Hartbeat - March 2024

Hartbeat March 2024

www.hartlepool.gov.uk @hpoolcouncil

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Access your Council Tax account quickly and easily via our new online platform, My Accounts.

To set up an account you will need your Council Tax bill displaying your account number.

Set up a Direct Debit

Instant access to view or download your Council Tax bill

Request a discount or reduction

To set up your account scan the QR Code opposite or log in at:

www.hartlepool.gov.uk/mycounciltaxaccount

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Welcome to the first edition of Hartbeat for 2024 With the days lengthening and spring just around the corner, it’s a good time to look forward with optimism.

Hartlepool Borough Council is continuing to deliver on its ambitious regeneration plans for the Borough.

Three Hartlepool Town Deal projects – civil engineering and health and social care skills academies and the renovation of the Wesley Chapel – are all moving forward at pace and work has now started on the site of Highlight, our new multi-million pound flagship leisure attraction, at The Waterfront. Read more on pages 22/23.

We continue to provide support to residents through the network of popular Family Hubs. Find out more on pages 14/15. You can also read about the expansion of the Governmentfunded childcare offer.

There has also been lots to celebrate in our Community Hubs Service and Jobs and Skills team, which have earned a host of national quality awards. Read more on page 9.

There’s plenty of good news for our young people too, with our upcoming Hartlepool Holiday Fun offer, improvements at Throston Youth Project and our new Staying Close project which helps young people who are getting ready to leave, or

have recently left, our residential care, to make sure they have all the skills they need to live independently. More details on pages 12/13.

Like all local authorities, the Council is experiencing significant inflationary and demand pressures, but at the time of writing increases of 0.99% in Core Council Tax and 2% in the Adult Social Care Precept as part of the Council’s 2024/25 budget were, we believe, the lowest combined increase (2.99%) in the country for a council with social care responsibility. Read more on pages 10/11.

Jobs and Skills success - P9

Youth centre makeover - P13

The approved budget includes a charge of £35 for emptying residents’ brown bins and we would like to thank the thousands of you who have already signed up to service. There’s more information on page 30.

The Council has also launched a new online platform, My Accounts, which lets you access your Council Tax account quickly and easily. You can find out more on page 2.

On Thursday 2nd May, Hartlepool Borough Council local elections will take place along with elections for the Mayor for the Tees Valley Combined Authority and the Police and Crime Commissioner for Cleveland. There is a range of information, including how to apply for a postal vote, on pages 4-7.

Council apprenticeships - P17

Shared Lives - P18

Tackling crime - P25

Denise McGuckin Managing Director

Councillor Mike Young Leader of the Council

The photograph used on the front cover of this edition has been taken by Hartlepool resident Stephen McPartlin. If you would like one of your photographs of Hartlepool to be considered for future editions of Hartbeat please send them to communications@hartlepool.gov.uk

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

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VOTE

Upcoming May Elections

On Thursday 2nd May 2024, a number of elections will be taking place in Hartlepool. At the time of writing, the confirmed elections taking place are to elect the Mayor for the Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA) and the Police and Crime Commissioner for Cleveland (PCC).

Local elections will also be taking place in Hartlepool to elect councillors. All of these elections will be using the first-past-the-post voting system, where you vote for a single candidate, and then the candidate with the most votes is elected.

Registration, postal votes and proxy votes You must be registered if you wish to vote in the elections. If you are not already registered you have until Tuesday 16th April 2024 to do so. You can do this online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote You can also vote by post or appoint someone else to vote on your behalf (by proxy). The deadline for postal vote applications is 5pm on Wednesday 17th April 2024, and for a proxy to vote it is 5pm Wednesday 24th April 2024.

You can apply online at www.gov.uk/applypostal-vote or you can use the application form on the next page.

If you miss the post, you can hand in your postal vote and/or postal votes for up to five others at any polling station in the ward before 10pm on Thursday 2nd May 2024. When handing in postal votes you will need to complete a form before they can be accepted.

More information can be found at www.hartlepool.gov.uk/elections or by emailing elections@hartlepool.gov.uk or calling 01429 523088

What is the role of the Mayor of the Tees Valley Combined Authority?

The Mayor works alongside the five Tees Valley local authorities to create jobs, drive investment and transform the Tees Valley.

The role of the Mayor ranges from setting budgets and priorities for economic development to acting as an ambassador for our region to attract inward investment.

They are responsible for a c.£1.7billion Investment Plan covering business growth and inward investment; transport; education, employment and skills; culture and tourism; research, innovation and development and towns and communities.

What is the role of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Cleveland?

The PCC scrutinises the running of his local force and holds the Chief Constable to account on behalf of local people.

The role involves securing an efficient and effective police service within the area; setting the force budget and determining the precept; setting police and crime objectives and publishing a police and crime plan that reflects those objectives.

What is the role of a Hartlepool Borough Council Councillor?

Local councillors represent residents of the ward for which they are elected, but they are also involved in making decisions affecting all of the Borough. Councillors decide on which policies the Council should pursue, ensure that they are carried out and monitor services which are provided to ensure that they are delivered in the most efficient and effective way. Other duties include attending council meetings, being a member of committees and responding to queries from ward residents.

Key dates for the upcoming May elections Day

Date

Time

Description

Saturday

16th March 2024

10am

Pre-election briefing – Civic Centre*

Tuesday

19th March 2024

-

Notice of Election Issued

Tuesday

19th March 2024

9am-4pm

Nomination packs available for candidates

Friday

5th April 2024

4pm

Close of nominations (deadline for those wishing to stand for election)

Tuesday

16th April 2024

-

Electoral registration deadline (you need to be registered to vote)

Wednesday 17th April 2024

5pm

Postal vote application deadline (and for any changes to existing details)

Wednesday 24th April 2024

5pm

Proxy vote application deadline

Wednesday 24th April 2024

5pm

Deadline for Voter Authority Certificate applications

Thursday

2nd May 2024

7am-10pm

Polling day

Thursday

2nd May 2024

5pm

Emergency proxy vote application (you can apply for this in certain emergency situations but only after the normal proxy vote deadline)

*for local elections only

Application to vote by post in England Voting by post This form applies only in England.

You must be eligible to vote, and registered, to get a postal vote.

You can use this form to apply to vote by post for a particular election, for a set period of time or for a maximum period of three years.

Your local electoral registration office will confirm the duration of your postal vote. When your postal vote expires you will need to apply for a new one to continue voting by post.

For more information on postal voting and other ways to apply, visit electoralcommission.org.uk/postalvote.

Postal votes can be sent to addresses in the UK and abroad.

How do I apply to vote by post?

Fill in the postal vote application form.

Make sure you complete all required sections of the form and provide your date of birth and signature.

This information is needed to prevent fraud. If you are unable to sign this form, please contact your local electoral registration office.

If your application has missing or incorrect information, your local electoral registration office will contact you. You may need to provide supporting documents and it may take longer to process your application.

Return your form to your local electoral registration office. You can find their details and more information at electoralcommission.org.uk/voter.

Please do not return your form to The Electoral Commission.

The deadline for returning your postal vote application is 5pm, 11 working days before the poll.

If you are not registered to vote, you must apply to register before applying for a postal vote.

The deadline to register to vote is midnight, 12 working days before the poll. Register to vote online at gov.uk/register-to-vote.

What happens after I have returned this form?

Your local electoral registration office will confirm if your application has been accepted or rejected.

When an election is going to be held, your ballot paper will be sent to you in the post.

For more information on the delivery of the postal ballot pack, you can contact the elections office at your local council.

Your postal ballot pack will contain instructions for voting by post and returning your postal vote.

Make sure you return your postal vote so that it arrives by the deadline, otherwise it will not be counted.

Privacy statement This privacy notice tells you what will happen to the personal information you supply with this application form.

The Electoral Registration Officer is the Data Controller for the purposes of data protection legislation.

Their lawful basis for collecting the personal information is that the processing is necessary in order to perform a task in the public interest as set out in the Representation of the People Act 1983 and related regulations.

The Electoral Registration Officer is legally required to process your personal information securely and comply with data protection legislation. For further information you should refer to their privacy notice. You can find their website address and contact details at electoralcommission.org.uk/voter.

PO-E

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Application to vote by post in England Only one person can apply to vote by post using this form Please write in black ink and use CAPITAL LETTERS. When you have completed the form, send it to your local electoral registration office. You can find their address at electoralcommission.org.uk/voter.

1 About you

3 Address for ballot paper (only required if different from the address where you are registered to vote)

Surname

Please send my ballot paper to (address):

First name(s) (in full) Your address (where you are registered to vote)

Postcode

The reason I would like my ballot paper sent to this address, rather than my registered address, is: Postcode

National Insurance number (you can find this on your payslip, P60, or on letters about tax, pensions or benefits)

If you cannot provide a National Insurance number, please tell us why. us why.

Phone number (optional) Email (optional)

4 Your date of birth and declaration Declaration: As far as I know, the details on this form are true and accurate.

I understand that to provide false information on this form is an offence, punishable on conviction by imprisonment of up to two years and/or a fine.

Date of birth: Please write your date of birth in the boxes below using black ink.

D

D

M

M

Y

Y

Y

Y

Signature: Sign below using black ink, keeping within the grey border.

2 How long do you want a postal vote for?

I want to vote by post in all elections I am eligible to vote in (tick one box only): for the maximum period (up to three years) to be held on D

D

If you are unable to sign this form, please contact your local electoral registration office.

M M

Y

Y

Y

Y

D

D

M M

Y

Y

Y

Y

D

D

M M

Y

Y

Y

Y

for the period from to PO-E

5 Date of application Today’s date D

D

M M

Y

Y

Y

Y

Page 2 of 2

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Your community needs YOU! Are you passionate about your local area and do you want to make a difference? If the answer is YES, then why not consider becoming a councillor?

Councillors come from all walks of life and represent residents of the ward for which they are elected. They are also involved in decisions affecting the entire Borough.

Candidates are needed for the Hartlepool Borough Council elections on 2nd May 2024. Find out more at an event to be held at Hartlepool Civic Centre at 10am on Saturday 16th March 2024.

Duties include attending meetings of Hartlepool Borough Council every six-eight weeks and, where chosen, being a member of other committees. Employers must allow councillors to take a reasonable time off to undertake duties.

Contact the Elections Team on (01429) 523088 or email elections@hartlepool.gov.uk if you are interested in attending or want further information. You can also find out more at:

www.local.gov.uk/be-councillor or www.electoralcommission.org.uk Support is available for disabled residents interested in representing their local community. A Local Government Association (LGA) guide can be found at

Councillors are not paid a salary but receive an allowance.

Training, support and equipment is provided. You do not need to be a member of a political party as you can be independent.

You must be at least 18-years-old, and either registered to vote in Hartlepool or have lived, worked or owned a property here for at least 12 months prior to the election.

www.local.gov.uk/about/news/lga-be-councillorguide-launched-support-disabled-residents-standcouncillors

Voter photo ID requirement Important, voters in England need to show photo ID to vote at polling stations.

Acceptable forms of photo ID include: •

A passport.

•

A driving licence (including a provisional driving licence)

•

A Blue Badge

•

An older person’s bus pass

•

A disabled person’s bus pass

•

An identity card bearing the Proof of Age Standards Scheme hologram (a PASS card)

*NB. Employment ID cards are not accepted

You will only need to show one form of photo ID, but it must be the original version and not a photocopy.

You can still use your photo ID if it’s out of date, as long as it looks like you, and the name on your ID should be the same name you used to register to vote.

If you don’t have an accepted form of photo ID, you can apply for a free voter ID document, known as a Voter Authority Certificate. However, you need to register to vote before applying.

Apply at www.gov.uk/apply-for-photo-id-voterauthority-certificate or simply Google “Apply for Voter Authority Certificate”

New rules mean your postal vote will be rejected if it is not returned correctly. Make sure your vote is counted.

For more information visit

www.hartlepool.gov.uk/elections

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Broaden your horizons with Jobs & Skills @ the Hub Our friendly team can help you whether you want to gain new skills, socialise with other people, study for a qualification, become a volunteer or move into work. You can come and speak to us in the Community Hubs: Community Hub Central York Road Monday to Friday 10am-4pm

Community Hub South Wynyard Road Tuesday and Thursday 10am-4pm

If you’re aged 19 or over, you could access a level 3 qualification for free* through the Government’s Free Courses for Jobs (FCFJ). This will help you to gain the skills you need – whatever your stage of life.

Supporting Teaching & Learning in Schools Health & Social Care Understanding Mental Health Understanding Autism Management

Call 01429 868616 or email jobs.skills@hartlepool.gov.uk for more information.

* Speak to a member of our team to discuss your eligibility for Free Courses For Jobs (FCFJ).

Course

Date & Time

Venue

Functional Skills English Entry 3 to Level 2

Wednesday and Thursday 12.30pm to 3pm 24/04/2024 – 04/07/2024

Hartlepool People’s Centre Raby Road

Functional Skills Maths Entry 3 to Level 2

Monday and Wednesday 9.30am to 12 noon 22/04/2024 – 08/07/2024

Hartlepool People’s Centre Raby Road

Digital Functional Skills Entry 3 to Level 1

Tuesday and Friday 9.30am to 12 noon 23/04/2024 – 05/07/2024

Community Hub South Wynyard Road

Joining the Digital World

Wednesday 9.30am to 11.30am 24/04/2024 – 03/07/2024

Community Hub South Wynyard Road

Preparing for Maths

Monday 9.30am to 11.30am 15/04/2024 – 15/07/2024

Hartlepool People’s Centre Raby Road

Discover Volunteering

Wednesday 9.30am to 11.30am 17/04/2024 – 15/05/2024

Waverley Community Allotment Waverley Terrace

Carry On Cooking

Friday 12.30pm to 2.30pm 19/04/2024 – 17/05/2024

Community Hub South Wynyard Road

Fab Lab Introduction

Tuesday 10am to 11.30am or 1.30pm to 3pm 23/04/2024 – 07/05/2024

Community Hub Central York Road

Business Administration

You can find out more by visiting any of the Community Hubs or by:

01429 868616

www.hartlepooljobsandskills.com

jobs.skills@hartlepool.gov.uk

/HartlepoolJobsandSkills @HartlepoolJS

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We’re top notch!

Members of the Jobs and Skills team celebrate their quality accolades

There has been plenty to celebrate at Hartlepool Borough Council’s Community Hubs Service and its Jobs and Skills team after they gained a host of quality accolades.

standard for all organisations working with volunteers, which is managed by the National Council for Voluntary Organisations.

The Jobs and Skills Team has again been rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted following its first full inspection since 2013.

There are currently over 120 volunteers within the Community Hubs Service – which covers a range of venues including Community Hub Central in York Road, Community Hub South in Wynyard Road and Waverley Community Allotment – and they are involved in a wide range of activities such as The Bread and Butter Thing, Community Café, Fab Lab and Jobs & Skills.

Part of the Community Hubs, it offers a wide range of services for adults including careers advice, learning opportunities, qualifications, personal development activities, workforce development, volunteering and employment support.

The inspectors found that the service has created a curriculum that is targeted effectively at the most disadvantaged residents in the borough.

They noted that learners on courses grow in personal confidence and benefit significantly from the additional services available at the Hubs, where they can get support for their physical and mental health, receive financial advice and use the library resources and digital suites.

The Jobs and Skills team has also earned the Quality in Careers Standard – the national quality award for careers education, information and advice - following an inspection

by Investor in Careers.

The inspectors said: “Many areas of exceptional practice were observed and Hartlepool Jobs and Skills is providing a real asset to the people of Hartlepool,” adding that the team “had built excellent relationships with local employers.”

Completing a ‘hat trick’ of awards, the Community Hubs Service has gained Investing in Volunteers - the UK quality

The NCVO assessor found that “the volunteers feel that their contribution is meaningful. They enjoy their roles and feel valued by the Council,” and added that “the Council clearly invests in volunteers to achieve their aspirations, and many have moved into further education and employment.”

Councillor Bob Buchan, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Adult and Community-Based Services Committee, said: “Our Community Hubs Service has been a phenomenal success, bringing residents together and giving them the opportunities, support and encouragement to live their best lives.

“Whether people want to gain new skills, study for a qualification, become a volunteer or progress into their chosen career, we can support them to achieve that, and we are extremely proud of, and value, our staff and volunteers.”

To find out more about volunteering at Hartlepool’s Community Hubs visit www.hartlepoolnow.co.uk/ volunteering or call in to any of the Hubs.

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Balancing the Council’s Budget All councils are experiencing significant inflationary and demand pressures. As a result Hartlepool Borough Council (HBC) faced a budget gap of £13m for 2024/25.

As part of a package to address this gap, the Council has made the difficult decision to increase Core Council Tax by 0.99% and Adult Social Care Precept (ASCP) by 2%. This increase will provide £1.5m towards the funding gap. At the time of writing, the combined increase of 2.99% is, we believe, the lowest increase in the country for a council with social care responsibility.

The budget includes challenging savings proposals, but seeks to protect services to our most vulnerable residents.

Without the increase, significant cuts to front line services would be needed.

The Council’s Government grant allocation for the next financial year is better than expected. However, we remain disappointed that a fairer distribution of government funding has been delayed. We will continue to press the case for a fairer funding system to alleviate the burden on local council tax payers.

How the gap has arisen £6.5m

Pay and price inflation

£4.5m

Children’s social care pressure

£13m

£1.5m

Previous use of one-off reserves

£0.3m Increases to debt charges

£0.2m Special education needs transport

How the gap has been addressed £3.8m

Government grant increases

£3.2m

Use of one-off reserves (i.e. deficit deferred)

£2.0m

£13m

Savings proposals

£1.7m

Increased business rates

£1.5m

Increased Council Tax (including ASCP)

£0.8m

Increased Council Tax base (i.e. more houses)

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A band-by-band guide to Council Tax 2024/25 Hartlepool Borough Council Basic Amount without parishes

Hartlepool Borough Council Adult Social Care Precept

Office of Police and Crime Commissioner

Fire Authority

Total for areas without a Parish Council

Band A

1,135.45

187.50

202.49

59.64

1,585.08

Band B

1,324.69

218.75

236.23

69.58

1,849.25

Band C

1,513.93

250.00

269.98

79.52

2,113.43

Band D

1,703.17

281.25

303.73

89.46

2,377.61

Band E

2,081.65

343.75

371.23

109.34

2,905.97

Band F

2,460.13

406.25

438.72

129.22

3,434.32

Band G

2,838.62

468.75

506.22

149.10

3,962.69

Band H

3,406.34

562.50

607.46

178.92

4,755.22

If you live in an area with a parish council, there will be an additional small charge for services it provides

How your HBC Council Tax is spent Adult social services – 31%

Children’s services – 38%

Refuse collection and disposal – 7%

Environmental services – 4%

Debt charges – 4%

Recreation and tourism – 5%

Highways and transport – 6%

Other services – 5%

Are you eligible for help paying your Council Tax? Discounts

Local Council Tax Support Scheme

Tackling Fraud

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.

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 is committed to tackling council tax fraud.

Make sure your records are up to date during the prosecution amnesty which runs until the 30th April 2024.

The Council is introducing a new simplified scheme from 2024/25 that increases support for the most vulnerable. If you are currently in receipt of LCTS look out for details accompanying your bill.

Paying your Council Tax Please consider setting up a Direct Debit or standing order to avoid missing payments. Otherwise you can pay your bill anytime. All you need is your account details and bank card.

0300 1230703 (charged at local rate)

www.hartlepool.gov.uk/payment

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Staying Close - helping you build your best life If you’re a young person in Hartlepool who’s getting ready to leave, or has recently left, our residential care, there’s now lots more help for you from a new project called Staying Close.

A Staying Close Support Worker will work closely with you from age 16 to make sure you have all the skills you need to live independently.

They’ll check in with you regularly through visits, phone calls and going out on activities, so you don’t have to wait long to discuss any worries you may have.

They’ll also help you develop a Staying Close Plan to identify your existing self-care skills and build upon the areas where you might need a bit of help to make sure you can manage your own home.

Moving on to becoming an adult can be really exciting but also a bit scary!

The Staying Close Team can help you to deal with some of the challenges you might face when you leave care including: •

Supporting you to find the right accommodation.

•

Helping you on the road to your chosen career.

•

Making sure you are getting the right benefits from the moment you turn 18.

•

Helping you manage your money and pay your bills.

•

Household advice - sometimes things go wrong in the house/flat where you are living and you need help to get them fixed.

•

Relationships - helping you build support networks as you get older so you don’t feel isolated.

•

Socialising/hobbies – helping you find fun things to do where you live.

•

Any other help you feel you may need – such as with bank accounts, cooking and daily chores.

We also have a Life Coach who will help you understand what you are good at and how to take steps to create the life you want.

To find out more, give us a call on 01429 405588.

Find your way with the Pathfinders Have you checked out the new Pathfinders Hub in Villiers Street yet?

It’s there to help young people in Hartlepool to make positive changes in their life.

It’s the new home of the One Stop Shop, where young people aged 13-19 can come to get advice and help with lots of things like education, employment, sexual health, training, volunteering, housing and benefits, and enjoy a range of activities.

It’s also a space where young people who are, or have been, in our care can come and get lots of support and see staff face-to-face five days a week - a space to call your own and to meet other young people, with support on hand when you need it.

The hub is a lovely, fun, warm space and hosts the three Children in Care Council groups, a parent and toddler group, an LGBTQ group, a UASC group and an independent living skills group.

Come and meet the friendly team at the Pathfinders Hub

There’s also a private and confidential consultation room and a care leaver space where our care leavers can relax and take time out.

The Pathfinders Hub is open from 9am to 5pm every weekday. To find out more, drop in or give us a call on 01429 284043.

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Youth centre set for new look A popular youth centre is set for an exciting makeover after Hartlepool Borough Council won £90,000 of Government funding.

The grant will pay for a refurbishment of Throston Youth Project in Wiltshire Way, which runs a range of evening activities for young people aged 13-19 and up to age 25 with SEND. The Council’s Hartlepool Youth Services team bid for the money from the Youth Investment Fund, which aims to transform and level up opportunities for young people in England.

The building – which is called the Gus Robinson Centre – dates from the 1970s and is leased to the Council by the PFC Trust, which has welcomed news of the grant.

As well as a new kitchen being installed, the main activities room will be redecorated and the front of the building will be transformed with new doors and windows and rendering.

The work will start at the end of April and will take about 18 weeks to complete.

Councillor Jim Lindridge (third from left) celebrates the grant win with members of the Youth Services team, young people who use the centre and representatives of the PFC Trust.

Councillor Jim Lindridge, Chair of the Council’s Children’s Services Committee, said: “This is great news for the centre – the improvements will give it a fresh new look, making it much more welcoming for the young people and for other residents who also use the building.

“Well done to the Hartlepool Youth Services team for yet another success in gaining national funding to create good experiences and opportunities for the young people of our town.”

We’re hatching some Easter fun!

There’ll once again be lots of fantastic activities for school-aged children and young people in Hartlepool over the Easter school holidays – and they’re all free for eligible children!

It’s all part of Hartlepool Holiday Fun – a project run by Hartlepool Borough Council in partnership with different organisations across the town and funded by the Department for Education under its Holiday Activities and Food programme – providing activities for children and young people over the main school holidays throughout the year.

As well as having a great time, they also get a tasty and nutritious meal into the bargain.

Trampolining, forest school activities, Pokemon and Harry Potter clubs, swimming, multisports, art workshops, boxing and mindfulness sessions are just some of the activities which will be on offer.

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 will also be a small number of subsidised, payable spaces available for non-eligible children. These will be advertised and bookable directly via the activity providers.

All parents/carers whose children are eligible to take part will be sent a voucher by email or text, which will enable them to register and book places for the activities for free – if you believe your child is eligible and you haven’t been sent a voucher by 6th March, please email HAF@hartlepool.gov.uk Councillor Jim Lindridge, Chair of the Council’s Children’s Services Committee, said: “Hartlepool Holiday Fun continues to bring happiness to thousands of children and young people and help parents during the cost of living crisis.

“We’re lining up an action-packed programme for the Easter holidays, so there’ll be plenty to keep children and young people entertained, helping them discover new hobbies and skills and make new friends and – not least – giving them a nutritious meal into the bargain.”

For more information visit www.hartlepool.gov.uk/hartlepool-holiday-fun

#Hartlepool HolidayFun

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Are you getting the right childcare for your needs? ren aged Do you have child 0-5 years old?

Do you currently work and need help with childcare costs ?

Are you planning to return to work and have young childr en? ry Do you have children at prima club or school and need breakfast after-school childcare?

Age 3-4 years ALL PARENTS

15

15

15

15

HOURS

HOURS

HOURS

HOURS

NOW

APR 2024

SEP 2024

SEP 2025

WORKING FAMILIES Changes are being made to local childcare to support parents in getting back to, or staying in work.

Financial support is not limited to just nurseries and childminders. Depending on eligibility criteria, this support could also be used for breakfast clubs; afterschools clubs; holiday clubs or play schemes.

From April 2024 more help is on the way: •

From April 2024, eligible working parents in England with children aged 2 will have access to 15 hours childcare.

•

From September 2024, the 15 hours childcare offer will be expanded to eligible working parents in England with children between 9 and 23 months old.

•

From September 2025, eligible working parents in England with children between 9 months up to school age will have access to 30 hours childcare.

Support is also expanding for primary-school aged children – from September 2024, parents are expected to see an expansion in the availability of childcare in their local area before and after school, between 8am and 6pm, also known as ‘wraparound care’. This is to be paid-for by parents.

Don’t miss out on getting the support you are entitled to. Visit the childcarechoices.gov.uk website to check what offer you might be eligible for, apply and sign up to their newsletter to get the latest updates about the childcare support expansion.

For more information, call the Childcare Team on (01429) 523523 or email earlyyearschildcare@ hartlepool.gov.uk

30

30

30

30

HOURS

HOURS

HOURS

HOURS

NOW

APR 2024

SEP 2024

SEP 2025

Age 2 years

FAMILIES RECEIVING SOME ADDITIONAL FORMS OF GOVERNMENT SUPPORT

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Pregnancy and parenthood can be a happy yet challenging journey which affects families in different ways. Whether you’re feeling stressed, anxious, worried, have started to be withdrawn, feel sad or low in mood, or are in need of guidance and information, your Hartlepool Family Hubs are here to support you throughout your entire parenting journey...

Did you know the cost of infant formula can have a serious impact on some family budgets? Breastfeeding can save around £700 in the first year of life.

Breastfeeding protects children from a vast range of illnesses, including infections, diabetes, asthma, heart disease and obesity, as well as cot death (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).

Contact our Infant Feeding Team who run antenatal information classes, offer drop-in infant feeding and introducing solid group sessions and run a virtual peer breastfeeding support group to help you with all mild to complex feeding issues.

Our Perinatal and Infant Mental Health Team are also here to support you. They provide sensitive support to families through telephone contact, home visits, clinic

Depression in pregnancy can start at any time and is known as antenatal depression.

Postnatal depression can start at any time in the first year after giving birth to your baby. For some, postnatal depression can be more difficult to recognise as it can develop gradually.

contacts and weekly group perinatal mental health drop-ins.

If you would like extra support with your emotional wellbeing or with bonding with your baby, get in touch with your Health Visitor or your Family Hubs to access this support.

For more information contact Hartlepool Family Hubs or follow us on Facebook to keep updated with all of our activities.

01429 292444

Hartlepool Family Hubs

Train with us to be a peer supporter Have you ever breastfed for at least 3 months? Do you have 2 hours per week available to volunteer? Would you like to train with us for free, learn new skills and gain a level 2 OCN qualification?

Whether you’re a grandparent, mother or carer, if you have ever personally breastfed for at least 3 months you could offer invaluable support to families in your local area!

As a peer supporter you have the chance to make a real difference to local families. We know that local families really value peer support as part of a wider network of local services. Peer supporters listen to parents, offer support and encouragement, offer information and signpost to other relevant services. Peer supporters volunteer at our face-to-face groups in hospital.

Email hartlepoolsupport@nct.org.uk for further information or scan the QR code to apply!

“I signed up to train as a breastfeeding peer supporter to help women feel supported by their choices. It’s important to me that women can trust in their bodies and abilities, and I hope I can help in some small way with that as a peer supporter… it was a highlight of my week to spend time with likeminded women and gain some friendships with other mums locally” – Jasmine, mum and new peer supporter

16

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.

Love later living in your own rented apartment exclusively for over 55s Anchor’s affordable and well-maintained rental apartments offer security, independence and complete peace of mind.

On-site manager 24-hour emergency call system Maintenance and landscaped gardens A pet friendly environment*

Apartments currently available across our nine Hartlepool locations.

For more information call 01429 650 185 or visit anchor.org.uk/hartlepool *Anchor Pet Policy applies.

Calls from landlines are charged at a local rate. Call costs from mobiles vary according to your plan.

Heriot Grange, Hartlepool

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Apprenticeship opportunities coming soon Are you leaving school this summer and looking for an apprenticeship? Or even thinking about a career change? Well get ready as applications for the next intake of the Council’s apprentices will be advertised week commencing 22nd April 2024. Working in a range of teams right across the Council, you will earn a salary from day one as an apprentice whilst gaining on the job experience and working towards a recognised qualification.

Councillor Mike Young, Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, said: ‘‘Apprentices are a vital part of our workforce and I am really looking forward to seeing applications open soon for the next intake. Many of our previous apprentices have gone on to have hugely successful and rewarding careers in the Council. I would urge as many local people looking for an apprenticeship to seriously consider applying for some great opportunities.’’

To find out more about our upcoming apprenticeship opportunities please visit our new Jobs and Careers page at: hartlepool.gov.uk/vacancies

Stand with farmers taking on the climate crisis.

Choose Fairtrade.

Climate change is destroying the livelihoods of farmers and workers already pushed to the brink by unfair trade. When shopping in Hartlepool, choose Fairtrade products so they can earn enough to take on the climate crisis, farm sustainably and meet their everyday needs. fairtrade.org.uk

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Could you provide a safe and caring home?

Shared Lives offers a rewarding, paid career which enhances lives – could it be for you?

Shared Lives providers open their home and family life to an adult or young person aged over 16 with a learning disability who needs help to live well, supporting them to live as part of the community.

Giving people the chance to live with another person or family on a long term or respite basis can make a difference to someone’s life.

As well as offering the person a safe home, it can help them to develop their independence skills.

Becoming a Shared Lives provider and offering a home for an adult in need of care and support can make a huge difference and providers will be paid an attractive allowance for their time and support.

People of all ages, backgrounds and ethnicities can apply to become a provider. They can be married, single

or living with a partner and it does not matter if they have children or whether they are homeowners or live in rented accommodation.

The assessment process takes six to eight weeks and includes DBS checks, home checks and induction training.

Applications are then considered by an independent panel.

“Providing a home for someone has proven to be extremely rewarding,” says one Shared Lives provider.

“I’m grateful for the immeasurable support and guidance I’ve received from the Shared Lives Scheme.”

If you are looking for a rewarding career and could offer a home to someone, find out more about Shared Lives by emailing shared.lives@durham.gov.uk.

Alternatively, call Alison Urwin on 07786 027139 or visit www.hartlepool.gov.uk/hartlepool-shared-lives.

Have you got what it takes to make a difference?

Working in adult social care is a fulfilling and rewarding career choice that offers a unique opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable people in Hartlepool.

Dedicated and passionate community care workers go above and beyond every day to make a positive difference in the lives of the most vulnerable members of our society, ensuring they feel safe, valued, and happy.

Leanne, who has worked for Vestra Homecare for over 12 months, said: “I love my job. I’m able to work around my childcare and am currently undertaking my Level 2 in Health and Social Care.

Agnes with her care worker Leanne

Agnes, pictured with her care worker Leanne from Vestra Homecare, said: “I don’t know where I would be without my care workers, they are a godsend. They cheer me up every day, and even make time to sit and help me with my crossword. I am so lucky that they come to see me.”

Whilst the satisfaction derived from working in adult social care in the community is immeasurable, the benefits don’t stop there.

The role offers flexibility. You can choose to work full-time, part-time, or even on a flexible schedule that suits your lifestyle.

Also, the variety of tasks and responsibilities ensures that no two days are the same. From assisting with personal care to organising social activities, you will constantly be faced with new challenges and opportunities to grow.

As a care worker you’ll be equipped with transferable skills, as well as given the opportunity to undertake recognised qualifications, with career progression in a growing industry.

“Yes - there are times when the job can take a physical and emotional toll and the work can be exhausting, but I get great satisfaction at the end of every day knowing that by just doing my job I have brought a smile to the faces of the people I care for.”

For details of care vacancies visit www.hartlepoolnow. co.uk/opportunities and www.northeastjobs.org.uk or search for ‘care careers’ online.

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Help is here whenever you need it The approach of spring and the lighter evenings brings a welcome boost after the dark winter nights, but strains on our mental wellbeing can still come at any time, whether through family friction, loneliness, money worries or other problems.

When you feel you need a bit of support, there are lots of groups and organisations in Hartlepool who’ll be glad to help you. Here are some of them.

Cleveland Fire Brigade Befriending Volunteer Service Volunteers at Cleveland Fire Brigade’s Befriending Volunteer Service play a crucial role in providing invaluable support to adults aged 65 and over in Hartlepool who are socially-isolated.

By offering essential social interaction, they contribute significantly to enhancing the wellbeing of these residents, fostering connections and making a positive impact on their lives.

Play Out Hartlepool Play Out Hartlepool supports local people to get outside in the great outdoors and play! It helps people to build relationships and promotes physical and mental health by getting outdoors in local green spaces together, with opportunities including playgroups, volunteering, Play Streets sessions. growing plants in community spaces and sessions promoting play and learning for parents and children. www.bookwhen.com/playoutnortheast

01429 872311

Play Out Hartlepool

befriending@clevelandfire.gov.uk

www.instagram.com/playouthartlepool playouthartlepool@hotmail.com

Togetherall

Andy’s Man Club

Togetherall – the confidential, anonymous online mental health support community available 24/7 - is here to support you. Thanks to Hartlepool Borough Council partnering with Togetherall, if you live in Hartlepool and you’re 16 or over, you can join Togetherall today for free.

Andy’s Man Club is a national men’s peer-to-peer support charity with groups all over the country for any man aged 18+ to talk and listen in a confidential and non-judgemental environment. Andy’s Man Club in Hartlepool is based at Hartlepool Rovers RUFC, getting together at 7pm every Monday, except bank holidays.

It provides support to millions of people throughout the UK and globally and is proven to help people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, isolation and other issues. www.togetherall.com

www.andysmanclub.co.uk www.facebook.com/andysmanclub www.facebook.com/andymanclubhartlepool info@andysmanclub.co.uk

Artrium

Hartlepool Carers

Artrium is a mental health charity that uses art to improve wellbeing. It offers a safe space for adults to create artwork in its Park Road Studio and also has a community art gallery in Middleton Grange Shopping Centre where local artists exhibit and sell artwork. It strives to reduce the barriers that people might face to create artwork for themselves or as part of a group and supports adults in their recovery and helps their integration back into the community, work, education and friendships.

If you look after someone, Hartlepool Carers are here for you. They provide support for people who look after others – not professional carers but people who care for their husband, wife, mam, dad, son, daughter, sibling, friend or other relative. They offer information, advice and guidance and it’s all confidential, non-judgemental and impartial. The Carers Hub at 19A Lowthian Road, TS24 8BH (open Monday to Thursday 9am-5pm and Friday 9am-3pm) is a centrepoint for carers in the town.

www.theartrium.org

www.hartlepoolcarers.org.uk

info@theartrium.org.uk

01429 283095

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12 Evolution | Wynyard Park | Wynyard | TS22 5TB 8 Newgate | Barnard Castle | DL12 8NG T: 01429 264101 F: 0333 444 4420 W: www.tbilaw.co.uk

21

Upcoming Councillors’ Ward Surgeries BURN VALLEY Ward surgeries to be arranged Councillors: David Nicholson (Conservative), Jonathan Brash (Labour), Ged Hall (Labour) DE BRUCE 09 April 2024 4pm - 5pm West View Community Centre, Miers Avenue Councillors: Veronica Nicholson (Conservative), Rachel Creevy (Labour), Brenda Harrison (*LCO) FENS & GREATHAM 19 March 2024 5.45pm - 6.30pm The Heron Room, Fens Primary School 16 April 2024 5.45pm - 6.30pm The Heron Room, Fens Primary School Councillors: Jim Lindridge (Independent), Bob Buchan (Conservative), Philip Holbrook (*LCO) FOGGY FURZE 16 March 2024 11am - 12 noon

Belle Vue Sports & Community Centre, Kendal Road

20 April 2024 11am - 12 noon

Belle Vue Sports & Community Centre, Kendal Road

Councillors: Melanie Morley (Labour), Carole Thompson (Labour), Martin Dunbar (*LCO)

HART 6 April 2024 10am - 11am Hartfields Retirement Village, Bishop Cuthbert Councillors: Tom Cassidy (Conservative), John Leedham (Conservative), Rob Darby (Conservative)

RURAL WEST 27 March 2024 6pm – 7pm Hartlepool Cricket Club, Park Drive Councillors: Scott Reeve (Conservative), Andrew Martin-Wells (Conservative), Mike Young (Conservative)

HEADLAND & HARBOUR 20 March 2024 5pm - 6pm Central Estate Methodist Church, West View Road 10 April 2024 5pm - 6pm The Annexe, Wharton Terrace Councillors: Brian Cowie (Conservative), Shane Moore (Hartlepool Independent Union), Matthew Dodds (*LCO)

SEATON 6 April 2024 10.30am - 11.30am Seaton Carew Branch Library, Station Lane Councillors: Sue Little (Independent), Leisa Smith (Independent)

ROSSMERE 16 March 2024 11am - 12 noon Community Hub South, Wynyard Road 20 April 2024 11am - 12 noon Community Hub South, Wynyard Road Councillors: Christopher Groves (Conservative), Moss Boddy (Labour), Tom Feeney (*LCO)

For details of your local Councillor(s) or to check Ward Surgery dates please contact Hartlepool Borough Council on (01429) 523702/523704.

THROSTON 20 March 2024 5pm - 6pm Gus Robinson Centre, Wiltshire Way 15 April 2024 5pm - 6pm Throston Community Centre, Glamorgan Grove Councillors: Paddy Brown (Independent), Cameron Sharp (Labour) For an appointment with the Leader, contact leader@hartlepool.gov.uk or telephone 01429 523702/523704 Anyone wanting to speak to MP Jill Mortimer please telephone her office 01429 226457 and an appointment can be made.

Email: jill.mortimer.mp@parliament.uk *Labour and Co-Operative Party

Exploring HMS Trincomalee’s history Did you know that HMS Trincomalee is the last remaining Royal Navy ship to be built in Bombay (now Mumbai), India, by the East India Company?

She has unique global links and stories, but these are not explicitly known.

To help make these links find a wider audience, The National Museum of the Royal Navy Hartlepool is undertaking a project funded by the Esmée Fairbairn Collections Fund (administered by the Museums Association) to highlight and celebrate the ship’s diverse histories.

The NMRN Hartlepool is looking to collaborate with local community groups to co-produce research that will bring forward new insights into HMS Trincomalee’s build at the Bombay dockyard. It is also conducting research into her contact with the First Nations people of the Pacific.

It aims to offer a wider account of the ship for everyone in new displays that are being planned for the ship and quayside.

For further information please contact Clare Hunt, Principal Curator at The National Museum of the Royal Navy Hartlepool, at clare.hunt@nmrn.org.uk

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Town Deal delivers new training facility Work is nearing completion on a major upgrade of premises forming part of a civil engineering skills academy in Hartlepool.

The Exeter Street annexe of Hartlepool College of Further Education offers 1,500 square metres of state-of-the-art fabrication and welding training facilities – including four workshops, 39 welding booths, a “clean lab” for weld testing and five classrooms.

Michelle Roberts, the college’s Head of Facilities, said “Our everything under one roof approach means that students will no longer have to switch to the main college site for elements of their training, allowing them to spend more time learning.”

Working in partnership with Teesside University, it is one of very few providers in the country to offer Level 4 HNC in Fabrication and Welding. The college is a TWI certification Ltd certified Welder Training Organisation able to deliver commercial welding courses and codings.

The Civil Engineering Skills Academy also has premises in Brenda Road where work is currently underway - thanks to Town Deal funding and the Council - to create a further 5,000 square metres of training and education facilities that will provide a range of civil engineering opportunities for over 250 new learners.

The Civil Engineering Skills Academy, a partnership between the college and Seymour Civil Engineering, is one of five Hartlepool Town Deal projects benefitting from £25m of Government funding following a bid by Hartlepool Borough Council.

The improvements to the annexe have cost over £2m – with Town Deal funding complemented by financial support from the college and the Government’s new T-Level technicalbased qualifications initiative. The upgrade will see an additional 70 students enrol at the site, with an anticipated 56 of them gaining qualifications over the next 12 months.

(left-right): Helen Gott, HCFE’s Head of School - Engineering; Michelle Roberts, Head of Facilities; and David Yorke, Fabrication and Welding Operations Co-ordinator

New health and social care academy development underway pipeline of qualified staff working across the health and social care system in the future.”

Nineteen full-time jobs have been created during construction, and there will be seven new jobs at the academy. The development will have nearly 750 square metres of new education and skills facilities, with 200 students expected to gain qualifications in the next 12 months.

Stakeholders at a recent event to mark the start of work

Work has begun on the new £1.25m Hartlepool Health and Social Care Academy at the University Hospital of Hartlepool.

The academy is one of five of Hartlepool Borough Council’s £25m Town Deal projects.

It will help to kick-start the careers of Hartlepool’s next generation of health and social care professionals.

Neil Atkinson, managing director of North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for the Trust to complement the services we operate out of Hartlepool and to ensure we have the right

Councillor Mike Young, leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, said: “This project represents a major investment in the future of our town, its residents and our local hospital.”

The state-of-the-art academy – one of a small number nationwide – is set for completion this summer and will feature a bespoke simulation ‘at home’ training suite, a four-bed training bay, an ICT suite, a trainee common room, an immersive suite and several other flexible training and class rooms.

Darren Hankey, Chair of the Hartlepool Town Deal Board and Principal of Hartlepool College of Further Education, said: “The academy, alongside a Civil Engineering Skills Academy that is also being supported by Town Deal, will help to address serious skills shortages and provide new career opportunities for local people.”

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Wesley Chapel restoration forges ahead The restoration of the Wesley Chapel continues to make good progress despite the setback of last year’s major fire.

A range of work is now complete, including the main roof structural steelwork, the fabrication of the steelwork for the structural alteration to the building’s steel frame and the infilling of the former swimming pool.

Other works are on-going and include installing roof timbers on the main building, further infilling where a dance floor and staircases have been removed and design of the internal services and lifts.

Installation of the roof coverings on the main building is scheduled to start mid/late-March and external cleaning is planned for April. Re-instatement of the annexe – the section worst hit by the fire - will begin late April/early May.

Dr Maxine Craig, Town Deal Board Vice-Chair, said: “This is an important building and its location means it is often one of the first visitors take notice of when they arrive. We also know that the Wesley, in its many previous guises, holds a place in the memories and hearts of many residents.

We have worked hard to ensure that the financial heritage deficit does not prevent the renovation of this historic site, and I am proud to have played a part in this key project alongside other civic leaders and our partner Jomast.”

Councillor Mike Young, Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, “Everyone was so shocked by the fire and I remember fearing the worst as it took hold, so I am delighted that the renovation is back on track and progressing so well.”

The £3.8m project to restore the grade II listed building, due for completion in 2025, will see the creation of a boutique 36-bedroom venue for weddings and other large events.

It is receiving £1.4m through the £25m Hartlepool Town Deal. The building’s owner Jomast is investing the other £2.4m.

Work underway on Highlight Work has started on Hartlepool’s new multi-million pound flagship attraction Highlight.

Site hoardings have been erected and bulk excavation/ site clearance works commenced in January, with a range of heavy equipment being used to break up the concrete surface.

Over the coming months, some important activities will be carried out, including early phases of deep drainage leading onto the installation of piled foundations and construction of the building’s pool tanks.

Highlight is scheduled to open at The Waterfront towards the end of 2025.

The main contractor for the project is Wates Construction, a leader in the sport and leisure sector nationally.

Councillor Mike Young, Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, said: “Highlight is the biggest single investment to be made in Hartlepool, and the fact that work has started on site shows how we are delivering on our ambitious regeneration plans for the borough.”

The active wellbeing hub’s facilities will include three pools – one incorporating water play features; a gym; fitness, dance and activity studios; soft play and children’s party space; dedicated NHS consultation suites and a café, in addition to significant outdoor event and activity spaces which will make use of the stunning and unique setting.

Highlight will also include externally accessible changing and storage facilities, alongside a connection to the marina, to support a wide range of outdoor water sports.

24

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25

Tackling neighbourhood and environmental crime Over £300,000 is to be spent tackling neighbourhood and environmental crime in Hartlepool.

Hartlepool Borough Council is to receive a total of £333,333 from the Home Office’s Safer Streets 5 initiative via the office of Cleveland’s PCC to spend in the town’s Victoria Ward.

Councillor Mike Young, Leader of the Council and Chair of the Safer Hartlepool Partnership, said: “We are grateful to the PCC for supporting our efforts to improve residents’ lives.”

Councillor Sue Little, Chair of the Neighbourhood Services Committee, added: “We want to reassure residents that we will take action to protect them.”

Cleveland PCC Steve Turner added: “We’ve already had some fantastic success in reducing crimes like robbery and burglary through our Safer Streets initiatives.

“I’m really pleased to be working alongside Hartlepool Council once again as we seek to tackle the problems facing our communities.”

In the current financial year, measures include: •

Security improvements to 36 alley gates in the Stephen Street, Suggitt Street, Sandringham Road, Sheriff Street, Dent Street and Derwent Street areas.

•

Three new mobile CCTV cameras which can be remotely monitored.

•

Six new street lighting columns.

Measures in 2024/25 will include employing Community Cohesion and Environmental Projects Officers, setting up three Neighbourhood Watch groups, target hardening the homes of 85 burglary victims and distributing burglary prevention packs to “at risk” properties in six streets.

Council backs British Legion campaign In an important boost for local Armed Forces veterans, Hartlepool Borough Council has thrown its full weight behind the Royal British Legion’s ‘Credit Their Service’ campaign.

The campaign demands an end to the treatment of military compensation as income by welfare benefit means tests, which results in veterans and their families across the country missing out on thousands of pounds a year.

A recent meeting of the Full Council fully endorsed the campaign and pledged to ensure that no member of Hartlepool’s Armed Forces community has their military compensation taken into account to access the same welfare support as their civilian counterparts.

The Council is therefore amending its local policies to ensure that all payments made under military compensation schemes are disregarded as part of all locally-administered means-tested benefits.

Councillor Brian Cowie, the Council’s Armed Forces Champion, said: “We owe an immense debt of gratitude to our Armed Forces community and are committed to doing everything we can to support it.

“I am delighted that the Council has lent its full support to the Royal British Legion’s campaign and is making these changes, maintaining the spirit of our Armed Forces Covenant of which the Council is tremendously proud.”

Hannah Pearce, Director of Campaigns, Policy and Research at the Royal British Legion, said: “We want to thank Hartlepool Borough Council for working with us and doing the right thing by veterans and the whole Armed Forces community.

“All councils in Great Britain have signed the Armed Forces Covenant, and this is a really good example of the tangible difference councils can make to some of the poorest veterans in their community.”

Photo caption (left-right): Councillor Mike Young with Cleveland PCC Steve Turner and Councillor Sue Little.

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www.clevelandfire.gov.uk Our 750 metre closed road circuit has been designed to provide accessible, traffic-free community cycling facilities with opportunities for people of all ages and cycling abilities.

The tarmac track is fenced, floodlit and built on gently sloping terrain incorporating varying elevations and degrees of cornering difficulty.

Peak time - weekday evenings 5pm-9pm & weekends £ 33.00 per hour (Rate for British Cycling affiliated clubs) Off peak time - weekday 8am-4pm £25.00 per hour (Rate for British Cycling affiliated clubs)

For other clubs and private hire costs please contact summerhill.cycling@hartlepool.gov.uk or telephone 01429 284584 for prices.

Active Hartlepool

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Recycle your cycles!

One of the many services on offer at the Hartlepool Walking and Cycling Hub is the bike recycling scheme which transforms old, unused and sometimes broken bikes into rideable functional serviced bikes for new riders to use.

Rather than scrap or throw old bikes away, the hub will pass them on to people who want to ride but don’t have a bike or can’t afford one.

Roy had an old mountain bike taking up space in his garage. The chain had broken, one of the wheels had lost its bolts and most of the cables were rusty and frayed.

Rather than throw the bike away, he donated it to the Hub where the bike was repaired, restored and passed on to a new owner who now uses the bike to get around town on a daily basis.

James Stubbs, Hub Project Delivery officer, said “It is great to see people getting enjoyment out of a bike that would otherwise have been scrapped or thrown way.”

The Hartlepool Walking and Cycling Hub is run by the national charity Sustrans and funded by Tees Valley Combined Authority.

For more information on all Hub events/activities go to www.facebook.com/teesvalleywalkingandcyclinghubs or email hartlepoolactivetravel@sustrans.org.uk Alternatively, simply drop in to the hub @ 15 Church Street.

Is your bike ready for spring?

As the days begin to get longer, many people will be thinking of bringing their bikes out of winter hibernation.

It is important to ensure that your bike is in tip-top condition before hitting the road.

And even if you have continued to cycle through the winter, it is inevitable that your bike will need a bit of TLC after battling the elements for several months.

You can do this yourself by carrying out your own M Check or ABC (D) check.

The M Check is so named because it starts at one of your bike’s wheels, moves up towards the seat, back down to the pedals, to the handlebars and, finally, to the other wheel. As you trace your way around the bike, it creates an M shape.

The ABC (D) check (D was added recently) stands for: •

Air – Are your tyres properly inflated?

•

Brakes – Do the front and back brakes work properly?

•

Chain – Have you oiled it recently?

•

Direction – Are your handlebars fixed on tight, and is your seat on tight and pointing forward?

If you prefer to have your bike checked over by experts contact the Hartlepool Walking and Cycling Hub @ 15 Church Street on hartlepoolactivetravel@sustrans.org.uk or 07766 474793 for more information about its free “Dr Bike” service which offers minor repairs, adjustments and advice.

The Cycle Clinic at Summerhill Country Park also offers servicing by a qualified bike-mechanic. The service currently only charges for any parts required, but from 1st April, a fee of £10 will also apply.

Call 07976 369888 for more information.

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Needing a change for 2024?

If you want to make positive changes to your life, and you are not in work or have been on long term sick, we offer fully-funded, flexible support that is tailored to you.

Our experienced team are here to make sure that everyone has the right tools and encouragement to move forward in life. This can include improving your skills and independence or getting into work.

You don’t need to be a Thirteen customer to benefit from this offer.* We provide personalised support at a time and place that is convenient to you. This can be at your home, at selected community venues, over the phone or even by video call.

We’re here to guide and support you in overcoming any challenges you may be facing. We can help you: • build your confidence • improve health and wellbeing • manage any caring or childcare responsibilities you may have • maximise the financial support you are entitled to • find employment and training opportunities that are right for you

You can find out more by calling us on 01642 947 840, emailing employability@thirteengroup.co.uk or by scanning the QR code. *Eligibility criteria applies. Contact us for more information.

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COUNCIL TAX SINGLE PERSON DISCOUNT FRAUD CRACKDOWN CORRECT YOUR SINGLE PERSON DISCOUNT RECORD BY 30th APRIL 2024 OR RISK PROSECUTION If you are claiming Single Person Discount but no-longer live alone, you may be committing fraud.

The Council has formed an anti-fraud team to target council tax fraud, including Single Person Discount. This will include reviewing social media posts where appropriate.

From the 1st May 2024 we will look to prosecute where there has been any dishonesty in disclosing relevant information. A prosecution amnesty will be in place prior to that date.

Don’t delay. Contact revenues@hartlepool.gov.uk to amend your claim.

FRAUD IS NEVER ACCEPTABLE You can report suspected fraud by contacting the council Single Person Discount Fraud: Other council tax Fraud: Anonymously at:

SPDinvestigations@hartlepool.gov.uk

Investigations@hartlepool.gov.uk

www.hartlepool.gov.uk/report-fraud

COUNCIL TAX SUPPORT IS CHANGING FOR WORKING-AGE PEOPLE The Local Council Tax Support Scheme for working-age people in Hartlepool – how the Council helps people on low incomes pay their Council Tax - will change from 1st April.

Support will be assessed using a new income-banded scheme based on net household income.

The level of your support will be based on a comparison of household size and income for you and your partner.

If you are working, the first £25 of your weekly earnings will be disregarded and where you, your partner or a dependant living with you receives Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or a Personal Independence Payment (PIP) a further disregard of up to £40 from your weekly income will apply. We will also disregard certain other income, please visit www.hartlepool.gov.uk/council-tax-support for further details.

The changes are needed because the current means-tested LCTS scheme is old fashioned, difficult for customers to understand and complex to administer.

Pensioners are not affected as they are covered by a separate scheme set out by Central Government.

To be eligible for working-age Council Tax Support you must: •

Be of working age (below state pension age).

•

Be liable for paying Council Tax on your property.

•

Be living in the property as your main home.

•

Have less than £10,000 in savings and capital (eg. property, shares or investments).

If you are in receipt of Council Tax Support you will receive a leaflet with your Council Tax bill and Council Tax Support letter which will give you more details about the scheme.

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Sign up for garden waste collections Residents can now sign up to the Council’s Garden Waste Subscription Service for 2024/25.

Residents who subscribe are given a unique sticker, and this must be clearly displayed on a bin for it to be emptied.

To renew a subscription or to subscribe for the first time visit www.hartlepool.gov.uk/garden-waste-collections

The Council says that charging - as many other councils do - is fair as the service will only be used by those households that subscribe – and not all properties require garden waste collections.

You can also sign up by telephoning (01429) 523333 or by calling in to Hartlepool Civic Centre.

The annual charge is £35, and only households that subscribe will have their brown bins emptied.

Monthly collections commence on 23rd April and run until November. Households will receive eight collections if they sign up seven days or more before their first collection is due. This equates to £4.38 per collection and represents value for money compared to other disposal methods.

Subscribing residents can check their collection dates at www.hartlepool.gov.uk/findmybinday

Whilst the annual cost of one subscription is £35, up to three additional subscriptions can be taken out, at a cost of £22 per subscription. There are also extra one-off charges for additional bins (if required).

Around 12,500 households signed up to the service last year, over 50% of them online. The service received an average rating of 4.25 out of 5. Over 2,000 tonnes of garden waste was sent for composting locally, ensuring it was disposed of sustainably and responsibly.

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