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Hartbeat DECEMBER 2025

£1 million neighbourhood clean-up underway

www.hartlepool.gov.uk

Christmas and New Year Opening Times 2025/26 Civic Centre

Hartlepool Art Gallery

Dog Warden Service

Main reception and phone lines Wed 24 Dec - Closed from 4.30pm Mon 5 Jan - Reopen 8.30am (phonelines) and 9am (reception)

Closes 3pm Wed 24 Dec and reopens Tue 6 Jan with new closing time of 4pm.

From Mon 22 Dec up to and including Thu 1 Jan there will be a reduced service for the collections of found/stray dogs:

Register Office Closed from 4.30pm Wed 24 Dec. Open Mon 29 to Wed 31 Dec and Fri 2 Jan for telephone service and prearranged appointments only. For opening hours and details of the services available visit hartlepool.gov.uk/ christmas-opening-times or call 01429 523337.

Children’s Hub & Harm Outside The Home Team Closed from 5pm Wed 24 Dec. Reopen 8.30am Mon 29 Dec Mon 29 Dec - Wed 31 Dec 8.30am - 5pm Thu 1 Jan Closed Fri 2 Jan 8.30am - 5pm Tel – 01429 284284. The Emergency Duty Team will operate at all other times including evenings, weekends and bank holidays - Tel 01642 524552.

Children’s Safeguarding, Assessment and Support Thu 25 Dec – Fri 26 Dec – Closed Mon 29 Dec – Wed 31 Dec 8.30am - 5pm appointment only - call 01429 523878 Thu 1 Jan – Closed Fri 2 Jan – 8.30am - 4.30pm appointment only - call 01429 523878

One Stop Shop

Through Care, Staying Close and Leaving Care Teams (Pathfinders, Villiers St, and Civic Centre) Normal hours apart from closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Tel 01429 405588

Youth Justice Service Service - Civic Centre Normal hours apart from: Thu 25 Dec – Fri 26 Dec - Closed Thu 1 Jan - Closed Tel - 01429 523986 / 401891

Mill House Leisure Centre, Brierton Sports Centre and Headland Sports Centre

Thu 25 - Fri 26 Dec Sat 27 - Sun 28 Dec

Mon 29 - Tue 30 Dec

Wed 31 Dec

Thu 1 Jan Fri 2 Jan

Mill House Brierton Headand Mill House Brierton Headand Mill House Brierton Headand Mill House Brierton Headand Mill House Brierton Headand

Mon 22 Dec - Closed Tue 23 Dec - 12pm - 9pm Wed 24 Dec - 9am - 6pm Thu 25 Dec - Closed Fri 26 Dec - 12pm - 5pm Sat 27 Dec - 12pm - 9pm Sun 28 Dec - Mon 5 Jan - Closed

Borough Hall - Closed Museum of Hartlepool Wed 24 Dec – Fri 26 Dec - Closed Sat 27 Dec onwards - Normal hours

Summerhill Visitor Centre and Cafe Closed from 2pm Wed 24 Dec - Fri 26 Dec Sat 27 Dec - Wed 31 Dec Visitors Centre - Closed Sat 27 Dec - Wed 31 Dec Cafe - 10am - 2pm Thu 1 Jan - Fri 2 Jan - Closed * Please note the Summerhill Country Park is permanently open.

Household Waste Recycling Centre Open Wednesday to Sunday 9am – 4pm (last entry 3.50pm) except Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. The site is closed each day from 12 noon (last entry 11.50am) - 1pm.

Bulky Waste Collection Service

Tel – 01429 284043 / 523900 Facebook – Hartlepool Youth Services Wed 24 Dec - Thu 1 Jan - Closed

Wed 24 Dec

Hartlepool Town Hall Theatre

8am – 3pm 9am – 3pm 9am – 3pm Closed Normal hours 9am – 3pm Closed Normal hours 9am – 6pm 9am – 3pm 8am – 3pm 9am – 3pm 9am – 3pm Closed Normal hours 9am – 6pm 9am – 3pm

The last day for the Bulky Waste Collection Service is Tue 23 Dec, restarting Tue 6 Jan. Tel: 01429 523333.

Waste and Recycling Collections over the Festive Period Please see below changes to refuse, recycling and commercial waste collections over the festive period. Please ensure your bin is placed out before 7.30am on your collection day. Individual collection dates are online at www.hartlepool.gov.uk/findmybinday Usual Collection Day Revised Collection Day Tue 23 Dec Remains as normal Wed 24 Dec Remains as normal Thur 25 Dec Sat 27 Dec Fri 26 Dec Sun 28 Dec Tue 30 Dec Remains as normal Wed 31 Dec Remains as normal Thu 1 Jan Fri 2 Jan Fri 2 Jan Sat 3 Jan Normal collections resume Tue 6 Jan

Christmas Tree Collections You can dispose of your real Christmas tree at the Household Waste Recycling Centre free of charge - Christmas trees will be accepted from Sat 27 Dec. Alternatively, we are offering a collection service for real trees from Tue 6 Jan. Residents wishing to use this service must book in for the collection to take place - book online at www.hartlepool.gov.uk/collectmytree or call 01429 523333. You must ensure that all decorations are removed prior to disposal. The collection service has a limited number of slots, which are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Mon 22 Dec 8.30am – 3pm Tue 23 Dec 8.30am – 3pm Wed 24 Dec 8.30am – 2pm Thu 25 Dec - Fri 26 Dec No service Mon 29 Dec - Tue 30 Dec 8.30am – 3pm Wed 31 Dec 8.30am – 2pm Thu 1 Jan No service Normal service resumes on Fri 2 Jan

Community Hubs, Libraries and Local & Family History Centre Central Hub Wed 24 Dec 9am – 2pm Thu 25 Dec - Fri 26 Dec Closed Sat 27 - Tue 30 Dec Normal hours Wed 31 Dec 9am – 2pm Thu 1 Jan Closed South Hub Wed 24 Dec Closes 2pm Thu 25 Dec - Fri 26 Dec Closed Sat 27 Dec Normal hours Mon 29 Dec 10am – 4pm Tue 30 Dec Normal hours Wed 31 Dec 10am – 2pm Thu 1 Jan Closed Seaton Hub Closes 2pm Wed 24 Dec and reopens Fri 2 Jan Headland Library Closes 6pm Tue 23 Dec and reopens Fri 2 Jan Throston Library Closes 2pm Wed 24 Dec and reopens Mon 5 Jan Waverley Outdoor Community Hub Closes Fri 19 Dec and reopens Mon 5 Jan Local and Family History Centre Closes 2pm Wed 24 Dec and reopens Sat 3 Jan

Hartlepool Family Hubs Wed 24 Dec - Middleton Grange Hub - Closed Thu 25 Dec - Fri 26 Dec All closed Middleton Grange, Hindpool and Miers Mon 29 Dec - Fri 2 Jan Closed Rossmere Mon 29 Dec - Wed 31 Dec Open Thu 1 Jan Closed Fri 2 Jan Open

Cemeteries and Crematorium The cemetery grounds and Book of Remembrance are open as usual throughout the holiday period. Cemetery Office and Crematorium Wed 24 Dec Open until 2pm Thu 25 Dec – Thu 26 Dec Closed Sat 27 Dec – Tue 30 Dec Normal hours Wed 31 Dec Open until 2pm Thu 1 Jan Closed In out of hours emergencies please call 01429 266522.

Out of Hours Emergencies Emergency Duty Team and Children’s Social Care – 01642 524552 Other services – 01429 266522

Welcome to the December edition of Hartbeat. As we approach the festive season, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible progress we’re making together across Hartlepool. Our £1 million Pride in Place initiative is focused on cleaning up our neighbourhoods. It is already making a visible difference in communities, helping to create cleaner, safer, and more welcoming streets for everyone. Thank you to all residents who have supported these efforts so far. Cleaning up our neighbourhoods is our number one priority this year, and you will see our cleansing squads working right across Hartlepool to make a real difference in our communities.

regeneration continues at pace across the town. Planning permission has now been granted for the exciting expansion of Northern Studios and the creation of a Screen Industries Production Village, and we are moving quickly to make this vision a reality. Finally, I’d like to wish everyone in Hartlepool a joyful and peaceful festive break. Thank you for your continued support as we work together to build a brighter future for our town.

We are also progressing with our wider Pride in Place programme, which is investing £20 million into our neighbourhoods over the next 10 years. The programme is being overseen by the Hartlepool Board, and we have recently completed a community engagement exercise with over 1,400 responses so far. You can read more about this on page 21. There’s plenty to celebrate too. Our refurbished Youth Services building in Rossmere is now open, providing a fantastic space for young people to learn, grow, and thrive. Meanwhile,

Highlight update - P6

Rossmere Youth Centre - P10 /11

Food waste recycling - P17

Hartbeat is available in Braille and articles can be translated into other languages. For information please call (01429) 523578 or email communications@hartlepool.gov.uk

Councillor Pamela Hargreaves Leader of the Council

HMOs consultation A consultation on the proposed introduction of controls on Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in Hartlepool is continuing. We are seeking views on an Article 4 Direction which, if confirmed, will mean that landlords can no longer convert a standard house into a small HMO without planning permission. Whilst large HMOs accommodating more than six unrelated people with shared facilities already require planning permission, smaller HMOs are legally classed as permitted developments and do not. The proposed Article 4 Direction reflects concerns over the unregulated spread of HMOs and the impact they can

To advertise in Hartbeat please call (01429) 523578 or email communications@hartlepool.gov.uk

have on communities, including anti-social behaviour, waste management and parking issues. People can find out more and take part in the consultation by completing a survey on our Your Say Our Future consultation platform at https://yoursay.hartlepool.gov.uk/hmosurvey All comments/representations must be received by 5pm on Friday 23rd January 2026. The proposed Article 4 Direction runs alongside a similar proposal put forward by Hartlepool Development Corporation for the area of the town that it covers, and it will only take effect once confirmed by the Neighbourhoods and Regulatory Services Committee with notification to the Secretary of State.

Neighbourhoods benefit from £1 million investment A major £1 million investment in neighbourhoods across the Borough of Hartlepool is underway – the biggest spending boost of its kind in a decade. The money – a combination of council and government funding – is part of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Pride in Place programme. It follows Leader of the Council, Councillor Pamela Hargreaves’ declaration that the authority’s top priority for the coming year is making Hartlepool’s streets cleaner and safer. The money is funding intensive neighbourhood cleanups, increased civil enforcement, CCTV improvements and repairs to play areas and damaged or worn street furniture. A wall daubed in graffiti in Manor House ward is also being turned into a community mural.

Weeks of action have already taken place in the Manor House, Victoria and Fens and Greatham wards. The clean-up initiative includes £750,000 in Government funding through the Pride in Place Impact Fund, delivered by the Council in collaboration with the Hartlepool Board. The Council is contributing an additional £300,000, bringing the total investment to over £1 million by the end of March 2026. An additional £750,000 has been allocated for further works from April 2026. This investment is part of Hartlepool’s wider Pride in Place programme, which will deliver £20 million of funding over the next ten years. The programme has three core themes - building thriving places, strengthening communities, and empowering people. The Council has worked closely with Hartlepool MP Jonathan Brash to lobby the Government for extra funding for the borough-wide clean-up. Councillor Hargreaves, added: “The Weeks of Action have taken a significant amount of planning, but it is the culmination of partnership working with our MP and the Hartlepool Board that we are now able to go further and faster in delivering on the priorities of local people.” The Hartlepool Board, which oversees the Pride in Place programme, brings together community representatives, businesses, strategic partners, and individuals with a deep connection to the borough.

Artist Lewis Hobson and Councillor Pamela Hargreaves at the scene of the mural

Councillor Hargreaves said: “People have told us that cleaning up our town is their number one priority, so we’ve made it ours too. We are focusing on fixing the small things that make a big difference.” “It is time to say enough is enough and make it clear that the anti-social behaviour of a minority of ignorant people who think it is acceptable to drop litter and fly-tip, will not be tolerated.” As part of its campaign, the Council is “naming and shaming” people convicted of waste-related offences. Additional workers have been drafted in to tackle environmental issues such as litter, dog fouling, flytipping, graffiti and weeds, with improvements being delivered through Weeks of Action in all 12 council wards.

The Council is working closely with partners on the clean-up, including Cleveland Police, Cleveland Fire Brigade, the Probation Service, housing associations such as Thirteen and Home Group, community and voluntary sector organisations – and the “army” of volunteer litter pickers who help clean up the town. Urging more people to get involved, Councillor Hargreaves added: “Together, we can build a cleaner, safer and more vibrant Hartlepool.”

Throughout December, our focus areas with a variety of activities will be the Headland and Harbour, Foggy Furze and Hart wards. Follow the progress of the initiative at:

hartlepool.gov.uk/prideinplacefund

Before

After

Before

After

Your waste, your responsibility Residents and businesses have a legal duty of care to dispose of their waste responsibly, ensuring it does not cause a nuisance to anyone else or harm the environment and is lawfully disposed of. Whilst the amount of fly-tipped waste across Hartlepool continues to fall year-on-year, it remains a problem and a blight on our borough. Fly-tipping refers to not only large amounts of dumped waste, but also to single or multiple items placed in a street or back street if they are not contained within a bin or an arrangement has not been made for their prompt removal. Fines can be issued in such circumstances. Hartlepool Borough Council is now naming and shaming those caught and prosecuted for fly tipping offences. Residents and businesses can also be fined if they use a third party to remove waste which is later found fly-tipped. Only waste carriers registered with the Environment Agency can legally transport waste. The Council, through the Pride in Place initiative has invested in new mobile CCTV units which will be deployed to catch fly-tippers in the act.

Waste items, including white goods, tyres and mattresses can also be taken to the Household Waste Recycling Centre on Burn Road, where most waste types can be disposed of for free. For more information visit www.hartlepool.gov.uk/waste-recycling Hartlepool Borough Council is also a registered waste carrier and guarantees a range of legal, professional, efficient waste removal services. For more information visit www.hartlepool.gov.uk/waste-recycling/wasteremoval-service. Anyone using a private waste removal company, can check if it is registered with the Environment Agency at www.gov.uk/guidance/access-the-public-registerfor-environmental-information. If you are approached to dispose of your waste by someone not registered on the above link, this should also be reported to the Council along with a vehicle registration if possible.

NHS services With our new Highlight Active Wellbeing Hub due to open next spring, we are now able to share some key information about how the flagship development will operate.

Opening hours Monday

6.30am - 10pm

Tuesday

6.30am - 10pm

Wednesday

6.30am - 10pm

Thursday

6.30am - 10pm

Friday

6.30am - 9pm

Saturday

8am - 6pm

Sunday

8am - 6pm

Hartlepool Borough Council’s Active Hartlepool service has joined forces with University Hospitals Tees to provide a range of health services. The partnership is based on a strong commitment to jointly support local people to lead healthier and longer lives and a shared belief in the value of being active. The services below will be provided on a referral-only basis using the four dedicated consultation suites and other facilities within the building.

Service offered

What it will deliver

Physiotherapy

• • • • • • •

Outpatient clinics Rehabilitation in gym and pool Escape pain class Total knee replacement class Shoulder class Movement is Medicine class Pelvic pain class

Community pain management

• • • •

Outpatient clinics Rehabilitation in gym and pool Pain cafe Living well with pain class

Maternity

•

Antenatal/postnatal clinics

Cardiac rehab

• •

Cardiac rehab class Outpatient clinic

Pulmonary rehab

• •

Pulmonary rehab class Outpatient clinics

Asthma clinic

•

Outpatient clinics

Car parking There will be just under 100 spaces available in the car park - including eight designated disabled bays and multiple electric charging points. We are focused on supporting people to access Highlight easily and conveniently, so we have made the decision to offer three hours free car parking for all customers. There will be the added security of a barrier on the car park to restrict access to it outside of opening hours.

Further information regarding NHS clinics and classes will be announced in the coming months. Highlight is being funded by:

Go-ahead for major expansion of film and TV production industry A £33.5 million expansion of film and television production facilities in Hartlepool has been granted planning approval. Larger studios with industry-leading equipment and facilities are to be built at The Northern Studios and a Screen Industries Production Village is to be developed in the surrounding area, turning nine disused buildings including the Grade-II listed Shades Hotel – into cuttingedge workplaces for creative professionals. Councillor Pamela Hargreaves, Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, said: “This is a game-changing moment. This development will create over 130 new jobs, attract further private sector investment and deliver a lasting boost to our local economy, help nurture local talent, support small businesses and position Hartlepool as a serious player in the UK’s creative sector. “I’m incredibly proud of the partnership working that has brought us to this point. Together, we’re creating jobs, driving investment, and laying the foundations for a more prosperous and vibrant future for Hartlepool.”

Led by the Council, the project is a partnership with The Northern School of Art, Tees Valley Combined Authority and North East Screen. Funding has been secured from the UK Government and Tees Valley Investment Zone. Cllr Hargreaves added: “With planning permissions secured in September and the latter stages of technical design now taking place, 2026 will be an exciting year as development begins with growing interest from the film and TV sectors.” The development is being delivered with industry specialists Leonard Design, Stace and TIME + SPACE. Construction is expected to begin in the coming months. Read more at www.hartlepool.gov.uk/production-village

New drug and alcohol treatment centre nears completion Construction began earlier this year on Start’s new £3.7 million treatment centre at Whitby Street, funded by Hartlepool Borough Council to provide vital drug and alcohol support to residents. With completion expected later this month, the modular units produced off-site by Portakabin have now been installed, and internal works are underway to prepare the building for opening in the new year. Councillor Gary Allen, Chair of the Adult Services and Public Health Committee, said: “It’s fantastic to see the progress being made here at Whitby Street on our new state-of-the-art drug and alcohol treatment centre. “The building will enable staff at Start to continue delivering first-class support to Hartlepool residents who may be struggling with drug or alcohol use.” The new centre will include:

hellostart@hartlepool.gov.uk

(01429) 285000

Councillor Gary Allen, Chair of the Adult Services and Public Health Committee, outside the Start Drug and Alcohol Centre

• • • •

18 consultation and clinical rooms A welcoming waiting area Multiple meeting rooms Dedicated office space

Start provides free and confidential treatment and support to help individuals regain control of their lives, no matter the level of help needed. If attending the service is difficult, flexible arrangements can be made to meet in community settings across Hartlepool.

starthartlepool.co.uk

Hartlepool caring for our own “We are big advocates for changing people’s life chances,” say Hartlepool husband and wife Spencer and Lorraine Robinson as they look back on how they became long-term foster carers of two teenage girls. Lorraine, a retired nurse, and Spencer, a deputy director of a research institute, have been fostering since 2017 – Lorraine took early retirement to do this and their original plan was to offer short-term placements. Lorraine had wanted to foster for a long time but, as she explains: “We have a son as well and at the time we thought we didn’t want to have children coming in and out of his life, so we waited until he was older but thinking about it now I think it would have enhanced his life.” The first of the two girls they currently care for came to them just before her ninth birthday and is now 16. “When I first started I said I can’t look after teenagers. Now, having done it, I would put myself forward for teenagers again!” says Lorraine without hesitation. The second girl came to live with them four years ago and is now aged 12. “By that point our son was thinking about moving out and we had a spare bedroom, and we thought we could do this again for someone else,” says Lorraine. “There have been challenges but it has gone really well. The girls have a fantastic relationship with our son – they call him their brother. Although the girls are complete opposites, they complement each other well. “They bring a lot of nice energy to the house – it would have been very boring just Spencer and me rattling around in it! “With just having had a boy in the house it’s good for me having a chance to do girly stuff with them – we like music and going to pop concerts and we love the theatre.” Spencer adds: “When the youngest comes in buzzing from school – it’s great.”

Left to right: Spencer and Lorraine Robinson and their dog Ralph, with Councillor Melanie Morley

The couple praise the support they get from their social worker and from Mockingbird – a grouping of several local foster families they are part of, providing support, advice and friendship through shared experiences. “You don’t foster for the thanks, you just know you’ve been able to help the young people you foster, and that’s an amazingly powerful feeling,” says Lorraine. Spencer adds: “It’s about giving them opportunities and exposure to lots of different things. “We are doing exactly what we did with our son – he has turned out really well and really well-balanced and we just want to give the girls that same opportunity.” With one of the girls aiming to be a teacher and the other a vet, the future looks exciting. Councillor Melanie Morley, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Children’s Services Committee, said: “Lorraine and Spencer are a fantastic example of our wonderful Hartlepool foster carers, opening their hearts and home to give young people the stability and love they need to build a bright future for themselves. “We always need more foster carers in Hartlepool like Spencer and Lorraine and I hope their story will inspire others to think about fostering too.”

Could you share your heart and your home to shape a Hartlepool young person’s future? If you’d like to find out more, contact Hartlepool Borough Council’s Fostering Team through:

www.fosterwithnortheast.org.uk/hartlepool-borough-council

0800 917 7771

Left to right: Councillor Melanie Morley, children’s homes managers Natasha Salmon, Sam Gustavson, Lindsay Cummins and Brian Thwaites (manager Zoe Davin was unable to be present for the photograph) and Alison Sutherland, the Council’s Executive Director of Children’s Services

and empowered, with initiatives like a “consultation champion” giving them a real voice in how the home operates.

Hartlepool children’s Another ‘Good’ home was commended for its focus on children’s emotional wellbeing. Children reported homes shine in Ofsted the feeling safe and more confident, with one child saying “My emotions are better” and another saying “I’m inspections speaking out loud, and I’m talking to new people.” Hartlepool Borough Council is celebrating after one of its children’s homes received an ‘Outstanding’ rating from Ofsted, with three others each achieving a strong ‘Good’ rating. The home rated as ‘Outstanding’ was praised for its exceptional support for children who use the service. Inspectors highlighted how staff gather detailed information through school observations and family discussions to help meet individual needs. The team arranges and supports activities that allow children to maintain friendships, boosting confidence and social skills. Education support was described as “exceptional,” with creative learning activities such as science experiments in the garden and close collaboration with schools. This approach has led to some remarkable progress, including improved attendance and behaviour. The inspectors added: “The ethos that the staff adopt to learning contributes towards exceptional outcomes for children.” One home rated ‘Good’ impressed inspectors with its focus on smooth transitions for the children. They are encouraged to join in activities before moving in, helping them to settle. The inspectors remarked that the staff continue to provide “a listening ear and an open door” after children leave. They noted that children feel safe

The inspectors praised staff for understanding the children’s vulnerabilities and reducing risks and ensuring the children are at the centre of decision-making. The fourth home, also rated ‘Good’ overall – and judged outstanding for its leadership and management - was praised for its robust safeguarding and multi-agency partnership working. The Ofsted report highlighted that staff follow personalised care plans and risk assessments, ensuring consistent protection. The inspectors highlighted the team’s skill in reducing tension in situations and its commitment to supporting children moving into or on from the home, reducing stress at difficult times. Councillor Melanie Morley, Chair of the Council’s Children’s Services Committee, said: “We are absolutely delighted with these Ofsted ratings. They reflect the incredible dedication of our staff and the compassionate care they provide every single day. “All our children and young people deserve the very best start in life, and our homes play a vital role in making that happen. The inspectors’ comments show just how much effort goes into creating safe, supportive and nurturing environments where children can thrive. “I want to congratulate every member of staff for their hard work and commitment – they are making a real difference to the lives of children and young people in Hartlepool, and we couldn’t be prouder.”

Hartlepool MP Jonathan Brash, Councillor Pamela Hargreaves, Leader of the Council, Councillor Melanie Morley, Chair of the Council’s Children’s Services Committee, Zoe McKenna, Youth Education and Pathways Strategy Lead, Sarah McCluskey, Area Youth Worker and Caitlin Connor, Team Leader at Rossmere Youth Centre

Transformed youth centre opens with a bang! Hartlepool’s young people and residents enjoyed a celebration like no other as the newly transformed Rossmere Youth Centre opened its doors for an exciting official reopening event. The centre, which is on Rossmere Way and serves young people aged 13-19, has been completely modernised by Hartlepool Borough Council using a £1.27m grant it bid for from the Government’s Youth Investment Fund.

The event included live DJ sets, tasty refreshments and samples from a brand-new cookbook created by the young people, arts and crafts sessions and even a bucking bronco for the brave!

The new facilities include: • • • •

A fully refurbished sports hall A stylish new coffee bar and social space A dedicated training kitchen for cooking and budgeting skills A brand-new emotional wellbeing space for one-to-one support

It was time to show the town what a 21st-century youth centre really looks like! As well as showcasing the new facilities, the event challenged outdated stereotypes about youth clubs being “just pool and table tennis.” Visitors got a real taste of the wide range of opportunities on offer – from arts and crafts and sports to work on the issues that matter to young people, consultation and life skills development.

The Council’s Youth Services team worked closely with young people to develop the successful funding bid, ensuring the improvements reflect what matters most to them.

Are you a young person aged 13-18 who lives in Hartlepool? Do you want to speak your mind and bring attention to topical issues? You could be the next Member of Youth Parliament for Hartlepool! All Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs) are politically neutral, this is an issue-based role. So, what’s it like being an MP? Hear it from Oliver Huermann:

Councillor Melanie Morley, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Children’s Services Committee, said: “This was a brilliant opportunity for people to see just how much youth centres have evolved, reflecting our commitment to ensuring our young people get the best possible support and encouragement as they grow into young adults. “Rossmere Youth Centre is now a vibrant, welcoming space where they can learn, grow and thrive. “It’s a fantastic moment for Hartlepool’s young people. They played a key role in shaping the vision for the new centre, and the result is a fantastic and inspiring place that truly reflects their needs and aspirations.” Don’t miss out – Rossmere Youth Centre is now officially re-opened, join the fun, and discover what Rossmere Youth Centre is really all about!

“I’m Oliver and I’ve been Member of Youth Parliament (MYP) for nearly 2 years. In the role, you represent, advocate and argue to make things better for fellow young people. “You will be supported by the Youth Service, Youth Focus Northeast (YFNE), National Youth Agency (NYA), Program Committee (PC) and of course your fellow MYPs and Hartlepudlians alike. “No two days are the same – that is the best part of being an MYP. I’ve travelled across the country from London and Leeds to York, Sussex and Warwick. One day you will be working with local artists, the next day you’ll be testing local buses – that’s how much the role varies.” Does this sound like something you’d like to get involved in? Here’s how to apply! All you have to do is register your interest by emailing your name, age and the school you attend to hartlepoolyouthoffer@hartlepool.gov.uk

Follow Youth Services on Facebook to keep updated @HartlepoolYouthServices For more information about Youth Services in Hartlepool, contact the Council’s Youth Services team on 01429 523900 or email hartlepoolyouthoffer@hartlepool.gov.uk

Scan the QR code for more information about what a MYP gets up to, full eligibility criteria and more!

Car seat safety Each year, thousands of children are injured or killed in car crashes. Using car seats correctly can save your child’s life. Not all car seats are the same - the right one depends on your child’s age, size, and development. Always check both the car and seat manuals when installing. Children must normally use a child car seat until they’re 12 years old or 135 centimetres tall, whichever comes first. Children over 12 or more than 135cm tall must wear a seat belt. You can choose a child car seat based on your child’s height or weight. Car seat MUST be used from 0 - 12 years (or until 135cm tall)

Weight-based seats The seat your child can use (and the way they must be restrained in it) depends on their weight.

Height-based (i-Size) rear-facing seats MUST be used until your child is over 15 months.

Why?

After 15 months, your child can use a forward-facing seat but only if they are tall enough.

Forward-facing = UNSAFE: In a crash, a forwardfacing child is pushed out of the seat. The harness restrains the upper body, but the head is thrown forward, placing intense strain on the neck and risking impact with the front seats.

CHECK: • Age • Height • Weight

Rear-facing = SAFE: A rear-facing seat absorbs crash forces and distributes them across the child’s back, neck, and head, greatly reducing neck strain and injury risk.

KEEP YOUR CHILD SAFE.

THIS IS THE LAW Want more information? Scan here >

NO Front-facing until 15 months old

Rear-facing ALWAYS from 0-15 months

A sparkling Christmas from Hartlepool Holiday Fun! Ho! Ho! Ho! There’s a cracking programme of activities ahead for eligible school-aged children in Hartlepool over the school Christmas holidays with Hartlepool Holiday Fun. From trips to the Hartlepool Christmas pantomime Snow White, performing arts, a forest school, multi-sports, arts and crafts and mindfulness sessions to swimming, boxing, a Lego club and a chance to meet and handle some small animals, there’ll be no time to get bored! Plus, the children get a tasty, nutritious meal as well. The excitement doesn’t end there because once a child has attended two face-to-face activity sessions, they are eligible for an activity pack of arts and crafts materials, games and sports equipment. There’ll also be recipe cards and a £10 Aldi voucher for use on groceries.

Some activity providers may also offer payable spaces for non-eligible children at reduced cost – these are advertised by, and bookable directly via, the activity providers – for more details, check the website below. If you have received a voucher code for your child, make sure you log onto the Hartlepool Holiday Fun website and book your places – don’t miss out! Councillor Melanie Morley, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Children’s Services Committee, said: “We’ll be unwrapping lots of fantastic activities for youngsters over the Christmas holidays, keeping them occupied and stimulated, serving them up a tasty, healthy meal, and supporting our families that are most in need. “It’s set to be another action-packed Christmas from Hartlepool Holiday Fun.”

For more details visit www.hartlepool.gov.uk/hartlepool-holiday-fun Hartlepool Holiday Fun

Under the terms of the Government funding, the programme is open to children who receive benefitsrelated free school meals and some additional children who have successfully applied for discretionary voucher codes.

Want to help your kids with homework? We can help boost your skills for free!

Maybe school wasn’t for you. Or you left a long time ago. It doesn’t matter! We offer flexible short courses with friendly tutors. What’s holding you back?

How Hartlepool’s Murray Street displays resilience Murray Street, for over a century, after growing out of the expansion of commerce and housing, has served as a critical hub. Today, after facing significant disruption in recent times, the popular road connecting Hart Lane and Victoria Road, has emerged as a model of community strength and determination to thrive, defined by a wide range of businesses and a multi-cultural identity.

Pete Reddick, 11 Area chairman for the RNA, said: “It is very important that this place exists around here and in the town of Hartlepool. We are the only ex-services club left in the town. It is important for us all as custodians to keep this alive.” The Navy Club remains a key community asset, supporting veterans from all branches of the armed forces. The Royal Naval Association’s Hartlepool branch on Murray Street/Milton Road. Pictures: Scott Llewellyn.

Following the pockets of civil unrest that affected the street and surrounding area in the summer of 2024, the community rallied. By the early 20th century, Murray Street was an established commercial area, home to traditional retail like a wool shop, a newsagent and the much-loved corner shop. And the street’s history is linked with Hartlepool’s industrial life, tracing back to the days when local ship captains needed services close to the docks. One of the street’s most resilient social anchors is the Hartlepool Royal Naval Association (RNA) branch, popularly known as the Navy Club, with its familiar Murray Street entrance, since moving there in 1961.

Pete Reddick in the Navy Club on Murray Street/Milton Road. Pictures: Scott Llewellyn C/O Rephrase Media

The demographic shifts on Murray Street have paved the way for specialised local businesses, particularly in food and essential services such as The Balti Indian takeaway.

The stability of Murray Street is also secured by essential professional services. Specialist lettings agency Jackson & Copeland - which has served the area for nearly two decades and manages over 350 properties - moved its headquarters to Murray Street in June 2022. The agency’s success is built on a commitment to a personal, accessible approach. Tenancy manager Dave Wherritt said: “The team’s local knowledge and strong presence in Hartlepool is a major reason why they are easily accessible to their diverse community of tenants and landlords.

The Balti’s Abdul Rouf, Ashraf Khan and Nedeem Khan. Pictures: Michael Gant

Founder and owner Ashraf Khan has embraced the neighbourhood’s evolution since opening in 1995. He said: “Thirty years and counting! We found this spot in Murray Street, and The Balti started from there. Since then, we have gone from strength to strength. “This is a fantastic street to be based, and I’d like to invite the wider community to come and visit us here. It is becoming such a multicultural part of the town, with takeaways, grocery stores, off licences and all kinds of different businesses.” The Balti’s success is built on consistency which has created a family-like atmosphere, where loyal customers often call up and ask for their ‘usual Ash,’ showcasing a level of trust built over three decades that has earned awards too.

Tenancy manager Dave Wherritt, accounts manager Lauren Harll, tenancy manager Gill Edwards and tenancy manager Katie McLaren at Jackson & Copeland in Murray Street, Hartlepool. Pictures: Scott Llewellyn C/O Rephrase Media.

“We are based amongst where many houses are that we rent out, so we have a base who can just walk in and look for support, they will report repairs and housing issues, and we look to address those. Everyone gets a personal service and gets to know us, and we can pre-empt a lot of what is going on.” Today, community groups aim to drive the area’s physical and social revival. The Salaam Community Centre, which provides a safe space for local residents to gather and socialise, is actively working to unite the local community to create a street they can be proud of. The centre’s focus is on improving the local environment and the defibs in the street have been deployed to help people on a number of occasions. Murray Street stands today as a place where 30-yearold takeaways operate alongside 64-year-old veterans clubs, and where local property experts are situated to serve the diverse communities surrounding them.

The Balti’s Ashraf Khan inside the takeaway. Pictures: Michael Gant

The next chapter is underway and these long-standing businesses and community hubs want the rest of Hartlepool to know that Murray Street remains very much open for business.

Warning over unlicensed taxis People are being urged to take extra care when using taxis and only travel in licensed vehicles. Hartlepool Borough Council has issued advice amid concern over unlicensed drivers picking up passengers, particularly over the busy festive period. Councillor Martin Dunbar, Chair of the Licensing Committee, said: “We license taxis so the public can have confidence that their safety is assured. All taxi drivers are vetted and vehicles regularly inspected. “Using an unlicensed vehicle means there are no such checks. The integrity or intentions of the driver cannot be guaranteed, and any vehicle would almost certainly not be correctly insured.” The Council advises: •

If you flag down a taxi it must be yellow in colour and clearly marked with a licence number. All drivers must carry an identity badge bearing the Council’s logo.

•

If you haven’t booked a taxi, use an approved rank. There are many of these across the town centre.

•

When booking, ensure it is with a reputable licensed operator. The vehicle does not have to be yellow but must still be clearly marked with its licence number and a plate bearing details of the licence. The driver must have an identity badge bearing the Council’s logo.

•

Hackney carriages (yellow taxis) should have their tariff sheet clearly displayed within the vehicle.

Grit and determination this winter It’s the team which keeps Hartlepool moving. Hartlepool Borough Council’s Winter Service team is responsible for gritting 122 miles of road and is on standby 24/7 from mid-October until April. Councillor Owen Riddle, Chair of the Council’s Neighbourhoods and Regulatory Services Committee, said: “It’s easy to take the service for granted as, much like Father Christmas, a lot of its work occurs whilst we are in bed. “I would like to thank team members for their dedication, especially when you consider the unsociable hours they work are in addition to their “day jobs” at the Council.” Motorists are asked to also play their part by driving carefully, as stopping distances increase and loss of control is more likely in adverse conditions. Gritting decisions are based on supplied weather forecast information and ice prediction data from roadside sensors across the borough. There are three types of treatment: •

Pre-treatment, or precautionary salting, to stop ice forming - the first and most common response.

•

Post-treatment salting - the second stage response to melt ice and snow.

•

Removal of snow more than 30mm deep – the third stage response implemented only in exceptional conditions.

The Winter Service team also services 174 grit bins in residential areas and locations where bad weather can cause isolated problems. The Council says it can’t treat every road given the number of staff, vehicles and other resources that would be required. And even when roads are treated, it isn’t always possible to keep them completely free of ice and snow and gritting alone does not prevent or remove ice. The Winter Service is reviewed periodically against set criteria. Read the Council’s current plan at www.hartlepool.gov.uk/wintermaintenance

If you have information about an unlicensed taxi driver contact the Council at licensing@hartlepool.gov.uk or (01429) 523354.

Your food waste recycling collection service All councils in England must offer weekly food waste collections from homes in their area from April 2026 as part of the Government’s plan to improve recycling rates and cut greenhouse gas emissions. Hartlepool Borough Council has launched a trial involving around 1,000 homes in the Rossmere Ward and will be rolling out collections across the borough in the coming months. The Council is pleased to be able to offer weekly collections of food waste which is often blamed for making existing bins smell. Homes will receive two new caddies together with instructions on how to use them. All you will need to do is empty any food waste you have, such as plate scrapings, peelings and tea bags into the smaller kitchen caddy. When this is full, it should be emptied into the larger outside caddy ready for collection. The Government is funding the new caddies and collection vehicles required, so this initiative comes at no cost to Hartlepool residents.

You will be able to recycle all your food waste, including: All uneaten food and plate scrapings

We will collect your food waste weekly on the same day as we collect your other waste and recycling. Please present your larger caddy in the same place that you present your bins for collection, and by 7.30am. To find out your collection day vistit www.hartlepool.gov.uk/food-waste

What we will provide:

Fish Cooked fish Bones

Cheese Eggs

Rice

Coffee grounds

Pasta

Bread

Raw vegetables

Pastries

Beans

Cooked vegetables Whole fruit Peelings

Remember to recycle your mouldy and out of date food, including ready meals removed from their packaging

Please do not put any of these materials in your caddy: Packaging of any kind Liquids such as milk Oil or liquid fat

A larger outside caddy which we will empty weekly. Blocks of flats will be provided with an alternative

Dairy products

Tea bags

Kitchen caddy

One roll of liners to line the caddy, further rolls can be purchased from retailers

Cooked meat Bones

Cakes

How collections will work

Raw meat

Any material that is not food waste Garden waste

Some of the Community Wellbeing Champion Award winners

Mental health matters There’s so much support here in Hartlepool to help you enjoy your best mental wellbeing! That was the key message when residents and organisations came together to celebrate World Mental Health Day in a fun-packed event in Hartlepool’s Centre for Independent Living.

Another high point was the official opening of Hartlepool Day Service’s new Tranquil Retreat by the Ceremonial Mayor of Hartlepool Councillor Carole Thompson. Inspired by tropical blooms, this warm and welcoming space offers a range of sensory-themed experiences, including bubble tubes, lasers, an infinity tunnel, a creative area and an immersive cinema.

It was organised by Hartlepool Borough Council in partnership with organisations including Healthwatch Hartlepool, The Mental Health Planning Group, Hartlepool United Football Club, Hartlepool Community Trust, Stagecoach, The Greatham Foundation and The Annexe. Curtain up in the immersive cinema

It was part-funded by the Day Service team and people who use the service, who raised over £7,000. A number of local firms worked with them to help design the space. The day was also an opportunity for people to share how they felt on the Togetherall Wellbeing Wall.

There were over 20 information stands plus a host of activities

A highlight was the presentation of Hartlepool’s Community Wellbeing Champion Awards, celebrating the unsung heroes who selflessly make a difference to the wellbeing and lives of others. Congratulations to the award winners: Young Person – Chelsea Liddell; Adult – Dawn Robinson; Outstanding Achievement – Michael Booth; Dementia Community Wellbeing Champion – Ann Huntingdon; and Group Community Wellbeing Champions – The Asylum and Refugee Group and Community Links. Well done also to LilyAnne’s Wellbeing Café, Ian Glass, Grand Central Ambassadors and Peter Carroll, who received certificates of appreciation.

Togetherall is the safe, anonymous, caring, online mental health community available to you round-the-clock, day and night, for support with a wide range of issues. Thanks to Hartlepool Borough Council, if you live in Hartlepool and you’re aged 16 or over, you can join Togetherall for free at togetherall.com Councillor Gary Allen, Chair of the Council’s Adult Services and Public Health Committee, said: “A big thank you to everyone who came along and made the event such a success, and the warmest of congratulations to the award winners. “Bringing people together like this is so important because we don’t talk enough about our mental health. “As the event showed, there’s a fantastic range of advice and support here in Hartlepool to help you, so please don’t hesitate to reach out and use it.”

Meet Rachel – our new digital assistant! We’re really excited to introduce ‘Rachel‘ - our new digital assistant on the Hartlepool Now website. Councillor Gary Allen, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Adult Services and Public Health Committee, said: “Rachel is designed to make finding information, advice and guidance about adult social care easier and faster. “The great thing is, Rachel is available any time, day or night, to help you explore the support and services on offer across Hartlepool. “We’re really keen for people to try out this new feature and give us their views, as this will help us continue improving how we provide information and support online.”

You can access the digital assistant directly on the Hartlepool Now homepage – start exploring today at www.hartlepoolnow.co.uk

Affordable food for everyone in Hartlepool For just £8.50, you’ll get three bags of food – fresh fruit and vegetables, chilled goods and cupboard staples – worth much more. It’s a simple way to save money, eat well and cut food waste, all while supporting your community. There’s no referral needed and anyone can become a member. TBBT already runs five food clubs across Hartlepool, helping hundreds of families every week to stretch their budgets and share good food together.

A Bread and Butter Thing volunteer hard at work filling food bags

The Bread and Butter Thing (TBBT) makes life a little easier by bringing affordable, healthy food directly into local communities in Hartlepool, and everyone’s welcome to join. Its mobile food clubs turn surplus food from supermarkets, manufacturers and farms into low-cost weekly shops for members.

Existing members, please note - TBBT’s text number is changing! Your weekly “Do you want to shop?” messages will now come from 07507 237 311 - so please save this number in your phone to make sure you don’t miss out. If you’re new to TBBT, joining couldn’t be easier. Just text your first name, last name, the name of the hub you’d like to join and your postcode to 07507 237 311 and they’ll get you set up. After that, you’ll get a weekly text asking if you’d like a shop – simple as that.

Find out more or sign up online at www.breadandbutterthing.org/become-a-member

Get strength on your side...

Been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness? You may be entitled to compensation. People who have had intense or long-term exposure to asbestos are particularly at risk of getting asbestos-related diseases such as pleural thickening, asbestosis, lung cancer or mesothelioma.

Due to the legacy of shipbuilding and heavy industry in the North-East, Mark Ellis and the team at Tilly Bailey & Irvine have successfully handled a great deal of asbestos claims and have extensive experience in handling claims of this nature.

We offer all Personal Injury clients an initial FREE interview and if we consider you have a viable claim we will offer you a NO WIN -NO FEE arrangement. To find out more about how we can advise you on an asbestos-related disease claim, please give us a call on 01429 225200 to talk to one of our asbestos claims solicitors or visit www.tbilaw.co.uk for more information. Tilly Bailey & Irvine LLP York Chambers | York Road | Hartlepool | TS26 9DP Castle House | 11 Bridge Road | Stockton-on-Tees | TS18 3AD

Scanlan House | 23 John Street | Sunderland | SR1 1JG T: 01429 264101 W: www.tbilaw.co.uk Tilly Bailey & Irvine LLP is authorised and regulated byby thethe Solicitors Regulation Authority. Tilly Bailey & Irvine LLP is authorised and regulated Solicitors Regulation Authority.

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Hartlepool Board thanks 1,400 residents for kick-starting new regeneration chapter

1,400 people engaged

years of Pride In Place

More than 1,400 people in Hartlepool have shared their views to help shape a new 10-year plan to improve the town. This is part of the Government’s Pride in Place Programme, formerly Plan for Neighbourhoods, which has given Hartlepool up to £20 million to spend on things that matter most to local people. The Hartlepool Board is leading the project. It brings together local people, businesses, and organisations who care about the town. They want to make real changes that will help everyone, with aims to bring about longlasting, transformative change. Initial feedback has already revealed clear community ambitions. Priorities in some wards include improvements to community safety measures. Other wards are focusing on cleaner neighbourhoods, more opportunities for young people, and investment in local parks. These ideas are now helping to shape the work of new neighbourhood forums, which will hopefully be established over the coming months.

£ £20m

Government funding

The Hartlepool Board is emphasising that while the initial engagement has finished, the real work is just beginning, and this is a critical period for the community to come forward with their ideas. The entire process will be tracked openly, and communities will receive regular ‘you said, we did’ updates to ensure complete transparency. Malcolm Walker, Chair of the Hartlepool Board, said: “The programme is inspired by the New Deal for Communities but is re-imagined for today’s challenges. “The ambition is to deliver on the priorities that matter most to each community, which will include a mix of quick, visible improvements and long-term, transformative change over the next ten years.” The Hartlepool Board is encouraging anyone who hasn’t taken part yet to get involved. There will be more events and chances to have your say in the coming months.

There is now a call to action for even more people to get involved as the programme moves into its next phase. “This plan belongs to local people,” said Iain Caldwell from the Hartlepool Opportunities Partnership (HOP), who helped run the engagement. “Over 1,400 residents have already told us what matters most. Now we’re working together to make it happen visible improvements today, and a stronger, fairer town for tomorrow.”

To find out more or get involved, visit:

The engagement team out and about meeting members of the public, including H’Angus

www.hartlepool.gov.uk/hartlepool-board

Hartlepool Jobs and Skills has the tools to boost your career game! In the past 12 months:

5,500 people supported

577 helped

into work

2,100 people enrolled

Flexible learning Too busy to come to class? Our flexible learning options mean you can work around your busy schedule! Get qualified up to Level 3 in Health and Social Care, Childcare, Business and much more!

Maths, English and digital Looking for better job opportunities but need to upgrade your skills? Master maths, enhance your English and dive into digital skills to get your career on the right track!

Cooking classes Starting in the new year, gain confidence in the kitchen with our fun, informal classes. Gain cooking skills, tips and tricks through practical learning! Keep an eye on our Facebook page for more information.

Scan the QR code or visit www.hartlepooljobsandskills.com for employment support, guidance, and to browse our courses. 01429 868 616

jobs.skills@hartlepool.gov.uk

/HartlepoolJobsandSkills

Want to boost your CV, learn new skills, get qualified, or find a job? Pop into your local Community Hub and have a chat with one of our super friendly advisors – they’ll help you get on the right track!

Venue

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Community Hub Central

9am - 4pm

9am - 6pm

9am - 4pm

9am - 1pm

10am - 4pm

9am - 12pm

12:30pm - 4pm

York Road

Community Hub South

Wynyard Road

Headland Library Middlegate

Seaton Carew Community Hub Station Lane

10am - 12:30pm 1pm - 5pm

NO N OE EXPERIENCE? XPERIENCE? NO PROBLEM. NO P ROBLEM. Build your skills with help from local employers. 18-21 in Hartlepool – try a free work taster or apply for a paid work placement. If you’re aged 18-21, not currently in education, employment, or training, and are living in Hartlepool, then you are eligible to apply.

Scan to find out more!

Need help reading your bills? Boost your skills for free with our flexible courses! They won’t go away if you don’t look at them. We can help you get savvy with numbers, money, budgets and IT. What’s holding you back?

Hartlepool Carers supporting those who care

Are you caring for a loved one, friend, or neighbour who couldn’t manage without your help? At Hartlepool Carers, we’re here to support you. Caring can be rewarding, but it can also be challenging — that’s why we offer a wide range of free services designed to make your life a little easier. We provide practical advice, emotional support, and social activities for carers of all ages. Whether you’re a young carer balancing school and responsibilities, or an adult managing complex care needs, our team is here to help you feel heard, valued and supported. From benefits guidance and respite breaks to training workshops and wellbeing sessions, Hartlepool Carers helps you find balance and stay connected. We also run peer support groups where you can meet others who truly understand what you’re going through. Located in the heart of Hartlepool, our centre offers a warm, welcoming space where carers can drop in for a chat, a cuppa, or expert advice. We work closely with other community groups to ensure carers get the recognition and support they deserve.

At Hartlepool Carers, you’re never alone. Let us help you care — for yourself as well as others. 01429 283095 www.hartlepoolcarers.org.uk 19 Lowthian Road, Hartlepool

Scan to register

TEES TIDELANDS

RESTORING HABITATS AND MANAGING FLOOD RISK IN THE TEES ESTUARY.

Tees Tidelands is an ambitious programme of projects led by the Environment Agency across the River Tees Estuary which aims to restore intertidal habitat, reconnect people with the estuary and realign flood defences. Over the last 200 years the Tees Estuary has been transformed into a hub of industrial activity. While vital for jobs and the economy, this growth has led to the loss of over 90% of the intertidal habitat that once existed. Areas of the estuary were lost right up to the 1970s to allow industrial development. Many of the defences built to protect these complexes are now old and in poor condition.

RESTORE Restore more than 50 hectares of mudflats, saltmarsh and other valuable estuarine habitats, by allowing the tide to return to areas lost to the sea over 200 years ago.

RECONNECT

The groundbreaking ceremony at Greatham Marsh attended by the Environment Agency, the Greatham Foundation, Northumbrian Water, BAM Nuttall and JBA Consulting.

Greatham Marsh Restoration is the most recent project in the Tees Tidelands programme, beginning on site last month. It will restore the historic alignment of Greatham Beck by opening its channels to tidal influence and re-establishing saltmarsh and mudflats – all without increasing flood risk. This helps the River Tees estuary adapt to climate change while restoring valuable habitat for internationally important wildlife such as curlews and avocets. A redundant tidal structure will be removed from the beck, allowing the channel to flow as it would have done historically and enable migratory fish to return to the beck. The project will plant 1.5 kilometres of species-rich native hedgerow and ecologically valuable treeline. Saltmarsh acts as a natural sink for carbon and nutrients. Postcompletion, the site will sequester (capture) an additional 129 tonnes of carbon per year – that is as much as 5,200 mature oak trees! A groundbreaking ceremony was held on site in October 2025 with project partners, Northumbrian Water, BAM Nuttall and JBA Consulting in attendance to watch The Greatham Foundation’s Chair of Trustees Margaret Bousfield turn the first sod.

Reconnect the people of Teesside back to their estuary, helping them to enjoy nature, and reopen the tributaries of the Tees to tidal influence by removing defunct tidal barriers.

REALIGN Realign ageing flood banks, providing new defences that protect people and industry now, and into the future, to ensure we are as resilient as we can be to the impact of climate change and rising sea levels.

What can you do at your local community hub and library? Join the library today and get free access to: Thousands of books

Public computers and Wi-Fi Use our computers to access Ancestry Library Edition, Find My Past and the British Newspaper Archive.

Browse our online catalogue and order to collect from your most convenient branch. No late fees - as long as you bring the book back! Large print, easy read and quick read books. Self-serve kiosks.

Printing and photocopying (charges apply) Print from one of our computers, or if you are at Community Hub Central you can print straight from your device with Wi-Fi print!

There are lots of other activities and services available at our venues each week. Find out more at www.hartlepool.gov.uk/CommunityHubs or call in and see us.

Where is my nearest community hub or library? Community Hub Central, York Road open Mon - Fri 9am - 4pm (6pm on Wed), Sat 9am - 1pm Community Hub South, Wynyard Road Open Mon - Fri 10am - 4pm (6pm on Mon), Sat 10am - 12pm Seaton Carew Community Hub, Station Lane Open Wed and Thurs 10am - 12.30pm / 1pm 5pm, Fri & Sat 9am - 12.30pm Headland Library, Middlegate Open Tues 10am - 6pm, Fri 9am - 1pm

Social groups, children’s activities and reading groups We have a range of free activities across all our venues each week.

Throston Grange Library, Throston Youth Project, Wiltshire Way Open Mon 10am - 12.30pm / 1pm - 5.30pm, Wed 10am - 3pm Check page 2 for our Christmas opening hours. Don’t forget you can also visit our Local & Family History Centre at Sir William Gray House in Clarence Road, or Waverley Outdoor Community Hub in Waverley Terrace!

Christmas at the Hubs We can’t wait for Christmas! Build the excitement by heading to Hartlepool’s Community Hubs and Libraries for lots of festive fun - most of which is free. There’s something for everyone! Any activities that require booking can be booked in any Community Hub or Library or online at www.hartlepool.gov.uk/communityhubs Date

Time

Activity

Venue

Cost

Booking

Suitable for

Tuesday 2 December

1pm - 3pm

Fabric Christmas wreath

Central Hub

£10

Yes

Adults

Wednesday 3 December

5.30pm - 6.30pm

Crafted: Christmas baubles

Central Hub

£4

Yes

Adults

Thursday 4 December

6pm - 8pm

Fabric Christmas wreath

Seaton Hub

£10

Yes

Adults

Friday 5 December

1pm - 2.30pm

Silver Screening Christmas movie

South Hub

Free

Adults

Saturday 6 December

10.30am - 12pm

Manor Family Film Club Christmas movie

South Hub

Free

Families

Tuesday 9 December

1pm - 3pm

Gingerbread house tealight holders

Central Hub

£3

Yes

Families

Tuesday 16 December

1pm - 3pm

Christmas baubles

Central Hub

£4

Yes

Families

Wednesday 17 December

1.30pm - 4pm 5.30pm - 8pm

Dungeons & Dragons

Central Hub

Free

Yes

Age 18 - 30

Wednesday 17 3.30pm - 4.30pm December

Christmas crafts and Christmas movie

Seaton Hub

Free

Children

Thursday 18 December

10.30am - 12pm

Christmas crafts and Christmas movie

Seaton Hub

Free

Children

Saturday 20 December

2.30pm - 3.30pm

Christmas party

Central Hub

Free

Families

Tuesday 23 December

12pm - 2pm

Community Kitchen Christmas theme

South Hub

Free

Adults

Tuesday 23 December

10am - 6pm (closed 12.30pm 1pm)

Christmas crafts

Headland Library

Free

Children

Tuesday 23 December

4.30pm – 6pm

Christmas movie

South Hub

Free

Families

Wednesday 24 December

10am - 2pm

Christmas crafts

Throston Library and Seaton Hub

Free

Children

Get strength on your side...

Should you consider a Family Trust? We are often asked by clients whether setting up a Family Trust would be a good idea for them. The answer is often yes, as there are lots of advantages to setting up a Family Trust. A Trust ensures security and protection for your assets and can make things as simple as possible for your family to deal with when you die. In fact, the need for Probate is often avoided altogether, which may help keep the costs of dealing with your estate down. A Family Trust provides protection for your beneficiaries, even if circumstances have changed. An example would be where your spouse or children (including adult children) have disabilities or lose capacity to deal with their own affairs. It protects against your children being disinherited as a result of your spouse remarrying after your death. Your Trustees can deal with the property in the Trust in the same way as Attorneys would under a Power of Attorney.

If you are considering setting up a Family Trust, it is important to take advice from solicitors specialising in this area of law. Tilly Bailey & Irvine have a team of legal experts and offer free initial advice regarding Property Trusts and Wills, all to help you decide what is best for you. How much will it cost? We charge a fixed fee, so there are no hidden surprises. Contact us on 01429 264101 or visit our offices in Barnard Castle, Hartlepool, Stockton, Sunderland, or Wynyard for the best support, and start feeling more secure.

Your local solicitors specialising in:

Conveyancing & Property Divorce & Private Family Law If you would like toDefence speak to a member of our team to arrange an appointment, Criminal Commercial Disputes Family & Children Commercial call us today on Law 01429 856744 or visit www.tbilaw.co.uk for Property more information Trusts & Probate Corporate & Commercial about ourWills, services. Personal Injury Employment Law Tilly Bailey & Irvine LLP York Chambers | York Road | Hartlepool | TS26 9DP Castle House | 11 Bridge Road | Stockton-on-Tees | TS18 3AD

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Dry January A fresh start for the New Year After the festive season, January is the perfect time to recharge and restart. Whether you want to take up a new hobby, get more active, or save money, the new year is a great time to try something new, like taking part in Dry January. Dry January is the annual national campaign organised by Alcohol Change UK, encouraging people to take a break from alcohol for the month of January. Dry January isn’t about giving up alcohol forever. It’s a chance to pause, reflect, and reassess your habits. Councillor Gary Allen, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Adult Services and Public Health Committee, said: “After the enjoyment of the festive season, Dry January gives us all the opportunity to take a break from alcohol and assess our relationship with drinking alcohol, and enjoy the added physical and emotional benefits of taking a month off alcohol.” Why should you take part in Dry January? The benefits you get by taking a break from alcohol for just one month are backed by both science and lived experience.

Benefits of Dry January include: • • •

Improved sleep (reported by 70% of participants) Reduced anxiety and better mental clarity Saving over £120 in just four weeks

It’s not just your physical health that improves by reducing your alcohol consumption, but taking a break from alcohol can help reduce anxiety and improve mental clarity. John Scadden, Mental Health Support Team Manager at Alliance Psychology who works closely with Hartlepool’s

Start Drug and Alcohol Support Service, sees Dry January as a ‘refresh for the mind’ and said: “Taking a break from alcohol during Dry January offers more than just physical benefit. It can be a powerful reset for mental wellbeing. Alcohol is a known depressant, often disrupting mood stability, sleep quality, and being clear headed. By abstaining, individuals frequently report feeling less anxious, more emotionally balanced, and better rested”. Taking a break or quitting alcohol altogether can be a difficult prospect, but don’t worry because there’s plenty of support available in Hartlepool to help you every step of the way through Dry January. The Try Dry app is free and available on IOS and Android and provides useful advice and tips to help you understand your drinking pattern and track your progress. The app also monitors your wellbeing by tracking your sleep, energy levels, mood and craving intensity. Breaking Free Online is another great free option that provides 24/7 access to personalised support and tools to help you reduce or stop drinking while being completely confidential. To access the support, just download the app from your app store and use the access code: hartlepool11 If you, a family member or loved one needs specialised help with alcohol use, Hartlepool’s Drug and Alcohol Support Service, Start, is available to all who needs an extra hand with alcohol or drug use. Currently based at Bevan House, with a brand new building close to completion, our team of experts are on-hand to help you get back on your feet. Find out more about how Start can help you at: starthartlepool.co.uk. Whether you’re cutting back or quitting altogether, Dry January is a great way to start the year with a fresh perspective. Why not give it a go and see how good you can feel?

Have your say! Did you know you can have your say about Council services online? New surveys on a wide range of topics are launched regularly on the Council’s Your Say website. Just now we are asking for your views about the Council’s 2026/27 budget, allotments, planning conditions for houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) and childcare needs. Joining in with our online surveys is a great way to have your say from the comfort of your home. You can fill in a survey using your smartphone, tablet or computer. If you want to receive notifications of new surveys straight to your inbox and updates on what’s happened with finished surveys, you can create an account on the Your Say site. Visit the site at: yoursay.hartlepool.gov.uk or scan the QR code to find out more.

Is your business interested in bidding for work with Hartlepool Borough Council or other northeast local authorities? Open is the Council’s new procurement platform. It has replaced the NEPO ProContract Portal and has become the sole platform to find and compete for competitive opportunities. You can sign up for free at www.open-uk.org

Upcoming Councillors’ ward surgeries BURN VALLEY 06 January 2026 6pm – 7pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Elwick Road 03 February 2026 5pm – 6pm Stranton Primary School, Southburn Terrace 03 March 2026 6pm – 7pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Elwick Road Councillors: Ged Hall (Labour), Corinne Male (*LCO) Owen Riddle (*LCO) DE BRUCE 21 January 2026 4pm – 5pm West View Community Centre, Miers Avenue 14 February 2026 12 noon – 1pm Hartlepool Working Mens Club, King Oswy Drive 18 March 2026 4pm – 5pm West View Community Centre, Miers Avenue Councillors: Rachel Creevy (Labour), Brenda Harrison (*LCO), Michael Jorgeson (Labour) FENS & GREATHAM 13 January 2026 5.45pm – 6.30pm The Heron Room, Fens School, Mowbray Road 10 February 2026 5.45pm – 6.30pm The Heron Room, Fens School, Mowbray Road 10 March 2026 5.45pm – 6.30pm The Heron Room, Fens School, Mowbray Road Councillors: Bob Buchan (Conservative), Philip Holbrook (*LCO), Jim Lindridge (Independent) FOGGY FURZE 17 January 2026 11am – 12 noon Oxford Road Baptist Church, Caledonian Road 19 February 2026 6pm – 7pm Belle Vue Sports & Youth Centre, Kendal Road 21 March 2026 11am – 12 noon Oxford Road Baptist Church, Caledonian Road Councillors: Melanie Morley (Labour), Martin Dunbar (*LCO), Carole Thompson (Labour)

HART 07 February 2026 10am – 11am Hart Village Hall, Front Street, Hart 07 March 2026 10am – 11am Hartfields Retirement Village, Bishop Cuthbert Councillors: Rob Darby (Reform UK), Aaron Roy (*LCO) HEADLAND & HARBOUR 21 January 2026 5pm – 6pm Central Estate Methodist Church, West View Road 21 February 2026 11am – 12 noon Heugh Battery Museum, Moor Terrace 18 March 2026 5pm – 6pm The Annexe, Wharton Terrace Councillors: Shane Moore (Hartlepool Independent Union), Matthew Dodds (*LCO), John Nelson (*LCO) MANOR HOUSE Ward surgeries to be arranged Councillors: Pamela Hargreaves (Labour), Ben Clayton (*LCO), Fiona Cook (*LCO) ROSSMERE 09 January 2026 6.30pm – 7.30pm Community Hub South, Wynyard Road 06 February 2026 6.30pm – 7.30pm Community Hub South, Wynyard Road 06 March 2026 6.30pm – 7.30pm Community Hub South, Wynyard Road Councillors: Moss Boddy (Labour), Tom Feeney (Independent), Quewone Bailey-Fleet (*LCO) RURAL WEST Ward surgeries to be arranged Councillors: Andrew Martin-Wells (Conservative), Mike Young (Reform UK), Scott Reeve (Conservative)

SEATON Ward surgeries to be arranged Councillors: Leisa Smith (Independent), Sue Little (Independent) THROSTON 14 January 2026 7pm – 8pm Throston Primary School, Flint Walk 11 February 2026 4.50pm – 5.50pm Throston Community Centre, Glamorgan Grove 11 March 2026 7pm – 8pm Throston Primary School, Flint Walk Councillors: Amanda Napper (Reform UK), Ed Doyle (Reform UK), Martin Scarborough (*LCO) VICTORIA 10 January 2026 11am – 12 noon Raglan Quoit & Social Club, Stuart Street 07 February 2026 11am – 12 noon St Luke’s Parish Centre, Hart Lane 07 March 2026 11am – 12 noon Grange Road Methodist Community Centre 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 an appointment with Hartlepool MP Jonathan Brash please ring 01429 801427, email Jonathan.brash.mp@parliament.uk or visit 206 York Road, Hartlepool TS26 9EB.

For details of your local Councillor(s) or to check ward surgery dates please visit www.hartlepool.gov.uk/leadership

£1 BUS TRAVEL For 21s & under

Plus other Tees Valley bus operators www.teesvalley-ca.gov.uk/21andunder

Recycling in Hartlepool Coming soon Food Waste

Recycling

Garden Waste

General Household Waste

Household plastic bottles/containers

Small branches/ twigs

All non-recyclable household waste

Cardboard

Grass cuttings

Food tins

Dead flowers

(Annual subscription fee applies)

Drink cans Aerosols Glass bottles/jars

Can it be recycled? If in doubt, green is the best shout!

Pet waste Kitchen waste Soil

Plastic toys

See page 17 for more information

Old and unwanted electricals Don’t forget you can recycle unwanted small electrical appliances, including laptops, hairdryers and toasters, at various locations across the borough. Check for your nearest collection point at www. recycleyourelectricals.org.uk

Black plastic Egg cartons Pizza boxes Don’t bag your waste, leave it loose and keep it clean

Household Waste Recycling Centre Our Household Waste Recycling Centre provides a wide range of recycling services. For details on opening hours, site rules, and information about chargeable or DIY waste, please visit our website or scan the QR code.

www.hartlepool.gov.uk/hwrc

Waste Removal Service Hartlepool Borough Council offers a range of local, efficient and professional waste removal services to both households and businesses. For more information please visit our website or scan the QR code.

www.hartlepool.gov.uk/waste-removal-service

Christmas Tree Collections Dispose of your real Christmas tree at the Household Waste Recycling Centre for free from Saturday 27 December. We are also offering a collection service from Tuesday 6 January. Collections must be booked in advance. Collection slots are limited, and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

www.hartlepool.gov.uk/collectmytree

01429 523333.