Spring 2016
Could you foster? Come along to our free entry fostering event at the Emirates Spinnaker Tower and find out more. See page 4
5-9
14
19
Out & about Five pages of great spring events
Win tickets See the Magic of Motown at the Guildhall
Sweet! Keep track of sugar the easy way
Next issue delivered 20-27 May
Inside this issue:
flagship is produced by Portsmouth City Council, Civic Offices, Guildhall Square, Portsmouth PO1 2AL 9 flagship@portsmouthcc.gov.uk search for flagship at www.portsmouth.gov.uk
Distribution Distribution 92,800. flagship is distributed by the National Door to Door Company (d2dc). Deliverers should have an official route map from the company. If you live in a block of flats, please help them get access. To check their identity or in case of a problem, please contact Charlene Ellis at the company on 01904 606300. 12-13
16-17
28-29
Spring into action ways to get out and be more active
How to get the right NHS help if your child becomes ill
Top tips, ideas and updates from the recycling team
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Phoenix Tuition We offer academic help up to ‘A’ level for :
Physics Maths Chemistry French We can teach basic English and Maths as well to all levels. 02392 811454 www.phoenixprivatetuition.co.uk
How we use your information When you enter a competition or survey in flagship, or send us your details for a giveaway, this is how we use your personal information. Your details will be used in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) 2000 and the Data Protection Act (DPA) 1998 or other appropriate legislation. If information you have provided is personal, as defined under the DPA, we will only use it for the purpose for which you provided it. We only share your personal data with a third party if we are required to do so by law or if we need to in order to provide the service you requested. You might be asked to tick a box on the form to allow us to use the information for other purposes, such as improving our services.
Your council Councillors’ meetings are normally held in public. Anyone may make their views known on an agenda topic or ask questions by prior arrangement. For details of council meetings search meetings at www.portsmouth.gov.uk. Search council wards for details of your local councillors. Or call city helpdesk on 023 9283 4092.
Normal opening times – visits and phone calls Civic Offices reception, housing options and children’s social care: 9am–5pm Mon to Thu, 9am–4pm Fri. City helpdesk, licensing, housing benefit, council tax, elections, parking and family information service: 9am–4pm Mon to Fri. Switchboard: 023 9282 2251, 9am–5pm Mon to Fri.
Advertisements Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of advertisements or sponsorship in this publication, Portsmouth City Council cannot accept any liability for errors and omissions. We will not accept any responsibility for claims made by advertisers and their inclusion in flagship, and this should not be taken as an endorsement by Portsmouth City Council.
On the cover
Competitions
Free Emirates Spinnaker Tower fostering event, page 4. Stock image posed by model.
Competitions in flagship are open only to people who live or work in Portsmouth. They are not open to council employees.
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You can get this Portsmouth City Council information in large print, Braille, audio or in another language by calling 023 9283 4092.
Follow online www.facebook.com/Portsmouthcitycouncil www.twitter.com/portsmouthtoday Visit our website: www.portsmouth.gov.uk For lastest business news, subscribe at eepurl.com/PdFOD To find out what’s on around the city sign up to our Flag it Up email newsletter. Email flagitup@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
You report it We’ll sort it Reporting problems in your area just got a whole lot easier, thanks to our new My Portsmouth app. Just download it for free on to your tablet or mobile. Then a few simple taps is all it takes to report a whole range of issues straight to us. No waiting on phone lines, typing an email or standing in a queue. Report something whenever you like, wherever you are. The app has a built-in camera function, so you can take a photo of a problem and add its location too, using GPS. It’s all part of a new clean city team we’ve formed to keep the Great Waterfront City safe, clean and tidy. The team is dedicated to dealing with these kinds of issues, but they can’t be everywhere at once. The app will allow them to focus on the exact locations where you report problems have arisen. They can then respond quickly, without unnecessary paperwork and red tape.
With the My Portsmouth app you can report:
Broken streetlights Dog fouling Dumped rubbish and furniture Dangerous pavements Graffiti Illegally parked cars Dangerous tree branches Blocked kerbside drains To download, go to the Apple or Android store on your device and search for My Portsmouth. Tap it, snap it, map it and we’ll do the rest.
There will be updates to My Portsmouth in the future. We’re planning that these will include booking bulky waste collections and paying rent, fines and council tax. www.facebook.com/portsmouthcitycouncil
MY PORTSMOUTH ONLINE ANY TIME www.twitter.com/portsmouthtoday
3
Time to foster Been considering fostering? Now’s the time to care and become a foster carer with us.
Free towe entry r
We need people like you to provide a caring home, guidance and direction to children of all ages, especially teenagers. You could be the role model and inspiration they need, to help them turn their life around. Maybe you don’t feel you can foster full or part-time. In that case you could provide a room and around 10 hours of support a week to a vulnerable 16–24 year-old, through our Lodgings Plus scheme.
I would say to people that are considering becoming a foster carer... go for it, enquire, look into it... we need you! Dianne, Portsmouth foster carer
© John Birdsall. Stock image posed by models
For all our fostering options we provide excellent support and training, plus competitive allowances and fees. You can foster whether you’re single or married, and whether you rent or own your home, whatever your ethnicity and sexuality.
Here’s what our foster children say: “It gave me another shot at my life, which I’m so grateful for, and I can now see a successful future. Please give another young person the same chance that I’ve had.” Wayne, 19. “If you’re thinking of being a foster carer, just do it and someone will love living with you.” Georgia, 15.
The 20 year old that lives with us came to stay when he was 11 as a short-term placement, but we all clicked and got on really well. Sally, Portsmouth foster carer
On Wednesday 25 May (7pm–9pm), we’re running a free drop-in event at the Emirates Spinnaker Tower, where you can find out all about becoming a foster carer and speak to current carers. There’s no need to book. We also run informal drop-in sessions at the Civic Offices reception area (PO1 2AL). There’s no need to book, just drop by, see a brief presentation and have your questions answered by professional staff and current foster carers. Sessions are 7pm–8.30pm (presentation 7.15pm). Upcoming dates are Tuesday 5 April, Tuesday 5 July and Tuesday 9 August. More info: ff www.foster.portsmouth.gov.uk ff or call 023 9283 4071 to chat to a team member
4
City helpdesk 023 9283 4092
cityhelpdesk@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
www.portsmouth.gov.uk
out&about ★ MARCH ★ APRIL ★ MAY ★ All the highlighted events are FREE
loads more happening
There’s
There isn’t room here for all the things to do and places to visit in Portsmouth. You can find out more about forthcoming events and attractions at www.visitportsmouth.co.uk It’s the definitive listing for events and activities, for residents and visitors alike. If you have an event to promote, or want more information about something listed on the website, call us on 023 9282 6722 or email vis@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
MARCH 19
Only Fools and Three Courses Pyramids. Comedy dining. £45. 7pm.
19
Trumbo (15) No.6 Cinema. 7pm. £8, £6 conc.
19
Engineering, Excellence and Ingenuity HMS Warrior 1860. 10am–3.30pm. Family drop-in for Science Week. Free with valid admission ticket.
19, 23 Apr & 21 May Messy Cathedral Anglican Cathedral, Old Portsmouth. 2pm–4pm.
Wednesdays during term times The Ship’s Players: HMS Warrior’s Youth Theatre Ages 10 –18, £5 per session. Booking essential: 023 9277 8600 or learning@hmswarrior.org Most Thursdays Lunchtime Live Concerts Anglican Cathedral. £3, £2.50 conc. 1pm–2pm.
James Martin, 23 March
24 Roachford Wedgewood Rooms. 8pm. £13.50. 24
Carol (15) Eldon Building, Winston Churchill Avenue. £6. 7pm.
24
Groundlings Drama School Showcase Groundlings Theatre. 7pm. £5.
24
Teddy Bear Doctors Portsmouth Museum. 10.30am–2.30pm. Small charge for minor repairs.
25
Brian Conley: Alive and Dangerous New Theatre Royal. 7.30pm. From £22.50.
20
Crafts in the Tower Square Tower. 11am–3pm. Free.
20
Portsmouth Philharmonia Charter Academy, Hyde Park Road. In aid of RNLI. £5. 3pm.
25 onwards Edward King: a Life in Art Portsmouth Museum. www.portsmouthcitymuseums.co.uk
20
Duathlon Race One Start Speakers Corner. 8.30am. Ind. £32 or team £37.
25–26 Confusions Groundlings Theatre. 7pm. £8 and £10.
20
Hampshire Farmers’ Market Palmerston Road. 10am–2pm.
20
Cemetery Guided Walk Highland Road Cemetery. 2.30pm. £3, children free. Tickets from D-Day Museum or Portsmouth Museum.
25–10 Apr Easter at Emirates Spinnaker Tower Adult £9.95, conc £8.95, child £7.95. 10am–6pm.
23
James Martin Plates, Mates and Automobiles. Guildhall. £33.
25, 22 Apr & 6 May Comedy Nights Emirates Spinnaker Tower. £12.50. From 7pm.
23
EU debate University Milldam Building, 2.30pm–5pm. europeanatlantic@gmail.com
25–10 Apr Family Trail HMS Warrior 1860. 10am–4pm. Free with valid admission ticket.
ONGOING Monday to Fridays Personal Choice Weekly Activities Oasis Centre. Wellbeing activities for over-50s.
Our distributors are contracted to deliver flagship between 17 March and 24 March. Depending on where you live, some events may have taken place before you receive your copy. However, events for this period were included in the last edition of the magazine.
Groundlings Drama School Showcase, 24 March
www.facebook.com/portsmouththewaterfrontcity
Comedy Nights, 25 March, 22 April & 6 May
www.twitter.com/visitportsmouth
5
An Audience with Steve Davis, 10 April
25–10 Apr Easter Activities Action Stations. 10am–5pm. Free with valid admission ticket. 26
Art and Collectibles Market Palmerston Road. 10am–4pm.
26 TRADarrr Square Tower. 7.15pm. £12 adv. £14 door. www.squarerootspromotions.co.uk
31
Hats off to HMS Victory HMS Victory. 11am–1pm. Free with valid ticket.
31
The Railway Children No.6 Cinema. York Theatre Royal production. £10. 4pm.
31, 5 Apr & 7 Apr Kids Club Events Port Solent. 11am–4pm.
APRIL
2–3
Love Southsea Market Palmerston Road. 9am–5pm Sat. 10am–4pm Sun.
4
Copnor Residents Association College Park bowling club, 7pm.
5
Barb Jungr in the Live Lounge Guildhall. £14.
5
Milton Neighbourhood Open Forum Milton Village Hall. 3pm–7.30pm.
5
Wonderful Wildlife Portsmouth Museum. Animal art and craft. £3 per child, £1.75 with Leisure Card. 11am–3pm.
6
Macmillan Coffee Morning Central Library. 10am–12pm.
6
Clowning Around Southsea Castle. Circus-inspired art and craft activities. £3 per child, £1.75 with Leisure Card. 11am–3pm.
6–7
Mission Impudseyble Kings Theatre.
7
Circus Skills by Top Banana Fratton Community Centre. 9am–1pm.
7
Hats off to HMS Victory HMS Victory. 11am–1pm. Free with valid ticket.
7
Jurassic Art Cumberland House Natural History Museum. £3 per child, £1.75 with Leisure Card. 11am–3pm.
26–27 Open Day Eastney Beam Engine House, Henderson Road. 1pm–5pm.
1
Ridon Glass Darts Showdown Pyramids. From £22. 7.45pm.
27
1–2
Southsea Beerex Festival Wedgewood Rooms. £10.
1–9
Hampshire Artists Cooperative Exhibition Anglican Cathedral. 10am–6pm.
7
2
Roller Disco Southsea Skatepark. 7pm–10pm. All ages. £5, skate hire £2.50.
Official Opening Beneficial Foundation Café, Fratton Community Centre. 11am–1pm.
10
Waterside Market Port Solent. 11am–5pm.
2
Mad Max Fury Road (15) No.6 Cinema. 7pm. £8, £6 conc.
10
An Audience with Steve Davis Pyramids. £22. 6pm.
Easter Egg Treasure Hunt Port Solent. 11am–2.30pm. See website for details.
27 Sassy Emirates Spinnaker Tower. Gayfriendly party night. £10. 8pm–1am. 28–2 Apr Footloose Kings Theatre. 29
Kids Club Event Port Solent. 11am–4pm. See website for further details.
29
Family Activity Day Anglican Cathedral, Old Portsmouth. 9am-4pm.
29–8 Apr Easter Holiday Activities Fort Purbrook. £20 Mon, Wed and Fri, £16 Tue and Thu. 29–1 Apr & 4–8 Apr Family Craft Activities HMS Warrior 1860. 10am–3.30pm. Free with valid admission ticket. 29, 31, 5 Apr & 7 Apr Interactive Victorian Storytelling HMS Warrior 1860. 11.30am, 12.30pm, 13.30pm and 14.30pm. Free with valid admission ticket. 31
Make More Noise (15) Eldon Building, Winston Churchill Avenue. £6. 7pm. Barb Jungr in the Live Lounge, 5 April
6
Visitor information service 023 9282 6722
vis@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
www.visitportsmouth.co.uk
Nerina Pallot, 19 April
National Youth Jazz Orchestra, 15 April
11
Neale meets Steele Innlodge, Burrfields Road. £15, conc £13. Doors 7.15pm. www.portsmouthjazz.com
13
G4 Back For Good Tour Guildhall. Standard £30.25, VIP meet and greet £80.50.
14
Imperial Concerto Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, Guildhall. 7.30pm. £14.75–£29.50.
15
16
National Youth Jazz Orchestra Guildhall. Early bird tickets £8, conc £5. Hail Caesar! (cert tbc) No.6 Cinema. 7pm. £8, £6 conc.
21
Newton Faulkner Pyramids. £23.75. 7pm.
23
Luxury Car Display Gunwharf Quays.
23
Dials Days Wedgewood Rooms. 2pm.
23
Art and Collectibles Market Palmerston Road. 10am–4pm.
23
Community Café Anchorage Lodge, 2pm.
17
Crafts in the Tower Square Tower. 11am– 3pm.
23–24 Open Day Eastney Beam Engine House, Henderson Road. 1pm–5pm.
17
Hampshire Farmers’ Market Palmerston Road. 10am–2pm.
24
Audience with Bret ‘Hitman’ Hart Pyramids. From £44. 3pm.
17
City to Sea Guided Walk Queen Victoria Statue, Guildhall Square. 2.30pm. £3 admission, children free. Tickets from D-Day Museum or Portsmouth Museum.
24
Nelson Trail Guided Walk Portsmouth Museum. 2.30pm. £3, children free. Tickets from D-Day Museum or Portsmouth Museum.
17
Portsmouth Duathlon–Race Two Start Speakers Corner, Clarence Esplanade. 8.15am. Ind. £32 or team £37.
25
Trio Martinu Portsmouth Chamber Music Series, Guildhall. 7.30pm. £16/£14.
19
Nerina Pallot Wedgewood Rooms. 8pm. £18.50.
Newton Faulkner, 21 April
www.facebook.com/portsmouththewaterfrontcity
26–30 American Idiot Kings Theatre. 28
The Water Diviner (15) Eldon Building, Winston Churchill Ave.
28
Violin Alchemy Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, Guildhall. 7.30pm. £14.75–£29.50.
29
The Birthday Party New Theatre Royal. 7.30pm.
30
High Rise (cert tbc) No.6 Cinema. 7pm. £8, £6 conc.
Trio Martinu, 25 April
www.twitter.com/visitportsmouth
7
Mayfly Pop-Up Art and Craft Exhibition, 2 May
30
Penny Pinchers Groundlings Theatre. 7.30pm. £10/£12.
30 & 1 May Portsmouth Summer Show King George V Playing Fields. Early bird adult tickets £10. Standard adult price £15 from 1 April. With Diversity, 5ive, Reggie and Bollie, Scouting For Girls, The Hoosiers, Sam Bailey. portsmouthsummershow.co.uk 30 & 1 May Rural & Seaside Show Castle Field. Fun family weekend with heavy horse displays, archery, craft marquee, donkey rides, ferret racing, sheep grazing, stalls, children’s rides, Punch and Judy shows and refreshments. 10am–5pm.
7
Roller Disco Southsea Skatepark. 7pm–10pm. All ages. £5, skate hire £2.50.
7 Funktifino Emirates Spinnaker Tower. Soul, funk, boogie and hip hop club night. Doors 8pm. £10.
Mayfly Pop-Up Art and Craft Exhibition Square Tower. With live acoustic music and refreshments. 12pm–7pm.
4
Macmillan Coffee Morning For people affected by cancer. Central Library. 10am–12pm.
4
Hazel O’Connor New Theatre Royal. 8pm. From £20.
7–8
Love Southsea Market Palmerston Road. 9am–5pm Sat, 10am–4pm, Sun.
11
Prof Joan Farrer’s Inaugural Lecture Portland Building, Portland Street. 6pm–8pm. ccipromotions@port.ac.uk
13
Museums at Night Action Stations. 6pm–9pm. Family activities, Laser Quest and sleepover. 023 9289 3338.
Rich Hall New Theatre Royal. 8pm. From £16.
8
Waterside Market Port Solent. 11am–5pm.
14
8
Portsmouth Duathlon Race Three Start Speakers Corner, Clarence Esplanade. 8am. Ind. £32 or team £37.
D-Day Conference D-Day Museum. Tickets in advance from ddaymuseum.co.uk. 10am–5.30pm.
15
Crafts in the Tower Square Tower. 11am–3pm.
15
Hampshire Farmers’ Market Palmerston Road. 10am–2pm.
8
Cale Tyson Band Square Tower. 7.15pm. £12 adv, £14 door. www.squarerootspromotions.co.uk
Portsmouth Summer Show, 30 April & 1 May
8
Ian Waite and Natalie Lowe An audience with… Kings Theatre.
7
MAY 2
11
Visitor information service 023 9282 6722
vis@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
Crafts in the Tower, 15 May
www.visitportsmouth.co.uk
16
Liz Fletcher/Alan Barnes Band Innlodge, Burrfields Road. £16, conc £14. Doors 7.15pm. www.portsmouthjazz.com
17
Mayor Making Ceremony Guildhall. 10am. Annual ceremony that sees the official election of new Lord Mayor and investiture of the Lord Mayor’s Consort.
20
Love your Local Market Commercial Road. Kitchen theatre workshop with community chef Robin van Creveld. 10am–4pm.
20–21 Portsmouth Beer Festival Guildhall. £10. 21
Roller Disco Southsea Skatepark. 7pm–10pm. All ages. £5, skate hire £2.50.
21 T-Rextasy Wedgewood Rooms. 8pm. £12.
22
City Service Anglican Cathedral, Old Portsmouth. 10.30am. Annual service to celebrate the city, its citizens and community life. Includes civic procession with new Lord Mayor, council members and officers before service.
22
Portsmouth in the Gt War Guided Walk D-Day Museum. 2.30pm. £3, children free. Tickets from D-Day Museum or Portsmouth Museum.
23
Matthew Barley, cellist Portsmouth Chamber Music Series, Guildhall. 7.30pm. £16/14.
27
Adam Ant Guildhall. £30.80/£35.75.
27
Graduate Show 2016 University faculty of creative and cultural industries. Eldon Building, Winston Churchill Avenue. 5pm–9pm.
Milton Glee Choir With Royal Marines Assoc Concert Band, Guildhall. 3pm. £6.50–£14.25. Reg Charity 286733
22
T-Rextasy, 21 May
Music and Friendship Sunday 22 May 2016 3pm, Portsmouth Guildhall
• MGC Choir • BelCanto • • Royal Marines Assn. Concert Band • Tickets from £6.50 to £14.25 0844 847 2362 or on the Door.
Adam Ant, 27 May
Free child car seat checks Free safety checks from 10am to 3.30pm
Venue contact information
Thursday 7 April 2016
Aspex Gallery.....................................023 9277 8080...... www.aspex.org.uk
Thursday 5 May 2016
Blue Reef Aquarium............................023 9287 5222...... www.bluereefaquarium.co.uk City Council Museums........................023 9282 6722...... www.portsmouthmuseums.co.uk Emirates Spinnaker Tower..................023 9285 7521...... www.spinnakertower.co.uk Gunwharf Quays.................................023 9283 6700...... www.gunwharf-quays.com Kings Theatre......................................023 9282 8282...... www.kings-southsea.com
Tesco North Harbour Asda Fratton
Thursday 2 June 2016 Sainsbury’s Farlington
Thursday 7 July 2016
New Theatre Royal.............................023 9264 9000...... www.newtheatreroyal.com
Tesco North Harbour
No.6 Cinema..........................................07435 029408....... www.no6cinema.co.uk
Thursday 4 August 2016
Port Solent..........................................023 9221 0606...... www.portsolent.com
Asda Fratton
Portsmouth Film Society....................07528 808400....... www.portsmouthfilmsociety.org.uk
Thursday 1 September 2016
Portsmouth Guildhall.........................08448 472362 ...... www.portsmouthguildhall.org.uk Portsmouth Historic Dockyard...........023 9283 9766...... www.historicdockyard.co.uk Portsmouth Pyramids...........................023 9320 0330...... www.pyramids.co.uk Royal Marines Museum......................023 9281 9385...... www.royalmarinesmuseum.co.uk Wedgewood Rooms............................023 9286 3911...... www.wedgewood-rooms.co.uk
www.facebook.com/portsmouththewaterfrontcity
Sainsbury’s Farlington For more information call 023 9268 8582 or search child car seats at www.portsmouth.gov.uk www.twitter.com/visitportsmouth
9
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Portsmouth 12 OR 6 MILES 023 9223 8533 ROWANSHOSPICE.CO.UK
G O O DWO O D RAC E C O U R S E 19 fabulous days of horseracing & entertainment Opening Saturday
Qatar Goodwood Festival
Sat 30 April
Tue 26 July – Sat 30 July
May Festival
August Bank Holiday Weekend
Thu 19 – Sat 21 May
Fri 26 – Sun 28 August
Three Friday Nights
Midweek Racing
Fri 3 June, 10 June, 17 June
Tue 30 Aug, Wed 21 September
Family Race Day
Season Finale
Sun 5 June
Sun 9 October
Tickets from £10 Live music & entertainment • Wide range of bars & restaurants • Just 30 minutes from Portsmouth • Fantastic atmosphere • Under 18s go free (except at Three Friday Nights)
Telephone: 01243 216610
goodwood.com 10
City helpdesk 023 9283 4092
cityhelpdesk@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
www.portsmouth.gov.uk
Get set for more racing You can watch the world’s best sailors compete on the fastest boats, metres from Southsea seafront, when the Louis Vuitton America’s Cup World Series returns on 22–24 July. There will also be aerobatic displays and a ticketed family-friendly race villiage with live commentary. Seats are also going fast in the Premier Grandstand, a sellout last year. Dedicated fans can treat themselves to a ticket for the Sailors Lounge. Outside the race village, fans can enjoy Southsea Common – no ticket is needed so you can settle down with a picnic and enjoy views of the action. Come and support home team Land Rover BAR, still in third place in the series after winning in Oman last month. They next compete in New York in May. For tickets go to www.lvacwsportsmouth.com ff Watch out for May’s Term Times magazine, distributed through primary schools and community venues, for a kids’ competition to design the America’s Cup trophy for Portsmouth.
Louis Vuitton America’s Cup World Series 2015
Time to bloom Your gardens and floral displays make our city look bloomin’ lovely. And it will soon be time to get your gardening efforts recognised, in the free Portsmouth in Bloom competition.There’s a category for every kind of plot. The competition is run by the council and residents, and sponsored by Colas and Portsmouth Water. More info: ff go to www.portsmouthinbloom.org.uk ff email inbloom@portsmouthcc.gov.uk ff find Portsmouth in Bloom on Facebook ff pick up a leaflet in venues like community centres or libraries
Make sure you can vote If you want to vote in the local elections or the EU referendum, you need to be registered in good time. The council and Police and Crime Commissioner elections are on 5 May and the EU vote date has been announced as 23 June. Being registered is not only important because it lets you vote. If you’re not registered, it can affect your credit rating. Registering is easy at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote As well as your name, address and date of birth, you’ll need to give your national insurance number. More info: search register to vote at www.portsmouth.gov.uk
This display was a winner for Richard Craddock of The Haven, Milton
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11
It’s a great time to With days getting warmer and longer, springtime is ideal for being more active, finding a new interest or broadening your horizons.
Ideas for getting moving Spring is a good time to get some more exercise into your life.
More info:
There are lots of activities – for all age ranges and fitness levels – in sports centres, community centres and parks across the city.
ff search swimming at www.portsmouth.gov.uk
Why not try something like Boxercise, Pilates, table tennis or circuit training at a community centre? You could take up swimming, or give running a go – the Couch to 5k scheme is great for beginners. Or why not try cycling? There are free local guided rides for everyone, including beginners, women and families. With our Leisure Card, you can get a range of discounts.
ff search getting active at www.portsmouth.gov.uk
Everyday activity tips It’s easy to build more activity into your daily routine: ff Avoid lifts and take the stairs instead. ff Walk the kids to school. ff Go for a stroll in your lunch break. ff Get off the bus at an earlier stop. ff Park further away if you have to drive somewhere.
Why not give bowls a go? Bowls is a sport for all – male and female, young and old. Just go back to August 2010 and the match between Southsea Waverley and College Park. One player for the Waverley was 11, while College boasted a player of 92. 12
City helpdesk 023 9283 4092
It’s easy to learn, and it’s a great way to enjoy some fresh air, make new friends and get moderate exercise. It’s also quite cheap, so why not contact your local club? More info: www.pdba.co.uk
cityhelpdesk@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
www.portsmouth.gov.uk
spring into action Help getting out and about
Do you want to get out more, but lack the confidence to take those first steps? Maybe you’d like to take up a hobby, visit a friend or join a group – or just use public transport. If that’s the case, then try our Community Connectors service. A Community Connector will talk to you about what you’d like to do, and help you achieve your goal. Holli, 29, from Fratton, started a confidence-building course. “Sharon, my Community Connector, was great,” she said. “She helped me get over the hurdle of joining a class with people I didn’t know. She came with me to a couple of sessions and I soon felt ready to go on my own.” Portsmouth shedders working on a Santa sled for the Round Table last year
Be a shedder! A Men’s Shed is a great place to make friends, work on projects or just enjoy a cuppa and a chat.
You need to be over 18 and able to get out of your home on your own. More info: ff 023 9284 1762 ff communityconnectors@portsmouthcc.gcsx.gov.uk
The Shed movement began in Australia, as a way of creating meeting places for men, usually older, who wanted to socialise and get involved in the community. There are now about 300 groups set up or proposed in the UK. Portsmouth Men’s Shed, which meets at Portsea and Copnor, is backed by the council. The Portsea group meets at St George’s church hall on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 9.30am to 12.30pm. The Copnor group meets on weekdays, 10.30am to 2.30pm, at Stacey community centre in Walsall Road.
Holli
A shed for Paulsgrove is being planned. More info: ff info@portsmouthmensshed.org.uk ff www.portsmouthmensshed.org.uk ff 07528 340645
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Win Magic of Motown tickets We’ve teamed up with the Magic of Motown to offer 10 pairs of tickets for their date at the Guildhall on Saturday 9 April. Each pair is worth £51. The Magic of Motown 2016 Reach Out Tour features 36 chart toppers, including classics from the Temptations, the Four Tops, the Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Lionel Richie and The Supremes. Just email your name and phone number to bdennis@entertainers.co.uk with Flagship comp in the subject line. Closing date 28 March 2016. The first 10 entries picked will win. To buy tickets call 0844 847 2362 or go to portsmouthguildhall.org.uk
WHAT’S ON MARCH – MAY 2016
Sunday 20 March
FORT NELSON
ROYAL ARMOURIES MUSEUM / FAREHAM
Sunday 1 May
BIG GUN FIRING
BIG GUN FIRING
Monday 28 March – Friday 8 April
VICTORIAN SPIES
13-inch Land Service Mortar 11.30am, 2pm & 3pm
ROMAN RAIDERS
Roman-themed activities for families. Saturday 23 & Sunday 24 April
A ROYAL SALUTE
Explore Fort Nelson’s royal connections.
32-Pounder / 11.30am, 2pm & 3pm Saturday 30 April – Monday 2 May
Museum adventure for junior secret agents. Friday 13 May
MIGHTY MORTARS
After-hours tours and big gun firings. Pre-book
Victorian Fort / Tunnels / 350 Big Guns / Panoramic Views / Cafe 1871 / Free Museum Admission Please check our website for more information
www.royalarmouries.org
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Top cycle racing in city centre Action-packed, televised professional cycle racing comes to the city centre on Thursday 9 June.
The prestigious final round of the Pearl Izumi Tour Series will see top cycling teams competing in fast sprint races, starting and finishing in Guildhall Square. You can turn up and watch the action for free. Details of race times, the route and road closures will be in the next edition of Flagship. Information is also at www.portsmouth.gov.uk (search the tour series). The event will help raise the profile of cycling in the city, joining other events such as the Sky Ride Local guided rides and Pedal Portsmouth. It will help demonstrate the city’s continued passion for hosting the Tour de France. Find out more about cycling opportunities by liking our Pedal Portsmouth Facebook page.
Do numbers get you in a twist? Number skills are so important in everyday life, whether it’s working out your budget, helping the kids with their homework or deciding whether a bargain really is a bargain. But lots of us get in a twist with numbers and wish we could sharpen up our skills. The National Numeracy Challenge is an easy way to boost your confidence with numbers and get to grips with everyday maths. You just go online, find out how good your skills are now, and see how to improve. There’s also a handy family toolkit to help the kids with their maths homework, using games, puzzles, hints and tips. Take the challenge at www.nnchallenge.org.uk and use the access code pg1 More info: numeracychallenge@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
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Where to get help if a If you’ve got a poorly child it can be hard to know where to turn. If your child has a cough, cold, stomach upset, minor injury or an allergy then it’s often worth visiting a pharmacy first. Find the nearest by searching under Find local services on www.nhs.uk. Pharmacies are generally open longer hours, you don’t need an appointment, and most have a private consultation area.
Vicky Scott, 38, from Drayton is mum to Cole, two. She says: “Knowing what to do can be really challenging, especially when they’re too young to tell you what’s wrong. You don’t want to take them to the doctor for every minor thing but you worry that if you don’t take them, something could get worse.”
If your child isn’t seriously ill but you’re not sure what’s wrong then you can phone NHS 111 for free (24 hours a day, 365 days a year) or contact your GP.
Cole and mum
Giving school attendance 100% Going to school every day gives children the best start in life, and a chance to achieve their dreams. Every day is important to enable them to learn, develop and grow. Our schools are really focused on attendance and expect children to attend every day unless they’re unwell. Schools are judged by Ofsted on absence and attendance. Search absence from school at www.nhs.uk for information on when it’s OK to send your child to school or keep them at home, or see Wessex Healthier Together (page 17). 16
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Meningitis jab for teens Cases of meningitis are increasing and young people are more at risk, so the NHS is looking to vaccinate pupils before they leave school. Students in year 9 are getting an invite from their GP to have the meningitis jab. To catch up on older year groups, Year 11 students also need to go to their GP to get the injection, as should any year 10s who haven’t had it already. But neither groups will get an invite. So it’s up to them, their parents or carers to contact their GP. More info: ff search immunisation at www.portsmouth.gov.uk cityhelpdesk@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
www.portsmouth.gov.uk
child’s not well St Mary’s walk-in centre can help with minor illnesses and minor injuries, including minor breaks, sprains, deep cuts and minor burns. It has a children’s area.
A&E at QA Hospital is there for emergencies or serious injuries, such as heavy bleeding or loss of consciousness. More info: ff There’s a new local website which helps parents worried about their child’s health, and is another source of advice on whether they’re OK to go to school or nursery. Search for Wessex Healthier Together or go to www.what0-18.nhs.uk ff Click on Our guide to urgent care at www.portsmouthccg.nhs.uk for advice on when to use different health services.
Help us teach Portsmouth
Shelf help for teens Worried teenagers will soon be able to pop into a library and pick up a book that will help them cope.
We’re keen to recruit teachers – experienced and newly-qualified – and those considering a teaching career.
The Reading Well scheme provides books for 13 to 18 year-olds, on subjects including anxiety, depression, self-harm, body image, eating disorders and bullying.
Look out for our next Teach Portsmouth recruitment event, planned for summer. Please check www.teachportsmouth.co.uk or get in touch on recruitment@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
The books include fiction, graphic novels and real-life stories, and will be available from 12 April. You’ll need a library card.
Our January event at the Land Rover BAR building was a huge success, with around 180 attending, and excellent teachers recruited.
Ellie, 15, said: “Books can be really inspiring. They give you positive ways of dealing with emotions.” More info: ff ask your local library ff call 023 9268 8259 ff search shelf help at www.portsmouth.gov.uk
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t e g Let’s
r a g u S rt a m s Results 9 subgeasr cu
To find out how much sugar is lurking in your family’s food and drink, download the Sugar Smart app today. Search Change4Life
It’s easy to be sugar smart
Pearl Denham, 10, (left) and her sister Coral, eight, try out the new Sugar Smart app
How can you and your family cut down on sugar, when it’s hidden in so many of our favourite foods and drinks? The answer is the free Sugar Smart app. It works by scanning the barcode of a product and showing how much sugar it contains in cubes and grams. The Denham family from Baffins use it to keep an eye on their sugar intake. 10-year-old Pearl got them started, and now they use it on their weekly food shop. Mum Katie said: “We found the app really easy to use and simple to download. When we first got it we went through the kitchen cupboards scanning everything. Now we use it whenever we do a food shop together.
“Pearl and her sister Coral love it. They’ve even made a notebook detailing different food and drink items and their sugar content. I think it’s fantastic for children – the colourful visuals make it easy for them to understand. “As a family it’s made us a lot more aware of how much sugar is in everyday food and drink, sometimes in foods you would least expect. I didn’t realise how much sugar was in our usual cereal, so I’ve switched to one with about a quarter of the amount. I feel like these small changes will all add up to a big difference.” The app, from Change4Life and Public Health England, can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play. More info: search sugar smart online.
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portsmouth how are you? The lifestyle choices we make today can decrease our risk of serious illnesses like type 2 diabetes, heart disease and cancer by as much as 60%. Making small changes now can improve your health right away and double your chances of staying healthy as you get older. It’s never too late to start. Search ‘One You’ on portsmouth.gov.uk to take a free health quiz. Because there’s only one you.
ONE YOU portsmouth
Tell us what you really think Feel strongly about issues in Portsmouth? Want to make your voice heard? Then join the Citizens’ Panel and tell the council what you really think. The panel is a group of residents that reflects Portsmouth’s population. When important subjects come up, we consult them. Their views help us shape services and make decisions that are right for local people.
Being on the panel means answering around four or five online questionnaires a year. Each one takes 10-15 minutes to fill in. We contact people by email. Occasionally we might invite a small group in to discuss something particularly important. You don’t have to take part every time and you can stop when you want to. To apply to join search citizens’ panel at www.portsmouth.gov.uk Advertisement
Driving: have your say Do you regularly drive in Portsmouth? Want to have your say on transport plans? We’re looking for three residents to be volunteer members on our new Professional Road User and Motorist Group, acting as a voice for local drivers. The group, which will also include representatives from the emergency services, will meet with our Cabinet Member for Traffic and Transportation four times a year to suggest improvements and discuss future schemes. If you’re interested or would like more information please email transportplan@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
ARE YOU LOOKING WORK? Did you know... Portsmouth City Council recruit temporary workers for areas all over Portsmouth, as well as Havant and Petersfield? Do you have recent experience in any of the following?
ADMINISTRATION CLEANING GARDENING SECURITY PA/MINUTE TAKING FACILITIES Email kym.loveitt@portsmouthcc.gov.uk or call 023 9283 4471
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Green light for plan Councillors have approved a multimillion-pound programme which will mean expanded schools, improved road junctions and more income for services.
Investment in our schools
Smart tech for We’re investing in new traffic light technology to help reduce delays and improve journey times. Portsmouth’s schools are set to benefit from more than £7m. Money is to be spent on extra places in secondary schools, where the forecast for the next 10 years shows a deficit of around 1,000 places. We’re working to address this, and planning is well under way to create 400 places over the next two years across Miltoncross, Portsmouth Academy for Girls, Springfield and St Edmund’s schools. Money will also be spent on improved facilities for pupils with special educational needs – including at Redwood Park School and Cliffdale Primary Academy. This will ensure the two schools can take pupils with more complex needs. We’re also working with mainstream schools to develop a more inclusive education.
Most of our current traffic light systems are more than 15 years old and technology has moved on. The new MOVA traffic signal control system, already installed at the Anchorage Road/Eastern Road and Airport Service Road/Eastern Road junctions, is able to: ff give priority to traffic on main routes at congested times ff give priority to pedestrians and cyclists crossing roads when traffic isn’t heavy It can also store traffic patterns in its memory. So if a traffic sensor becomes faulty, the system will remember how to operate and avoid giving lots of green-light time to approaches with minimal traffic. We’re planning to install MOVA at these junctions: ff Eastney Road/Bransbury Road/Devonshire Road ff Velder Avenue/Moorings Way ff Milton Road/St Mary’s Hospital
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to invest in our city More income for services With government grants to the council decreasing every year, it’s important we become more self-sufficient and generate more of our own income. That’s why we’re investing in property around the country, including a supermarket and warehouses. The rent we get as landlord can be used to help pay for services that we know residents value. The money to buy the property comes from cheap borrowing, in a similar way to taking out a mortgage. It’s not money taken away from the council’s budget for services or other spending.
Anchorage Road/Eastern Road junction
better junctions ff Fratton Road/New Road ff Winston Churchill Avenue/Hampshire Terrace ff A3/A27/M27 ff Southwick Hill Road/QA Hospital
It’s a more commercial approach for the council, designed to make a profit we can use to protect services in the future. We’re also continuing to invest in Portsmouth International Port, to increase its ability to bring in income. The port, which celebrates its 40th birthday in June, recently welcomed the largest cargo ship ever to call there. This followed investment in making the port safer for bigger vessels, and in new equipment to handle containers.
ff Havant Road/Spur Road ff Eastern Road/Burrfields Road Once designs have been finished, work at the junctions is expected to start in the autumn. At some sites, we’re also: ff upgrading facilities and crossings for pedestrians and cyclists ff using low-voltage technology to save around 80% on energy bills ff change road widths so buses can navigate more easily One of our new properties
ff install sensors at some sites so buses get priority
Turn over for more investment projects in our city…
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Protecting We all saw the need for coastal defence improvements over Christmas, when a large hole appeared in the promenade at Southsea following high tides and stormy weather.
Artist’s impression
Hotwalls is to open soon
The hole has been repaired, and we’re continuing with a 10-year project to reduce the risk of coastal flooding and erosion across the city, for the next 100 years. This will improve protection for more than 4,700 homes and businesses, plus vital infrastructure. The project is being carried out by the Eastern Solent Coastal Partnership on behalf of the council.
Old Portsmouth’s new creative quarter, Hotwalls Studios, is all set to open in the summer, with a new waterfront eaterie. The Canteen, a deli-style café from the team behind Southsea’s The Tenth Hole, will open daily from 8am until 9pm in the summer, and until 5pm in the winter. Co-owner Lucy Branson said: “We were blown away by the prestigious location and unique opportunity at the Hotwalls. “We’re Portsmouth born and bred and what keeps us here is the vibrancy. There’s plenty going on but there’s also room to grow.” The 13 studios at the Hotwalls are for both new and established artists and are available on leases of three months up to three years. For more information search hotwalls studios at www.portsmouth.gov.uk
Artist’s impression
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Constructing new Anchorage Park coast defences
Southsea promenade repairs
www.portsmouth.gov.uk
our coast
Keeping D-Day stories alive These are just two of the fascinating objects we hope will be the stars of a new-look D-Day Museum. The museum’s £4.9 million transformation project plans new galleries that will focus on the stories such treasures have to tell. The project has been awarded more than £4million by the Heritage Lottery Fund, leaving £170,000 to be raised.
Completed Anchorage Park coast defences
Here’s an update on what’s happening: ff Coastal defence improvements on the east side of the Eastern Road are due to start next month. This work has been timed to avoid disturbing overwintering birds. ff Work is also due to start in April by Milton Common. ff Initial plans for a Portchester to Paulsgrove coastal defence scheme, which includes Southampton Road, should now be available at www.escp.org.uk (or will be very soon).
To help, you can buy a special album, Heroes’ Tide, which features local choirs. It’s £8 from the D-Day Museum, Portsmouth Museum, the Anglican cathedral and Central, Cosham and Southsea libraries. It’s also on iTunes and other online stores. Local Normandy veteran Eddie Wallace said: “It’s vital to keep the story of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy alive, and to remember our comrades who did not come home.”
ff The team is developing detailed designs for improvements at Southsea seafront following an initial consultation in 2014. ff Coastal defence improvements have been completed around Anchorage Park, resulting in one of the highest standards of flood protection in the country, outside London. More info: ff www.escp.org.uk ff @EasternSolentCP on Twitter
Badges collected by Betty White, aged five on D-Day, from soldiers passing her home.
ff Eastern Solent Coastal Partnership on Facebook
A Royal Navy White Ensign flag from a D-Day landing craft, signed by crew members.
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Pain in the drain Flushing the wrong stuff down the loo can lead to blockages and overflows, as well as bigger bills. That’s why we’re backing Southern Water’s “Pain in the drain” campaign, to encourage people not to flush wet wipes, tampons or nappies down the loo. Other items Southern Water find in their pipes include cuddly toys, false teeth, needles and even dead pets. Portsmouth residents flushed 460 tons of rubbish in 2015. September was the worst month – with 62 tons sent to Budds Farm treatment works in Havant. Southern Water’s Stuart Slark said: “The only things that should be flushed are the three Ps – pee, poo and paper. Everything else should go in the bin, including all wet wipes – even so-called ‘flushable’ ones.” For more details see www.southernwater.co.uk/ bag-it-bin-it The council is working with SW on issues affecting the city’s sewer system.
Just some of the rubbish dumped in loos and collected at Budds Farm works
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Where a University Degree in Business is not beyond your reach
Our part-time Business and Management Degree is designed for busy working people and is available one evening a week from Chichester College, Isle of Wight College and South Downs College in Waterlooville. It is open to those who may not have formal qualifications but whose work experience will have prepared them to succeed. To find out more about the flexible part-time courses we offer, come along to our next open evening, details of which can be found at www.port.ac.uk/ For further information pbsevents. visit:
www.port.ac.uk 26
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T: +44 (0)23 9284 8200 E: bus.admissions@port.ac.uk W: www.port.ac.uk/ busandman
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Value-for-money training If you run a small businesses or voluntary group, then we offer some great-value courses to boost your skills and those of your staff. They’re just £90 for a half-day session and £180 for a full day, and are based on our own successful staff training courses. Topics include coaching, conflict handling, mentoring, insurance, project management, leadership, first aid, computer skills and English for speakers of other languages. Jon Bell, our human resources director, said: “The council is a big organisation with a huge range of job roles, and a lot of experience has gone into these courses. “If you’re based in Portsmouth you could do a course and be back in the office the same day. “We can also design a custom-made course for you.” More info: ff search training courses at www.portsmouth.gov.uk ff learninganddevelopment@portsmouthcc.gov.uk Advertisement
Artist impression of The Hard
The Hard update Construction of the new multi-million-pound transport interchange at The Hard is well under way and is expected to open later in the year. It’s the first step in our plan to regenerate the area. In a few weeks’ time we plan to move the access route to the train station and ferry terminal to the opposite side, by HMS Warrior. This will be a shared pedestrian and cycle space. Please be considerate, follow the signs and use the area with caution. For updates email thehard@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
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Give us your glass
Find yo ur near est recyclin g b a n k www. recycle s at: now.c om
In Portsmouth we’re lucky to have 109 sites where you can recycle items such as books, clothes, shoes and glass. More than half the sites have glass banks, which take glass jars of any colour, including sauce and condiment jars, and glass bottles such as olive oil, perfume, wine and aftershave bottles. We’re always looking to set up more glass recycling points around the city. Allaway Avenue and Somerstown Central community hub now have specially designed glass bank enclosures, giving you even more opportunities to recycle nearby. Jean Patterson, of Wilmcote House in Somerstown, said: rtsmouth Sign up to the Po ur chance BIG Recycle for yo recycling: to win prizes for mouth.gov.uk bigrecycle.ports
“The new glass bank is really convenient. When I’m passing through the hub it’s easy to drop my glass off on the way. What’s more, it fits in with the surroundings very nicely.”
Send us small electricals Since we started collecting small electrical waste from your home, we’ve recycled a massive 12,300 kg, which is almost the weight of 10 cars. Please keep up the good work! It’s easy to recycle. Just put your used and broken small electrical items in a carrier bag for collection alongside your normal recycling bin.
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Catch us at the Co-op
Wake up your wardrobe
Recycling around the home is easy. Look out for us in local Co-operative stores, where we’ll be giving tips. You’ll also have a chance to win a specially designed bathroom recycling bag, so your deodorant cans, toilet roll tubes and mouthwash bottles don’t go to waste. We’ll be at stores from 11am to 2pm as follows: 1 April – 135-137 Havant Road 5 April – 456 London Road 11 April – 201 Highland Road 20 April – 28-30 Tangier Road 26 April – 331-333 Copnor Road
It’s time for a spring clean! Why not start with your wardrobe and recycle at the same time?
6 May – 161-167 Eastney Road
There are lots ways to make use of clothes you no longer wear. Here are some tips:
17 May – 456 London Road
Sell – make some money by selling good quality items on sites such as eBay. Donate – help a local charity shop by donating clothes, shoes, handbags and accessories. Repair – fix, alter and upcycle to breathe some new life into old garments. Recycle – drop all types of clothing into a blue bank at your local recycling point
Thanks for your patience We plan our rubbish and recycling routes carefully to avoid main roads and areas around schools during busy times. Sometimes our trucks may block a narrow road for a few minutes. Thank you for your patience on these occasions. Our workers will do their best to get the job done as quickly as they can, so please continue to respect their safety and wellbeing while they work. www.facebook.com/portsmouthcitycouncil
10 May – 135-137 Havant Road 26 May – 201 Highland Road
Bring in your batteries Large shops that sell batteries also offer a free battery recycling service. All types of small batteries you use in the home, such as AA or AAA, can be dropped into special containers at numerous stores including Wilko, Boots, Marks and Spencer and Staples. Look out for the containers near the entrance or by the tills. Don’t forget – you can also take large and small batteries to the Portsmouth Recycling Centre at Port Solent. www.twitter.com/portsmouthtoday
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Domestic abuse and you Thanks to all who filled in our domestic abuse survey, which will help us shape services. We had a high response rate from residents. ff 97% recognised abuse takes many forms and can happen to partners, ex-partners, children and whole families. ff 44% had experienced abuse. ff Most said they’d talk to friends or family if they were being abused. So if you’re concerned about a friend or relative, please listen and ask the right questions, if it’s safe. See www. saferportsmouth.org.uk/friend for guidance. Domestic abuse can happen to anyone. Remember, it’s not OK and we can help you. If you’re experiencing abuse from a partner, expartner or within your family, please contact our domestic abuse team. They are here to support you, and they can help you decide what you want to do. Their contact details are below.
Want to work part-time? We’re looking for relief school passenger assistants, to cover for permanent staff when they’re absent. We’re seeking caring, responsible people willing to work on a flexible, casual, part-time basis, escorting pupils with special needs. You will work with a driver. Ideally, you’ll have some experience of working with children. We also urgently need minibus drivers who hold a D1 licence and have a good driving history. Hours for both positions are around school opening and closing times, with the opportunity for additional hours for minibus drivers. Pay is £8.48 per hour. Go to www. jobsatportsmouth. co.uk or call 023 9284 1596.
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Domestic abuse is... STOPPING YOU SEEING FRIENDS AND FAMILY CALLING YOU NAMES STOPPING YOUR ACCESS TO MONEY
HURTING YOU
MAKING YOU FEEL WORTHLESS
PUTTING YOU DOWN
MAKING YOU DO THINGS YOU DON’T WANT TO DO
It’s not ok. We can help. Call 023 9268 8472
saferportsmouth.org.uk/eip Portsmouth Safeguarding Children Board Protecting Portsmouth’s Children
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Getting the right benefits
If you get tax credits, and your income goes up, make sure you contact the tax credit office as soon as possible. If you don’t, you could be paid too much in tax credits, and have to pay some back. This is even more important now, because the government is cutting the amount your income can go up before it starts affecting your tax credits.
For more information search housing benefit at www.portsmouth.gov.uk or call us on 9283 4556.
Universal credit begins Universal credit is gradually being introduced as part of the government’s welfare changes.
The amount used to be £5,000, but it’s being cut to £2,500. If you earn £2,500 more in the 12 months from April 2016 than you did in the previous 12 months, your credits will be reduced.
It’s designed to make it easier to take temporary or part-time work while claiming. It will eventually replace six means-tested benefits and tax credits with a single monthly payment.
For more details go to www.gov.uk/changes-affect -tax-credits or call Advice Portsmouth, 023 9279 4340.
It comes into effect here from 28 March, at first for single jobseekers making a new benefit claim.
If you need help with your rent, it’s also important to act quickly. This is because housing benefit rules are changing sometime this year.
More info:
The maximum time a new claim can be backdated will be cut from six months to four weeks, so don’t delay.
ff guide for carers, page 33
ff search universal credit at www.gov.uk or www.citizensadvice.org.uk
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The teacher who was worried
The coach who noticed at practice
The family member who was concerned
The neighbour who felt uneasy
You
If you suspect child abuse, visit gov.uk/reportchildabuse to get the number for your local authority
Together we can tackle child abuse Child abuse is under-reported. If you have any suspicions about the exploitation, harm or ill-treatment of a child living in Portsmouth, contact the city’s multi-agency safeguarding hub (MASH) on 0845 671 0271 or pccraduty@portsmouthcc.gcsx.gov.uk This is a national campaign to increase awareness and reporting.
Universal credit – a guide for carers If you look after someone, this page is for you.
Your Carers Council Universal credit is a new benefit being gradually introduced by the government, replacing six current benefits. It consists of living and housing costs and is paid once a month directly to a bank account. Like many people, carers may be affected. The introduction of universal credit will be done slowly and in stages. In Portsmouth, it’s being introduced from the end of this month for new claimants, in simple cases such as single job seekers. To claim universal credit you have to go online. Unlike a jobseeker’s allowance application, you can’t save the claim during the process and return to it. You have to complete a claim and submit it in one go. So it’s worth setting aside enough time to complete and submit your claim, and making sure that you have all the relevant information to hand before you start. If you need help, please contact your housing officer or work coach, or try the following: ff search universal credit at www.gov.uk or www.citizensadvice.org.uk ff Advice Portsmouth 023 9279 4340 ff Portsmouth Citizens Advice Bureau 023 9285 5855 ff Cosham Citizens Advice Bureau 023 9231 5411
The Carers Council is the independent voice of carers. It’s a forum where they can share views and experiences on issues that affect them, contribute their ideas and hear about plans to develop services designed to help them. It’s supported by Action Portsmouth. More info: ff Jackie.charman@actionhants.org.uk ff call Jackie on 023 9282 2795
Keep in touch The Carers Centre is at 117 Orchard Road, Southsea. ff Call us on 023 9285 1864 ff Email us on carerscentre@portsmouthcc.gov.uk ff Search carers at www.portsmouth.gov.uk ff Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ portsmouthcarerscentre
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Friends around the globe As part of our series about Portsmouth’s links with cities around the world, we look at our bond with Maizuru in Japan.
Maizuru is a thriving port city in the North Kyoto district, north of Osaka, and a district headquarters of the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force. Founded in 1943, it has a population of more than 84,000. The Maizuru Azalea Festival, displaying 2,500 azaleas in full bloom, is held every spring, celebrating the city’s official flower. The Maizuru-Portsmouth link began in 1993 when bricks from our Historic Dockyard were donated to Maizuru’s World Brick Museum, the world’s first museum devoted to the theme of bricks, which has examples from all over the globe. Various exchanges followed, culminating in formal sister city accords being signed in Portsmouth and Maizuru in 1998. The Japanese Garden in Southsea was opened in 2000 to commemorate the link. School parties and scout groups have been involved in exchanges and correspondence. For more information on the city go to www.maizuru-kanko.net
Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force vessels at Maizuru. Picture: Yoshitaka Tsubouchiki
Twinning and other links are supported, but not funded, by the council. For more information search twinning at www.portsmouth.gov.uk
Go direct and win £5,000 Life couldn’t be simpler when you pay your council tax by direct debit. You can relax because everything is worryfree, safe and secure. You’re in total charge, but it’s all automatic so it saves you time. You can spread the cost across the whole year. And you can enjoy the peace of mind of never forgetting to pay. If you don’t yet pay by direct debit, then switching means you’ll be entered into a draw for £5,000. If you already use direct debit you’ll be automatically entered. The quickest way to start paying by direct debit is to sign up securely online. Search direct debit at www.portsmouth.gov.uk or call us on 023 9268 8588. The prize money is funded by Bacs, the national organisation behind direct debit.
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A stunning private dining venue At the centre of the Guildhall, the Lady Mayoress’ Parlour and Lord Mayor’s antechamber offer huge grandeur in an intimate setting, perfect for corporate drinks receptions and dinners, small weddings and banquets. The parlour is a small but magnificent room with an elegant private dining space for up to 24. The ante-chamber is a grand and stylish space with high ceilings – the ideal venue for a drinks reception. These rooms can be let independently – but combined, they can create a versatile and elaborate setting for a very special occasion. All rooms are fully licensed. For more details contact Danielle Milasinovic: 023 9283 4307 or danielle.milasinovic@ portsmouthcc.gov.uk Lady Mayoress’ Parlour
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