Vision - Spring 2013

vision your community magazine

Spring 2013

IN THIS ISSUE:

• High Speed Rail to run through District • New Changes to Benefits

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IN THIS ISSUE Changes to the Benefits System

6 Green Footprints Awards 2013

12 Opening of the outdoor pool at Hood Park Leisure Centre.

KEEP UP TO DATE Want to keep up to date with all the latest news from North West Leicestershire?

FRONT COVER

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @NWLeicestershir

The front cover image is from a library stock of images. It is not a representation of HS2 trains.

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FIND US ON FACEBOOK where you can catch up with the latest news from our leisure centres, tourist information, on recycling and on our Green Footprints Challenge.

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Welcome

to Vision magazine

I am pleased to announce that I have frozen Council Tax for the fourth year running. I made this decision because everyone I speak to is tightening their belts and I believe the District Council must do the same.

Many of you will have heard that the Government has announced that the High Speed Rail’s (HS2) “initial preferred route” will pass through the District. The Governments consultation process starts in the Summer and will run for the rest of the year before a final decision in 2014. To confirm our position, the Council decided at its meeting of 26th February to object to the proposed HS2 route on the basis that there is a negative impact on the residents and businesses in our District. Please see page 8 on how you can access more information or, please visit our website because we need to hear your views.

On page 6, you will find the shortlisted projects for our Green Footprints Awards, now in their fifth year. These awards recognise the District’s businesses, community groups and schools who are all working to improve their environmental performance - I would like to congratulate those involved in these worthwhile projects and encourage others to build on their success, making our District a greener place to live, work and visit - both now and in the future.

Richard Blunt Councillor Richard Blunt - Leader

01827 373111 richard.blunt@nwleicestershire.gov.uk

Vision is published by North West Leicestershire District Council.

ADVERTISING: If you To receive a copy in large print please contact the wish to advertise in Vision Communications Team: magazine please email North West Leicestershire District Council, Council Offices, vision@socius-ltd.co.uk Coalville, Leicestershire, LE67 3FJ Email: communications@nwleicestershire.gov.uk Please use your Tel: 01530 454545 blue bag when you dispose of this and other magazines.

Vision magazine has a circulation of 40,500 copies.

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Changes to the benefit system - are you affected?

This year, the Government is making major changes to the welfare benefit system. Housing Benefit, Council Tax Benefit and other welfare benefits will all be affected. In North West Leicestershire, we are writing to those who may be affected by these changes and are working with partners to make sure that information and support is available to all those who need it.

COUNCIL TAX BENEFIT IS CHANGING A NEW Council Tax Support Scheme is being launched in North West Leicestershire on April 1, 2013.

The scheme will replace Council Tax Benefit which has been abolished by the Government as part of welfare reforms. The Government has also cut, by £586,000, the amount the Council receives to help pay for benefits which means all local authorities have had to design their own schemes to cover the shortfall.

For claimants in North West Leicestershire, it means anyone of working age will have to pay at least 8.5% of their Council Tax bill.

Pensioners will not be affected by these changes.

Along with this change, there will be other changes to the way Council Tax is administered in North West Leicestershire. These are:

• second adult rebate is being abolished for working age people • property owners, whose property is unoccupied and undergoing repairs, •

will now get a 50% discount for 12 months instead of a full discount property owners, whose property is unoccupied and empty of furniture, but not undergoing repairs, will only get a 100% discount for one month instead of up to six months under the current scheme.

People who are entitled to claim, or are already claiming Pension Credit will not have to pay more than they do now.

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A Benefit Cap will be introduced This year, the Government are putting a limit on the total amount of benefit that most people aged 16 to 64 can receive. This is called the Benefit Cap. The latest information from the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) is that the Benefit Cap will not apply until Summer 2013 at the earliest. No exact date is known at the moment but this could be anytime up to September 2013. Once a date is announced, affected customers will be written to and informed of the date and the amount of benefit they may lose.

The cap will be £500 for a family unit or £350 for a single person. Only Housing Benefit will be capped

initially but some families could lose a high percentage of their Housing Benefit and have to pay the shortfall from other income such as Income Support or Tax Credits. The latest data received from DWP indicates that there are a handful of families within North West Leicestershire who may be affected by the cap.

If you think you may be affected, there is no need to contact us at this stage. We will be making direct contact with everyone affected. In the meantime, if you want further information on the cap, please visit www.gov.uk/benefit-cap

Under Occupancy will affect Housing Benefit From April 2013, the Government is proposing to reduce the amount of Housing Benefit paid to working age tenants who have spare bedrooms in their homes. This will apply to all council and housing association tenants.

If you already live in a council or housing association home or are thinking of moving into one and have a spare bedroom(s), your housing benefit could be reduced.

If, under the new rules, you find that you have one bedroom more than you need, your eligible rent will be reduced by 14%. If you have two or more bedrooms than you need, your eligible rent will be reduced by 25%. Because your rent will be reduced, your Housing Benefit will also be reduced leaving you to pay any of the shortfall that is not covered by benefit. Please see the information below which gives details of how many rooms the Government is stating you need if you are claiming Housing Benefit: One bedroom for:

• • • • •

Every adult couple Any other adult aged 16 or over Any two children of the same sex (up to 16) Any two children regardless of sex under the age of 10 Any other child.

Help and Advice Council Tax Website www.nwleics.gov.uk/ benefitchanges Email customer.services@ nwleicestershire.gov.uk.

Telephone 01530 454499

Benefits Website www.gov.uk/benefit-cap Email customer.services@ nwleicestershire.gov.uk.

Telephone 01530 454551

All affected customers have already been written to and will be contacted individually to explain the impact of the change and the options available to them.

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Green Footprints Awards This year’s annual Civic Dinner and Green Footprints Awards take place at the Radisson Blu Hotel at East Midlands Airport, our main sponsor for this year’s awards.

Shortlisted projects this year are as follows:

Deena Garnham, Director of Sales at Radisson Blu said: “We are delighted to be the main sponsor of the 2013 Green Footprints Awards and look forward to playing host to the awards dinner to announce the winners at the end of April.

Businesses

“As the greenest hotel in the country, we feel it is very appropriate that we are involved in the Green Footprints Awards.”

Children and Young People

With its impressive green credentials, the Radisson Blu Hotel will provide the perfect backdrop to showcase the tremendous work and commitment of the District’s businesses, groups and schools in meeting the Green Footprints Challenge.

Partnerships and Community Groups

The success of the Green Footprints Challenge lies in making connections to enable businesses, community groups and schools to help each other.

Now in their fifth year, the Green Footprints Awards have previously seen 50 environmental projects shortlisted and 17 worthy winners recognised. This year a total of 80 projects will have been shortlisted since our first Awards ceremony in 2009.

- Donington Park Farmhouse Hotel - East Midlands Airport - Prescient Power Ltd

- 1188 (Coalville) Squadron, Air Training Corps - Ibstock Community Garden - Snibston Youth Group

- Coleorton & New Lount Volunteers - Donisthorpe Community Fund - Friends of Thringstone

Schools - All Saints Primary School, Coalville - Ivanhoe College, Ashby de la Zouch - Woodstone Community Primary School, Ravenstone

Sustainable Urban Design The nominations for this category are due to be considered shortly.

For further information on Green Footprints visit http://footprints.nwleics.gov.uk/

SPONSORS OF THE GREEN FOOTPRINTS CHALLENGE 2013

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Charity Sports Day Balfour Beatty is holding a fun-filled, familyfriendly Charity Sports Day on Saturday 18th May at Staunton Harold Hall to raise much needed funds for Ashby Macmillan Cancer Support.

They are looking for groups of five to join in the action and take on other teams of local residents, businesses and sports clubs in our action packed sporting challenges.Teams can be made up of friends, family and colleagues and need to raise a minimum of £100.

If you simply want to cheer on the teams then just turn up on the day. There will be a range of activities to keep the whole family entertained welly wanging, biscuit decorating, face painting and treasure hunts - there’s something for everyone.

A hog roast and refreshments tent will also be available. Parking and admission is free.

If you would like further information on the day, or to register a team, please contact the Balfour Beatty Charity Committee on Charity@bbusl.com or call Amy Turner on 07967 689132.

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For more information contact Caring Hands at info@caring-hands.co.uk or telephone: 01530 563 300

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High Speed Rail Preferred route through District

T

he Government has announced its “initial preferred route” and station locations for the new High Speed Rail second phase (HS2) line from Birmingham to Leeds which passes and through the district of North West Leicestershire.

The Government will now start to consult with key stakeholders over the next few months to refine the proposals, before launching a formal public consultation during the summer. Once the Government has agreed final proposals, the necessary statutory powers to build the line will be sought through a ‘Hybrid Bill’ in the next Parliament (post 2015). Construction of the line is proposed to start post 2026.

In the East Midlands, the proposed route follows closely the line of the M42/A42, tunnels under East Midlands Airport, and then crosses the M1 heading North, stopping at a new interchange station ‘East Midlands Hub’ at Toton sidings (currently a rail depot) on the edge of Nottingham.

The proposed East Midlands Hub would be a combined HS2 and ‘classic’ rail station, with rail access to Nottingham, Derby and Leicester. There would also be a new road access from the A52 and an extension of the Nottingham Tram to the station.

A set of maps providing a detailed depiction of the HS2 phase from the West Midlands to Leeds via the East Midlands are available by visiting www.HS2.com. Information can also be obtained by visiting our website www.nwleics.gov.uk and following the links to HS2.

CREWS SAY, “THANK YOU FOR RECYCLING” Some of our residents have been interested to learn how we collect our recycling and what the benefits of keeping recycling in separate containers are. Our recycling crews have put together the following information which will give an insight into why being green is so important for all of us.

On recycling day one vehicle, called a splitter, collects your garden waste and cardboard and empties them into two separate compartments. Another vehicle, called a kerbsider, collects your plastics and cans, paper, and glass and empties them into separate compartments on the vehicle. This is why the crews really appreciate it when you separate the glass from the plastics and cans.

reduces the amount of waste to landfill which would be buried in the ground.

The two crews then take your recycling back to our Waste Transfer Station where it is stored in separate bays ready to be sold to reprocessors and recycled.

It makes collections more efficient - separating glass bottles from your plastic and cans helps the crews to be more efficient.

So what are the benefits of recycling and keeping it separate?

Where can I find out more?

The quality of recyclables is higher – because your recycling doesn’t get mixed together with other materials, it stays cleaner. Clean, good quality material is easier to recycle. All the help you give us to recycle 8

It’s cost effective - because the recycling is collected and sorted at the kerbside we don’t have to pay to have the material re-sorted. The recycling is then bulked at the depot in Coalville for collection.

For further information regarding recycling or, if you require a replacement or extra recycling container(s) or bag(s), either Email: recycling@nwleicestershire. gov.uk or visit our website at: http://www.nwleics.gov. uk/pages/recycling_rubbish_and_waste

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Pavements - Pedestrians or Cars?

NEWS IN BRIEF

Getting about safely on pavements is essential for blind and partially sighted people. We all need to be able use pavements without worrying about obstacles that might be blocking the way.

Need Help Getting To Work?

A new transport service has been launched in Coalville by MRC Community Transport based at The Marlene Reid Centre. The service is available to anyone who works or is in training in the Coalville area, who has no transport and is looking for a simple and accessible way of getting to work.To find out more about how the service telephone Nikki on 01530 512457, Email nwarrilow@mrc.uk.net or visit www.mrc.uk.net

However, in too many places across our District, drivers are parking on the pavements - often mistakenly thinking they are doing the right thing by keeping the road clear. However, this means that people may collide with cars parked on pavements potentially causing injury. If the car does not leave enough space, pedestrians may have to walk out into the road to be able to get past and this obviously means we are at risk of being hit by other traffic.

Councillor Alison Smith Deputy Leader of North West Leicestershire District Council and Portfolio Holder for Community Services said: “This is not just a problem for blind and partially sighted people - it affects all pedestrians. However, it particularly affects people who cannot see well enough to judge whether it is safe to step into the road, or people with mobility problems or those who use wheelchairs, or people with small children in buggies.”

As a result, North West Leicestershire District Council are teaming up with the Royal National Institute for the Blind, Leicestershire Police and other Council’s across the County this month to increase awareness amongst car drivers about the problem. A campaign called “thinking of others” will help to spread the message about pavement parking.

Those that do not park responsibly, risk receiving a fine or causing an accident.

If you see anyone you believe is causing an obstruction, please report it by calling the Police non emergency number, 101.

Pick up a FREE guide to the National Forest and Beyond A new, 2013 National Forest and Beyond Visitor Guide is now available. The guide, which is available from Ashby Tourist Information or on line at www. nationalforest.org, highlights fantastic gentle walks, awardwinning attractions, lovely places to stay and a packed programme of events.The Guide is bursting with ideas on places to take the family and where to enjoy the woodlands and countryside; they also highlight local food of the area.

District group looking for members Want to give your views on how the lives of people with a disability can be improved?

A group for disabled residents and carers takes place with District Council Champions every quarter.

The group is looking for members to join them. Contact Magda Allen on 01530 454570 or Email magda.allen@nwleicestershire. gov.uk to find out more.

www.nwleics.gov.uk

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College students tackle local rugby club painting project

Above: Level 2 painting and decorating students with Mr Norman White, Sponsorship Secretary CRFC, Thomas Siddon, President (centre right) and Emily Price, Painting and Decorating student (front right).

Diseworth Diamond Jubilee year commemorated with a mosaic wall panel To commemorate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Year, residents in Diseworth commissioned a mosaic wall plaque for display in the village. Ideas for the plaque were shared with artist and Ceramicist Peter Massey, who designed and prepared the colourful panel. Once the design was agreed, forty village volunteers attended the Diseworth Heritage Centre to work on the mosaic, cutting tiles and setting them into the panel, which portrays prominent features of the village.

On 15th December, the plaque was unveiled by Andrew Bridgen MP at the crossroads in Diseworth. Andrew congratulated the village residents for the community spirit which had created many events during the year to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee, and their dedication in making a lasting memorial for future generations to view. Nikki Hening, who organised the planning and construction of the plaque, thanked the groups who funded the programme, Leicestershire County Council Shire Grants, North West Leicestershire District Council one-off grants, East Midlands Airport and Long Whatton and Diseworth Parish Council.

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A group of Level 2 painting and decorating students from Coalville based Stephenson College recently showed off their skills and expertise to members of Coalville Rugby Club as part of a refurbishment project the college was invited to take part in. The students quickly, and professionally, set about the job in hand under the expert guidance of their tutors: John Markham, Louise Bolstridge and Ian Wesley who did an excellent job.

Representing Coalville Rugby Football Club, Sponsorship Secretary, Mr Norman White said: “Under the direction of college staff, the students applied themselves to the task in a professional manner and the finished work was to a very high standard, which can only be achieved by the standard of tuition they have received. The behaviour and attitude of the students was extremely good and was very evident to members of the club who visited during the time the students were with us. I have to say the quality of work carried out by the students can only bode well for the Coalville and district community.” Mr White added: “I would like to wish staff at Stephenson College every success in the ensuing years in developing our young to take up the reins of industry in the future.”

Painting and decorating tutor Jon Markham said: “Working on projects away from the college gives the students the invaluable experience and insight into what it’s like working in the real world.

The group have worked hard and done a very good job, they are all excellent ambassadors for our college and we are all very proud of their achievements.” Jon added: “Our next project is to refurbish the tea rooms at the Shuttlewood Clarke Foundation at Ulverscroft Grange.”

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Stop and Tell Campaign In Leicestershire last month, the annual ‘Stop and Tell’ campaign was held to raise awareness and encourage people to report hate incidents.

Pictured left to right: Gillian Haluch (Community Safety Officer) Jan Sketchley, and Jon Sketchley (Hermitage FM) Councillor Trevor Pendleton (Chair of the Safer North West Partnership)

“Safe Havens” LAUNCHED IN NORTH WEST LEICESTERSHIRE

North West Leicestershire District Council is taking part in a Countywide initiative aimed at helping vulnerable people in local town centres.

Keep Safe Places aims to provide safe havens in busy shopping areas to offer immediate reassurance to people who are feeling vulnerable, upset, scared or distressed.

Portfolio Holder for Regeneration and Planning said: “It is reassuring for people to know there are places to go if they are feeling upset, confused or worried whilst out in town centres.

“We would like to thank all organisations who have signed up to this initiative and have agreed to lend a helping hand in their communities.”

In the North West Leicestershire District, the first safe places to join the initiative include all of the local libraries and in Coalville, North West Leicestershire District Council offices, the Hermitage FM Community Coffee Lounge and the Marlene Reid Centre.

Chief Inspector Richard Keenan of Leicestershire Police said: “Keep Safe Places is an important step forward which could only have been achieved with the support of partners and caring local businesses.”

Hermitage FM’s Jon Sketchley said: “We are delighted to be part of this scheme and to provide valuable support to people who may need help in our community. Hermitage FM is all Special Keep Safe Places stickers are on about providing a service and making the doors of all organisations that have a difference and this scheme fits perfectly with our ethos.” signed up to the scheme. Councillor Trevor Pendleton, Chair of the Safer To find out more on the Keep Safe North West Partnership and North Place scheme visit: www.leics.gov.uk/ West Leicestershire District Council keepsafeplaceschemes In total, 178 “keep safe places” have been established in busy shopping areas across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.

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Each year, the campaign has a particular focus and this year’s is hate incidents against people who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual or Transgendered (LGBT).

Hate incidents can be physical, written or verbal abuse and anyone can be a victim if they feel they have been targeted because of their age, disability, gender, race, religion, belief or sexual orientation.

Incidents of hate should not be tolerated, and everyone who lives, works in, or visits Leicestershire has the right to be treated with dignity and respect and to live without fear of hatred.

The awareness campaign is being co-ordinated by Leicestershire County Council in partnership with Leicester LGBT Centre, the District and Borough Councils, Leicestershire Police and Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust.

For further information, contact the Hate Incident Monitoring Project (HIMP) on 0116 305 8263 or visit the website www.leics. gov.uk/reporthate

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Outdoor Pool Opening Date just Released Dig out your swimming costume and dust off your goggles for the opening of the outdoor pool at Hood Park Leisure Centre.

Saturday 25th May will see this fantastic facility open its doors for the start of “It’s Summer 2013 Season.”

The outdoor pool is located in its own area of the leisure centre surrounded by a large patio area,

changing and shower areas and plenty of seating what a great way to spend a hot sunny day - sitting by the pool with family and friends. On certain days throughout the week a BBQ will be available.

For more information on the opening date, please visit www.nwleics.gov.uk/pages/hoodparklc at the beginning of May.

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER Want to stay up to date with Council news get all the latest news about new classes and chances to win free month memberships?

People of North West Leicestershire are going the extra mile again for Comic Relief Last year, over 200 local people turned out in force for the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile at Hicks Lodge. The day was a massive success with friends, families and work mates joining together in friendly rivalry to go the extra mile for Sport Relief 2012. The district of North West Leicestershire raised a massive £8553.80.

Building on that success, North West Leicestershire District Council have decided to host a one and three mile fun run again this year, this time for Comic Relief.

Chris Mawbey, event organiser said: “It was a fantastic day! Watching the community come together to support such a great cause was brilliant hopefully we can emulate this again for Comic Relief this year.”

The Comic Relief fun run will take place on Sunday 24th March 2013 at Moira Furnace (1 mile and a 3 mile race). Please come along and join in hopefully we can even raise more money than last year for Comic Relief.

For more information about the fun run, contact Chris Mawbey on 01530 454606 or email on christopher.mawbey@nwleicestershire.gov.uk 12

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If so, why not follow us on Twitter and Facebook!

This year sees the launch of Twitter pages for both Hermitage and Hood Park Leisure Centres so simply log in to Twitter and start following @Hermitage_LC and @HoodPark_LC now.

Alternatively, or as well as, if you are a Facebook regular, log in and search for hermitagelc and hoodparklc and “Like” your local centre!

FAMILY FUN

Club Activ8 - School Holidays

Friday 29th March 2013 - Come and join our family Easter Egg Hunt at Moira Furnace. Starts at 10am and costs £1 per person (under 5’s are free).

Our leisure centres run extensive activity programmes for children and young people throughout the school holidays. Whether you fancy making a splash in the pool, trying your hand at a new sport, racing around the sports hall on the indoor karting track or just coming along for a game of badminton or squash, there are plenty of exciting activities on offer.

Wednesday 3rd April 2013 - Beginners Family Geocaching at Moira Furnace.

A modern day twist on the popular treasure hunt game. Equipment is provided. Starts at 10am and costs £1 per person (under 5’s are free).

To ensure you don’t miss out on these super activities, it is advisable to book early. If you are a member of a Club Activ8, you can use redeem your points against various activities.

There’s plenty to get involved with for all ages so pick up a leaflet next time you are in the centres, give the centres a call on the numbers below or, simply log onto www.nwleics.gov.uk/pages/holidays.

Both events require booking in advance. Please contact Zara Barnes on Tel 01530 454606 or Email zara. barnes@nwleicestershire.gov.uk

Hermitage Leisure Centre: 01530 811215 Hood Park Leisure Centre: 01530 412181

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Is Your Business Fit? A growing number of UK employers have recognised employee health and well-being as a priority, particularly during challenging economic times. Proactive management of employees’ physical and mental health can produce a range of important business benefits including reduction of sickness absence; lost time due to accidents and associated costs; greater staff engagement and productivity; reduced staff turnover recruitment and costs*. In North West Leicestershire, the Council are offering businesses a range of activities aimed at improving employee health and well-being.

Adult Cycle courses on offer Want to get into cycling but not sure how to get started? We are offering businesses a series of adult cycle training courses which have been designed to help build skills, gain confidence and help with equipment. For further information, contact Mat Richardson at North West Leicestershire District Council by calling 07753 309 559 or Emailing: matthew.richardson@charnwood.gov.uk

Swap the car for pedal power Cycling is proving to be a popular alternative to the car for getting into work - If you work in Coalville, courses can be brought to your workplace. If there’s nowhere to park at work, there may also be financial support available to improve facilities at your workplace. For further information, contact Mat Richardson at North West Leicestershire District Council by calling 07753 309 559 or Emailing: matthew.richardson@charnwood.gov.uk

Lunchtime fitness offer for businesses Whilst the transformation of the cycle network in Coalville continues, look out for a series of

Council led cycle rides this spring and summer demonstrating the new network and visiting local attractions – if you’d like to run a lunchtime ride from your workplace, we can support you in a number of ways.

Walking and Running Are you keen on walking or running? Do you have workmates or friends who are also interested in getting fit? Would you like to learn how to lead a group? We are supporting the development of new walking and running groups in Coalville, and providing people with the skills to lead these groups.

Physical Activity For your workplace in Coalville, we’re offering staff surveys which gather information on how staff travel, their health, and their physical activity levels.

Using the information gathered, we will be able to offer bespoke active travel action plans to suit each workplace. If you’re keen to promote the benefits of cycling, walking and physical activity to your colleagues, we can provide support and training to help you become a workplace champion.

For more information on any aspect of the Fit for Business Challenge, please contact Mat Richardson at North West Leicestershire District Council by calling 07753 309 559 or Emailing: matthew. richardson@charnwood.gov.uk * Source: http://www.dwp.gov.uk/ docs/hwwb-healthy-people-healthyprofits.pdf

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HELP AVAILABLE TO GET YOU ON THE PROPERTY LADDER

• Extensions

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• Home Alterations • Loft Conversions • Barn Conversions • Soft & Hard Wood Flooring

Are you a first time buyer looking to purchase your first home but struggling to find an affordable mortgage?

Local Lend a Hand Mortgages or a Local Authority Mortgage is a new partnership scheme from Lloyds TSB and the Councils in Leicestershire. The scheme is aimed at helping people obtain an affordable mortgage without the 20-25% deposit often needed.

Locally, this scheme is only available for first time buyers who want to buy a property in Leicestershire.

Under the scheme, money has been provided by Leicestershire County Council to underwrite (guarantee) mortgages for people who qualify for this type of mortgage. So, with a minimum deposit of 5%, you could soon be moving into your new home*.

The indemnity (or guarantee) provided by the Local Authority means that, although you have a 95% mortgage, you can take advantage of lower interest rates offered if you put down a 20% or 25% mortgage. This will mean your monthly payments will be less than with a traditional 95% mortgage.

To apply or for more information of the Local Lend a Hand Scheme, visit any Lloyds TSB branch in Leicestershire. *There is a property price limit.

The offer is only available in branches of Lloyds TSB and the Housing Advice Team at the Council can provide you more information: Telephone 01530 454 545 Email: customer.services@ nwleicestershire.gov.uk

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A message from the Safer North West Partnership

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Young People Awarded for Sharing “Clean Up” Message

For the second year running North West Leicestershire District Council has won a National award at the Keep Britain Tidy Annual Awards.

The Council entered a project which was delivered in partnership with Castle Rock High School whereby a group of students had volunteered to run a campaign focussing on dog fouling.

The campaign was delivered in support with Street Environment Managers and involved the Castle Rock students taking presentations and lessons in local primary schools aimed at educating young people as to the hazards of dog fouling and encouraging them to spread the message of ‘Bag it and Bin it’.

At a recent Council meeting, Alison Smith, Deputy Leader of North West Leicestershire District Council and Portfolio Holder for Community Services presented two young people, who represented Castle Rock, with certificates to recognise their hard work.

Councillor Smith said: “Working with schools helps us to raise awareness of, and explore environmental issues affecting our District. It also provides an opportunity for young people to think about what they can do, individually and as a school, to improve the environment.

The young people at Castle Rock School have worked incredibly hard on this project.They should be very proud that their work contributed towards the Keep Britain Tidy award for environmental champions we received recently.”

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The students came up with a range of ideas including, a poster competition, badges, leaflets, word search, surveys and memory tests - they even produced their own dog fouling DVD which was used, not only to get the message across, but to encourage the younger pupils to act out their own story.

Michael Gamble, Assistant Head Teacher at Castle Rock Scholl said: “The students became very absorbed in this project. It taught them so much about issues relating to dog fouling whilst greatly enhancing their skills of communication and presentation.This type of community project is very worthwhile and something the school is very keen to be involved in.”

The Council will continue to work with local schools, businesses and communities to educate people on how they can all work together to help keep the District clean and tidy.

Alice Jackson and Millie Fairbrother receive their certificates

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New Energy Audit Scheme for Vulnerable Households North West Leicestershire District Council’s Officer, Alexander Stopher Clark is promoting the County-Wide campaign called 4 Ways to Warmth.

The campaign is aimed to help those with greatest need to increase affordable warmth and combat excess deaths associated with the winter period. Alex’s role includes: free household visits, providing information on the different efficiency measures available, providing impartial advice and signposting. He can also provide information on the range of energy tariffs and grant schemes available to help you change the way you keep warm.

Part of the campaign will be delivering crisis services to those experiencing heating breakdown or energy bill debts.

Alex can be contacted by calling 01530 454 775 or Email: alex.clark@nwleicestershire.gov.uk

Looking for the right advice?

Spring Savers Our new FREE handy pocket timetables and ‘Travel for 50p’ vouchers are available to tell you about selected rural bus services on offer throughout the county.

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Service 3 - Loughborough • Service 8 - Loughborough - Grantham Service 13 - Loughborough • Service 27 - Loughborough - Thurmaston Service 40 - Leicester Circleline • Service 120 - Coalville - Leicester

‘Travel for 50p’ vouchers valid from 25th March - 20th April 2013 Available from local libraries, service shops or by calling the helpline on 0116 305 0002, emailing stg@leics.gov.uk or visiting www.leics.gov.uk/transport_promotions VIS0313

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Coalville Office 21-25 London Road Coalville Leicestershire LE67 3JB Tel: 01530 834466 Fax: 01530 810886

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Ground work Renovation Pilot Project Update Last year, North West Leicestershire District Council’s Housing Service embarked on a pilot project to support local young people in partnership with Groundwork Leicester and Leicestershire.

The project involved young people undertaking extensive renovation of homes - providing them with practical work experience in the work place.

The project has successfully returned homes to the social housing market, with two of the homes currently being occupied and the remaining homes being available via the choice based letting system shortly.

Councillor Roger Bayliss Portfolio Holder for Housing and Customer Services, North West Leicestershire District Council said: “The project has provided young people from the local area with valuable work experience, which has provided them with a taster of what the construction industry is like. I hope the experiences they have gained here will help them into full time employment in the future. Groundwork has also introduced new innovative construction methods that we are looking to adopt, so not only the young people have learnt something from this project.”

The Housing Service currently employs 4 apprentices and also supports Stephenson College by having a number of in-education young people on work experience throughout the year.

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY TO LET Offices | Industrial Units | Retail Units | Craft Workshops

Great Locations, Competitive Rents, Modern Units For further information and current availability contact Property Services: Tel: 01530 454590 or Email: property.services@nwleicestershire.gov.uk 18

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County Council Election Your Voice, Your choice On 2 May 2013 Leicestershire County Council elections will be held in North West Leicestershire. The County Council is responsible for education services, social services, roads and transport, libraries and waste disposal.

All these services have an impact on our everyday lives and elections are an important opportunity to vote for the candidate who best represents your views on these vital issues. Someone will be selected to represent you whether or not you vote – so take your opportunity to have your say. But if you are not registered you can’t vote.

Key dates

Registration is easy

Deadline to register for a proxy vote - 5pm on 24th April 2013

Registration is available throughout the year and if you move house it is a good idea to re-register at your new address. Notifying the Council Tax department is not enough – each eligible elector must register separately.

To register, call the elections department at the District Council and they will send you a simple form to complete and return. Or you can find details on the Electoral Commission website.

If you would like to vote but find it hard to get to the polling station, then you can apply for a postal vote or you can nominate someone to vote on your behalf (a proxy). Please contact the elections department who will help you with this.

The last day for inclusion on the register in order to be able to vote in the County elections - midnight on 17th April 2013 Deadline to register for a postal vote - 5pm on 17th April 2013

Further information If you have any questions regarding the election, contact the Electoral Registration Officer at North West Leicestershire District Council.

Telephone: 01530 454512 E-mail: electreg@nwleicestershire.gov.uk Write: Electoral Registration Officer, North West Leicestershire District Council, Council Offices, Coalville, Leicestershire, LE67 3FJ Website: www.nwleics.gov.uk/electoral_registration www.electoralcommission.org.uk

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Quit for Life Figures show reduction of smokers in District Latest figures show there has been a reduction of around 2000 in the number of adult smokers of the District over the last 2 years. In 2009/10 there was an estimated 15500* (22.2% of 18+ adults) smokers in North West Leicestershire and in 2011/12 this figure had fallen to just over 13,500* (19.5%) this compares to 18%* across Leicestershire and 21%* in England.

Councillor Alison Smith Deputy Leader of North West Leicestershire District Council and Portfolio Holder for Community Services said: “The fact that people have chosen to stop smoking and lead a healthier lifestyle is excellent news for our communities.

In conjunction with the NHS Stop Smoking service, schools and other partners, the Council has been very active in the work it’s done to reduce, and ultimately prevent, the number of smokers, especially young people.”

Stopping smoking is the single most effective thing people can do to improve their health and they don’t have to do it alone.

Help is available through GP surgeries, pharmacies and the NHS Stop Smoking service. Seeking support through the NHS is 4 times more likely to work than trying to stop “cold turkey”. To get effective help to stop smoking people should phone 0845 045 2828.

There is support too for people wanting to make their homes and cars smoke free which protects children and babies from the harmful effects of second hand smoke. Information on the Step Right Out campaign is available from North West Leicestershire District Council by contacting Andrew Head, Health Improvement Officer, 01530 454835, andrew. head@nwleicestershire.gov.uk * Source: JSNA 2012 20

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Tenant’s weekly charge will change from 1st April 2013 For 2013/14 Council housing rent will increase by an average of 5.33%, which is in line with the National average. For some tenants, who already pay a higher level of rent for their home, the increase is smaller, at a rate of 3.1%. This means the highest average weekly rent for a three bedroom Council house will stand at £85.33 per week.

Service charges for Council homes will also increase this year by an average of 2.7%. If you currently pay a service charge for your home, the amount will be detailed on your rent notification letter.

These changes will come into force from Monday 1st April 2013. You should receive your rent notification letter by Saturday 2nd March.

If you receive Housing Benefit, you will receive a separate letter from the Benefits team which will detail how much you will receive in Housing Benefit per week.

If you currently purchase Home Contents Insurance through the Council for your home, premiums will not increase for 2013/14. If you do not currently purchase insurance and wish to receive further information, please contact the Rent Accounting team on 01530 454 798 or Email: rentaccounting@ nwleicestershire.gov.uk

CENTENARY OF THE GREAT WAR Next year, 2014 marks 100 years since the start of World War I. The North West Leicestershire Heritage Network Group, which is made up of representatives from local independent museums and historical groups, are planning to produce a series of booklets commemorating the men and women (originally from the District) who gave their lives.

To collate information for the booklets, the group will be reviewing war memorials and contacting the War Records Office.

However, on a more local level, the group would like to hear from anyone who would like to share their photographs, letters home or memories that may have been passed down the generations.

Of course, any original documents and photographs would be copied and returned safely to you.

If you would like to participate in this project, please contact Ken Hillier at Ashby Museum on telephone 01530 560090 or Email: ashbydelazouchmuseum @live.co.uk

Residents’ Delight at Decent Homes Work Midlands based contractor, Lovells have been commissioned by the District Council to work with Kier contractors to deliver refurbishment works to over 600 properties in North West Leicestershire area this year.

The scheme is part of a three year decent homes improvement programme jointly funded by the Housing Service and the Homes and Communities Agency. The range of works include new kitchens and bathrooms, roofs, front doors, rewiring, double glazing and insulation.

Over 3500 properties will be improved during the programme.

One resident, who is one of the first 50 tenants to benefit from the changes, received improvements to her home including: a new kitchen, heating and bathroom upgrades.

Speaking about the improvements, the tenant said: “I am very pleased with my new look home and the improvements the Council has made to it under this scheme. I was involved in all the decisions and was given the opportunity to choose the style and colour of my kitchen as well as the type of worktops.

“It has definitely made a huge difference to my home and friends and families have been amazed at how different things look – I am delighted with the new look.”

For more information on the Decent Homes Programme, contact 01530 454 545 or Email: customer.services@nwleicestershire.gov.uk

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Get Active Leicester-Shire and Rutland

Leisure Link Membership Leisure Link is a scheme open to residents and non-residents If you have never heard of the leisure link scheme and are wondering whether you qualify to become a member and what discounts you might get, have a look at the list of categories below. If you fit into one of these then don’t delay as you could save yourself some money!

Leisure Link membership categories:

• People in receipt of a means • • • • •

tested benefit People with disabilities Corporate parenting families Carer Full time/part time students aged 16 and 17 years old and full time students aged 18 years old People aged over 60 years old.

For up-to-date information on the benefits accepted, as proof of eligibility, please log on to www. nwleics.gov.uk/pages/leisurelink, pick up a leaflet from your local leisure centre or give Hermitage Leisure Centre a call on 01530 811215.

‘Get Active Leicester-Shire and Rutland’ is the only Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland wide database of activities, venues and clubs. Whether you are looking for an activity session this coming weekend, a place to play badminton or take part in an aerobics class, or if you want to join a sports or activity club, ‘Get Active Leicester-Shire and Rutland’ can help you find it!

If you are a representative from a club, venue or activity, then tell us what you have on offer by uploading your details - simply click on the button to start promoting your club/session!

With Team GB’s success at London 2012, sports clubs, leisure centres and other sports organisations have seen an increase in people asking for advice on how to get involved in organised sport, make sure new or returning sport enthusiasts are able to search for your Club or activity session!

To add an activity or find out what’s on, log onto www.lrsport. org/getactive

JOIN FITNESS MEMBERSHIPS FOR JUST £10 Throughout March, Hermitage, Hood Park and Measham Leisure Centres are running a fantastic promotion where you can sign up to any fitness membership package for just £10, saving you up to £40.

For more information, please contact Hermitage Leisure Centre on 01530 811215, Hood Park Leisure Centre on 01530 412181 or Measham Leisure Centre on 01530 274061. Alternatively visit www. nwleics.gov.uk/pages/fitness_membership

Leisure Link Membership Renewal Leisure Link Scheme members will need to renew their membership from 1st April. Joining fees for 2013/14 will be £5.50 for residents and £20 for non-residents.

Members are asked to bring all supporting documents, such as proof of the benefits you are claiming, when they call in to renew.

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Ashby

Arts Festival

Artwork from

the 2012 festiva

l

Ready to strike up the band North West Leicestershire District Council’s Cultural Services Team have been working in partnership with voluntary group, Ashby Arts Festival, to help them deliver their annual art event this year.

“Strike up the Band” is the ambitious theme for this year’s Ashby Arts Festival’s outdoor gallery which will be on display during the festival which runs from 25th May to 8th June 2013.

Huge pieces of art will adorn various wall spaces around the town, which have been offered by businesses and residents, making them very high profile. All the designs will be different, providing a wonderful gallery for businesses, residents and visitors alike to enjoy. The festival organisers are pleased to welcome the support of local company, Homebrook Electrical Contractors, who are helping with installation.

Barbara Royds, a volunteer for the festival said: “It’s quite a challenge to do a painting that measures 8ft x 4ft but we all really enjoy the experience.”

Get Involved

Local schools are also getting involved, painting and displaying boards on their school railings, so it’s great that everyone is joining in.

The paintings will be on display in the town centre from Sunday 19th May for approximately four weeks.

Anyone interested in taking part should contact Barbara Royds on 01530 588138.

Need help getting to work? www.mrc.uk.net

Artists of all abilities can get involved, as there are a few spaces left for paintings for the main gallery, and there will be an accompanying children’s gallery in Huntingdon Court for those aged from 8 to 14 years.

Do you work in Coalville but have no transport?

Are you looking for an accessible way to get to work?

MRC Community Action now provide access to work and training for local people, who do not have access to a bus route.

To find out more call Nikki on 01530 512457 or email nwarrilow@mrc.uk.net

Artwork from the 2012 festival

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Walking your way to health in North West Leicestershire North West Leicestershire District Council are encouraging residents and visitors to get active by participating in a series of planned walks around the District.

The walks, which can be found in a FREE guided walks booklet, include local and natural history, industrial archaeology, public rights of way and industrial heritage. The walks are relaxed, nonstrenuous and should appeal to all age groups.

“The aim of our guided walks programme is to let everyone have the opportunity of visiting our countryside, villages and towns while, at the same time, having the chance to learn about a wide variety of topics.”

Alison Smith, Deputy Leader of North West Leicestershire District Council and Portfolio Holder for Community Services said: “The beauty of walking is that it can be fitted into your daily routine. It’s free, saves on petrol or bus fares and is better for the planet.

The programme has been organised by North West Leicestershire’s Active Together Team.

Each walk has a dedicated leader who are all volunteers from various environmental, special interest and community groups across the County.

Pick up your FREE guided walks booklet from Ashby Tourist Information Office, or request a copy from Zara Barnes on Tel 01530 454606 or Email zara.barnes@ nwleicestershire.gov.uk or download a copy from our website www.nwleics.gov.uk

“Experts recommend 30 minutes of moderate exercise five times a week which can provide considerable physical and mental benefits.”

Vision - your community magazine

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