DCC Guide to Services 2015 south & west

o t e d i u G

Your

2 015

s e c i v r e S Council

South and West Durham

Welcome

to the 2015 edition of Your Local Guide to Services in County Durham.

This handy guide tells you all about our services and who to contact.

We provide many more services than most people realise and you never know when you’ll need them.

We’ve produced three different versions of Your Local Guide to Services, North; Central and East; South and West.

To see the other versions, visit www.durham.gov.uk/aboutus If you have any questions or comments about this guide, please email durhamcountynews@durham.gov.uk or call 03000 268 059.

Calling our 03000 numbers We’ve changed many of our numbers to 03000 numbers which might have left you wondering how much it costs you to call us.

Calls to 03000 numbers cost no more than calling a local 01 number and must be included in inclusive minutes and discount schemes. Calls from landlines are typically charged up to 10p per minute; calls from mobiles typically cost 10p to 40p per minute.

Calls from landlines and mobiles are included in free call packages.

When you have finished with this magazine, please recycle it.

This guide costs 13p a copy. It is written and designed by Durham County Council, printed by Acorn Web Offset Ltd and distributed by The National Leaflet Company and Royal Mail.

Contents Area Action Partnerships in your area Guide to local Councillors

4-7 8-11

Have your say

11

Advice and benefits

12

Social care and health for adults

13-17

Community and living

18-21

Planning and Building Control

22

A guide to help stop fly-tipping in County Durham

23-26

Children’s services

27-29

Education, schools and learning

30-32

Leisure and culture

33-37

Housing

38

Environment

39-42

Business

43-44

Travel and transport

45-47

Please ask us if you would like this document summarised in another language or format.

durhamcountynews@durham.gov.uk

03000 268 058

In person Visit your local customer access point: l Barnard Castle (next to The Witham) Open Mon to Wed 10am to 5pm and Fri 10am to 4.30pm. Closed Thurs. l Crook (Civic Centre) Open Mon to Thurs 8.30am to 5pm and Fri 8.30am to 4.30pm. l Spennymoor (Green Lane) Open Mon to Thurs 8.30am to 5pm and Fri 8.30am to 4.30pm.

For queries about council tax and housing benefits please make an appointment, call 03000 26 0000.

Customer surgeries You can also make an appointment for council tax and housing benefit enquiries at our customer surgeries: Newton Aycliffe Newton Aycliffe Library Tuesdays 10am-3pm Bishop Auckland Bishop Auckland Library, Town Hall - Thursdays 10am-5pm

Call 03000 26 0000 to make an appointment.

Contact us By phone Customer service enquiries 03000 26 0000

l l l l

Benefits 03000 26 2000 Council tax 03000 26 4000 Streetscene, highways and street lighting 03000 26 1000 Includes rubbish and recycling, street lighting faults, potholes, commercial waste, neighbourhood wardens, stray dogs, abandoned vehicles, pest control, street cleaning, litter and dog fouling, graffiti, fly tipping, fly posting, parks, open spaces and cemeteries maintenance.

Online and on the move Visit our website:

www.durham.gov.uk Sign up to Twitter and Facebook We’ll send you information on: l School closures l Events l Council news l Weather warnings l Service disruptions and closures l Job vacancies Twitter: @DurhamCouncil Facebook: /durhamcouncil linkedin.com/company/ durham-county-council YouTube: DurhamCouncil

Tell us what you thin k

of our services: To make a suggestio n or to thank us www.durham.gov .uk/compliments If we get it wrong www.durham.gov .uk/complaints or write to: Corporate Complain ts Unit, Durham County Coun cil, County Hall, Durham DH1 5UQ. or ring: 03000 269 00 7

3

Area Action Partnerships in Your Area What’s an Area Action Partnership?

We have 14 Area Action Partnerships (AAPs) throughout County Durham and they all have a budget to spend on local projects – projects decided by local people.

On the board Each AAP has a board made up of local people, elected members from the county, town and parish councils, NHS, police and fire brigade, community and voluntary groups.

How can I get involved?

Alisha Oaken joined the 3 Towns Board six months ago.

Why did you want to get involved?

I had been involved in the Youth Forum previously. I felt it was a step up because I wanted to be more involved in the final decision making, such as deciding which projects should get support.

You can get involved with your local AAP by becoming a member of the forum.

What difference do you think the AAP has made?

Each year, AAP forum members decide on the local priorities for the area – the big issues they want to tackle. The AAPs then use their budgets to support projects working in these key areas.

It’s a great opportunity for the people of a local area to say what changes they want to see in their area and then see it get done. The AAP has given projects advice and funding and without that many would not be anywhere near as successful or perhaps even happening at all.

Local priorities vary, but can include helping people into employment and improving their job prospects; town centre regeneration; supporting voluntary and community projects; community safety; and, providing opportunities for children and young people.

What would you say to people who are thinking of getting involved?

4

People should definitely get involved if they want to make a difference and get the opinions of their community heard. You find out a lot more about what is going on near you, hear about all the groups and people that are making a difference, and see what you can do yourself to make a difference.

Teesdale AAP (also known as TAP) Achievements:

• •

•

Worked with the YMCA to support young people’s groups through a small grants scheme, with young people deciding where the funding goes.

Transport in rural areas is vital. Teesdale Action Partnership with Upper Teesdale Agricultural Support Services are training local people to drive local mini-buses.

Ensured local voices were heard during the consultation on the County Durham Plan and attended the public sessions with the inspector who is considering the plan.

Email: tap@durham.gov.uk Tel: 03000 260 817 Get in touch to sign up to our regular e-bulletins.

Follow us on Facebook.

Area Action Partnership

Mid Durham AAP Achievements:

•

• •

Worked with Durham Agency Against Crime to develop the HAGGRID scheme in Ushaw Moor, a horticultural based alternative education programme for young people.

In association with local organisations and residents, disused land at Burnhope is to be redeveloped as allotments, a community garden and natural play area.

Supporting two schemes to help older people improve their health and mental wellbeing in six villages.

Email: middurhamaap@durham.gov.uk Tel: 07818 510 370, 07814 969 392 and 07557 541 413 For newsletter and e-bulletins, go to www.durham.gov.uk/mdaap

Great Aycliffe and Middridge Partnership Achievements:

Weardale AAP

•

Achievements:

• •

The Employability & Discretionary Fund, which help people overcome the obstacles to getting into work, has helped 106 people into employment, 14 into volunteering and 24 into training.

The Step into Business Scheme has helped create 24 new business start ups. All of which are still trading.

Championing Community Learning with 70 mature people getting adult education to improve their basic IT skills.

Email: gampaap@durham.gov.uk Tel: 01325 327 441 Call us to sign up for our regular e-bulletins.

• • •

Worked with Weardale Community Transport to ensure the Wheels to Meals project can continue to take people to a venue for lunch or tea.

Provided small grants to enable local community groups and village halls to provide a variety of activities within the rural Weardale area.

Worked with the council’s Culture and Sport team to create two apprenticeships providing activities for young people within Weardale; and with the YMCA to provide four apprenticeships in outdoor leisure with possible employment at the end.

Email: weardaleaap@durham.gov.uk Tel: 03000 268 666 Mobile: 07753 779 975 5

Area Action Partnerships

in Your Area

Bishop Auckland and Shildon AAP Achievements:

• • •

Helped secure an additional £230,000 from charitable trusts to support local projects.

Supporting the Gaunless Gateway Big Local Partnership in South West Bishop Auckland to develop a plan to use £1m Big Local funding to support the community.

Supported a wide range of projects that have created jobs and supported business.

Over three years helping 121 new businesses to start up, created 58 training opportunities, and 68 apprenticeships.

Email: bishopshildonaap@durham.gov.uk Tel: 03000 268 663 Follow us on Facebook.

Get in touch to sign up to our regular e-bulletins.

East Durham Achievements:

•

•

•

East Durham Rural Corridor

Supported East Durham Welfare Champions which has seen 25 volunteers give support 1,500 times in 12 months to people experiencing difficulties due to changes in benefits and welfare reform.

Almost 800 children aged 5-13 enjoyed activities during the school holidays, thanks to local organisations receiving grants from the AAP’s holidays activities fund.

Recognised and rewarded the vital work of volunteers at a special awards ceremony. 44 volunteers were nominated in three categories, young volunteers, individual voluntary effort and outstanding organisations.

Email: eastdurhamaap@durham.gov.uk Tel: 03000 262 054 Follow us on Facebook.

Achievements:

• • •

First AAP to deliver voting roadshows in 12 junior and comprehensive schools, giving children and young people the opportunity to vote on which projects should receive funding and AAP priorities.

Attracted over £46,000 from Lafarge Tarmac to match with £3,000 Neighbourhood Budget, and funds raised by Quarrington Hill Community Centre to fund renovations at the centre, one of the first to be taken over by the community.

Engaged with 715 children and young people aged 8-17, allowing them to have their say on the council’s budget consultation and Durham Ask.

Email: eastdurhamruralaap@durham.gov.uk Tel: 03000 261 129 www.durham.gov.uk/eastdurhamruralaap Call us to sign up for our regular e-bulletins and follow us on Facebook.

6

Area Action Partnership

Spennymoor AAP

4 Together Partnership Covers Ferryhill, Chilton, Cornforth and Bishop Middleham.

Achievements:

Achievements:

• • • •

Successful It’s Up 2 U Event held with nearly 900 people attending and nine local projects receiving financial support.

Mobile Cinema scheme launched in Summer 2014 with 10 community centres visited and nearly 400 people attending.

Launched the Spennymoor AAP Community Litter pick scheme in October.

Created 28 apprenticeships, supported a further 11 individuals into employment and engaged/advised 25 local businesses.

Email: spennyaap@durham.gov.uk Tel: 03000 261 136 Sign up to our e-bulletins, follow us on Facebook, check out www.gospenny.com

• •

•

Supported local projects linked to their three priorities of employment, older people and children and young people.

Helped link a local food bank to a training and support project in Ferryhill to ensure that those most in need have access to both food and nutritional and educational support.

Supported a £350,000 improvement project for a local sports facility.

Email: fouraap@durham.gov.uk Tel: 03000 267 210 Call us to sign up for our regular e-bulletins.

3 Towns Partnership Covers Crook, Willington, Tow Law and surrounding villages.

Achievements

• • •

Over 720 local residents, including 400 young people, took part in selecting the AAP’s priorities.

Funded Signpost Advice and Information who supported 3,682 residents with advice and information in just six months of 2014.

913 benefit forms were completed which resulted in £218,586 claimed for vulnerable people.

Held their third awards night to celebrate the achievements of children and young people in the 3 Towns communities.

Email: threetownsaap@durham.gov.uk Tel: 03000 267 539 Follow us on Facebook. Call us to sign up for our regular e-bulletins.

To find out about our other AAPs in County Durham, visit www.durham.gov.uk/aap or if you have a question to ask email aap@durham.gov.uk

7

Guide

to local Councillors

Local councillors are elected by the community to decide how the council should carry out its various activities. They work to improve the quality of life for people within their area and make decisions about local issues. We have 126 County Councillors in total. Find a full list at www.durham.gov.uk/councillorsinfo and Aycliffe North and AycliffeAycliffe NorthNorth and Middridge

Aycliffe EastAnnfield Plain

Middridge

Jed Hillary Tel. 03000 268 723

Sarah Iveson Tel. 03000 268 730

John Clare Tel. 03000 268 696

Mike Dixon Tel. 03000 268 706

Joan Gray Tel. 03000 268 713

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

You can find other ways to contact your councillor and their surgery times at www.durham .gov.uk/ councillorsinfo

Burnopfield and Aycliffe West

Eddy Adam Tel. 03000 268 670

Kate Hopper Tel. 03000 268 727

George Richardson Tel. 03000 268 763

James Rowlandson Tel. 03000 268 766

LABOUR

LABOUR

CONSERVATIVE

CONSERVATIVE

West

Richard Bell Tel. 03000 268 683 01833 650 580 CONSERVATIVE

Barnard Barnard Castle East Castle East

Dipton

Barnard Castle Barnard Castle West

8

Middridge

Barbara Harrison Tel. 03000 268 718 01833 638 068 CONSERVATIVE

Town

Bishop Middleham and Cornforth

Joy Allen Tel. 03000 268 672

Sam Zair Tel. 03000 268 795

Mick Simpson Tel. 03000 268 772

LABOUR

DURHAM IND GROUP

LABOUR

Bishop AucklandBishop Town Auckland

Blackhalls Blackhalls

Chilton

Coundon

Becoming a councillor is a great way to represent and make positive changes to your local community.

Find out more at www.durham .gov.uk/ councillorsinfo

Rob Crute Tel. 03000 268 702

Lynn Pounder Tel. 03000 268 762

Christine Potts Tel. 03000 268 761

Charlie Kay Tel. 03000 268 733

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

Crook

Crook

Andrea Patterson Tel. 03000 268 751

Maureen Stanton Tel. 03000 268 752

Eddie Tomlinson Tel. 03000 268 784

Heather Smith Tel. 03000 268 695

Andy Turner Tel. 01388 606 021

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

Ferryhill

Ferryhill

Brian Avery Tel. 03000 268 677

Pauline Crathorne Tel. 03000 268 701

Pat McCourt Tel. 03000 268 746

INDEPENDENT

LABOUR

LABOUR

Sedgefield Sedgefield

Evenwood Evenwood

Information about Cabinet The Cabinet is made up of the Leader of the Council and nine other councillors, each with their own portfolio.

Cabinet discusses and makes decisions about our policies and strategies, as well as countywide decisions. Cabinet reports and key decisions can be read at www.durham.gov.uk/councillorsinfo and ShildonShildon and Dene Valley Dene Valley

Shildon and Dene Valley

Rachel Lumsdon Tel. 03000 268 739

John Robinson Tel. 03000 268 764

Henry Nicholson Tel. 03000 268 756

Trish Pemberton Tel. 03000 268 759

Brian Stephens Tel. 03000 268 775

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

9

Guide to

local

Spennymoor

Spennymoor

Tow Law

Ian Geldard Tel. 03000 268 710

Pat Lawton Tel. 03000 268 735

Kevin Thompson Tel. 03000 268 782

John Hart Tel. 03000 268 719

LABOUR

LABOUR

DURHAM IND GROUP

LABOUR

Trimdon and Trimdon and Thornley Thornley

Trimdon and Thornley

Peter Brookes Tel. 03000 268 689

Lucy Hovvels Tel. 03000 268 728

Morris Nicholls Tel. 03000 268 755

Neil Foster Tel. 03000 268 708

Barbara Graham Tel. 03000 268 712

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

Councillors Not sure of your ward? Check our map at www.durham .gov.uk/ councillorsinfo

Weardale

Anita Savory Tel. 03000 268 767 01388 527 594 DCC IND GROUP

Got a question about councillors?

Contact our Democratic Services on 03000 269 714.

10

Weardale

John Shuttleworth Tel. 01388 517 298 07714 324 442 DCC IND GROUP

Tudhoe

West Auckland West Auckland

Christine Wilson Tel. 03000 268 791

Rob Yorke Tel. 03000 268 793

LABOUR

LABOUR

Willington and Willington and Hunwick Hunwick

Tudhoe

Subscribe to receive email alerts when committee papers and minutes are published at www.durham .gov.uk

Woodhouse Close Woodhouse Close

Joe Buckham Tel. 03000 268 691

Olwyn Gunn Tel. 03000 268 714

June Lee Tel. 03000 268 736

LABOUR

LABOUR

LABOUR

John Lethbridge Tel. 03000 268 737 01388 604 689 LABOUR

What can my councillors do for me?

3 Advise or point you in the right direction if you are dissatisfied with a council service.

3 Talk to you at surgeries about problems or your ideas to improve your area.

Have YOUR say We want everyone who lives in, works or visits County Durham to help improve our services and influence the decisions we make. Here’s how:

3 Put forward proposals to improve their ward and campaign on local issues.

Area Action Partnerships (AAPs): You can become a member of your AAP forum and raise issues important to you and your community. Find out more on pages 4-7.

3 Help fund projects that benefit your ward.

Consultations: We will consult and involve as many people as possible when reviewing and running services.

Visit our website for details of current consultations. www.durham.gov.uk/consultation

3 Support local partnerships and organisations.

A whole host of council services are available 24/7 at

www.durham.gov.uk And now, with its new design, you can find what you are looking for more easily or use it on the go on your mobile or tablet.

You can

Pay for it Apply for it Report it Have your say

Overview and Scrutiny: Our Overview and Scrutiny Committees work with organisations and individuals on a range of projects all aimed at improving our services.

Find out about the committees on our website or email your query. www.durham.gov.uk/scrutiny email scrutiny@durham.gov.uk Voting in elections: To vote in a UK general election, you need to be on the Register of Electors. If you are not registered, you can register online or collect a registration form from us www.gov.uk/register-to-vote www.durham.gov.uk/voting email electoralservices@durham.gov.uk 11

Advice and benefits Advice and assistance to point you in the right direction.

Benefits and welfare rights The Welfare Rights Service gives advice and information on benefits and tax credits. 03000 268 968 9am-12noon email welfare.rights@durham.gov.uk If you’re on a low income and have savings of less than £16,000 you may get help to pay your rent and council tax. If your benefits have been affected by changes to the welfare system we can give advice on where you may get extra support. Apply for benefits online by clicking the ‘apply for it’ button on our home page. www.durham.gov.uk/applyforit or contact us at 03000 26 2000.

Benefit fraud investigations We investigate anyone suspected of fraudulently claiming housing or council tax benefit. In some cases leading to prosecution.

0800 032 1663 Text: 07786 027 280 starting your text with the word ‘fraud’.

Immigration and asylum If you’re from another country and want legal residence in the UK, contact your local housing provider.

See page 38 or visit: www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk

Citizens Advice Helping resolve legal, money and other problems with free, independent and confidential advice. 03444 111 444 Find your local bureau at www.citizensadvice.org.uk

Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline Find out about your consumer rights.

03454 04 05 06 www.adviceguide.org.uk

Loan Sharks If you’ve borrowed money from a loan shark, you haven’t broken the law, they have. Report them in confidence.

0300 555 2222 email reportaloanshark@ stoploansharks.gov.uk

Council Tax Pay your council tax online, by direct debit or through our automated payment line 0300 456 2771. www.durham.gov.uk/ counciltax 03000 26 4000 12

If you are unable to pay for daily essentials such as food or heating and have no other immediate financial assistance, the council’s Welfare Assistance Scheme may be able to help you.

Visit www.durham.gov.uk/welfareassistance for further information.

Social care and health for adults From April 2015 care and support in England is changing. The new Care Act will help make care and support more consistent across the country.

Care and support is the term used to describe help for adults of all ages with things like washing, dressing, eating, getting out and about, emotional support and keeping in touch with friends or family.

The new changes will help you plan for your future and put you more in control of the help you receive.

Any decisions about your care and support will consider your wellbeing and what is important to you and your family, helping you to keep healthy and stay independent for longer.

If you receive care and support, or you support someone as a carer you could benefit from the changes.

To find out more about care and support visit www.durham.gov.uk/careact

Need help finding the right care and support?

This free online resource provides a wealth of information and services making it easier for you to make plans now and in the future. www.durhamlocate.org.uk

Social Care Direct If you feel you need to speak to someone about adult social care help and support, call Social Care Direct.

Open Monday-Thursday 8.30am to 5pm and Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm.

An out of hours EMERGENCY service is also available on the following number: 03000 26 79 79 SMS text message 07786 027 280 email scd@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/socialcaredirect

13

Social care and health for adults Help for people living in their own home Care Connect offers an alarm monitoring and response service 24-7, sending staff direct to your home in emergency situations. 03000 262 195 www.durham.gov.uk/careconnect

Equipment Advice Service Free advice and guidance about hundreds of products to buy or hire to help you live at home independently.

0191 384 6726 https://www.equip-yourselfdurham.org.uk

Reablement Service Helping adults relearn/regain some of the skills they’ve lost because of poor health, disability/impairment or accident to help maintain their independence. 03000 26 79 79 www.durham.gov.uk/reablement

Telecare Sensors and equipment, such as fall detectors and bed sensors.

03000 26 79 79

Extra Care specially designed housing with on-site care and support to offer older and disabled people over 55 an alternative to moving into a care home. 03000 26 79 79 www.durham.gov.uk/extracare

Protecting vulnerable people

Home Care supports people with an illness, disability or frailty in their own home seven days a week, 52 weeks a year. 03000 26 79 79

Some adults are at more risk of abuse, ill treatment or neglect because of disability, age or frailty. This may be physical, verbal, sexual, psychological or financial. To report suspected abuse, contact 03000 26 79 79 www.safeguardingdurhamadults.info

Integrated Short Term Intervention Service (ISIS) A range of community-based services to support people with short term health needs where there has been a sudden decline in their health.

To make a referral or for further information, contact Social Care Direct 03000 26 79 79 email scd@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/socialcaredirect 14

Abuse and ill treatment (Safeguarding Adults)

Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards We protect people in hospitals and care homes who cannot make decisions about their care by ensuring the care they receive is appropriate and the least restrictive possible.

03000 26 79 79 email DOLSteam@durham.gov.uk

Extra help and support Day services for adults If you have a learning disability, physical disability or sensory impairment we can help you access a range of facilities within the community, some of which may be within a day centre.

03000 26 79 79 www.durham.gov.uk/careandsupport pathways

Durham Shared Lives This service offers adults with a learning disability short or long-term care in the home of a Shared Lives provider.

03000 265 198

Learning Disabilities Our service provides care and support to adults with learning disabilities.

03000 26 79 79 www.durham.gov.uk/ learningdisabilities

Physical Disabilities We offer a range of services to help you cope with physical disability, including rehabilitation. 03000 26 79 79 www.durham.gov.uk/ physicaldisability

Sensory Impairment Support and advice relating to all kinds of sensory loss, including equipment to try, contacts for support groups, and help for people who want to return to work or start work. 03000 26 79 79 www.durham.gov.uk/ sensorysupportteam

Support for carers Support for carers A range of support services are provided for carers of all ages through local carer support organisations. Services include advice and emotional or practical support. There’s also a Carers Emergency Support Service.

If you are 18+ please contact Durham County Carers Support 0300 005 1213 If you are under 18 please contact Family Action “The Bridge” on 0191 383 2520 www.durham.gov.uk/carers

Adult carers can join the carers mailing list to receive our free carers magazine. 03000 261 381 www.durham.gov.uk/carers 15

Social care and health for adults Help in difficult times Community drug and alcohol service Recovery centres in Bishop Auckland, Newton Aycliffe, Durham City, Seaham, Peterlee and Consett for any young person or adult with alcohol or other drug problems. www.durham.gov.uk/alcohol

HIV - support for adults

Contraception and sexual health

Social Care Direct can provide information on how we can help you.

03000 26 79 79 www.durham.gov.uk/hivsupport

Testing and treatment services for sexually transmitted infections, sexual health and contraception at your local hospital. Visit www.cddft.nhs.uk and search for ‘GUM’.

Macmillan cancer information and support centre

For contraceptive advice, pregnancy testing and infection testing in the local community, call the County Durham and Darlington Sexual Health Services Central Booking Line Mon-Fri 9-5pm on 0191 372 8700.

Information and support for anyone affected by cancer. 0800 783 4056

Mental health Our Mental Health Community Intervention Teams provide health and social care for adults over 18 with severe or enduring mental health issues. If you feel you need this service, contact your GP.

Support and Recovery Works with people with mental health problems to help them lead the life they aspire to. 03000 26 79 79 email support.recovery@ durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/ mhsupportandrecovery 16

Home energy advice For help and practical advice about home energy and keeping warm, visit 0845 602 9569 www.tadea.com

A healthier, more active YOU NHS Health Trainers

Want to be more active and H healthier? Health Trainers can help you make the change with free local support across County Durham.

Are you aged 40-74?

Find out your risk of developing heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes or kidney disease with a check4life health check. Then get personalised advice to reduce the risks. helping you tto... o...

Derwentside and East 01325 321 234 www.impact.cdd.nhs.uk

Move moree Move mor

Stop Stop smoking

Drink less less

North and Dales 01207 529 621 www.durhamrcc.org.uk Durham City (for mental well-being) 0191 386 0702 www.waddingtoncentre.co.uk

Get fit with us

Check4life Eat Eat well well

Visit your GP or have a check4life health check in a community venue such as your local pharmacy or leisure centre where you see the check4life logo. 0191 569 2860

Check out pages 33 and 34 for more ways to get fit and for what’s on at our leisure centres and swimming pools.

NHS Stop Smoking Service Quitting isn’t easy but we can help you.

0800 011 3405 Text GOSMOKEFREE and your postcode to 80800 for your first step to stopping smoking.

17

Community and living Safer communities We want to help create safer communities where residents feel they belong and can contribute to community life.

Anti-Social Behaviour If you are experiencing anti-social behaviour which is causing you or your family distress, you can report it by phone or online.

03000 26 0000 www.durham.gov.uk/asb For problems that require emergency assistance, call the police on 999

Neighbourhood Wardens Wardens patrol local areas to tackle environmental problems and reduce anti-social behaviour and the fear of crime. They can issue fixed penalty notices for crimes such as littering, dog fouling and graffiti.

03000 26 1000 www.durham.gov.uk/ neighbourhoodwardens

Neighbourhood Watch Join a neighbourhood watch scheme to help make the area you live in a safe, friendly, pleasant place.

Call 101 www.durham.gov.uk/NHW 18

Domestic abuse and outreach service Outreach and refuge services are available across the county to support victims of domestic abuse.

Harbour Support Services: 03000 20 25 25 email durham@myharbour.org.uk www.durham.gov.uk/domesticabuse Gay Advice Darlington and Durham: 01325 355 551 Durham Women’s Refuge: 0191 386 5951 Harbour Support Service Refuge, Peterlee: 0191 586 8890 Stone Meadow House, Consett: 01207 282 193 Wear Valley Women’s Aid Refuge: 01388 600 094

Hate crime Targeting people because of their race, religion, sexual orientation, disability or gender is a crime.

Everyone has the right to live free from fear. Call 101 www.durham.gov.uk/hatecrime www.report-it.org.uk

Event safety information for organisers If you are planning an event, please contact the County Durham Safety Advisory Group for advice, guidance and support to ensure that your event is a safe one. email safeevents@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/eventsafety

Food safety

Community safety

Eating out? Check out the Food Hygiene Rating of local food premises online at www.durham.gov.uk/ foodhygienerating

This service works in partnership with police, fire, health and probation services to tackle crime, anti-social behaviour and re-oending.

03000 26 0000 email community.safety@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/ communitysafety

We carry out regular food safety and hygiene checks as well as investigate complaints of all food premises to ensure they are safe and clean to serve food. Contact us if you have any concerns about a business premise near you. 03000 26 1016 email ehcp@durham.gov.uk

Flooding

Gypsy, Roma, Traveller Service

We can provide sandbags for highways or your home when there are floods or severe weather warnings. www.durham.gov.uk/sandbags 03000 26 1000 (out-of-hours service available)

Emergencies

We work with Gypsy, Roma, Traveller communities, the general public, key partners and lead on the management of unauthorised encampments. 03000 26 1000 email grtservice@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/travellers

Find out how you can help make your community more resilient to emergencies. County Durham and Darlington Civil Contingencies Unit.

03000 264 645 email ccuenquiries@ durhamdarlingtonccu.gov.uk

Gypsy, Roma, Traveller site management We manage six permanent residential Gypsy, Roma, Traveller sites in County Durham. 03000 264 932 email grtsites@durham.gov.uk

19

Community and living Register offices and bereavement services Register Offices To register births, deaths, marriages and civil partnerships call your local Register Office.

We have nine register offices throughout the county, for full details visit www.durham.gov.uk/registeroffices Your local register offices are at: Bishop Auckland Register Office Open: Mon to Fri 9am-4pm.

Barnard Castle Register Office Open: Mon & Wed 10am-1.30pm, Fri 10am-2pm.

Crook Register Office Open: Thurs morning only 10am-1pm.

Stanhope Register Office Open: Thurs afternoon only 2pm-4pm.

Want to trace your family history or find out what life was like in your home town?

Then book a visit to our Archives Service.

03000 267 619 email record.office@durham.gov.uk www.durhamrecordoffice.org.uk

Bereavement services Contact us to pre-purchase a grave plot in council owned cemeteries. We also offer a plot selection service and advice to people trying to trace family members who may be buried in council owned cemeteries.

03000 26 1000 Contact town and parish councils direct for cemeteries owned by them.

To make an appointment at any of these four Register Offices, call 03000 26 6000. All appointments must be booked in advance.

Cruse Bereavement Care can help anyone bereaved by the death of a loved one. 01325 288 633 www.cruse-tees-valley.org.uk

Bishop Auckland Register Office is the main headquarters and contains a strong room of indexes, records and registers going back to 1837.

Bishop Auckland Register Office Open: Mon to Fri 9am-4pm. To make an appointment, call 03000 26 6000.

Crematoriums

20

There are two council-run crematoriums in County Durham.

Central Durham Crematorium, Durham City 0191 384 8677 email durhamcrem@durham.gov.uk www.durhamcrem.co.uk Mountsett Crematorium 01207 570 255 email Mountsettcrem@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/mountsettcrem

Volunteering Fancy trying something new?

Meeting new people?

Learning new skills?

Then volunteering could be for you.

With so many fun ways to help other people or improve your neighbourhood, volunteering is incredibly rewarding.

To find out about volunteering opportunities in County Durham, contact: Durham Community Action Volunteer Centres County Durham 01388 742 040 email volunteering@durhamrcc.org.uk www.durhamrcc.org.uk Check out www.do-it.org.uk East Durham Trust 0191 569 3511 www.eastdurhamtrust.org.uk There are lots of ways you can volunteer for the council, check out www.durham.gov.uk and search volunteering. These include: Sport and leisure Help support your local sports club by joining our Volunteer Durham Scheme. 03000 282 012 email sportandleisurevolunteers@ durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/clubdurham See also Club Durham on page 34.

Civic Pride Opportunities for residents and community groups to help make their neighbourhood a cleaner and greener place.03000 26 1000 www.durham.gov.uk/civicpride

Countryside volunteers Give up some of your time to help conserve our countryside.

03000 264 592 www.durham.gov.uk/countryside Facebook: Durham-CountrysideVolunteers Hardwick Park Opportunities for practical work and helping with events at this 18th century parkland at Sedgefield. 01740 621 505 www.durham.gov.uk/hardwickpark Facebook: Hardwick-Park

Cold up North?

Not anymore.

You could be one of the 50,000 households in the North East to benefit from a warmer home and lower energy bills. Through Warm Up North and subject to survey of your property you may benefit from a range of partially or fully funded energy eďŹƒciency measures.

Solutions available include:

l Replacement of a broken or ineďŹƒcient

boiler (eligibility criteria apply)

l Cavity wall insulation l Loft insulation

l Solid Wall Insulation (part funding only)

British Gas delivers the scheme on behalf of nine north east councils.

For more information contact the Warm Up North team on 0800 294 8073 or visit www.warmupnorth.com 21

Planning and Building Control Planning approval To see if you need approval for things like extensions, loft conversions, changing the use of premises or constructing new buildings, contact your local office on: 03000 263 950 email dmsouthwest@durham.gov.uk For Spennymoor, Barnard Castle and Crook Areas

Building Control

For all major housing, commercial, mineral and renewable energy developments, call our strategic office: 03000 261 397 email dmstrategic@durham.gov.uk

We carry out plan examinations, site inspections, dangerous structure assessments and issue demolition notices. Contact your local office for more information. 03000 261 064 email bc-southwest@durham.gov.uk

We can also offer advice on high hedges and trees, appeals, planning enforcement: www.durham.gov.uk/planning

For all major projects contact our strategic building control office.

03000 261 868 email bc-strategic@durham.gov.uk

You can also apply for planning permission, view and comment on planning applications on line at: www.planningportal.gov.uk

You can now make your building control application online at: www.submitaplan.com

Thinking of doing some

home improvements?

Check out our Registered Trader Scheme

This scheme helps you choose reliable and honest traders for things like electrical, gardening or plumbing work. www.durham.gov.uk/ registeredtraders 22

Planning, Housing, Economic Development and Transport Policy, including Local and Neighbourhood Plans For information on the County Durham Plan, neighbourhood plans and council policy relating to planning, housing, economic development and transport contact: 03000 263 967 email spatialpolicy@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/cdp

t e u m o l p ul ee P k d n a

A guide to help stop fly-tipping in County Durham

Help us to stop fly-tipping.

Everyone is responsible for their rubbish and to make sure it is disposed o

is known as a ‘Duty of Care’. Fly-tipping incidents occur when people dum household items, rather than pay to dispose of waste correctly. If waste

traced back to the owner, you could face prosecution and a fine of up to

How can

householders help?

Before you pay for your waste to be taken away, check how your waste can be disposed of the right way:

Recycle your waste using household waste recycling centres (HWRCs) or reuse charities instead.

Arrange a council bulky waste collection.

This service could be cheaper than a waste company.

Use a waste company registered with the Environment Agency.

Ask to see their waste carrier certificate.

Keep all paperwork issued by the waste company.

How can

landowner Deter fly-tippers from

your land:

Make sure access is

not in use. Lock ga

Improve visibility so

not hidden from vie

Consider installing C practical.

Clear dumped wast

other fly-tippers fro

items on your land.

Find or check a registered waste carrier: Web: www.gov.uk/fin HWRCs:

www.durham.gov.uk/hwrc

Bulky waste:

www.durham.gov.uk/bulkywaste

Reuse: Call:

www.durham.gov.uk/reuse 03000 26 1000

of properly. This

mp waste, often

is fly-tipped and

o ÂŁ50,000.

rs help?

dumping waste on

s secure when land is

ates where applicable.

o that fly-tippers are

ew.

CCTV cameras where

te quickly to discourage

om dumping further

.

nd-registered-waste-carrier

How can

businesses help?

Business/commercial/trade waste must be disposed of correctly:

Sign up to a council commercial waste contract. This could be competitively priced compared to a private waste contract.

If you use a private waste company,

you must check they are a registered waste carrier.

If you dispose of waste yourself, your business must be registered with the

Environment Agency.

You must complete Waste Transfer Notes for waste produced by your

business. You must keep these for two years.

Failure to produce Waste Transfer

Notes when asked by the council or

the Environment Agency is an offence, for which a Fixed Penalty Notice can

be issued or it can lead to prosecution.

Call: 03708 506 506

Arrange commercial waste collections:

Web: Call:

www.durham.gov.uk/commercialwaste 03000 26 1000

A shared vision to stop fly-tipping in County Durham Durham County Council, in partnership with Durham Constabulary, Crimestoppers and the Environment Agency is working hard to reduce and prevent waste from being dumped illegally; with the ultimate goal to stop fly-tipping in County Durham.

With your help we can make your area a safer, cleaner and greener place for all.

Fly-tipping facts:

1 Fly-tipping is illegal and offenders can be fined up to ÂŁ50,000. However,

we all pay for fly-tipping as it costs County Durham council tax payers to clear waste dumped on council owned land.

2 Dumped waste not only looks unpleasant, it also can seriously damage land and pollute water.

3 It can affect the reputation of our villages, towns and city.

4 It can endanger animals and wildlife and also human health.

5 Waste dumped illegally undermines legitimate waste carriers who are undercut by illegal operators.

Know what happens to your waste.

Be aware of your Duty of Care.

If you witness or find fly-tipping

If it is safe to do so, take a

Do not confront the fly-tippers.

Do not look for clues in the waste yourself, as

note of the vehicle make and model, colour, registration number, items of waste and a description of the fly-tippers. there may be harmful items hidden in it.

Report fly-tipping

Web: www.durham.gov.uk/flytipping #operationstopit

Call: 03000 26 1000

All information supplied will be treated in strictest confidence in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998.

Children’s services e ut

m o l p l e a range of services for children, young people and families. uWe provide P ke Private fostering Sharing your home and d n If you have been looking after a heart

Adoption

A guide to help stop fly-tipping someone else's child for 28 days or more, this is classed as private in County Durham

We provide advice, support and preparation for anyone thinking about adoption and families who have adopted. If you are thinking about adoption get in touch, we have children who are waiting.

03000 269 400 email adoption@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/adoption

Fostering We provide advice, support and training for foster carers, if you are thinking of caring for children we would like to hear from you.

03000 269 400 email fostering@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/fostering

Survey

Supported Lodgings Supported Lodgings is a scheme that provides accommodation for homeless or vulnerable young people (aged 16+) and young people leaving care. If you can offer lodgings to a young person aged between 16-25 years please get in touch. We can offer up to £250 a week as payment and we will support you with advice and training. 03000 262 272 email supportedlodgings@ durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/supportedlodgings

Tell us what you think

We hope you’ve found this guide easy to use and informative. Please tell us what you think of it so we can improve it in the future.

You could win £50 of shopping vouchers.

Your guide lists services that are closer to your home. Do you prefer this to a guide that covers the whole county?

Yes o

fostering and the law says you must notify us about the arrangement.

03000 26 79 79 email scd@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/privatefostering

No o

How did you get the guide?

Through my door o At a council office o Other (please specify) ...........................................

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o o o

W IN £50

Are there any council services listed you didn’t know about previously and will consider using?

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No o If yes, please give details

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27

Children’s services Help in times of trouble First Contact Service Safeguarding children and their families We are here to help if you have any concerns about child protection, child neglect, child abuse, families in need, children caring for family members, children with disabilities, children running away.

03000 26 79 79 email firstcontactgcsx@durham.gcsx.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/firstcontact Monday to Thursday 8.30am-5pm Friday 8.30am-4.30pm.

A duty officer is available outside of normal office hours if you need to contact us in an emergency situation, such as a child protection concern.

Survey continued

Alcohol, drugs or substance misuse We have recovery centres in Bishop Auckland, Newton Aycliffe, Durham City, Seaham, Peterlee and Consett for any young person or adult with alcohol, drugs or substance misuse problems. www.durham.gov.uk/alcohol

MEND - helping obese children MEND is a community, family-based programme operated by Mytime Active for overweight and obese children aged between 7-13 years. Visit your local GP for more information

FISCH - A weight management programme for primary school aged children. Contact your child’s school nurse for more information.

Is there something you think should be included in the next guide?

Yes o

No o If yes, please give details

........................................................................................ ........................................................................................

If you would like to enter the competition to win £50 of shopping vouchers, please fill in your details (right).

Your name

........................................................................

Email

W IN £50

.....................................................................................

Telephone ..............................................................

Address

.....................................................................................

Postcode ...............................................................

Pop this survey in the post (don’t forget to use a stamp) to Durham County News, Durham County Council, County Hall, Durham DH1 1RH or pop it into reception at any of our access points before Tuesday 31 March 2015.

28

Thanks for taking part

Information and advice One Point The One Point Service brings together staff from Durham County Council and the County Durham & Darlington Foundation Trust to provide early help and support for children and young people from 0-19 years (25 years if the child has a disability), and their families. Services within One Point include family support, education welfare, children’s centres, youth work, personal advisors, health visiting and school nursing.

We have ten One Point hubs across the county. For a full list see www.durham.gov.uk/onepoint Your nearest centres are at: Barnard Castle (Staindrop Road) Bishop Auckland (Walker Drive) Ferryhill (Broom Road) Newton Aycliffe (Burn Lane) Or ring us on 03000 261 111 and we’ll put you through to the right One Point hub to help with your query.

Families Information Service Free and impartial information for families on childcare, support, activities and more!

New - Local Offer section for families with 0-25 year olds who have special educational needs and disabilities.

Visit: www.countydurhamfamilies.info Call: 0800 917 2 917

Breastfeeding support groups Practical advice and support for new mums. Breastfeeding support groups are run by health professionals, such as midwives or health visitors.

Find your local group at www.breastmilk.co.uk Children and Young People’s Network For children and young people under 25 yrs who have a special educational need or disability.

Easy access to a broad range of information, discounts at venues across the region, free e-newsletter, activities and short break information.

03000 265 792 CYPN@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/cypn

Does your child complain they have nothing to do?

Check out www.countydurhamfamilies.info or www.help4teens.co.uk for information on careers and education. or like www.facebook.com/ youngdurham for events, news and young people’s achievements.

29

Education, schools and learning We want to help young people in County Durham develop and achieve their aspirations.

Schools School admissions Apply for a place online at www.durham.gov.uk/admissions For guidance, call 03000 265 896 or email schooladmissions@durham.gov.uk

School closures When a school has to close at short notice due to bad weather or problems with heating we’ll tweet it @DurhamCouncil. Information is published on the Durham County Council website at www.durham.gov.uk/schoolclosures

Grants for school shoes and coats The School Benevolent Fund is a registered charity offering carers (who meet the criteria) a grant towards a school coat and a pair of shoes. The fund is now run by Thornhill Primary School. 01388 772 906 www.durham.gov.uk/ schoolbenevolentfund

School exclusions and secondary transfers If your child has been excluded you may need further guidance. Contact our pupil casework teams for advice.

03000 265 904 / 905 / 906 www.durham.gov.uk/schoolexclusion 30

School governors If you can bring energy, experience and fresh ideas to support our schools, why not become a school governor? 03000 265 704 / 5 email sgss.administration@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/schoolgovernors

School crossing patrols We provide school crossing patrols in various locations across the county where children frequently need to cross the road on their way to school and where there may be higher volumes of road traffic.

03000 26 0000 email road.safety@durham.gov.uk

School transport Some schools operate ‘walking buses’ and ‘park and stride’ initiatives - find out more from your school. We provide free home to school transport to families that are entitled.

03000 264 444 email schooltransportteam@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/schooltransport

The County Durham Local Offer

Free school meals All children in reception, year 1 and year 2, are eligible for free school meals. It’s still important that you complete an application form as the school receives additional funding for those who are eligible.

For older children, if you are in receipt of certain benefits you may be eligible for free school meals and additional help. Contact your child’s school or our school meals team.

03000 268 002 / 003 email schoolmeals@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/freeschoolmeals

School holidays Take your child on holiday during the school holidays - every school day counts! School holiday dates are available on our website or contact your child’s school. www.durham.gov.uk/schoolholidays

School information For a full list of schools, head teachers and school achievements. www.durham.gov.uk/schools

Our Local Offer has been developed, to help and support children and young people up to the age of 25 who have special educational needs or disabilities (SEND) by bringing together information in one place.

It includes information on statutory entitlements, what is available in the County Durham area during a child’s early years, schooling (including academies and free schools), college and other services including health, social care, training, employment and independent living. www.countydurhamfamilies.info/ localoffer

Children and Young People’s Network This is a virtual Children and network of children Young People’s and young people with Network disabilities or SEND, up to the age of 25, and provides information to our members about services and activities. 03000 265 792 www.durham.gov.uk/cypn

Special Educational Needs and Disability County Durham SENDIASS provides confidential, impartial support and advice for parents, carers, children and young people (up to 25 years) in relation to Special Educational Needs and Disability.

0191 587 3541 www.durhamsendiass.info 31

Education, schools and learning Adult learning and skills service We provide training and learning opportunities for people in County Durham. You could brush up on your English or maths, learn how to use a computer, or perhaps develop skills for your job. Courses include business admin, team leading, supporting teaching and learning in schools and the Certificate in Playwork. We also offer apprenticeships in a number of work areas including social care and administration. email alss@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/adultlearning

Durham Music Service Provides musical opportunities for children and young people across County Durham and Darlington.

03000 262 368 email durhammusicservice@ durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/ durhammusicservice

Time4U Offering arts and activities for older people and people with a disability.

03000 261 384

32

Free Play and Learn sessions for two year olds Some two year olds may be entitled to free 'Play and Learn' sessions. These can take place at a nursery, playgroup, school or with a childminder. To find out where you can access the sessions and check whether you’re eligible, contact the Families Information Service. 0800 917 2 917 www.countydurhamfamiles.info/

Leisure and culture Leisure centres and clubs

All of our leisure centres offer state-of the-art gym facilities with affordable membership packages www.durham.gov.uk/fitness Our pools offer public swimming, swimming lessons, aqua fitness classes, pool parties and fun sessions. www.durham.gov.uk/swimming

Here’s a list of your local leisure centres: Newton Aycliffe 03000 266 446 Gym, 25m pool, learner pool, double size sports hall with fixed seating, licensed bar, GP referral, events.

Shildon-Sunnydale 03000 266 448 Gym, sports hall, outdoor athletics track, artificial turf, 4G pitch facility, GP referral.

Teesdale, Barnard Castle 03000 260 862 Gym, 25m pool, learner pool, sports hall, squash, soft play area, indoor climbing wall, floodlit 3rd generation artificial pitch, skate park, multi-use games area, GP referral.

Woodhouse Close, Bishop Auckland 03000 261 322 Gym, 25m pool, learner pool, training pool, café, GP referral.

Spennymoor 03000 261 161 Gym, slide, wave machine and beach pool, sports hall, café, licensed bar, world class gymnastics centre, artist workshop and exhibition area, GP referral, changing places, multi-sensory room, events.

To see current promotional offers visit www.durham.gov.uk/leisureoffers Visit www.durham.gov.uk/leisurecentres to see a list of all our leisure centres in County Durham.

33

Leisure and culture

Join In Activities for five to 25 year olds to help them get into, enjoy and succeed at sport. Term time and school holiday programmes. 03000 282 012 www.durham.gov.uk/joinin

Durham Institute of Sport Durham Institute of Sport (DIS) supports the development of County Durham’s talented athletes and coaches, helping them achieve their sporting potential.

03000 266 555 email dis@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/dis

Wellness on Wheels (WoW) WoW is our mobile fitness trailer.

Touring villages and towns, WoW promotes healthy living and physical activity. Use the on-board gym equipment and work with the team to set up a permanent ‘community gym’ or other community led activity. To find out where WOW is visiting, or the location of your nearest community gym, call: 03000 266 555 or email sportandleisure@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/wow

Club Durham Club Durham is our free support scheme helping clubs to be safe and sustainable. We help with sourcing funding, advice on getting new members and keeping them, and training. More than 300 clubs have joined Club Durham already.

03000 282 012 email Clubdurham@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/sport

Disabled swimming Swimming programme for disabled children and young people to help them improve their confidence in the water and have fun.

Call 03000 282 012 or contact your local Leisure Centre. email sportandleisure@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/swimming

Find a sports club near you at www.countydurhamsport.com 03000 282 012 34

County Durham has so much to offer, from spectacular coastline to rolling countryside, mind-blowing museums to awesome art galleries.

Check out our council-managed venues below.

Museums and arts venues Bishop Auckland Town Hall There’s something for everyone with a library, art gallery, dramatic theatre, festivals, live music, stand-up comedy and weekly films. 03000 269 524 www.bishopaucklandtownhall.org.uk

DLI Museum and Durham Art Gallery The DLI Museum tells the story of one of the most famous County Regiments in the British Army and, importantly the story of ordinary people who lived extraordinary lives. Durham Art Gallery is the largest contemporary art gallery in County Durham, holding exhibitions, workshops and artist talks.

03000 266 590 email dli@durham.gov.uk www.dlidurham.org.uk

Gala Theatre and Cinema, Durham A state-of-the-art modern theatre, cinema and café-bar. Hosting the best in live entertainment from the UK and beyond. 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Killhope Lead Mining Museum Restored 19th century lead mine, where visitors can experience ‘hands on’ the life and work of lead mining families of the North Pennines.

01388 537 505 www.killhope.org.uk

Locomotion: The National Railway Museum at Shildon A regularly changing exhibition that includes many of the nation's best loved trains. 01388 777 999 www.nrm.org.uk/locomotion

The Witham Managed by the Witham Trust, a vibrant cultural, community and commercial centre in the heart of historic Barnard Castle. Gallery, shop, café and programme of events. www.thewitham.org.uk email info@thewitham.org.uk 01833 631 107

There are other amazing venues to visit in County Durham. Have a look on www.thisisdurham.com for venues and events that will fill your diary.

35

Leisure and culture

Go outdoors We look after loads of sites for you to visit; from the award winning Hardwick Park to the Waskerley Way Railway Path, which is part of the national coast to coast cycle route.

Call 03000 282 012 to find out about the activities below or visit the web pages below.

Walking and riding Discover the great outdoors and join us on one of our guided countryside walks. Get our twice yearly guided walk programme and sign up for our e-newsletter www.durham.gov.uk/countryside and follow us on Facebook: /Durham-Countryside-Volunteers

Walk4life A programme of free guided, short walks across County Durham specifically designed to improve your health.

For more information www.durham.gov.uk/walk4life Meet friends and get fit with a weekly walking group. www.impact.cdd.nhs.uk Get involved in weekly cycle tours, cycling taster sessions and cycling events. You don’t even need a bike as they can lend you one! www.impact.cdd.nhs.uk 36

For more places to walk or ride, visit www.durham.gov.uk/prow or to order your free cycle map email pedalpower@durham.gov.uk

Find out what’s happening across the county at www.thisisdurham.com/events Durham Deals Download your deals at www.thisisdurham.com/deals Take advantage of money-saving Durham Deals. Amazing offers include ‘two-for one’ tickets and free child entry for attractions and activities, plus great discounts on eating out and shopping.

Durham E-newsletter Get special offers, news and events direct to your inbox. www.thisisdurham.com/newsletter

Libraries

E-Books

Your local libraries are:

You can now borrow a huge range of e-books from our libraries. Read them free of charge on a PC, tablet or phone.

All you need to access these is an internet connection and your library card. www.durham.gov.uk/libraries

Barnard Castle: 03000 263 409 Open: Mon and Tues 10am-7pm, Wed 10am6pm, Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 9.30am-12.30pm.

Bishop Auckland: 03000 269 524 Open: Mon 10am-6pm, Tues 10am-5pm, Wed 10am-1pm, Thurs 10am-6pm, Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 9.30am-12.30pm.

Chilton: 03000 269 518 Open: Mon 9.30am-7pm, Thurs 9.30am-5pm, Sat 9.30am-12.30pm.

Cornforth: 03000 269 529 Open: Tues 9.30am-7pm, Thurs 9.30am-5pm, Sat 9.30am-12.30pm.

Coundon: 03000 269 525 Open: Mon 9.30am-6pm, Wed 9.30am-12.30pm, Thurs 9.30am-3pm, Sat 9.30am-12.30pm.

Willington: 03000 269 532 Open: Mon 1pm-5pm, Thurs 9.30am-7pm, Fri 9.30am-1pm, Sat 9.30am-12.30pm.

Wolsingham: 03000 269 533 Open: Mon 9.30am-7pm, Fri 9.30am-5pm, Sat 9.30am-12.30pm.

Woodhouse Close: 03000 269 527 Open: Mon 9.30am-7pm, Thurs 9.30am-5pm, Sat 9.30am-12.30pm.

Crook: 03000 269 002 Open: Mon 1.30pm-5pm, Tues 9.30am-7pm, Wed 9.30am-12.30pm, Thurs 9.30am-7pm, Friday 9.30am-5pm, Sat 9.30am-12.30pm.

Ferryhill: 03000 269 530 Open: Mon 9.30am-5pm, Thurs 9.30am-7pm, Sat 9.30am-12.30pm.

Newton Ayclie: 03000 269 519 Open: Mon 10am-6pm, Tues 10am-7pm, Thurs 10am-7pm, Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 9.30am-12.30pm.

Sedgefield: 03000 269 521 Open: Wed 9.30am-12.30pm, Thurs 10am-6pm, Fri 1pm-7pm, Sat 9.30am-12.30pm.

Shildon: 03000 269 526 Open: Mon 10am-6pm, Tues 10am-7pm, Thurs 10am-7pm, Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 9.30am-12.30pm.

Spennymoor: 03000 269 531 Open: Mon 9.30am-7pm, Tues 9.30am-5pm, Wed 9.30am-12.30pm, Thurs 9.30am-7pm, Fri 1.30pm-5pm, Sat 9.30am-12.30pm.

Trimdon: 03000 269 522 Open: Tues 9.30am-5pm, Thurs 9.30am-7pm, Sat 9.30am-12.30pm.

Having trouble getting to your local library?

Try Library Online. Browse to see what books we have, request or renew an item and get full, free access to a range of online resources. Borrow e-books and e-magazines to read on your PC, tablet or phone. www.durham.gov.uk/libraryonline Try Books on Wheels. Our free home delivery service may be able to help you. 03000 263 790 or 03000 263 789 www.durham.gov.uk/libraries Try our Mobile Library Service to rural communities. With disabled access. www.durham.gov.uk/mobilelibrary

Library HealthZones To learn more about an illness or find a support group, visit the HealthZone in any of our libraries. www.durham.gov.uk/healthzones

37

Housing

Housing difficulty

Find a home Empty Homes We provide support and assistance to owners of empty properties 03000 262 140 email privatesectorhousing @durham.gov.uk

Private landlords We provide help and advice on a wide range of housingrelated questions to both tenants and landlords 03000 262 140 email privatesectorhousing @durham.gov.uk

Housing Solutions provides a range of services to assist people who are homeless, threatened with homelessness or experiencing financial difficulties.

It is important you seek advice before a problem becomes a crisis so we can prevent homelessness.

We have a number of ways we can help you to improve your situation. This may prevent you from losing your home or help you find suitable and affordable alternative accommodation.

If you live in: Sedgefield, Wear Valley, Teesdale, Durham City, contact 03000 260 801 If you live in: Chester-le-Street, Derwentside, East Durham, contact 03000 268 840 Out of Hours Service (for emergency homeless) 01388 722 538 email housingsolutions@durham.gov.uk

To Let

Durham City Homes

0191 301 8470

livin

0800 587 4538

Housing Solutions also offer a number of more specific services: Family Intervention Project 03000 268 374 Gypsy Roma Traveller 03000 268 850

Your first choice for housing in County Durham

No bond

Accent Foundation Cestria Housing

No admin fee

0345 678 0573

0191 385 1900

Dale and Valley Homes 0800 083 0333 Derwentside Homes

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01207 521 100

East Durham Homes Teesdale Housing

0800 032 0835

01833 694 400

www.durhamkeyoptions.co.uk

Environment

We provide a range of services to keep our county attractive and safe.

Waste and recycling We collect rubbish and recycling from households in County Durham on alternate weeks. One week we empty the rubbish bin and the following week we empty the recycling bin and box. Last financial year (2013/2014) we recycled, reused or composted 43 per cent of household waste.

Collections To find out your collection day, enter your house number and postcode into ‘My Durham’ on our website.

03000 26 1000 www.durham.gov.uk/bins www.durham.gov.uk/recycling www.durham.gov.uk/whatgoeswhere

Garden waste collections To find out if your property is eligible for garden waste collections and to sign up to the service, call 03000 26 1000 or go to www.durham.gov.uk/gardenwaste

Lost or stolen bins There is a charge to replace lost or stolen bins. Help minimise the chance of losing your bin by returning it to within the boundary of your property as soon as possible after it has been emptied on your collection day.

03000 26 1000

Assisted collections If you have difficulty getting your household bin to its collection point, and you meet certain criteria, we can help you. 03000 26 1000 www.durham.gov.uk/ assistedcollections

Bulky waste collections We collect bulky waste items, such as furniture and white goods from households. There is a charge for this service. 03000 26 1000

Furniture reuse schemes If your unwanted furniture or household items are too good to throw away, why not use one of the furniture reuse charities and find a new home for it? 03000 26 1000 www.durham.gov.uk/reuse

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Garden waste collections 2015 Fortnightly collections from the kerbside between spring and autumn Sign up for 1 year: £20 Sign up for 3 years: £50

To find out if your property is eligible for collections and to sign up, go to

www.durham.gov.uk/gardenwaste or call 03000 26 1000

For collections in the Teesdale area, contact Rotters Composting Annual fee £20 www.rotters.org 01833 690022 Terms and conditions apply.

for County Durham

Rotters

Composting

Environment Recycling facilities You can recycle your household waste at the Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs). Please separate your waste according to the material and place your items into the correct recycling container at the sites.

Here’s a list of your local recycling centres and opening hours: Opening times: Opening times: April - September October - March

HWRC

Opening days

Heighington Lane Newton Aycliffe

Every day

9am - 6pm

9am - 3.30pm

Romanway Industrial Estate Tindale Crescent Bishop Auckland

Every day

9am - 6pm

9am - 3.30pm

Middleton-in-Teesdale Highways Depot off B6277

Every day

9am - 6pm

9am - 3.30pm

Stainton Grove Barnard Castle

Saturday, Sunday and bank holidays only

9am - 6pm

9am - 3.30pm

9am - 6pm

9am - 3.30pm

9am – 12noon

Subject to review.

Please see www.durham.gov. uk/hwrc for up-to-date information.

Tudhoe Every day Tudhoe Industrial Estate Frosterley Mobile Recycling Centre opposite Sherburn Stone Quarry, off A689, Frosterley.

Alternate Saturdays: 21 Feb. 7, 21 March.

4,18 April. 2, 16, 30 May. 13, 27 June. 11, 25 July Further dates are subject to review.

For a full list of sites across the county, see www.durham.gov.uk/hwrc

Waste permits If you are visiting the recycling centres with a van, pick-up vehicle, minibus or towing a trailer, you will need to contact us for a free waste permit before visiting the site. 03000 26 1000 www.durham.gov.uk/householdpermit

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Environment Helping you to keep areas safe, clean and tidy Dog fouling, litter and graffiti We issue fixed penalty notices for dog fouling, littering, graffiti and rubbish in yards and gardens. Let us know if you spot a problem. 03000 26 1000 www.durham.gov.uk/litter www.durham.gov.uk/dogfouling

Flytipping (illegally dumped waste) We’re cracking down on flytipping.

See our guide in the centre pages.

Noise, pollution or hygiene issues If you are experiencing problems with commercial or domestic noise, air quality, smells, pollution, contamination or hygiene issues. 03000 261 016 or 03000 26 0000

Allotments We manage several allotment sites.

Additional sites are provided by local town and parish councils, allotment associations, or are privately owned.

Call us to see what sites are available.

03000 26 0000 email allotments@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/allotments

Archaeology We protect, manage and conserve the archaeological remains of the county and offer opportunities for people to get involved. Get a copy of our annual magazine or come along to our County Durham Archaeology Day. 03000 267 013 email archaeology@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/archaeology

Civic Pride team

Caring for our natural environment and buildings

Work with residents, partners, businesses, schools, volunteers and community groups to address clean and green issues that affect our open spaces. 03000 26 1000 www.durham.gov.uk/civicpride

We provide advice on listed buildings, conservation areas, urban design, community projects, heritage open days and environment awards.

03000 267 146, email design.conservation@durham.gov.uk

Pest control

Grass cutting, grounds maintenance and tree management

We can deal with pests such as rats, mice, cockroaches, bedbugs, fleas, ants and wasps. Charges apply.

03000 26 1000 www.durham.gov.uk/pestcontrol

We maintain public grounds and trees in parks and open spaces, in schools and on highways. Call 03000 26 1000. www.durham.gov.uk/treemanagement

Stray animals

Tree preservation

Report a stray dog or horse to us and we will try to identify the owner.

03000 26 1000 www.durham.gov.uk/strayanimals 42

We offer advice about Tree Preservation Orders and trees in conservation areas.

Call 03000 267 133 email treeofficers@durham.gov.uk

Business Business Durham is the economic development company for County Durham, delivering the environment for business and economic growth.

We provide advice, guidance and support to help businesses in the county to grow and develop.

We have a large business property portfolio, including offices, industrial space and specialist accommodation for science and technology businesses at NETPark. We also promote enterprise and business start-up in the county, whilst providing businesses with an easy route into council services which they may need to access.

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We offer guidance and support in:

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Starting your business

Our latest development is Viewpoint, a new Business Centre located at the heart of Consett Business Park (pictured above). The new business centre has:

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Finding the right premises for your business

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Growing your business

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Locating your business in County Durham

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Access to funds, finance and grants

46 offices ranging from 15sqm to 33sqm 24 hour access Free parking Stunning views over the local countryside IT connection, telephony and meeting room hire Competitive rates with ‘easy in easy out’ tenancy terms

For more information: 03000 261 261 enquiries@businessdurham.co.uk www.businessdurham.co.uk Twitter: @_businessdurham 43

Business Business rates Some businesses may be able to get a reduction in their rates. For more information and advice contact the Business Rates Team on 03000 268 997 www.durham.gov.uk/businessrates

Commercial vehicles We are an authorised testing facility for Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) and Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) and an authorised Ford Transit repair agent providing MOT, servicing and repairs for commercial vehicles at our Meadowfield (Durham) depot.

See page 47 for more information.

03000 269 342 www.durham.gov.uk/MOT

Licences Businesses may require licences for a number of reasons, such as putting up scaolding, selling fireworks, performing piercing or tattooing, operating as a taxi, or for breeding dogs. www.durham.gov.uk/licensing

Workplace driver training We can help small and medium sized businesses to develop their driver safety at work policies to comply with health and safety requirements.

We can also help with driver assessments and training to help reduce costs for businesses.

03000 268 173 email road.safety@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/roadsafety

Trade waste We oer a trade waste collection service to businesses in the county, with a number of collection options. Contact us for a quote. 03000 26 1000 www.durham.gov.uk/ commercialwaste 44

Pest control We provide a comprehensive pest management service to businesses, either as a single treatment, or a programmed pest management control contract.

03000 26 1000 www.durham.gov.uk/pestcontrol

Travel and transport We look after 2,300 miles of roads, 2,112 miles of footways and more than 80,000 street lights and illuminated signs in County Durham.

Blue badge scheme A national scheme enabling people with severe mobility problems, walking difficulties or people registered blind to park close to their destinations.

03000 269 425 www.durham.gov.uk/bluebadge

Public transport For information and journey planning advice visit http://www.durham.gov.uk/ publictransport or http://www.traveline.info/

Concessionary passes Travel booking system

Men and women can get a bus pass when they reach the State Pension age - this age has changed, depending on your birthday. People with qualifying disabilities can get a pass at any age. 03000 268 667

Phone us to book our dial a ride Link2 and Access Bus services, and to arrange hospital transport.

03000 269 999

Park and Ride

Volunteer car driver scheme

A direct bus service runs every 10 minutes to Durham city centre from our three park and ride sites (Belmont, Sniperley and Howlands).

For £2 per person you get parking, unlimited daily travel into the city centre and free use of the cathedral bus. www.durham.gov.uk/parkandride

Having trouble getting to doctor’s appointments? Volunteer driver schemes will help you get to doctor’s appointments at GP surgeries, community hospitals and clinics.

The RSVP NE services will also collect prescriptions. 0191 389 1155 01740 658 881 www.durhamsrc.co.uk

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Travel and transport

Safe journey Highways and street lighting Problems with roads, pavements, street lights, traffic signals or road drains in County Durham or if you have a query about highway licences and permits.

03000 26 1000 email help@durham.gov.uk Report it online www.durham.gov.uk/reportit

Winter services We provide a winter maintenance service from October to April, presalting to prevent ice forming and clearing snow during and after major snowfalls.

Follow us on Twitter: @DurhamCouncil www.durham.gov.uk/winterroads

MOT testing We offer an MOT testing service to the public (vehicle classes 4, 5 and 7).

Call one of our test centres to book.

Annfield Plain: 03000 265 638 Chilton:

03000 266 247

Meadowfield: 03000 269 342 Peterlee:

03000 264 100

www.durham.gov.uk/MOT See page 47 for more information.

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Road safety education We provide road safety education and training in schools and colleges, including Bikeability cycle training, child pedestrian training and the Junior Road Safety Officer Scheme.

03000 268 167 or 03000 268 168 email road.safety@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/roadsafety

Call to book your MOT

MOT tests vehicle servicing centres

£42 From

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Annfield Plain - 03000 265 638 Chilton - 03000 266 247

Meadowfield - 03000 269 342 Peterlee - 03000 264 100

www.durham.gov.uk/MOT

Ford Commercial Servicing and Repairs

Tailoring solutions to your service needs Durham County Council, St John’s Road, Meadowfield, Durham, DH7 8XQ

Tel: 03000 269 343 Email: fordnewco@durham.gov.uk

Authorised Commercial Repairer

Interim Service From only £57 plus VAT MOTs up to 3.5 tonne £32 If carried out with service Ford Retail Service From only £109 plus VAT

DVSA ATF and Tachograph Station

We are an approved Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) Authorised Testing Facility (ATF) for HGVs and PSVs. We are able to provide an on-site trailer and ballast weights at competitive rates.

Reliable | Flexible | Professional Open from 7am to 5pm weekdays.

Call: 03000 269 342

www.durham.gov.uk/MOT

Durham County Council, St John’s Road, Meadowfield, Durham, DH7 8XQ

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Register for e-billing now and have the chance to win ÂŁ50 in our monthly prize draw.* * In February and March 2015 only.

Visit: www.durham.gov.uk/ebilling