts or not in education, employment or training.We are looking for Sandwell residents aged 16-24 years who want an apprenticeship or job opportunity. We are also looking for businesses who would like to employ a young person providing an apprenticeship or job opportunity with learning.
For further information contact the Think Sandwell team on 0121 569 2099 or visit:
www.sandwell.gov.uk/mycouncil PAGE 5
Protecting our children
Young people help shape future
Jyoti Atri.
Got children? Need help or information?Do you need help with:
Finding local or national services? Finding helplines, publications and websites? Choosing Childcare? Looking for activities and fun things to do? Support and advice for your family? Understanding your rights?
Whether you are a parent looking for childcare, a young person looking for
something to do or you need some advice and support with bringing up
your child, Sandwell Family Information Service can either help you or,
if not, tell you who can!
To find out more just give us a call, we are here to help, call us
on 0121 569 4914 or visit www.sandwell.gov.uk/familyinfo
PAGE 6 SANDWELL COUNCIL
This March, the council fi nalises its detailed budget for services for the coming year.
Council tax is set to be frozen for fi fth year running.
The council’s deputy leader and fi nance boss Councillor Steve Eling talks about the budget for the next three years.
We’re in an extremely tough budget position. But we’re up
for the challenge.
We’re getting almost £30 million less this year than we did last year if we compare the budget like-for like.
Our budget for 2015/16 will be £122 million less than it was in 2010/11. And overall, the council’s budget has been cut by £280 million in the past fi ve years.
Even on the Government’s own fi gures, Sandwell has suffered a 5.1% government funding cut while affl uent areas like Wokingham and Cheshire East get increases of 2.6% and 1.4% respectively.
So, what are we going to do to meet these reductions in funding?
It means that to survive, some services will have to be delivered in different ways in the future. That’s the difference between having a service and that service disappearing. This is because at the level of cuts we are facing, every service budget is under pressure; no stone can be left unturned.
As a council we’re adopting a new Facing the Future strategy which aims to radically change the way we work in many areas so we don’t just impose percentage cuts across the board.
This means things like, for example, encouraging residents to do more business with us online, which is much cheaper than traditional face-to-face or other methods.
It also means getting even better value for money when we buy goods and services, and a drive to encourage developers into Sandwell so we can increase the business rates and council tax we get from new companies and homes.
Facing the Future is a major part of our budget strategy to safeguard as far as we can our vision of frontline services and will continue to be over the next three years.
We know our residents are going through hard times, so we are proposing a council tax freeze again.
We’ve been planning the council’s budget over the medium term for many years now. This puts us in a better position than many other councils, including some of our near neighbours.
I really want to reassure people that the council’s budget is in a robust position and we’re confi dent that we can continue to protect the services that our residents value, despite the cuts.
* Sandwell Council is proposing a council tax freeze in 2015/16 to be confi rmed at the council meeting on 3 March. People will pay a little more, however, because the organisations running police and fi re services across the West Midlands are expected to put up the charge they want the council to collect for them.
Council tax set to be frozen
I really want to reassure people that
Councillor Steve Eling
…so is keeping our streets
and parks clean and tidy.
Caring for our older residents is a top priority…
You now have more than 250 fi tness classes to choose from every week at Sandwell Leisure Trust leisure centres.Improve your fi tness levels, health and body shape with a wide range of classes from Pilates and Aqua-fi t to Circuits and Bodycombat.
Classes take place throughout the day including early mornings, lunchtimes and evenings.
Memberships are available which cover eight leisure centres across
Sandwell. They include unlimited access to swimming, classes and gym sessions, as well as the new sauna and steam room at Haden Hill Leisure Centre.
The new Wednesbury Leisure Centre, which is due to re-open later this year, will be included.Memberships include free personal programmes, free nutrition advice and a free, monthly one-to-one training session.
For more info about your nearest centre, visit www.slt-leisure.co.uk or call 0300 012 0121.
Fitness class boost
www.sandwell.gov.uk/mycouncil PAGE 7
8gyms
8pools
over 250 fitness classes
FREE car
parking
FREE 1-2-1
training
FREE nutrition advice
ONECARDM E M B E R S H I P
Rowley Regis
Smethwick
Oldbury
Tipton
Wednesbury
UPGRADE YOURSELF
Body UpgradeIn Progress
100%
SANDWELL LEISURE TRUST
www.slt-leisure.co.uk0300 012 0121
Vote for unsung heroes who make a difference to your community in the 2015 Sandwell Volunteer Awards.Nominations close on Friday 10 April ahead of a ceremony in June which will celebrate all the hard work put in by volunteers.
This year there are eight categories:environmentalcorporatehealth & socialcommunity organisationyoung volunteertrustee volunteervolunteer co-ordinator; and long service volunteer.
Vote for volunteers
cover eight leisure centres across
Jean Taylor, chief executive at Sandwell’s Volunteer Centre, said: “The awards showcase the best of our volunteering groups and people who really put themselves out there to help in the community.
“It’s our way of saying thank you to all worthy volunteers and the 2015 awards are now open for nominations.”
For more info, call Richard Lodder on 0121 544 8326 or download a nomination pack at www.volunteercentresandwell.org.uk
Boost for sports clubsSports groups have received grants from a special fund Sandwell Council set up to help them improve their facilities and equipment. Sandwell clubs could apply for grants of up to £500 – and a total of £22,500 is now going to nearly 50 local organisations.
Councillor Paul Moore, cabinet member for health, said the scheme set out to support sports clubs that play a major role in helping people
stay fi t and get involved in sport.
He said: “We were overwhelmed by applications from sports clubs and have more than doubled the amount that we initially intended to give out from £10,000 to £22,500.
“I am pleased so many clubs across Sandwell are getting assistance, because they are run by hard-working volunteers who fi nd it diffi cult to get funding.”
Councillor Moore added: “We will be announcing a further round of funding for sports clubs later in the year.”
Left to right, Councillor Paul Moore and Mayor Councillor Derek Rowley with Terry Wood and John Lawley from Greets Green Bowling Club, which received £448.
Above: Volunteers on a conservation programme at Warley Woods
Left: Volunteer managers and co-ordinators
Photos: Deva Singh Bhogal
Aqua instructor Samantha Murray with John Totney and Kirsty Beckett at Portway Lifestyle Centre
PAGE 8 SANDWELL COUNCIL
Creative Black Country launches
PRIZE PUZZLES
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ACROSS1. South Sea ------ (6)4. All ------ (6)9. Part of Oldbury (7)10. Musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice (5)11. Short for Mercedes (4)12. One of Sandwell’s six towns (7)14. Steal cattle (6)16. This place has a Sultan (6)19. Hacked about (7)21. Ends of fi ngers (4)23. Hindu goddess (5)24. This covers your ear (7)25. Eats a lot (6)26. Guides (6)
DOWN1. Acker ----(4)2. Easter -------(7)3. Pinkish-violet colour (5)5. This blends things (7)6. Goodbye (5)7. Purifi cation of blood (8)8. Romantic poet (5)13. Full to the brim (8)15. Religious reformer (7)17. One of the planets (7)18. Doesn’t do much! (5)20. Prod gently (5)21. Fortune-telling cards 5)22. Unidentifi ed fl ying objects (4)
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Win £25 in Sainsbury’s vouchersSend your answers along with your name and a contact number to The Editor, Sandwell Herald, Communications Unit, Sandwell Council House, Oldbury, B69 3DE or you can email via [email protected] by 30 APRIL 2015.
First correct entry for each puzzle out of the hat wins the prize. The editor’s decision is fi nal and no correspondence will be entered into.
Lucky voucher winners from puzzles in the last Herald are:Crossword: Steve Bradley, West Bromwich
Wordsearch: Michael Watson, Rowley Regis
Sudoku: Ken North, Great Barr
Which word is NOT in the Wordsearch?
In the crossword, what word is spelt from the letters in the yellow boxes?
61
4
87 3 4 6
6
Performers brought West Bromwich’s Queen’s Square shopping centre and Sandwell Arts Café to life to launch Creative Black Country – a new arts project.Funded by Arts Council England, the scheme aims to bring the best in high-quality performance and visual arts from around the world to the area.
At the launch in January, performances from ACE Dance
and Music, Crashmat Collective Contemporary Circus and a local holographics artist entertained the crowds.
Creative Black Country will support groups and communities to create their own arts activities and help coordinate arts activity across Sandwell, Wolverhampton and Walsall.
More info at www.creativeblackcountry.wordpress.com email [email protected] or call 0121 525 1127.
Enjoy Fireside Tales with Granddad when Sandwell Arts Café stages a unique puppet show.The hour-long, free show is on Saturday 21 March at 11.30am and promises exquisite puppets, amazing storytelling and beautiful shadow puppetry.
The performance is among a series of events and exhibitions being staged at the café, on the ground fl oor of Central Sixth, formerly The Public building, West Bromwich.
The café opens Monday to Friday from 10am-2pm and serves teas, coffees, soft drinks, cakes and light snacks. See exhibits Monday to Friday 10am-5pm. More info at www.sandwellartsfestival.com
Orchestra in tuneThe People’s Orchestra celebrates its third birthday in style with a concert at West Bromwich Town Hall.The concert on Sunday 19 April will feature music voted for by the public. Tickets cost £10 for adults, £7 with concessions and £5 for under-16s.
The hour-long, free show is on Saturday
the café, on the ground fl oor of Central Sixth, formerly The Public building, West
See exhibits Monday to Friday
Family fun at Arts Café
The group, which uses the town hall as its base, gives musicians across the region the chance to be a part of an orchestra.
Backed by an Arts Council grant, it’s made up of experienced musicians who did not have the time or desire to commit to joining a professional orchestra.
More info at www.thepeoplesorchestra.com
Dance students from Sandwell College at the Creative Black Country launch
Photo: JA Digital Media
Work is now under way on the £5.2 million restoration of Lightwoods Park and House in Bearwood.The aim is to restore historical elements of Lightwoods Park and refurbish the Grade II Lightwoods House so more people can enjoy, learn about and become involved in the park and house.
Council deputy leader Councillor Steve Eling said: “In just over four years since we’ve taken over the park, we’ve developed plans together with local people, including the Friends group; secured Lottery funding; and let a detailed contract to specialist contractors.
“We look forward to working with our contractors on a high-quality restoration to benefi t the community for generations to come.”
Appointed contractors Fairhurst Ward Abbots have a track record of restoring historic buildings.
Restoration work is set to last until summer 2016, so there won’t be a Lightwoods Festival this year.
However, some improvements, such as the new children’s playground, will be fi nished in time for this summer, and the skate park area will stay open throughout the works.
Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and Big Lottery Fund (BIG) are funding £3.6 million towards the project under the Parks for People Programme, with Sandwell Council funding £1.6 million.
www.sandwell.gov.uk/mycouncil PAGE 9
Young people are getting to grips with essential life skills thanks to a series of workshops at Stone Cross Library, West Bromwich.Youth workers from our young people’s services are running a range of fun, interactive and educational workshops. These cover personal safety, confi dence, self-esteem,
communication skills and much more.
Sessions are at Stone Cross Library, Beverley Road, on Wednesdays 5-8pm.
For more info on this and other youth activities, visit www.justyouth.org.uk
Or join us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/sandwellyouth or call 0845 352 8430.
Lightwoods restoration begins
A new volunteer group is being set up to help recreate 17th Century gardens at at Oak House Museum, West Bromwich.Sandwell Council’s museums service and the Friends of the Oak House Museum are looking for volunteers who want to get involved, after the Friends secured a Community First grant.
Museum services manager Jane Hanney said: “We want people who can help us clear inappropriate planting and overgrown areas and plant herbs, bay, lavender and fruit trees in keeping with the date of the house.
“You don’t have to be fi t. You can do as little or as much as you can – and you don’t need to know anything about gardening.”
Call 0121 553 0759 or email [email protected] to fi nd out more.
Call for gardening
volunteers
The knot garden is currently the only part of the Oak House Museum gardens in
similar keeping with the 1600s
Digital autopsy centre openThe Midlands’ fi rst digital autopsy centre is now open at Sandwell Valley Crematorium in West Bromwich.Sandwell is also the fi rst place in the country to offer post mortems done using CT scanner technology at no extra cost to bereaved local families.
The centre is the latest in several major improvements to the council’s bereavement service, including a £5.5 million investment in our two crematoriums.
After rebuilding West Bromwich’s crematorium in 2011, the council is now refurbishing Rowley Regis Crematorium.
A new building where wakes can be held after a crematorium service is currently being built at Sandwell Valley – the fi rst of its kind in the Midlands.
We’ve also modernised the Register Offi ce at Highfi elds House in West Bromwich. It now has a new reception area and refurbished ceremony rooms.
We’ve extended several of our cemeteries. And burial plots and cremations can be purchased in
advance to help prepare for funeral costs – which are currently the lowest in the area.
Families are now able to organise funerals and marriage ceremonies seven days a week. Registration appointments and automated web payments are also available online.
For more info, visit www.sandwell.gov.uk/bereavement or call 0121 569 6700.
Life skills workshops for young people
Council deputy leader Councillor Steve Eling, front, oversees the start of restoration work at Lightwoods House and Park
Mayor Councillor Derek Rowley cuts the ribbon with, left,
Councillor Mahboob Hussain and, right, Ash Govind, from iGene
PAGE 10 SANDWELL COUNCIL...WORKING FOR YOU
Council leaders are offering support to academies following Ofsted concerns over the quality of secondary school education in Sandwell.Sir Michael Wilshaw, head of Ofsted, has called on councils to challenge the performance of academies in their areas.
In London, this approach has seen educational achievement improve faster than anywhere else in the country in the past ten years.
Here, council leader Councillor Darren Cooper explains why:
Most of our secondary schools are academies. This means
they are run independently and outside the council’s role as the local education authority.
So while 82 of our 94 primary schools are maintained by the council, we only maintain fi ve of the borough’s 17 high schools.
According to Ofsted, 82% of our primary school-age children are
attending good or outstanding schools. But in the secondary sector this is much lower at 53% (compared with 71% nationally).
We’re pleased to see the latest league tables, which confi rm the gap between Sandwell and national performance at GCSE continues to close. But I really think our young people deserve a better deal, with schools improving performance even more.
Several of our secondary schools have seen signifi cant falls in their GCSE results this year. And a number of them are either rated as ‘requires improvement’ or have fallen below a ‘good’ Ofsted rating since they became academies.
Now, the council doesn’t have a legal obligation to help or support academies, or any actual powers to force academies to improve.
But we do have a moral obligation to ensure all of Sandwell’s children are getting a good education.
These are Sandwell’s kids. It doesn’t matter which sort of school they go to – how well they do and what they achieve is a priority for the council.
We want to support the many hard-working teachers, headteachers and governors, as well as pupils, at our schools to get the very best outcomes to secure improvements in Ofsted ratings and GCSE results.
I’m calling a summit with school heads and chairs of governors to see what we can do to help them
improve standards.
We’ll also be asking for regular updates on performance
from all of our schools, and having regular meetings with schools that have poor
Ofsted ratings or low GCSE results.
It would be wrong
for us to turn our backs on these schools just because successive governments have altered the traditional role of an education authority in how they are run.
League tables
New changes in the exam system have been refl ected by a national fall of 4% in the percentage of pupils achieving fi ve or more GCSEs at grade C or above including English and maths.
Sandwell has bucked the trend with results only falling by 3% for this key measure.
Sandwell’s position has improved when compared to other areas. At 5+ A*-C including English and maths, Sandwell has moved up six places from 139th to 133rd.
There have also been improvements in the progress made by pupils between Key Stage 2 and GCSE – in English Sandwell’s position improved by 24 places to 78th.
Support for academiesfor us to turn our backs on these
Play Learn Have fun ExploreMake new
friendsAdventure
FREE childcare for 2 year olds in SandwellYour 2 year old may be able to get up to 15 hours of free childcare a week during term time.
That’s 15 hours a week to learn through play, make their first friends, sing, dance, dress up and have lots of fun.
That’s also 15 hours a week for you to have a break, spend more time with your younger children, get stuff done around the house, study or look for work.
To find out more please contact Sandwell
Family Information Service 0121 569 4914
or visit www.sandwell.gov.uk/freechildcare
Construction work is on track at the £8.1 million Wednesbury Leisure Centre – with the steel structure now in place.The new complex will have a 25-metre pool, a learner pool, two dance studios and a 100-station fi tness suite as well as a new sports hall.
Digging for the pools is fi nished and work has now started on the concrete shell to hold the water.
Next will be the walls and roof. Contractors Interserve are working hard to ensure work continues smoothly.
The new centre, on High Bullen, Wednesbury, will be run by Sandwell Leisure Trust and is set to open in late autumn 2015.
www.sandwell.gov.uk/mycouncil PAGE 11
Fly-tipping is the illegal dumping of waste and can carry a fi ne of up to £95,000 or three years imprisonment.It can be anything from dumped fridges and furniture to building waste. It blights neighbourhoods and last year cost council taxpayers £181,000 in disposal costs alone.
Sandwell is committed to reducing fl y-tipping and will prosecute whenever possible.
If you witness fl y-tipping, please let us know by reporting it online at www.sandwell.gov.uk/fl ytipping or call 0845 359 7501.
Householders’ duty
Residents are responsible for disposing their waste, even if they give it to someone else to remove. If it is fl y-tipped, there is a substantial fi ne.
Before giving it to someone else:
Ask for the person’s full address and phone number;
Seek their waste carrier licence (issued by Environment Agency); and
Contact the Agency on 08708 506 506 and ask for a free instant Waste Carrier Validation Check or check on the Agency’s website.
Bulky or extra waste
There are several ways of getting rid of unwanted goods properly:
Sell or give them away for re-use. Organisations like Community Transport can take usable items.
Take them to the Household Recycling Centre, Shidas Lane, Oldbury – it’s free for residents.
Book a council collection, which is chargeable but cheaper than hiring a skip.
FLY-TIPPINGIS ILLEGAL
New leisure centre takes shape
Help us tackle fl y-tipping
Two lucky residents hit the jackpot prize after taking part in our BINgo reward scheme.West Bromwich’s Kelvin Kay, pictured here with his wife Lynne, and Tipton’s Margaret Wallis won the £1,000 cash prizes by using their food waste recycling bin.
The scheme saw BINgo cards issued borough-wide for a 12-week campaign to encourage more residents to recycle food waste.
BINgo numbers were then stuck on
BINgo win!food waste bins each week with a number of prizes up for grabs for people who completed lines on their BINgo cards.
As well as the £1,000 jackpot, other prizes won included gym memberships across Sandwell and compostable bin liners.
Councillor Maria Crompton, cabinet member for highways and environment, said: “BINgo was a great way of getting people to recycle more. Residents have told us they thought it was a fun idea and they enjoyed taking part.”
BINgo has now fi nished. For tips on recycling, visit www.sandwell.gov.uk/recycling
Deputy leader Councillor Steve Eling; cabinet member for health Councillor Paul Moore; and Wednesbury town lead member Councillor
Elaine Costigan see progress on Wednesbury Leisure Centre
Aged 40-74?Find out about our FREE NHS Health CheckEven though you might be feeling great, if you’re over forty you may be at risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, diabetes or dementia.
A FREE NHS Health Check can help you reduce these risks and make sure that you stay healthy.
Contact your GP to book your FREE NHS Health Check
SANDWELL COUNCIL...NOW RESPONSIBLE FOR PUBLIC HEALTH PAGE 13
Sandwell Lifestyle Choices is here to help anyone who lives or works in Sandwell or is registered with a Sandwell GP.We offer an accessible, friendly service to support you in making small changes that can lead to a healthier lifestyle.
Call us on 0800 011 4656 to find out about the range of health and wellbeing services we offer, including:
Weight management programmes for children and families
A range of physical activity programmes
NHS health checks
Wellbeing services
Antenatal and breastfeeding support
Stop smoking services
Drug and alcohol support
Services are free or low cost. Call one of our advisors who will support and guide you to start your journey to a fitter and healthier you.
Sandwell Lifestyle Choices is available from 9am to 5pm Monday to Thursday and from 9am to 4.30pm on Fridays.
Proud to be a quitter?It’s national No Smoking Day on 11 March – and this year’s theme is ‘Proud to be a quitter’.It’s one of the peak times for people trying to quit.
Sandwell NHS Stop Smoking Service is on hand to support you if you decide this is your year to quit
Your quit attempt is four times more likely to succeed with support from the NHS Stop Smoking Service than when you do it alone.
Smoking is a major risk factor for the main causes of deaths and disability in the UK, such as stroke, cancer, heart and respiratory diseases.
No Smoking Day campaign takes place on the second Wednesday
of March and every year, around a million smokers use the day to try to quit – many succeed.
It’s estimated more than 1.5 million smokers have quit smoking for good since the first launch of No Smoking Day campaign in 1983.
Interested in quitting?Sandwell Stop Smoking Service is very effective and has helped thousands of smokers.
The service runs easily-accessible clinics throughout the week across the borough.
Advisers will discuss available medications with you and support you to overcome possible nicotine withdrawals and cravings.
Call 0800 011 4656 for more info.
Want to lead a healthier lifestyle?
Heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, dementia or a stroke could happen to any of us.The good news is these conditions can often be prevented – even if you have a history of them in your family.
If you’re 40 or over, you may be entitled to a free NHS Health Check.
This will help you be better prepared for the future and take steps to maintain or improve your health.
A health check only takes about 20 to 30 minutes. You will be asked some basic questions about your age, sex and family history. You will also have a simple blood test to measure your cholesterol level.
Following the check, you will receive free, personalised advice about what you can do to stay healthy.
Even if you’re feeling well, it’s worth having your NHS Health Check now.
We can then work with you to lower your chances of developing these health problems in the future.
Aged 40-74? Book your FREE health check!
To book your FREE NHS Health Check, please contact your GP.
Or call Sandwell Lifestyle Choices on 0800 011 46 56 for more information.
PAGE 14 SANDWELL COUNCIL
We’re encouraging local businesses, charities and residents to ‘pledge’ their support for military families in Sandwell.We signed an Armed Forces Community Covenant on Armed Forces Day in 2012.
We’re committed to giving special consideration to armed service personnel and their families. And we want to make sure they’re not unfairly disadvantaged when it comes to public and commercial services.
We hold regular meetings with the 11 Signal and West Midlands Brigade, the Royal British Legion and a host of other partners. These include local cadet groups and colleagues from public, private and voluntary organisations.
The council has put in place various policies at the Royal British Legion’s suggestion to help military families.
And we’re now looking to build support for the Community Covenant by encouraging local businesses, charities and residents to call us on 0121 569 5048 to let us know what they can do.
We will add all ‘pledges’ to our Covenant book and webpage www.sandwell.gov.uk/armedforces
New Youth PCCA Phoenix Collegiate student is fl ying the fl ag for safety after being elected Sandwell’s new Youth Police & Crime Commissioner. Jardell Miller, aged 15, was elected to the role by members of the borough’s Youth Parliament and confi rmed at a youth summit held by West Midlands Police & Crime Commissioner David Jamieson.
Youth Commissioners meet regularly
to discuss issues affecting young people around crime and policing – and challenge Mr Jamieson and West Midlands Police to take on board and address their concerns.
The Youth Commission is made up of young people representing the seven West Midlands local authority areas.
Jardell, aged 15, said: “As a Youth Commissioner, I can work closely with the police and local authorities to make Sandwell a better place to live in.”
Sandwell has two Youth Police & Crime Commissioners. The other is Tasnim Miah.
Support for military families We’ll be marking the 70th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day with a parade in Oldbury town centre from 10.30am on Saturday 9 May.
You can also come along to an Armed Forces Day parade and event, with entertainment for all the family, on Saturday 27 June. The parade starts at 11.30am. Entertainment and activities get under way at 12.15pm.
Visit www.sandwell.gov.uk/events for more info, or call 0121 569 4703.
VE Day and Armed Forces Day
Our libraries are a great place for people of all ages and tastes to get involved in social activities.Recent surveys suggest one in six people are now lonely – so come along and see what’s on offer.
Activities include knit and natter groups, memories groups, art groups,
ancestry clubs, Scrabble, board game clubs and regular coffee mornings.
Parents can meet other parents at weekly under-fi ve storytime sessions and regular children’s activities – and explore the wide range of children’s books and information available.
Contact your local library or visit www.sandwell.gov.uk/libraries
If you’re looking for a new challenge, why not join the growing number of volunteers at our libraries?We offered more than 200 voluntary placements last year, with volunteers putting in 7,000-plus hours.
You can get involved with organising craft activities and gaming groups to running fi lm clubs and much more.
Friends’ groups support the work of individual libraries and help with fundraising and planning and running activities.
Volunteering offers valuable work experience to jobseekers and students. And it helps people gain new skills, improving their chances of fi nding future employment.
Contact your local library for more details or visit www.sandwell.gov.uk/libraries
New look for Hill Top Library Customers and special guests ushered in a new-look Hill Top Library at a recent event.The library and Hill Top Community Centre next door have opened up the access to each building, so they can jointly plan and work together on projects. Customers can now get to the centre from the library and use the new computer suite.
More info at www.sandwell.gov.uk/libraries
200 voluntary placements last year, New look for
Betty Johnson and Joan Keeling at a library knit and natter group
Support your libraryMake a friend
200 voluntary placements last year, 200 voluntary placements last year,
Library Friends and volunteers Charlie and Sandra Foots and Sandwell Libraries’ Heather Whitehouse
Why is dog mess such a big issue?“As wardens, it’s the top thing people ask us about. It’s disgusting, looks horrible, makes it slippery underfoot, is a health hazard and costs taxpayers’ money to clean up. Parents are especially worried about mess on school routes or in parks where children play. Dog mess has caused blindness in children, so it can be a very serious issue.”
Why do you have to fine people?“We don’t want to have to – it’s a last resort. We’ve done lots of education with dog walkers and given out thousands of bags. Bagged dog mess can go in any public waste bin or your grey waste bin at home – it doesn’t have to be a special dog mess bin. Sadly a small minority of dog owners still try to get away with it, so we’re now taking a zero-tolerance approach. Fining shows we’re serious about having cleaner, safer streets and
parks. Word soon gets around when we’ve issued a fine.”
How do dog owners react?“Most responsible owners welcome our patrols. Often, they will stop and have a chat, and help us identify ‘hot spots’ and owners who aren’t cleaning up.“When we witness an offence, people sometimes try to claim it wasn’t their dog’s mess, but most admit they’ve made a mistake and accept the fine. We wear CCTV body cameras at all times, which helps us prove it, especially if it goes to court. We’ve also used CCTV footage from our estates as evidence of
dog fouling.”
How do you decide where to patrol?“Where we get reports, we will target our patrols there. We receive information reported online, on social media or to the council’s Contact Centre, as well as from councillors and community networks. We can’t be everywhere at once – which
is why we rely on the eyes and ears of local people.”
What else are you doing?“Because we’re out patrolling in the community, it helps people feel safer. It also means we can educate people about littering; not letting dogs onto children’s play areas, sports pitches or cemeteries; and environmental health problems caused by excessive bird feeding. We seize alcohol from anyone causing a nuisance and get abandoned vehicles removed too. We also support the police in partnership work.”
Sandwell Council…working for you Page 15
www.sandwell.gov.uk/dogfouling
£75FINE
Clean up after your dog or
face a £75 penalty
Our wardens have fined more than 80 people for not cleaning up after their dogs since we launched our hard-hitting campaign in February 2014.We’ve also successfully prosecuted four people who refused to accept or pay the £75 fine.
The Herald went out on patrol with the wardens to ask them about their work.
Dog mess patrol
Report those not cleaning up after their dogs at
www.sandwell.gov.uk/dogmess or email [email protected] or call 0845 359 7501
Councillor Maria Crompton visits one of 130 sites where Serco have painted warning stencils
Warden on patrol at Warley Woods
Wardens have given thousands of bags to dog walkers to encourage them to clean up after their pets
Page 16 Sandwell Council…working for you
Case study:Last year Ms R from Smethwick used a hamper company to buy food and presents for Christmas. By saving a weekly or monthly amount you buy a hamper which you get before Christmas.
You can find you’re paying a lot more than the individual items are worth and you don’t get much choice.
Why don’t you save your own money instead? Following advice from Sandwell Financial Services Hub, Ms R has now opened a savings account with 6Towns Credit Union and has already started saving for her children’s Christmas presents.
Plan, save and spend wisely in 2015!
Would you like to plan to save?Sandwell Financial Services Hub can help you find ways to do this. We can also help you to manage your budget if you are struggling. Contact us to find out more.
Places you can go to get help:
Are you a private landlord in Sandwell? Don’t risk being fined £3,000.
Since 1 December 2014, landlords with property in Sandwell need to check that someone has the right to live in the UK before letting a property to them.This includes landlords who take in lodgers or sub-let a property.
In most cases you’ll be able to carry out the checks without contacting the Home Office. All you need to do is check evidence of a person’s identity and citizenship, for example a passport or biometric residence permit.
The right to rent checks must be carried out by:
• landlords, homeowners and letting agents renting out property in Sandwell, Birmingham, Dudley, Walsall and Wolverhampton;
The checks apply to: • all adults aged 18 and over living at the property; and
• new tenancy agreements starting on or after 1 December 2014.
If you have let a property after this date to someone who doesn’t have the right to rent, you could be fined up to £3,000.
Do you need to get ready for Universal Credit?
That’s the message from the Sandwell Financial Services Hub and its partnership organisations. You might think it’s too early to be thinking about Christmas 2015. Planning ahead means you can save now to avoid over-spending in December and paying off Christmas debts in January and throughout the following year!
Q: What is Universal Credit?A: The following benefits will be merged into one monthly payment called Universal Credit:
• Income-based Job Seeker’s Allowance
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
• Income Support
• Working Tax Credit
• Child Tax Credit
• Housing Benefit
Q: When is this happening?A: Universal Credit is being rolled-out nationally in 2015 but we don’t know yet exactly when this will be in Sandwell.
Q: Will this affect me?
A: Yes, if you are a new claimant or were previously eligible for Job Seeker’s Allowance and have a change in your circumstances.
Q: What do I need to do?
A: There are three main things you need to think about:
• If you don’t already have one, you need to open a bank, building society or Credit Union account for your benefit to be paid into.
The 6 Towns Credit Union in Sandwell has launched its own current account with Universal Credit in mind.(See contact details below).
• You need to be able to access the internet as Universal Credit applications can only be made online. All Sandwell libraries have computers with internet access.
• You need to start managing your finances on a monthly basis. Advice and support is available from Sandwell Financial Services Hub for social housing tenants.
You can contact them on 0121 561 7935
During 2015, there will be a national roll-out of Universal Credit... will you be ready?
How our loans compare
6 Towns Credit Union
Loan amount £100.00 Weekly repayment £7.40Term 14 weeksTotal amount payable £103.49
Typical APR: 26.8%
You save £2.60 per week
Total saving of £36.51
Loan amount £100.00 Weekly repayment £10.00Term 14 weeksTotal amount payable £140.00
Typical APR: 1068.5%(www.providentpersonalcredit.com)
Provident Personal Credit
For more information, call the landlords helpline 0300 069 9799 or visit GOV.UK and search ‘Right to Rent’
Sandwell Council…working for you Page 17
Keeping Sandwell safe
We’ve teamed up with other Black Country councils and West Midlands Police to win a ground-breaking injunction order to tackle ‘car cruising’.
The cameras have recorded a huge range of crime and misbehaviour including a shooting outside a nightclub and the street riots of 2011, and helped police make almost 100 arrests.
The 94 arrests included one for attempted murder, 17 assaults, 16 burglaries and 12 robberies. The cameras have also helped tackle disorder, car thefts and criminal damage.
The 26-member surveillance team regularly reports crime and anti-social behaviour to the police and hands them CCTV footage. On one occasion the system helped in the arrest of a person for child abduction.
Councillor Mahboob Hussain, deputy leader and cabinet member for neighbourhoods, said the council’s CCTV system is a valuable tool in the fight against crime and is helping to keep buildings and people’s homes safe.
“Many of these cameras were put in at the request of residents or businesses to make their lives safer and help them feel more secure,” he said.
Councillor Hussain said the council had 460 cameras covering town centres and 2,000 flats and tower blocks which were monitored from a central control room. “The rest of the cameras are site-based CCTV which are used to monitor council buildings, cemeteries and libraries,” he said.
“In 2013-14 our control room captured 3,466 crime and anti-social behaviour incidents using our CCTV and handled 122,000 intercom calls
from tenants and their visitors.”
The cameras and the hard work of council staff have played a part in the fall in burglaries in Sandwell. ”I’m not surprised by this because we work very hard with the police and our local neighbourhood officers do a great job,” he added.
Sandwell’s CCTV cameras are helping to keep people and businesses safe – and have led to the reporting of more than 3,400 incidents of crime and anti-social behaviour over a 12-month period.
The order bans people from car cruising anywhere in Sandwell, Dudley, Walsall or Wolverhampton, or promoting, organising or publicising any car cruising event in the area.
Car cruising is when drivers meet on the public highway on either an organised or impromptu basis to race or show off in their cars. It is noisy, dangerous and illegal.
Gatherings have attracted up to 250 vehicles and spectators. Councils and Police have received hundreds of complaints.
The order bans activities typically associated with car cruising, including:
• speeding;
• racing and driving in convoy;
• performing stunts;
• sounding horns or playing music, causing a significant public nuisance;
• using foul or abusive language and threatening, intimidating behaviour; and
• causing an obstruction on a public highway.
Call police on 101 to report car cruising. Anyone breaching the order faces court action, prison and a fine.
Visit www.sandwell.gov.uk/carcruising to read more.
Car cruising banInside Sandwell’s busy CCTV control room
Councillor Mahboob Hussain, deputy leader and cabinet member for neighbourhoods.
Working around the clock keeping Sandwell safe
Page 18 Sandwell Council…working for you
Building solid foundations for careers
While tenants are benefiting from upgraded kitchens and bathrooms, new heating systems and electrical rewiring, dozens of young people are taking the opportunity to kick-start their careers with an apprenticeship.
The council’s Think Sandwell team has worked alongside the construction partners to secure more than 40 apprenticeship places.
Ben Barham from Wednesbury is 17 and
was taken on in June 2014.
After Ben left school, he was involved in a number
of training and employment programmes with
Sandwell Council, such as MOTIV8 and Fast
Forward. He then landed a place with
PJB - Lovell’s heating and plumbing sub-contractor
through the Think Sandwell team.
Ben is in his first year at college, working towards
his NVQ Level 2 in Plumbing. He has been
learning a lot as a member of the Lovell team
helping to refurbish homes in Sandwell. He
especially enjoys meeting new tenants every day.
Amanda Lemm, from Cradley Heath is 23 and has worked for VINCI Facilities for five years. Initially training as a plasterer, she also earned an NVQ Level 2 in Business Administration and Customer Care. During this time, she has also started a family and been a trainee liaison officer, working closely with tenants while their homes are being improved. But that’s not enough! Her next immediate goal is to return to her original trade of choice, plastering, and gain her NVQ Level 2.
Craig Price is 18 and in his second year at college.Craig, from Tividale, is working towards his NVQ Level 2 in Plumbing and also joined PJB as an apprentice in June 2014 through Think Sandwell.
Craig admits that at first he found the reality of work to be very different to what he had expected compared to college – and harder. But with the help of his colleagues, he is performing really well and, like Ben, learning a lot.
Sandwell Council and its major construction partners Keepmoat, Lovell, VINCI Facilities and Wates Living Space are improving 6,000 council homes across the borough through a multi-million pound housing investment programme.
What is an apprenticeship?Apprenticeships are a first step into employment for people aged 16-24. They are high-quality, work-based training programmes giving you the opportunity to work and study in the job area you are interested in.
If you decide to take up an apprenticeship, you will:• Be earning and learning at the same time while gaining valuable skills and experience;
• Enrol on a course with an accredited training provider/college to gain new knowledge and skills; and
• Gain nationally-recognised qualifications specifically relating to your career.
Councillor Ian Jones, cabinet member for jobs and economy,
with some of the young apprentices
Sandwell Council…working for you Page 19
Daniel Henn, from West Bromwich, is 21
and a trainee administrator for VINCI.
He secured his apprenticeship through Think
Sandwell. Tenants who have had their homes
improved by VINCI Facilities will be familiar with
Daniel. He’s usually at the end of the customer
care line, responding to enquiries. He really
enjoys solving people’s problems. His role gives
him the opportunity to work with both tenants and
the supply chain responsible for carrying out the
work. He is working towards an NVQ Level 2 in
Customer Service.
Oliver Bennett, 18, from Walsall, has been working as a management trainee with Wates Living Space since July 2014. He successfully applied for his role after a period of work experience for Wates and is now working his way up to a Level 3 Certificate in Management. Oliver is thoroughly enjoying learning about all aspects of the construction industry – from responding to enquiries from tenants and preparing reports, to supporting the Wates’ team with property surveys and handovers when works have been completed to homes.
Dave Elcock, aged 26 and originally from Oldbury, has risen to the role of site manager. He started his career with Wates as an apprentice plasterer some nine years ago on a previous Sandwell Council housing improvement scheme.He achieved his NVQ Level 3 in Plastering and was awarded an HNC from Birmingham City University.Dave thoroughly recommends the apprenticeship route for a successful career. In his case, he wanted to earn some money and stand on his own two feet while learning about something that interested him. His story is a great example of how successful you can be if you are dedicated and work hard.
Adam Rogers is 20 and from Wolverhampton.
He began his apprenticeship with Electrix, one of
VINCI’s sub-contractors, in 2012 and is celebrating
completing his three-year apprenticeship this
month. He has now completed his NVQ Level 3 in
Electrical Installation and Engineering and is taking
up a permanent job with Electrix as an electrician.
Like most apprentices, Adam enjoys the hands-
on, practical nature of his work, as well as the
opportunity to improve tenants’ homes through
the investment programme. He’s excited at the
prospect of a full-time, permanent job which he’s
earned through applying himself as an apprentice.
Becky Rostron, 20, also from West Bromwich, is Lovell’s business administration apprentice.She was unemployed for around four months before she applied for an apprenticeship through the national apprenticeship website. They put her in touch with Think Sandwell who sorted everything out for her. Becky says the apprenticeship is giving her valuable experience. And she is learning new skills on the computer she never thought she would be able to do such as developing spreadsheets for booking appointments and using databases for monitoring Lovell’s work programme.
Billie-Jo Taylor, 22 and from Wednesbury is a trainee site manager with Keepmoat. She wants to become an ambassador to help more young women build careers in construction.
Studying for a degree in construction management at Wolverhampton University, she is spending a year in industry working on the £11 million refurbishment of three high-rise blocks, the Crofts in Smethwick. She discovered her passion for construction when she gained a double A grade in her GCSE Construction exam and went on to earn her BTEC and HNC. She achieved such high scores she was able to go straight to the second year of her degree course. She says construction is such an exciting career and there’s never a dull day because every day is so different.
Councillor Ian Jones, cabinet member for jobs and economy, said:
Young people play an important role in the housing investment programme. I’m delighted that all of the construction partners are enthusiastic
about creating apprenticeship opportunities and recognise the importance of supporting the next generation of workers in the industry.
Trainees and apprenticeship opportunities are being created across all aspects of the business for carpenters, electricians, plumbers, assistant quantity surveyors and office administrators. In recent years, our programmes of work have already given some fantastic opportunities to young people who have progressed up the career ladder to more senior roles.
If you are interested in an apprenticeship with Sandwell Council or one of its construction partners, contact: Think Sandwell’s Training & Employment Team on 0121 569 2099 or email [email protected]
Page 20 Sandwell Council…working for you
New council homes for Smethwick
THURSDAY2APRIL2015
MARCH RENT PAYMENT
REMINDERDo you pay your council rent weekly or monthly?Friday 3 April is Good Friday and a Bank Holiday.
So, don’t forget the last date for March rent payments is Thursday 2 April 2015
THURSDAY2APRIL2015
MARCH RENT PAYMENT
REMINDERDo you pay your council rent weekly or monthly?Friday 3 April is Good Friday and a Bank Holiday.
So, don’t forget the last date for March rent payments is Thursday 2 April 2015
(this doesn’t apply if you pay your rent by direct debit)
(this doesn’t apply if you pay your rent by direct debit)
The properties - 19 two-bedroom, 18 three-bedroom and four four-bedroom - are being built on the former Atlas Metals site in Cranford Street, Smethwick, by Mar City Homes Ltd as part of their 142-home development.
Made indoors in factory conditions and then transported and put together on permanent foundations on-site, the homes are built in weeks instead of months.
Made from the same high-quality, durable materials as regular houses, they should not be confused with mobile or pre-fabricated homes.
Initial work to clear the site and prepare for the building work to start is already under way. The council homes are expected to be completed this summer when they will be added to Sandwell’s housing stock and available for rent.
Councillor Ian Jones, cabinet member for jobs and economy, with responsibility for the scheme, said:
“The demand for affordable family housing continues to grow in Sandwell.
Along with the need to replace homes lost from our housing stock under the Right
to Buy scheme, some tenants need more suitable accommodation following the
introduction of Welfare Reform.”
Over 10 years, Sandwell Council is investing more than £500 million into house and flat improvements and replacing and building new homes.
Sandwell Council has bought 41 sustainable modular homes off plan from a developer.
Lovell is working on four blocks in Charlemont Farm, West Bromwich, while Keepmoat is making a difference to three blocks on Windmill Lane, Smethwick.
Like all high-rise improvements Sandwell Council has carried out in recent years, these projects will transform previously old and tired-looking buildings into new, modern high-rise apartments.
The four high-rise blocks in West Bromwich are nearly finished with scaffolding down on two of the blocks, revealing the impressive makeover.
At the Crofts in Smethwick, work began last summer and you can see the extensive refurbishment work that is now under way, with all the balconies removed and the roof being replaced. Keepmoat is using mast climbers instead of traditional scaffolding, which means everyone can see the transformation as it unfolds.
With a combined spend of £22 million, the seven blocks are benefitting from external cladding to
improve the energy efficiency of the blocks and new roofs. The facelift includes upgrading front and rear entrances, new lifts, replacement doors and windows, along with the redecoration of floors, walls and ceilings in communal areas as well as improvements to the lighting and parking outside.
A lot has been happening during recent months on two of our high-rise refurbishment projects that are under way in Sandwell.
HIGH-RISE FACELIFT CONTINUES
Are you a Sandwell Council tenant? Don’t risk being fined £3,000.Since 1 December, council tenants in Sandwell need to check that anyone they take in as a lodger has the right to live in the UK.In most cases you’ll be able to carry out the checks without contacting the Home Office. All you need to do is check for evidence of a person’s identity and citizenship, for example, by looking at their passport or biometric residence permit.
The checks apply to:
• all adults aged 18 and over lodging at the property; and
• lodgers taken in since 1 December 2014.
If you’ve taken in a lodger after this date, and they don’t have the right to live in the UK, you could be fined up to £3,000 by the government.This change has been introduced as part of The Immigration Act 2014.
For more information about the checks you
need to make, call
0121 569 6000
Left, Ashcroft block, Windmill Lane, Smethwick
Below, Beaconview House,Charlemont Farm, West Bromwich
An example of the modular homes being built in Smethwick
Sandwell Council…working for you Page 21
Sandwell Community Offer is here
The project, which aims to reduce demand on formal health and care services, is being introduced initially in six areas of the borough.
Councillor Yvonne Davies, cabinet member for adult social care, said: “Each one of the schemes offers a different range of services based on the needs of each area and the strengths of the community organisations involved.
“The number and type of service available under each scheme will develop over time.”
Examples of services available are shown opposite.
The Community Offer is open to residents in the scheme’s area, or registered with a GP in that area. Residents in the pilot areas can contact the lead organisations themselves, if they think they would benefit, or referrals can be made by health or other agency professionals.
Regular community meetings are being held by each organisation inviting local community groups to take part.
Between October and December, the pilot schemes helped 230 people aged 65+ by providing them with support in their home or local community, with 15 additional volunteers recruited to help deliver the pilot schemes.
A pilot scheme to transform health and care services through partnership with voluntary organisations is being introduced across six areas of Sandwell.The Sandwell Community Offer is an innovative and ambitious project which involves voluntary and community organisations working together to offer people a range of support in their own community.
Councillor Yvonne Davies, cabinet member for adult social care, with lead organisation members
Great Barr with Yew Tree/NewtonAgewell Tel: 0121 289 3038Email: [email protected] Exercise classes at home and in the community, befriending and dementia cafes
Oldbury/LangleyBUDS Tel: 0121 544 3721Email: [email protected] Volunteer-led ‘pop around’ service to provide brief support to family carers and assess for other needs
Blackheath/Cradley Heath & Old HillAgewell Tel: 0121 289 3038Email: [email protected] Vaccinations promotion, falls prevention toolkit, social health and exercise-based opportunities, ‘good neighbour’ promotion, local traders’ discounts, befriending service, carer support and advocacy, bereavement support
Princes End/Tipton Green/Great BridgeHealth for Living Tel: 0121 358 9030 Email: [email protected] Signposting to health and lifestyle services, information awareness raising, vaccination campaigns, volunteering and good neighbour schemes
Tividale/RowleyMurray Hall Tel: 01902 826992 Email: [email protected] GP surgery-based volunteering schemes, vaccination promotion, volunteer driver scheme for appointments
Greets Green & Lyng/West Bromwich Central Kaleidoscope Tel: 0121 565 5605 Email: [email protected]
Volunteering, dementia training, befriending, extend and walk from home service, support for employment and training opportunities
New principal starts at Sandwell’s new health science college
Previously the Principal of the Landau Forte Academy QEMS in Tamworth, Mr Fell took the school out of ‘Special Measures’ and transformed it to a ‘Good’ status in all Ofsted categories before taking up his post with Health Futures UTC.
Aimed at 14-19 year-olds, the UTC will open in September 2015 and is currently recruiting to Year 10 and Sixth Form.
The school will have a strong focus on science and healthcare but cover a range of traditional subjects at GCSE and A-Level, as well as practical and technical qualifications.
Mr Fell, Principal Designate, said:
“I am delighted to have been appointed Principal of the Health Futures UTC.
The UTC is being created to provide an outstanding academic education to youngpeople while also giving them a unique insight into the health and health science sector.”
Visit us at our open day at Birmingham Children’s Hospital (Education Centre), Saturday 14 March, 10am – 2pm. Or — visit: healthfuturesutc.co.uk email: [email protected] call: 01902 518642
For more information about the Health Futures UTC:
Robert Fell is to be the Principal for the new Health Futures University Technical College (UTC), currently being built on High Street, West Bromwich.
If you or someone you know could benefit from the services
offered, please contact the appropriate organisation for
more details.
Lead organisations and their services
Page 22 Sandwell Council…working for you
What is the Community Alarms Service?We fit community alarms in the homes of elderly, disabled or vulnerable people in Sandwell.
We fit alarms in council properties and for people who own their own home or rent.
What is a community alarm?A community alarm is fitted to a person’s home telephone and they are given an emergency button to wear around their neck or wrist.
In an emergency, the person can press the button. The alarm then uses the person’s telephone to call our control centre, any time of the day or night.
Our staff will answer the call and be able to speak to the person who pressed their alarm. If the caller needs help, one of our staff will go out to see them. We can send for the emergency services if necessary.
How much does it cost?A community alarm costs £4.22 per week or £54.86 for a quarter (three months). There is a one-off installation charge of £11.33.
To find out more: visit: www.sandwell.gov.uk/communityalarmsemail: [email protected]: 0121 569 6800
Matt is moving on up!Nineteen-year-old Matt is working in Neighbourhood Services as a customer services technical clerk in the voids team, which makes sure empty council homes are ready and prepared for new tenants to move in.
He enjoys his role but it took hard work and dedication to get where he is today.
Previously Matt spent some time in foster care and a residential children’s home.
Aged 16, he initially went to college to study but illness affected his attendance and he struggled to keep up with his studies, so he left.
Looking for work and needing to improve his confidence, his Connexions’ personal advisor referred him to Sandwell Council’s apprenticeship website. There he saw details about a MOTIV8 course which targets NEETs (young people not in education, employment or training).
Initially Matt was anxious about joining the course but decided he had nothing to lose and everything to gain.
He found the MOTIV8 team easy to talk to and enjoyed mixing with other young people on the course.
The experience improved his confidence no end.
Matt was then offered an eight-week work experience placement with the voids team in January 2014.
This was when he saw and successfully applied for his current business administration apprenticeship.
Matt’s supervisor Dawn Jones said:
“Matt is a confident member of the voids team and has built up a good relationship with his colleagues.
“He is always enthusiastic, reliable and has a positive attitude whatever he is asked to do.”
In his spare time, Matt was a founder member of and is now the chair of the Care Leavers’ Forum, which provides a vital link between children who have been in care and Children’s Services. As part of National Care Leavers’ Week in November last year, he helped organise an event especially for care leavers, where young people could get help with employment, financial awareness and confidence building.
Despite the difficulties he has sometimes faced, Matt’s philosophy is simple. “I try and take a day at a time and I want to learn as much as I can about the job I’m doing. I couldn’t have done it without the help and support I have had along the way. The belief that other people have had in me has boosted my confidence to do the very best that I can now and in the future.”
For more information on apprenticeships at Sandwell Council, tel: 0121 569 2099 or email: [email protected]
Sandwell Council apprentice Matt O’Toole is a great example of what you can achieve if you persevere and push yourself out of your comfort zone.
We’re looking for volunteers to help us improve our neighbourhood services – the part of the council that looks after housing, libraries, museums and parks.
You can help us improve our services by:• Becoming a tenant inspector*• Becoming a mystery shopper• Coming on estate walkabouts• Completing customer satisfaction surveysWe will offer support and provide training for each project and we will reimburse reasonable travel expenses for attending meetings.If you are interested in helping us improve neighbourhood services and you can spare two or three days a month, then get in touch for more details.*Only Sandwell Council tenants can become tenant inspectors, but all other roles are open to anyone who lives in Sandwell.
For more information: Fill in the online form at: www.sandwell.gov.uk/neighbourhoodvolunteersEmail: [email protected] or [email protected]: 0121 569 6464/6065 or Fill in and post the reply coupon opposite
VOLUNTEER WITH NEIGHBOURHOOD SERVICES COMPLETE AND POST TO:
Freepost Plus RTEK-JCXT-BUUC, Sandwell Council Neighbourhood Services, Operations and Development Centre, Direct 2 Industrial Park, Roway Lane, Oldbury B69 3ES.
Name: ......................................................................................
Address: ..................................................................................
.................................................................................................
Postcode: ................................................................................
Telephone Number: ................................................................
Email: ...................................................................................
I would like to receive further information on:(Please tick all that apply)
Tenant inspectors Customer satisfaction surveys
Estate walkabouts Mystery shoppers
Anything else (please state)
..............................................................................................
Sandwell Mayor, Councillor Derek Rowley congratulating Matt, Nicola Dawes and Joely Parkes on organising a special event for National Care Leavers’ Week
Contact your councillorThey hold regular ‘surgeries’ where you can go to discuss council-related issues.
Ring 0121 569 3044 to get details of exactly when and where.You can also ring this number if you are unsure who your councillors are.
Sandwell’s 72 councillors are here to represent you.
Abbey Ward
Steve Eling0121 569 3045
Dr. Ann Jaron0121 429 9216
Bob Piper0121 429 4276
Great Barr with Yew Tree Ward
Shirley Hosell07891 699992
Steve Melia0121 502 5751
Christopher Worsey07891 630477
Oldbury Ward
Susan Downing07976 042372
Elaine Giles07779 624102
Mahboob Hussain07796 337799
St Paul’s Ward
Zahoor Ahmed07896 850928
Babu Singh Bawa OBE07815 567280
Preet Kaur Gill07891 169501
Blackheath Ward
Malcolm Bridges07815 567268
Kerrie Carmichael07905 274227
Bob Price0121 559 6412
Great Bridge Ward
Pete Allen07976 958843
Joanne Hadley07815 567413
Derek Rowley07748 182187
Old Warley Ward
Dr. Trevor Crumpton07714 116434
Susan Crumpton07854 374855
Steve Trow07768 610460
Tipton Green Ward
Ahmadul Haque MBE07786 277367
Ian Jones07876 131414
Syeda Khatun MBE07766 421436
Tividale Ward
Sandra Hevican07814 295254
Maria Crompton01384 258 609
Lorraine Ashman07875 504918
Greets Green & Lyng Ward
Gurcharan Singh Sidhu0121 553 3090
John Edwards0121 531 5060
Jackie Taylor07813 364299
Bristnall Ward
Ann Jarvis07891 162762
Steven Frear07814 212572
Lucy Cashmore07854 487962
Charlemont with Grove Vale Ward
Anne Hughes0121 532 6288
Liam Preece07515 354967
Sue Phillips07814 296095
Hateley Heath Ward
Pat Davies07771 955605
Paul Moore07969 138038
Paul Sandars07711 625074
Rowley Ward
Susan Eaves07794 088247
Barbara Price0121 559 6412
Chris Tranter07853 969171
Wednesbury North Ward
Elaine Costigan0121 526 2757
Peter Hughes07896 914849
Tony Meehan07971 631364
Wednesbury South Ward
Pam Hughes 07772 892315
Olwen Jones07814 708869
Bob Lloyd07889 101052
Smethwick Ward
Richard Marshall07814 295188
Linda Horton0121 558 8719
Keith Davies07836 512941
Langley Ward
Sharon Davies07772 895213
Yvonne Davies07772 405686
Bill Gavan07813 364277
Cradley Heath & Old Hill Ward
Julie Webb01384 638588
Ann Shackleton0121 550 1245
John Tipper07501 066202
Newton Ward
David Hosell07896 690512
Joyce Underhill0121 358 5742
Tony Underhill0121 358 5742
Soho & Victoria Ward
Darren Cooper07887 567744
Roger Horton0121 558 8719
Mohammed Rouf07766 421423
West Bromwich Central Ward
Bawa Singh Dhallu07891 297574
Kim Frazer07976 056515
Mohinder Singh Tagger07733 014616
MARK OUR SCORECARD TODAY! www.sandwell.gov.uk/mycouncil PAGE 23
Friar Park Ward
Joy Edis0121 505 6618
Simon Hackett07813 989422
Geoff Lewis0121 556 4253
Princes End Ward
Philip Garrett07814 295104
Bill Cherrington07786 265056
Stephen Jones07833 682585
www.sandwell.gov.uk/recyclingFind out more at:
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SER533_Advent Valentine-p4p.pdf 1 13/01/2015 12:19
