Welcome to the summer edition of Hartbeat
There has been a lot of exciting things happening over the last few months and many more positive things still to come for the remainder of 2024.
In the Local Elections in May, the Labour Party took control of Hartlepool Borough Council and now holds 24 of the 36 seats on the Council. In the General Election in July, Jonathan Brash, the Labour Party candidate, was elected as Hartlepool’s Member of Parliament and you can read more about this on page 31.
One of the priorities of the new Labour administration was to review how the Household Waste Recycling Centre operates. From September, the appointment system will be removed. Find out more on page 11.
Recently we received news that our Children’s Services department has been rated as ‘Outstanding’ by the Government’s inspectorate –Ofsted. This is a very rare grading for local authorities to receive and
Denise McGuckin Managing Director
we should be proud to be delivering high quality services for our young people. There is more information on this on page 11.
On page 26 you will be able to read more about the long-awaited new platform opening at Hartlepool Train Station. The new platform paves the way for additional train services and improving Hartlepool’s transport connectivity.
The financial health of the Council, like many other local authorities, remains a challenge and we want to ensure that local people are aware of the challenges the Council faces and the continued difficult decisions that we face in light of historic Government funding cuts and budget pressures. Find out more on page 6 and 7.
Finally, we are delighted to share with you the progress being made on the construction of Highlight, our new active wellbeing hub. Check out the latest progress on page 12.
Councillor Brenda Harrison Leader of the Council
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‘Outstanding’ children’s services - P11
Water safety reminder - P9
Family Hubs support - P24, 25
New platform launch - P26
Wesley Chapel re-birth - P13
In November 2023 we launched our Big Conversation and it ran for three months until the middle of February 2024. We wanted to hear the views of local residents and other Council stakeholders to find out what mattered the most to local people and how we can help to deliver a better tomorrow for Hartlepool.
Engagements
Over 1,600 engagements in total including:
662 survey responses (paper, online and easy read versions)
48 business survey responses
149 quick poll responses
552 postcard responses
266 attendances registered at face to face sessions supported by Hartlepool Borough Council employees
What people love about Hartlepool
18 face to face sessions held by Hartlepool Borough Council or other public or Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) organisations
Thank you to everyone who took part
beautifulHartlepoolislocatedina placenearboth thecountrysideandthecoast, andthereisalotofpotential Thetoenhancethesespaces. somethinghistoryofHartlepoolis tobeproudof
What people said would make Hartlepool a better place to live
Emerging themes What’s missing?
Heritage and natural assets
Cleanliness of the town
Crime and anti-social behaviour
Business, jobs and prosperity
Transport and getting about
Access to health services
Shopping / retail facilities
Regeneration
Sports and leisure activities and facilities
Strong sense of community
Council Plan Priorities
Action
not words
Reduce crime and anti-social behaviour
Bring back hospital services
Everyone should feel safe
Jobs and employment opportunities
Council tax
Clean the town
Facilities, services and opportunities for children and young people
The overall feedback was that the six priorities were still the right ones for the next five years however we’ve made some minor adjustments to reflect the things that people identified were missing. Our priorities for the next five years were agreed by Finance and Policy Committee in June as:
Hartlepool will be a place…
• where people are enabled to live healthy, independent and prosperous lives.
• where people will be safe and protected from harm.
• of resilient and resourceful communities with opportunities for all.
• that is connected, sustainable, clean and green.
• that has an inclusive and growing economy.
• with a Council that is ambitious, fit for purpose and reflects the diversity of its community.
We’re now working to develop our annual action plan so please watch this space for future updates.
The Council’s Financial Position
This information aims to provide an insight into the Council’s financial position.
We want to make sure that local people understand the financial challenges that are affecting Hartlepool Borough Council. Many councils across the country are in a similar financial position. The main cause of this is because of historic Government funding cuts, inflation and unprecedented demand on council services.
These funding cuts have placed a growing requirement on councils to increase council tax each year to meet budget gaps. In addition to this, the costs of delivering children’s social care have risen significantly in recent years.
We have a statutory duty to protect our most vulnerable people in Hartlepool and this has meant that in recent years we have had to make difficult decisions to alter or stop delivering certain nonessential services.
There has been a 38.4% real term funding reduction since 2010, making the Council £48.9m a year worse off.
If the funding reduction had been equal to that of the average Council, we would be £19.4m a year better off than we are.
The relatively low value of housing in Hartlepool adversely affects the Council’s ability to generate Council Tax income.
Hartlepool has the highest proportion of households in receipt of Local Council Tax Support in the country. This costs the Council £15m a year.
There has been a £10m (38%) increase in Children’s Social Care costs over three years - the equivalent of a 20% council tax increase.
69% of the Council’s net budget is now spent on delivering social care. This is a statutory service the Council must deliver.
The budget gap for 2025/26 is currently £10m. We have a legal requirement to balance the budget.
If reforms are made to government funding via ‘fair funding’ – the Council could be £12m a year better off. We continue to lobby for fair funding for Hartlepool.
Council Tax in Hartlepool
Council tax in Hartlepool - whilst relatively high - is not the highest in the country. When all local government services - including fire and police - are included, the majority of band D households in the country pay between £2,000 and £2,500 a year, including those in Hartlepool.
How each £1 of your HBC council tax is spent
Are you eligible for help paying your council tax?
Discounts
Reductions are available if, for example, you’re the only person in your household over the age of 18, a family member is disabled or severely mentally impaired or your partner is in a nursing home. Discounts depend on individual circumstances.
Local Council Tax Support Scheme
You may be able to claim if you or your partner are on a low income, either in or out of work. The level of support depends on your income.
The Council has introduced a new simplified scheme from 2024/25 that increases support for the most vulnerable.
Tackling Fraud
The Council is committed to tackling council tax fraud. Please make sure you keep your records up to date if your circumstances change.
Hartlepool Jobs & Skills
Community Hub Central, York Road
Monday to Friday - 10am-4pm
Wednesday - open late till 8pm
Community Hub South, Wynyard Road
Tuesday toThursday 10am-4pm
Throston Grange Library, Wiltshire Way
Monday 10am-4pm
Headland Library, Middlegate
Friday 10am-4pm
Council issues water safety reminder
With the summer holidays in full swing, Hartlepool Borough Council is reminding people to follow its important safety advice to help them stay safe if they head to the town’s beaches.
In particular, it’s warning people not to swim in the dangerous waters off Steetley Pier and the North Sands and Crimdon beaches.
The Council’s beach lifeguards are patrolling the beach at Seaton Carew every day from 10am to 6pm throughout the school summer holiday period until Monday 2nd September and people should heed any instructions they give.
The Council has also published more water safety tips at www.hartlepool.gov.uk/water-safety
Councillor Gary Allen, Chair of the Council’s Adult and Community-Based Services Committee, said:
“Everyone loves a day at the seaside but we want people to stay safe while they’re having fun, so we would ask everyone to please take the time to read our advice.
“We would especially warn people once again not to swim off Steetley Pier and the North Sands and Crimdon beaches, because the conditions there mean it’s just not safe to do so.
“We all remember the tragic accident three years ago at Steetley Pier when teenager Matthew Sherrington sadly lost his life.
“The water around the pier may look calm but it’s particularly hazardous as there are very strong rip currents as well as sudden deep water and underground hazards.
“Since the tragedy in 2021 there have unfortunately been instances when youngsters have been seen swimming off Steetley Pier, so we would urge parents to please talk to their children about the dangers of swimming in open water and make sure they know where their children are at all times.”
A summersizzling of fun!
There’s another action-packed programme of fantastic activities under way for school-aged children and young people in Hartlepool over the school summer holidays with Hartlepool Holiday Fun – and they’re all free for eligible children!
Cycling, performing arts, Pokemon clubs, swimming, art, multi-sports and mindfulness are just some of what’s on offer, plus the children get a tasty meal too!
Under the terms of the Government funding, the programme is open to children who receive benefits-related free school meals and some additional children as identified by schools.
There are also a small number of subsidised, payable spaces available for non-eligible children. These are advertised by, and bookable directly via, the activity providers.
Councillor Rachel Creevy, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Children’s Services Committee, said: “Once again, we’ve pulled out all the stops to make it a fun-packed summer for young people in Hartlepool, helping them discover new hobbies and enjoy nutritious meals.
“At the same time we’re bringing some much-needed support to families who need it most.”
Tilly Bailey & Irvine LLP
Children’s Services are ‘Outstanding’
Hartlepool Borough Council’s Children’s Services have been rated ‘Outstanding’ overall by the Government’s inspectorate.
Ofsted – which carried out a rigorous inspection in March –said: “Inspectors saw consistently good practice across all parts of the service with exceptionally strong management oversight and a leadership team with an unwavering commitment to children and the workforce.”
It said that since its last inspection in 2018 – when the services were rated ‘Good’ – “senior leaders have not only sustained the good practice and leadership seen at the last inspection, they have been relentless in driving further progress and improvements.”
The inspectors found there is a very strong and effective focus on providing help early to children, social work assessments of children’s needs are exceptionally thorough and young people leaving care are very well supported by committed staff, adding “There is a palpable culture across children’s social care and among council leaders and members that care leavers are ‘their’ children.”
They said: “Children come into care when they need to, and they are thriving. This means that the overwhelming majority of children who need help, protection or care in Hartlepool receive an outstanding service that helps to improve their lives.”
In an additional boost for the Children’s Services team, in a later inspection the Council’s children’s homes were all rated Good by Ofsted.
Councillor Rachel Creevy, Chair of the Council’s Children’s Services Committee, said: “To use the inspectors’ own words, the voice of children is threaded throughout our service, and we are delighted to have been judged ‘Outstanding.’
“Our aim is for every child and young person in Hartlepool to enjoy their best possible life in a safe, loving and nurturing environment and everything we do is geared towards that goal.”
HWRC appointments system to end
The appointments system at the town’s Household Waste Recycling Centre is to end next month following a decision by the Council’s Neighbourhood Services Committee.
The decision will remove the requirement for residents to book before visiting the facility in Burn Road.
The appointments system is being kept in place until 4th September while Council officers make the necessary arrangements to enable the centre to revert back to open access safely.
The Neighbourhood Services Committee also agreed that the operation of the site should remain under review for the next 12 months.
Councillor Karen Oliver, Chair of the Neighbourhood Services Committee, said: “The decision to remove the current appointment system, proves that the Council is listening to Hartlepool residents. Whilst there are those who have mixed views about the current and new arrangements, can I take this opportunity to reassure all residents that we will be monitoring the progress of the new arrangements over the next 12 months, when we will also carry out a townwide consultation exercise to ensure we develop a system that is sustainable and flexible enough to meet the future needs of all Hartlepool people.”
Some people are supportive of the booking system, saying it works well and makes visiting the HWRC a much more positive experience. Others are critical of it, arguing that it is obstructive. Dissatisfaction with the booking system was also highlighted by the Council’s recent Big Conversation consultation event.
The appointments system was introduced in spring 2020 as part of savings proposals considered by the Council at that time, and it was also seen as a way of stopping commercial operators and residents from outside the Borough of Hartlepool disposing of waste at the site.
The Children’s Services team celebrate their ‘Outstanding’ rating
Key milestone for skills academy project
The development of a civil engineering skills academy in Hartlepool has been boosted by the delivery of new purpose-built classrooms.
The classrooms were brought to the site of the Tees Valley Civil Engineering Institute in Brenda Road by lorry and lifted into place by crane.
The academy, a partnership between Seymour Civil Engineering, Hartlepool College of Further Education and Hartlepool Borough Council, is receiving financial support from the £25 million Hartlepool Town Deal.
It aims to produce the next generation of skilled workers by providing people with access to high quality training and qualifications.
Academy Manager Donna King said: “The academy has been operational since June 2020 and since then has helped over 600 people into work.
“The facilities we have been using up until this point have been hired or old cabins which we have now outgrown. We offer a brilliant service, and we need facilities to reflect that.”
Councillor Pamela Hargreaves, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Economic Growth and Regeneration Committee, said: “Hartlepool is going places. We’re investing heavily to change the physical landscape of the town, but we also need to invest in our people.
“We want to build the capacity of our workforce so we can be world leaders in this borough. That may sound ambitious, but why not. If you are an ambitious company, then Hartlepool is the place to be.”
In addition to the Brenda Road site, Hartlepool Town Deal funding has also been used to develop a range of highquality training facilities at the academy’s Exeter Street annexe in Hartlepool town centre – part of Hartlepool College of Further Education.
Highlight rises from the ground!
The construction of Hartlepool’s new active wellbeing hub Highlight has reached another key milestone, with the erection of the first steel on site.
“A lot of work has been going on to clear the site, excavate the swimming pools and construct the foundations, but it is a particularly exciting moment to see the steelwork coming out of the ground.
“Improving the health and wellbeing of local people is a top priority for the Council, so this is a very important facility for the Borough.
Highlight will also play a major role in boosting our reputation as a visitor destination,” said Councillor Brenda Harrison, Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council.
Its facilities will include:
• A 25m 8-lane main pool, a 25m 4-lane learner pool with movable floor and a leisure pool including race slide and water play features
• Spectator viewing gallery
• A 100-station gym
• Two inter-connected fitness studios
• An indoor cycling/”spinning” studio
• Active and soft play areas and a party room
• A café
• An NHS consultation suite
• External ground and first-floor terraces
Highlight will also be surrounded by informal outdoor event and activity spaces to support walking, cycling, running and outdoor fitness, with connections to Hartlepool Marina for water sports.
Practical completion of the new building is scheduled for the end of 2025, followed by a phased hand over of services as the town’s existing Mill House Leisure Centre closes.
The project is being funded by Hartlepool Borough Council, Tees Valley Combined Authority and Sport England.
For more information about Highlight and answers to some frequently asked questions visit https://www. activehartlepool.co.uk/highlightactivewellbeinghub
Re-birth of Wesley Chapel takes shape
As work forges ahead on the renovation of the historic Wesley Chapel, here’s an insight into some of the improvements taking place.
Once completed, the iconic building will be a 36-bedroom wedding and events venue.
General view across new slate roof covering.
View of lower floors now stripped out.
View of new roof timbers and roof steelwork to upper roof level.
New lift shaft and lift pit in basement area.
View onto lower section of the structure lost to the recent fire.
New window apertures taking shape.
Ornate stonework cleaned retaining many original details.
Hartlepool Community Hubs -
we’re libraries and so much more!
If you haven’t stepped inside a Hartlepool Community Hub or library lately, you’re in for a big surprise – there’s so much on offer!
Sign up for free and enjoy a wide range of great services - fully inclusive and open to everyone:
Borrow books in a range of formats and search for and reserve items online at www.hartlepool. gov.uk/libraries . Home Library Service for the housebound. Access eBooks and eMagazines digitally through our BorrowBox app.
Free access to computers and Wi-Fi Printing and photocopying facilities (chargeable).
Reading and writing groups , author events , scrabble and chess clubs , plus weekly children’s sessions for the under fives including Baby Babble and Stories and Rhymes, and our Summer Reading Challenge for ages 4–11 with a chance to win a Nintendo Switch!
Wellbeing walks and social groups – boost your mood, maintain your independence and make friends.
Career support and skills development with our Jobs and Skills team and health and wellbeing advice from our Community Navigators
New to the Hubs
Blood pressure checks – Drop into Community Hub Central or Community Hub South and get support from our Blood Pressure Champions to take your blood pressure and understand the results.
Waverley Outdoor Community Hub – Enjoy our tranquil allotment, tending the fruit and vegetables or take part in our group activities.
Seed Libraries – Fruit, vegetable and flower seeds are available free in this Hartlepool Food Partnership-funded project. Take what you need, harvest your own seeds and replenish our stock for the future.
Lots of social activities including bingo and dancing, or book spaces to organise your own activities, plus access to Hartlepool Carers, Blue Dice, START, The Bread and Butter Thing, West View Advice and Resource Centre and more.
Chat to Occupational Therapists in the Live Well Suite or get help with your mobile phone, laptop, tablet or internet from our Digital Navigators
Community Kitchen each Thursday at Community Hub South – two courses £1.50. Enjoy a free three-course meal with Food Cycle on Monday evenings at Hub South, or grab a cuppa in the Community Hub Central café.
Explore your heritage with our Local & Family History experts in Sir William Gray House, including free access to Ancestry, Find My Past and the British Newspaper Archive.
Get creative in Fab Lab, our creative technology space with 3D printers, a laser engraver, Cricut machines, sublimation printing tools and more.
Volunteer with us – give back to the community, learn new skills and make new friends.
The Den – Teens can visit our safe and comfy space upstairs in Community Hub Central. Enjoy the stock of zines created by local people or use the free resources available to create your own! (Supported using public funding from the National Lottery through Arts Council England).
Weight management group - returning this September.
To find out more, drop into a Community Hub or Library, call 01429 272905 , email community.hubs@hartlepool.gov.uk or visit www.hartlepool.gov.uk/libraries
Be the young voice of our Community Hubs
Are you 16 – 25? We want to hear from you!
Be the young voice of Hartlepool’s Community Hubs and join our Youth Board.
We want young people just like you to use the hubs and libraries. Show us your ideas, tell us what activities you’d like us to host or deliver your very own!
What books or zines should we stock? What facilities should we offer? Some current projects include creative workshops and tabletop role playing games.
Funds are reserved just for you. It can be for a range of activities. Let your imagination run wild!
We’d love to see you in the hubs but you can also have your say through an app! We’ll run polls and ask for your thoughts. No big meetings around a table – we just want your input on how we can improve services for young people living in Hartlepool.
Did you know – opportunities like this are also perfect for job and UCAS applications.
If you’re interested and would like to know more please email hubsyb@hartlepool.gov.uk
Reading is great for your wellbeing!
“Stories can be healing. If we’re drowning in chaotic thoughts of our own, to step inside someone else’s head, just for a while, is a kind of freedom.”
Ann Cleeves, writer and Reading for Wellbeing founder.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a bookworm or a reading novice –come and get involved in our Reading for Wellbeing initiative and be part of a great social group for people who come together and share a passion for reading.
Our Community Reading Officers can recommend a range of books, help you navigate services and/or welcome you as part of a group, reading for pleasure and sharing interests.
It’s also a great way of helping to ease loneliness, particularly if you’re in one of the groups at risk of chronic loneliness including LGBTQ+, men aged 18-40, care leavers and people in sheltered accommodation.
Get in touch to find out more about how you can involved –email readingforwellbeing@hartlepool.gov.uk
Both of the above initiatives are funded by the Government’s Know Your Neighbourhood Fund, which aims to widen participation in volunteering and tackle loneliness. The Reading for Wellbeing Initiative is also supported by national organisation Reading for Wellbeing.
Councillor Gary Allen, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Adult and Community-Based Services Committee, said: “Our Community Hubs and Libraries have led the way in creating an exciting range of volunteering opportunities for people of all ages and reaching out across the community to bring people together and help tackle the major issue of loneliness.
“This new funding will help us take that to the next level. We would love to have more young people getting involved in helping shape Hub activities and we’re looking forward to welcoming more people to the benefits of Reading for Wellbeing.”
JOIN OUR TEAM
Winter maintenance drivers wanted Hartlepool Borough Council has a number of positions available on a casual basis.
During the winter maintenance season which generally runs from October to April, it is essential that we keep as many roads open as possible. To achieve this, we provide a 24-hour, sevenday a week service running multiple routes across the borough.
To find out more and to apply scan the QR code below or go to www.hartlepool.gov.uk/gritting-jobs. Should you still require further information, call the Highways Operations Team on (01429) 401990.
We want to hear from you if you have:-
A full UK driving licence with HGV Category C (Class 2) entitlement
Availability between October and April
DO YOU NEED A DROPPED KERB?
Hartlepool Borough Council now provides a vehicle crossing construction service if you need to drop the kerb outside your property to access your land or driveway.
If you would like a free quotation, please go to www. hartlepool.gov.uk/vehicle-crossing to register your details. You will then be contacted by a member of the Highways Team.
If it’s on your mind, it’s on Togetherall
We all have bad times when we struggle with life, so have you tried Togetherall yet?
It’s the anonymous, online mental health community, available free 24/7 to Hartlepool residents aged 16 or over for support with a wide range of issues, from anxiety, depression and isolation to relationship issues and lifestyle challenges.
Togetherall provides support to millions of people throughout the UK and around the world and Hartlepool Borough Council was the first Tees Valley council to make it available to its residents when it commissioned the service in March last year.
This pilot scheme has been such a success, it’s now been renewed for the longer term.
The figures speak for themselves:
• Togetherall now has over 300 Hartlepool members
• 66% joined with depression and low mood, 53% were feeling nervous or on edge and 52% were experiencing stress
• 67% weren’t receiving any other form of mental health support
• 92% said Togetherall has had either a helpful or very helpful impact on their mental health
• 36% have had direct interactions with a Togetherall clinician
Togetherall is monitored around the clock by licensed mental health professionals called Wall Guides, who interact with the community – you can reach out to them directly at any time.
It also provides members with the necessary tools and resources to manage their own journey to improving their mental health, with access to a wealth of self-help courses covering mental health and lifestyle topics from coping with grief and loss to problem solving, health anxiety and stopping procrastination.
Speaking from Hartlepool Mental Health Lived Experience Forum, Hartlepool resident Lorraine sums up just why so many local people are turning to Togetherall when they need that bit of extra support:
“I think this is brilliant, using this platform that has a whole-person approach to giving people support, accessing it when needed with the added safety of knowing that you would be helped if you were in crisis, and referred for support and help when you needed it.”
Other Hartepool Togetherall members said:
“I have only just joined and already feel I’m in a very supportive environment.”
“I was referred by talking therapies. The combined support I find so useful.”
“I find it helpful to express myself in a different way. Words are difficult and journaling helps me to look after myself better.”
If you live in Hartlepool and you’re aged 16 or over, you can join the Togetherall community today for free.
Start exploring at www.togetherall.com or scan this code.
A career that makes a real difference
If you’re looking for a fulfilling job which also gives you the chance to give something back to your local community, a career in adult social care could be just what you need.
Care workers make an amazing, positive difference to the lives of the people they look after, enhancing both their physical and mental wellbeing and helping them maintain their independence.
The variety of tasks and responsibilities ensures that no two days are the same and support and advice is always on hand to help you grow and flourish in your career.
Like any job, working in adult social care does come with challenges, including working ‘unsociable’ hours.
However, it allows for flexibility and the ability to choose your hours of work from a variety of shift patterns available, and there is comprehensive training and shadowing opportunities to ensure that you’re well-prepared for your role as a care worker.
Abigail Owens, a Home Care Worker with Dale Care, said: “I love my job! I feel I make a difference to people’s lives. My colleagues are great and so supportive when you need a
chat and I love meeting new people and seeing the smiles on their faces.
“My job fits perfectly in with my life, and I can’t imagine doing anything else.”
William, a resident who receives support from Dale Care, said: “I’m very grateful for a service that helps me each day and offers me support to access the community, as without this I would not be able to go out alone and would feel extremely isolated.
“My care workers are all so lovely to me and help me with anything I need.”
Abigail Owens William
You are never alone
We all go through difficult times, and when you need a bit of support there are lots of groups and organisations in Hartlepool which can help you. Here are some of them.
Impact on Teesside
Impact on Teesside has a range of options to help people with their mental health, including talking therapies and recovery support.
NHS Talking Therapies are evidence-based interventions for difficulties such as anxiety and depression. Recovery support is an alternative to talking therapies, offering practical and emotional help to support your mental health and wellbeing and reduce feelings of distress.
You can get help from us online, over the phone, or in person.
01642 573924
www.impactonteesside.com
Hartlepool Vision Support
Formerly known as Hartlepool Blind Welfare, Hartlepool Vision Support offers home visits, a resource centre with specialised equipment and various activities. Our extensive services include assistive technology sessions, sensory assessments, rehabilitation, and counselling.
Operating on self-referral, we empower visually-impaired individuals to access tailored information and equipment, collaborating with healthcare services to combat isolation.
07379 859420
hartlepoolvisionsupport.org.uk contact@hartlepoolvision.onmicrosoft.com
Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide
We are a national charity providing a much-needed peer support group in Hartlepool.
We provide a safe, non-judgemental and confidential environment in which bereaved people can share their experiences and feelings and support each other on their grief journey, no matter how long ago your loss was.
The group is open to over 18s only, but we can signpost to organisations available for children who need support due to the impact of suicide.
The sessions are free and are held on the first Tuesday of the month from 6.30pm to 8pm in the town centre area.
07940 558517
hartlepool@uksobs.org www.uksobs.org
Talking Spaces UK
Talking Spaces UK is a counselling/psychotherapy service for men’s mental health support in Hartlepool, with both in-person and Zoom sessions.
We won the GHP Social Care Award for the Most Accessible Men’s Mental Health Support Provider for 2024 in North-East England.
01429 806967
info@talkingspacesuk.com talkingspacesuk.com Appointments: calendly.com/talkingspacesuk
Alice House Hospice Community Bereavement Service for Adults and Children
We provide a specialist service offering bereavement counselling. It’s open to adults and children who are struggling with the death of a loved one, regardless of whether they were cared for by the Hospice or not.
Referrals can be made by a GP or other health or social care professionals involved with an individual. For children or young people this may be someone involved in their education. You may also refer yourself to our service.
01429 855550 or 01429 855543
Let’s Connect
We support people in distress, or who are struggling with life, to make positive changes to their life.
Our warm, friendly team offers one-to-one psychological and social support, wellbeing services and outcome-informed counselling services to anyone aged 16-plus.
01429 269303
information@letsconnect-eng.co.uk
LetsConnectENG
@LetsConnectENG
@LetsConnectLTD
@LetsConnectLTD
West View Advice and Resource Centre
West View Advice and Resource Centre provides free, independent advice to individuals on a variety of areas, including - but not exclusive to - benefits, debt, housing, employment and energy. We also have a dedicated Macmillan advice team (benefits and energy advice) for those affected by cancer.
We offer face-to-face and telephone appointments, and home visits are available for those who are strictly housebound. We also have a drop-in service on Thursdays, where there is no need to pre-book.
01429 271275
www.wvarc30.org.uk
www.facebook.com/wvarc reception@wvarc30.org.uk
Support for parents
EPEC Being A Parent
Eight weekly group sessions, run by parents, for parents. Learn new parenting skills, meet other parents, share experiences, have fun!
EPEC Baby and Us
An eight-week group for parents that you can bring your baby along to, focused on sharing positive experiences with your baby through singing, touch and play, getting helpful tips and advice on sleeping, crying and feeding your baby, making friends with other parents and having fun together.
The ABC of Arguing Talking Teens
Our Talking Teens course is based on the most recent research on adolescence and runs once a week over a 4 week period.
Do you want to communicate with and understand your teenager better? Do you want a better relationship with your child? Talking Teens can help you understand your teenager’s brain and start or continue building a stable and good relationship.
Do you want to communicate better with your child or teen? Are you fed up of arguing? Learn how to deal with conflict in relationships in your family home and reduce and defuse conflicts with our three-hour ABC of Arguing workshops.
Hartlepool Family Hubs offer a wide range of free support for parents to help you on your parenting journey. If you are unsure which would be best for you, or would like to book a place on any face to face session, please contact your Family Hub on 01429 292444.
Support for Dads
Dad’s baby massage every Tuesday at our Rossmere Family Hub (Rossmere Way, TS25 5EB)
Tuesday evenings from 3rd September24th September
5:15pm until 6:15pm
Tuesday daytimes starting on November 5th – 26th November
1pm until 2pm Ring 01429 292444 to book your space now!
Dad’s Wellbeing group session, talk openly with other dads in the town and get support, every Thursday from 4pm until 5pm at our Middleton Grange Family Hub (Opposite the Entertainer Toy Shop) – No booking needed!
New platform paves the way for more services
A new platform to increase the number of train services at Hartlepool Station has been completed and seen a successful first month in operation.
The £12m overhaul has seen the Tees Valley Combined Authority, Hartlepool Borough Council, Network Rail and Northern work together to bring the station’s second platform back into use alongside a new accessible footbridge complete with lifts.
This will allow Northern to increase its services on the Durham Coast (Middlesbrough to Newcastle via Hartlepool) from one train per hour to three every two hours.
It has also created more capacity on the wider Tees Valley network, with ambitions to create better links between Darlington and Hartlepool and improve journey times between Teesside, Wearside, and Tyneside. It will also help provide more capacity to enable future services for other routes including those between London and Sunderland operated by Grand Central.
Mayor Houchen said: “Hartlepool has been crying out for a new platform for decades and these improvements are absolutely vital if we’re to realise our wider ambitions for the town.
“We have high hopes for the heart of Hartlepool through its new development corporation and a two-platform station is needed so investors, visitors and local people are better connected.”
Councillor Karen Oliver, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Neighbourhood Services Committee, who is also a member of the TVCA’s Transport Committee, said: “It’s the vision of the Council, the Combined Authority and our partners that this enhancement will significantly improve accessibility and convenience for both local people and visitors, promoting greater connectivity between Hartlepool and other towns and cities and paving the way for more train services.
“This in turn will help to foster the future social, economic and cultural growth of our town with its rich culture and heritage.”
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen, Councillor Karen Oliver and David Ball, Network Rail’s senior project sponsor, pictured on the new platform.
Making Hartlepool’s streets safer
Over £300,000 is being spent on tackling neighbourhood and environmental crime in a part of Hartlepool.
Hartlepool Borough Council has received a total of £333,333 from round 5 of the Home Office’s Safer Streets initiative to spend in the Victoria Ward.
Measures include:
• Security improvements made to 36 alley gates in the Stephen Street, Suggitt Street, Sandringham Road, Sheriff Street, Dent Street and Derwent Street areas, with further improvements being considered at other locations around the ward. These include fitting rotating anti-climb spikes – subject to planning permission - fitting lock protectors, carrying out repairs, painting and improved signage.
• Three new mobile CCTV cameras which are being deployed in hot-spot locations and remotely monitored by the Council’s CCTV control room.
• Nine new street lighting columns installed at alley gates which had no street lighting.
Two key appointments have also been made - Community Cohesion Officer Martin Jones and Environmental Projects Officer Tom Carroll.
Safer Streets aims to support the creation of three Neighbourhood Watch groups.
It is also proposed to supply security measures to the homes of 85 burglary victims and distribute burglary prevention packs to “at risk” properties in six areasSherriff Street/Sandringham Road, Dent Street/Derwent Street, and Stephen Street/Suggitt Street
Metal screens with a printed laminate finish will be fitted to 20 long-term empty homes.
Meet the team
A number of drop-in sessions have been arranged for the remainder of this year and into next year. These will be an opportunity for residents to discuss any issues or concerns they have with Martin and Tom, and PCSO Graeme Handley. They will take place at the following times and venues:
Friday 9th August 2024
Friday 13th September 2024
Friday 4th October 2024
Friday 8th November 2024
Friday 13th December 2024
Friday 10th January 2025
Friday 14th February 2025
Friday 14th March 2025
Monday 2nd September 2024
Monday 7th October 2024 Community Hub Central, York Road Salaam Centre, Murray Street
Martin Jones
Tom Carroll
Explore our amazing local coast
Our coast is a unique and extraordinary place and you can now discover it through a new free mobile phone app and website.
The SeaScapes Coastal App will help you learn more about the coast from the Tees to the Tyne.
The app pings at key locations along the coast. The initial screen tells you about the place and its point of interest, from which you can then dive deeper into the information, including locations of wrecks off the coast and their hidden story beneath the waves.
Download the app from your favourite apps store and begin your journey of discovery.
The Durham coastline is full of geological wonders, both natural and man-made. It’s also internationally important because of its Permian Magnesian Limestone and, as it recovers from decades of coal waste tipping, it’s coming back to life in spectacular fashion.
A new website – www.ReadingtheRocks.com - will introduce you to its geological marvels, taking you on a journey of exploration through ancient tropical reefs, the last ice age and the impacts of mining.
Features include virtual visits to three sites - Blackhall, Blast Beach and Seaham. Through 3D tours, videos, diagrams, and online resources, take a walk on the coast and delve into its geological secrets.
Designed by Durham University for SeaScapes, Reading the Rocks offers a unique opportunity for everyone to learn more about this very special coast.
Hartlepool we’ve
to say popped up
Ahead of our permanent store opening, we’re welcoming customers and the community to our temporary pop up in Middleton Grange. We love to chat! So, if you want a little friendly advice, from finding a new home to paying your rent, pop by and visit us opposite Boots and Sports Direct. We’re open from 9.30am until 2.30pm on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.
www.thirteengroup.co.uk
Strength on your side...
Having formed almost 200 years ago, Tilly, Bailey & Irvine has since expanded across the region with offices in Hartlepool, Wynyard, Barnard Castle, and Stockton
Now seven staff – who have well over a century of shared experience within the award-winning firm – have been promoted into more senior positions
“We are delighted about the promotions here at Tilly, Bailey & Irvine,” said Kirstey Maloney, Partner and Head of Family Law “Each of our staff members shows commitment and hard work every year, and each one of them plays a part in the success of the firm.”
Partners Wendy Beacom, Sara Garnett, and Andrew Beattie accepted the promotion to Equity Partners, Shamin Ali was promoted to Partner, Georgia Wilkinson accepted the new role of Associate Solicitor, whilst Christine Smith and Jackie Blackwell stepped into the role of Family Executives
Strengthening the Tilly Bailey & Irvine team...
Tilly Bailey & Irvine have welcomed Associate Solicitor, Adrian Morris to further strengthen its team in Hartlepool.
Having qualified as a Solicitor in 1989, Adrian has over 34 years ’ experience working across different specialisms in legal practice in his hometown of Hartlepool and for the last 10 years he has focused on Private Client matters
Adrian who worked for another local firm for 25 years before his move to TBI, said he is “looking forward to a new challenge in a large law firm and being part of a supportive, experienced and welcoming private client team”
Nicola Dalzell, Partner and Head of Private Client comments: “We are delighted to have Adrian on board. Having worked in Hartlepool for his whole legal career, Adrian is a great addition to the team We’re looking forward to seeing him thrive in his new role”
As a full-service law firm with over 200 staff, Tilly Bailey & Irvine can offer expert legal advice in all personal and business matters, from criminal defence and family law to financial issues – be it wills, trusts and probate or investment and wealth planning
It also offers in-house expertise in fields such as conveyancing, personal injury, accidents at work, medical negligence, road traffic accidents, commercial disputes and property, as well as both corporate and employment law
For more information about any of the services at Tilly Bailey & Irvine, please contact us on 0333 444 4422 or visit www.tbilaw.co.uk
Tilly Bailey & Irvine LLP
Are your children ready for journey to school?
Your child may be starting their journey to school soon, and for some, this will be their first regular independent journey.
At this stage in their life, many children suddenly gain a lot of independence without having the experience and skills to be able to keep themselves safe.
Therefore, it is so important that your child is made aware of the increased risks that they will face and how vulnerable they could be on their new independent, unfamiliar journey.
If they are walking try to plan a safe route, and impress upon them the importance of choosing safer places to cross, especially where there are parked cars. Encourage them to think about dangerous distractions, such as being preoccupied with their mobile phones and talking to friends. Teach them to be fully attentive when crossing the road.
Cycling is a quick and healthy way to get to school. If your child cycles remind them to recognise and obey traffic signals, and to be aware of blind spots and to never cycle on the inside (left) of vehicles that could turn left without seeing them.
Make sure they wear a helmet and reflective clothing, and keep their bike well maintained, fitted with a white light at the front and a red one at the back. They should always leave their bike securely locked once they arrive at school.
Whether they are walking, cycling or catching the bus, the Hartlepool Walking and Cycling Hub in Church Street can help through its personalised travel planning service. Get in touch using the contact details opposite.
We have also put together the following road safety tips for parents for travelling to and from school.
• Talk to your child about how they feel about their new journey.
• If possible, do the journey with them before term starts.
• Think about potential hazards.
• Try to get your child into the habit of getting their things ready the night before and leaving plenty of time to walk to school.
• Make sure they have contact numbers of family and friends in case of emergency.
Ensure your bike is in tip-top condition
For many children a bike is an excellent way of travelling to school, especially for those making the transition from primary to secondary school in September.
So the summer is the perfect time to get bikes ready for the new term.
The Hartlepool Walking and Cycling Hub in Church Street which is run by the national charity Sustrans and funded by Tees Valley Combined Authority, is able to help.
It runs weekly Dr Bike sessions every Thursday from 12.30 - 4pm at which trained mechanics carry out free bike health checks and minor repairs. It also runs cycle maintenance courses to teach people the basics of maintaining a bike and how to carry out “on-the go” repairs.
Hub staff also recently took their Dr Bike sessions out on the road, visiting several local schools.
“The smiles on the children’s faces and whoops of delight as we got their bikes working again said it all as the children rode their fully-working bikes home,” said Graham McBain from the Hub.
Elections round up
Following the Local Elections in May, the Labour Party took control of Hartlepool Borough Council and now holds 24 of the 36 seats on the Council. Councillor Brenda Harrison and Councillor Tom Feeney have been appointed as Leader and Deputy Leader respectively. The following other appointments have been made to key positions within the new council administration.
Chair of Economic Growth and Regeneration Committee – Councillor Pamela Hargreaves
Chair of Adult and Community Based Services Committee – Councillor Gary Allen
Chair of Children’s Services Committee –Councillor Rachel Creevy
Chair of the Neighbourhood Services Committee –Councillor Karen Oliver
Chair of the Planning Committee –Councillor Tom Feeney
Chair of the Licensing Committee –Councillor Martin Dunbar
Chair of Finance and Policy Committee –Councillor Brenda Harrison
Matt Storey (Labour Party candidate), was elected as Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner and Ben Houchen (Conservative Party candidate) was re-elected as Tees Valley Mayor.
A few weeks after the Local Elections, a General Election was announced and took place on Thursday 4th July. The Labour Party candidate – Jonathan Brash was elected as Hartlepool’s new Member of Parliament and replaces Jill Mortimer with immediate effect.
Reflecting on his new role, Jonathan Brash MP, said: “I grew up here and my kids are growing up here, and so it’s an enormous privilege that I’m now elected as Member of Parliament.
“I want my hometown to be a place where my children can grow up with opportunities, where the streets are safe, where the public services are strong, and that’s what we’ve got to work for now,
“Hartlepool is crying out for change, we’ve got a new Labour government that is going to deliver on the promises it made and I am just absolutely ready to get down to work for the people of this town”.
Anyone wishing to contact Jonathan Brash MP can do so by emailing: jonathan.brash.mp@parliament.uk
Upcoming Councillors’ Ward Surgeries
Ward surgeries to be arranged
Councillors: Jonathan Brash (Labour), Ged Hall (Labour), Corinne Male (*LCO)
DE BRUCE
14 September 2024 12pm – 1pm
Hartlepool Working Mens Club, King Oswy Drive
16 October 2024 4pm – 5pm West View Resource Centre
Councillors: Rachel Creevy (Labour), Brenda Harrison (*LCO), Michael Jorgeson (*LCO)
FENS & GREATHAM
17 September 2024 5.45pm - 6.30pm
15 October 2024 5.45pm – 6.30pm
The Heron Room, Fens Primary School
Councillors: Bob Buchan (Conservative), Philip Holbrook (*LCO), Jim Lindridge (Independent)
FOGGY FURZE
21 September 2024 11am - 12pm
Belle Vue Sports & Community Centre, Kendal Road
19 October 2024 11am - 12pm
Oxford Road Baptist Church
Councillors: Melanie Morley (Labour), Martin Dunbar (*LCO), Carole Thompson (Labour)
HART
07 September 2024 10am - 11am
Hartfields Retirement Village, Bishop Cuthbert
05 October 2024 10am - 11am
Hart Village Hall, Front Street, Hart
Councillors: Rob Darby (Conservative), Aaron Roy (*LCO)
HEADLAND & HARBOUR
11 September 2024 5pm - 6pm
Constables Bar, Borough Hall
09 October 2024 5pm - 6pm
The Sea Cadets, Harbour Walk
Councillors: Shane Moore (Hartlepool Independent Union), Matthew Dodds (*LCO), John Nelson (*LCO)
MANOR HOUSE
03 September 2024 6pm - 7pm
01 October 2024 6pm - 7pm
Room 2, Community Hub South, Wynyard Road
Councillors: Pamela Hargreaves (Labour), Ben Clayton (*LCO), Fiona Cook (*LCO)
ROSSMERE
07 September 2024 11am - 12pm
05 October 2024 11am - 12pm
Community Hub South, Wynyard Road
Councillors: Moss Boddy (Labour), Tom Feeney (*LCO), Quewone Bailey-Fleet (Labour)
RURAL WEST
25 September 2024 6pm – 7pm
Hartlepool Cricket Club, Park Drive
Councillors: Andrew Martin-Wells (Conservative), Mike Young (Conservative), Scott Reeve (Conservative)
SEATON
Ward Surgeries to be arranged
Councillors: Leisa Smith (Independent), Sue Little (Independent)
THROSTON
18 September 2024 4.50pm - 5.50pm
Throston Community Centre, Glamorgan Grove
Councillors: Cameron Sharp (Labour), Martin Scarborough (*LCO)
VICTORIA
07 September 2024 11am - 12pm
Raglan Quoit & Social Club, Stuart Street
05 October 2024 11am - 12pm
St Luke’s Parish Centre, Hart Lane
Councillors: Gary Allen (*LCO), Karen Oliver (*LCO), Christopher Wallace (*LCO)
*Labour and Co-Operative Party
For an appointment with the Leader, contact memsec@hartlepool.gov.uk or telephone 01429 523702/523704
For details of your local Councillor(s) or to check Ward
Surgery dates please contact Hartlepool Borough Council on (01429) 523702/523704.
BURN VALLEY
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