One Darlington January edition

one

Darlington January 2017

An ingenious magazine for an ingenious town named the 7th best place to live in the UK

I’m a volunteer and I make a difference #MakeADifferenceDarlo

T E G ULTS P S I RE B E RSH M E M Gym

AT THE DOLPHIN CENTRE

Pool Classes

plus FREE Get Results Service

£22

for just

per month

Contact 01325 406000, email healthydarlington@darlington.gov.uk or visit www.healthydarlington.co.uk/memberships

Showing that cares Welcome to Darlington One Darlington Suppose you woke up tomorrow and there were no volunteers in Darlington? There would be no extra help in the classroom to listen to your child read.

There would be no one at some of our charities or community organisations to answer the phone to give advice or respond to a cry for help. No drivers would be there to take you to the hospice or to hospital. There would be no one to serve food to the homeless or help organise community litter picks.

The theme of this edition of One Darlington is volunteering. Without volunteers, the quality of all our lives would fall dramatically. The Cabinet Office estimates that volunteers are worth £70 billion to the national economy, but money is not the root of it. Volunteering reveals the sort of place we want Darlington to be... a place where people give without counting the cost and without financial reward, because they care about the community and the people who form it.

There is a special supplement in the middle of this magazine celebrating volunteers in Darlington and promoting the Borough’s first volunteering fair on Thursday 2 February, 2-6pm. It will be a great chance to find out more about volunteering opportunities in the Borough and to meet some of the people who give their time to help others.

Nominations have also opened for another celebration of everything that is good in the Borough – the Best of Darlington Awards. The awards will take place in May and now is the time to send in details of the people you think deserve to be recognised for the good work they do and what they have achieved. Turn to pages 12 and 13 for more details.

Dr John Elliston MBE Chief Executive of the 700 Club

Inside this issue 4-5 Latest on the theatre __________________________________ 6-7 Backing the BID __________________________________ 14-15 Mental health campaign __________________________________ 19 DIY SOS answered __________________________________

As we start a new year there are lots of opportunities and new beginnings for Darlington. See pages 4 and 5 for the latest on the Darlington Hippodrome; on page 16 you can find out how the new high speed rail network, HS2, will affect us, and on page 35 there is information about the local plan and the future development of the area.

22-24 What’s on __________________________________

May I take this opportunity to wish you all a happy 2017 and hope you enjoy reading this edition of One Darlington.

34 Have your say on Fire Authority

27 Could you foster? __________________________________

One Darlington is published by One Darlington Partnership, Room 101, Town Hall, Darlington.

Email editor@onedarlington.org.uk. Design and production – Xentrall Shared Services.

Distribution – Swift Advertising NE Ltd. Tel: 0191 2653207.

The next edition will be distributed from 1 March. If you do not receive a copy by 12 March please call 406420. www.onedarlington.org.uk

one Darlington

03

Dreaming big Theatre regeneration takes shape Recent months have seen a dramatic transformation at the corner of Parkgate and Borough Road, where a multi-million pound project is in full swing.

Darlington Civic Theatre took its final curtain call in May 2016 and will reopen later this year as Darlington Hippodrome.

As our pictures illustrate, the building’s interior has been stripped out, leaving behind pieces of historic importance, including the ornate auditorium plasterwork and many stained glass windows, which will be restored to their original beauty by local craftsmen.

As with all restoration projects of this size, some surprises have been uncovered along the way – including staircases that seemingly lead to nowhere, old doorways, hand crafted wooden beams and even the odd ghost or two!

Gone is the old box office, along with the dressing

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04

www.darlingtoncivic.co.uk

rooms above it. In their place will be a three storey glass atrium, which will form the main entrance.

New public areas and improved disabled access are key to the restoration plans. New lifts will be installed, ensuring the venue is more accessible than ever.

Behind the scenes facilities are also being improved – including new dressing rooms and improved access to the rear of the building. The Hippodrome will be able to accommodate larger touring productions than its predecessor – an exciting prospect for theatre fans.

The project is being complemented by the creation of The Hullaballoon, a flagship theatre for children and young people, right next door.

Arts Council England funding was secured for The Hullaballoon, while the transformation of the Civic has been made possible by a successful Heritage Lottery Fund bid. Both projects are supported by the Council.

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www.darlingtoncivic.co.uk

one Darlington

05

Brought to you by

14 3

Distinctly Delicious food festivals have brought some great flavours to the town centre

175

hanging baskets brighten up the streets with seasonal flowers

Little Book of Offers have generated

ÂŁ307,643 for local businesses

Over Christmas, the Council invested

ÂŁ13,800

14,000 people follow the BID on Facebook and Twitter

at the request of the BID on parking offers to support town centre business activities

More than

40

town centre staff have been trained in dementia awareness

by Darlington Rangers

06

www.distinctdarlington.co.uk

Darlington BID In 2015/16,

ÂŁ95,000

has been saved on utilities for businesses

The BID has worked with the Council to reduce the amount of time street fundraisers are able to operate to

3

The BID mobile app has been used more than

300,000

S Y A D K E E AW

times •

In the last year the rangers have spent

6,240 hours making the town centre a more welcoming place

Work done by the BID has helped towards Darlington being the...

fastest nd growing economy in the UK

2

1000s

of people came to town to see events like the fashion show and classic car show

www.distinctdarlington.co.uk

one Darlington

07

Big Spring Clean

Residents picking up litter in South Park

You can do your bit to help combat litter on #OurStreets by taking part in LitterFree Durham’s Big Spring Clean.

Last year, more than 2,500 people took part in 187 community litter picks across County Durham and Darlington, collecting 2,478 bags of rubbish. In Darlington alone, 839 people joined 45 litter picks, collecting 786 bags and 2.5 tons of bulky waste.

It is hoped even more people will register for the Big Spring Clean 2017, which runs from 27 February until 16 April and is organised

by LitterFree Durham working in partnership with the Council.

To register to help clean up your area, email litterfreedurham@darlington.gov.uk or call 406719.

You can find out more at www.litterfreedurham.org For details of how you can help keep #OurStreets clean throughout the year, visit www.darlington.gov.uk/litterpick

Some of the rubbish collected in Big Spring Clean 2016

Can you help boost carnival celebrations?

A call has gone out for volunteers, stallholders and sponsors to help make this year’s Community Carnival a runaway success.

The event has raised thousands of pounds for charities since its launch in 1983 and this year Darlington Play Programme is set to benefit. The theme for this year’s event, on Saturday 24 June, is children’s books and authors.

Celebrations start in the Market Square before a colourful parade makes its way through the streets to Stanhope Park where there will be 08

stalls, live music, children’s sports and other activities for all the family to enjoy.

Although the Council supports the annual event, it is run by volunteers and funded by donations, businesses and sponsorship.

Committee chairman David French said organisers would love to hear from anyone who can help.

To find out more, email admin@darlingtoncommunitycarnival.com or visit www.facebook.com/darlingtoncommunitycarnival or @darlocarnival on Twitter. www.darlington.gov.uk

CCG News in brief

GP online services

Urgent care centre moves to hospital

The NHS Urgent Care Centre, which was based at Doctor Piper House, King Street in the town centre, has moved to Darlington Memorial Hospital, alongside the Emergency Department.

The centre is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For an Urgent Care Centre appointment call 111.

More GP appointments

More GP appointments have been made available in Darlington with the continuation of services on Saturday between 8am and 2pm. Appointments are pre-bookable via your GP and the service is provided at Denmark Street.

Consideration is taking place to make more GP services available on weekday evenings and on Sundays, details of these additional appointments will be published on GP practices’ websites.

Urgent Care and A&E can also direct patients into these extra appointments as well as the 111 service. www.darlingtonccg.nhs.uk

If you are registered at a Darlington GP surgery you can now book appointments or request a repeat prescription over the internet or via a smartphone. The service, which is available across the country, is available online, and smartphone and tablet users can download an app.

If you use the service you can read your GP records and check test results, before speaking to your GP if you want to.

Dr Andrea Jones, Chair, NHS Darlington Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) said: “Many of our patients tell us that they value the convenience of making an appointment at any time day or night or requesting a repeat prescription without having to visit the surgery. By freeing up the phone lines, they also make it easier for patients who don’t want to use GP online services to get through by phone.

“Having access to their GP records means that people are more in control of their health and wellbeing. This is particularly helpful for people who are living with a long-term health condition such as diabetes that needs regular checking and frequent prescriptions.”

GP online services make use of secure computer systems which are already used by surgeries. You can only see your own information but you can make arrangements with your local surgery for family members or carers to access your records if your wish.

To register for GP online services, visit your GP surgery. To find out more go to www.darlingtonccg.nhs.uk or www.nhs.uk/GPonlineservices one Darlington

09

Looking after yourself During the cold weather more patients are seeing their GP with common winter ailments. You can look after many winter ailments yourself at home by resting, drinking plenty of fluids and taking painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. Some health problems, such as asthma, sore throat and cold sores, are triggered or worsened by cold weather.

Here’s how to help your body deal with cold weather ailments:

Colds – to ease the symptoms of a cold, drink plenty of fluids and try to rest. Steam inhalation and vapour rubs can also help. Prevent colds from spreading by washing your hands thoroughly, cleaning surfaces regularly and always sneeze and cough into tissues, throwing them away after use.

Sore throats – a sore throat is almost always

caused by a viral infection, such as a cold. Try not to eat or drink anything that’s too hot, as this could further irritate your throat. Cool or warm drinks and cool, soft foods should go down easier.

Asthma – a range of weather related triggers

can set off asthma symptoms, including cold air.

Covering your nose and mouth with a warm scarf when you’re out can help.

Norovirus – this is also known as the winter

vomiting bug, although it can cause diarrhoea too. The main thing to do to is drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. You can also take paracetamol for any aches, pains or fever.

Flu – if you’re 65 or over, have a long-term

health condition such as diabetes or kidney disease, flu can be more serious, so it’s important to seek help early. However, if you’re generally fit and healthy, the best treatment is to rest, stay warm and drink plenty of water.

10

Cold weather doesn’t have to go hand in hand with illness. Here are some simple things you can do to help yourself stay well this winter:

Keep warm – this may help prevent colds,

flu or more serious health conditions such as heart attacks, strokes and pneumonia.

Eat well – food gives you energy, which

helps to keep you warm. Try to have regular hot meals and drinks throughout the day.

Get a flu jab – flu vaccination is offered free of charge to people who are at risk, pregnant women, carers and some young children to ensure that they are protected against catching flu and developing serious complications.

A national Stay Well This Winter campaign is under way so many of you will have seen lots of messages about winter ailments in the media.

Remember, if you don’t start to feel better after a few days you should always contact your GP practice.

www.darlingtonccg.nhs.uk

Improving health and care Local NHS organisations have published a draft plan for improving health and care across Darlington, Durham, Tees, Hambleton, Richmondshire and Whitby.

“For serious emergencies and life threatening situations, patients should be treated where senior consultants and experienced teams of staff are available, 24/7, seeing high numbers of patients with similar problems. Where this already happens, patients have much better results, Dr Andrea Jones, Chair of Darlington CCG, said: “The view of health staff, including GPs, and our doctors believe this approach needs to be extended to other potentially life threatening situations.” consultants and nurses, is that much more care should be available outside of hospital, Over the next few months, more work will be done to in the community, or in the home, with develop this plan, working with local councils and other services working together to meet people’s partners including the voluntary sector. needs.

A summary of the sustainability and transformation plan “We should also be doing more to help ‘working together to improve health and care’ is available people avoid becoming ill, by supporting on the CCG website www.darlingtonccg.nhs.uk informed choices about lifestyle, better selfcare and through screening programmes.

Please email necsu.stp@nhs.net to find out more.

Contact us Darlington Clinical Commissioning Group Chair’s Office Dr Piper House King Street Darlington DL3 6JL Tel: 621414 Email: DARCCG.contact@nhs.net Twitter: @darloccg

www.darlingtonccg.nhs.uk

one Darlington

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We need your

Best

of Darlington 2016 7

The 12th annual Best of Darlington Awards will once again pay tribute to those individuals, teams and organisations whose outstanding contributions continue to make this a great place to live, work and do business.

Nominations are now open for this year’s awards, which will be presented on 19 May, with hundreds of people once again expected to attend to give award nominees and winners the recognition their efforts deserve.

The awards reflect achievements from a range of fields – from education and sport, to success in business and outstanding contributions to the community.

As in previous years, the Citizen of the Year and Young Citizen of the Year will be chosen from the nominees.

John Elliston, left, receives his 2016 Contribution to the Community award from Councillor Andy Scott

Alasdair MacConachie, chairman of the One Darlington Partnership, which hosts the awards, said: “We are delighted to be bringing the awards back for another year to recognise the inspiring and ingenious things that happen in our borough every day.

“We’re encouraging people to get their thinking caps on and tell us who deserves to have their achievements recognised.”

The organisers would like to give a big thank you to the principal sponsors: County Durham Community Foundation, Teesside University, Darlington College and Darlington Borough Council.

Callum Blades, right, receives his 2016 Contribution to Sport award from Polam Hall School headteacher John Moreland

12 www.onedarlington.org.uk/best-of-darlington

nominations!

How to nominate Organisers hope this year’s awards will be even bigger and better than previously.

Residents are encouraged to nominate the individuals, groups and businesses they feel are worthy of receiving a Best of Darlington award. To make your nominations, visit www.onedarlington.org.uk/best-of-darlington or collect a nomination form from the Town Hall customer service centre. Call 406420 to have one posted to you.

A flavour of last year’s awards

The closing date for nominations is Friday 17 March.

•

Contribution to Sport – Sponsored by Polam Hall School

•

Academic Excellence

– Sponsored by Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College

•

Performance in Sport – Sponsored by Police, Crime and Victims’ Commissioner

•

Exceptional Student

– Sponsored by The Forge, Teesside University

•

Exceptional Care – Sponsored by Darlington Clinical Commissioning Group

•

Contribution to the Environment

– Sponsored by Groundwork North East

•

Contribution to the Arts

•

Exceptional Volunteer – Tees Valley Rural Community Council

– Sponsored by Darlington Operatic Society

•

Exceptional Young Volunteer – Sponsored by Sherwoods

•

Business Contribution to the Community

– Sponsored by MTE Ltd

•

Public Service Hero – Sponsored by the Blue Light Services

•

Bringing Success to Darlington

– Sponsored by Darlington Building Society

•

Vocational Excellence – Sponsored by Darlington College

•

Entrepreneurial Spirit

– Sponsored by Business Central Darlington

Please play your part in making these awards bigger and better than ever. To make your nominations visit www.onedarlington.org.uk/best-of-darlington or collect a nomination form from the Town Hall customer service centre. Call 406420 to have one posted to you.

Remember to get your nominations in by Friday 17 March.

www.onedarlington.org.uk/best-of-darlington

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College students tackle mental health issues

Darlington College graphics, photography and fine art students with Clear Channel’s Gareth Harrison, the Council’s public health portfolio lead, Rachel Osbaldeston, and the college’s tutor, Pippa Eeles.

Mental health issues can affect anyone at any time, with one in ten young people experiencing mental health difficulties. With this in mind the Council’s public health team invited Darlington College graphics, art, fine art and photography students to design posters to help raise awareness of mental health issues and the stigma around them.

Designed by Matthew Leak

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More than 40 students created some excellent designs. Ten were chosen to front future social media campaigns and, thanks to funding from NHS England and Darlington CCG, the six best designs were produced as posters which are on display at bus stops in the town centre and outside the college.

Joe Bell, creator of the text message design, said: “This was a great opportunity to work on a live advertising campaign with a client to a design brief with deadlines. I have learned loads, have a great addition to my portfolio and am so proud to see my design on display. I hope the posters make an impact and help people.”

If you’re not feeling yourself or have concerns about someone else, please take time to talk and listen.

For information visit www.time-to-change.org.uk and click on ‘mental health and stigmas’ or visit www.youngminds.org.uk

眀眀眀⸀琀椀洀攀ⴀ琀漀ⴀ挀栀愀渀最攀⸀漀爀最⸀甀欀

Designed by Joe Bell

14

www.darlington.gov.uk

Designed by Sophie Peach

Designed by Ester Wolstenholme

Designed by Will Allison

Designed by Amy Braddock

www.darlington.gov.uk

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On track for HS2 In 1825 George Stephenson’s The Locomotion No1 left Darlington is the birthplace of the passenger current station Darlington to travel to railway. We’re the town that started a rail building was built Stockton, becoming revolution. The story of the railways in in 1887. The town the world’s first Darlington continues to grow. continued to grow passenger and develop railway. around it.

In 2017 our station sits on the East Coast Mainline.

It’s easy to access Newcastle, York, London and Edinburgh by rail making it a 2025 prime location for business will be the 200th from the Department for anniversary of Locomotion Education to the National No1. In the coming years Biologics Centre for improvements can be made Process Innovation. to the station and east–west line to make Darlington ready for HS2 High Speed and keep us at the Rail will knock 52 forefront of rail minutes from the journey innovation. from Darlington to Birmingham, and 28 minutes from the journey to London. Darlington will be less than two hours from London.

Proposed redevelopment around the train station will contribute an extra £130m per year to the Darlington and Tees Valley economies.

For more information, read David Higgins’ government report on HS2 at www.gov.uk/government/publications/ changing-britain-hs2-takingroot or Tees Valley Combined Authority’s strategic transport plan at www.teesvalleyca.gov.uk/connect2026 16

www.darlington.gov.uk

Charity celebrates 40 years of changing lives Family Help is celebrating 40 years of providing safe, temporary accommodation for women, and women with children, fleeing domestic abuse.

The charity was set up by a small group of local people in 1976 in a terraced house in the Duke Street area.

Over the years the charity has grown, eventually settling in a purpose built refuge in 2003.

A spokeswoman said: “It is through the passionate long term commitment of all those involved that has made sure we have survived. We are very fortunate to be supported by many local businesses and the wider community. Without this generosity Family Help would need to purchase many more household items and raise much more funding for the running of the refuge.”

A Family Help client said: “During my six month stay my confidence and self-esteem grew. I found the domestic abuse awareness sessions were great, they helped me understand that I was not to blame.”

If you are affected by domestic violence you can call the confidential helpline on 364486 or email familyhelp@btconnect.com

Restart programme starts up Teenagers who have struggled to find the right path since leaving school have been offered a fresh start as part of a unique college course.

Darlington College’s ten-week Restart programme covers skills including self-analysis, developing career and life plans, IT and financial management.

It also includes placements in college offering young people an invaluable insight into a course of their choice.

Restart programme leader Josh Spears said: “Many young people struggle to make suitable life choices when they leave school and we can help them develop the skills they need. There is always time to restart and we are prepared to do our utmost to help.”

If you, or someone you know, would benefit from the programme visit www.darlington.ac.uk

www.onedarlington.org.uk

Restart programme leader Josh Spears

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News in brief Electing a Tees Valley Mayor

Bags of help for Drinkfield Marsh

On Thursday 4 May, Tees Valley residents will elect a mayor for the first time. The Tees Valley mayor will work with council leaders and mayors to manage increased responsibilities devolved from central government. In the next edition of One Darlington we will be providing more information on the powers and role of the Tees Valley mayor.

To find out more please visit www.teesvalley-ca.gov.uk/ mayor

Photos by Pat Blewitt

Become a community peer mentor The community peer mentor project supports people who feel vulnerable because of crime, anti-social behaviour or neighbourhood disputes.

Twenty three mentors work in Darlington to help people feel safe and part of their community. Durham’s Police, Crime and Victims’ Commissioner Ron Hogg is committed to expanding the project throughout County Durham with training sessions planned for February, March and June. To find out more call Jim Cunningham on 0300 003 1818 or email jim.cunningham@ restorativehub.org.uk

Cosy gifts for stray dogs Residents at Dalkeith House extra care housing scheme have crafted a host of colourful blankets for Dogs Trust Darlington, to help keep dogs warm at its rehoming centre in Sadberge.

In the last two years the knitters have donated about 30 blankets and Dalkeith House has also donated old towels and duvets for the animals.

18

Work is set to start at Drinkfield Marsh after it bagged a £12,000 grant from a Tesco funding scheme to restore wetland habitats.

The Tees Valley Wildlife Trust and Friends of Drinkfield Marsh secured the grant from the Bags of Help scheme, run by Tesco and Groundwork which distributes money raised from the 5p charge on plastic bags, along with funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Council.

The project will restore an overgrown beck, replace two old weirs, bring back to life two small ponds and create a new viewing platform for visitors.

Roger Crowther, chairman of the Friends group, said: “This is a magnificent example of the community coming together to make a difference. Now the hard work begins to make a significant improvement to Drinkfield Marsh Nature Reserve for wildlife.”

Court round-up

We regularly take action against people who drop litter, fly tip and commit other environmental offences. Some of the cases heard recently include: Amy Beal, 25, Chepstow Court, for littering; Kelly O’Neill, 29, Katherine Street, for two offences of fly tipping and a Section 110 offence (failure to answer questions); Ryan Peacock, 32, Lewes Road, for littering; Sue Ellen Ward, Mayfair Road, for littering: Kirsty Walsh, 22, Katherine Street, for fly tipping; Ian Simpson, 38, Kingston Street, for littering; David Wheelhouse, 37, Brougham Street, for flytipping and a Section 110 offence. All addresses are in Darlington.

www.darlington.gov.uk

Could you become an Independent Visitor?

A leading children’s rights charity is looking for volunteers to support children and young people in care.

The independent visitors scheme is run by the National Youth Advocacy Service (NYAS). An independent visitor (IV) is someone in a young person’s life who isn’t paid to be there – they meet once a month and receive expenses to enjoy activities such as the cinema, shopping, outward bound pursuits and anything else the young person is interested in.

Jill, an IV, explained: “I wanted to help a young person in care and become their friend. I was really excited when Amy and I began our initial meetings together - we found things in common and I really enjoy our monthly visits.

“I’d really recommend volunteering as an IV to anyone who likes spending time with young people; it’s very rewarding and you get a lot from it, as well as some fun times!”

Amy said: “I like to see Jill. I like to go to the beach with her and her dog. It gives me someone to talk to and it makes me feel happy having her there.”

Jill, an independent visitor

Could you be an IV? For more information email amanda.martin@nyas.net or call 0808 808 1001.

How friends answered DIY SOS call Three friends answered a call for volunteers to help with a special TV building appeal.

Sharon Rowntree and Eric Smitheringale, directors at Proudman Plastering Ltd, and Ian Trevarrow, a plastering tutor at Darlington College, where Sharon also works, joined an army of volunteers to create a new home for young carers in Blackpool, as part of the BBC Children in Need DIY SOS Million Pound Build.

Sharon said: “We met amazing, hard-working, committed, caring people who had given their free time to make a new home for the amazing young carers. It was a privilege to play a small part in a huge project to help make a difference and we will never forget it.”

Eric said: “It was a dream come true. Ian and I worked extremely hard, but enjoyed every minute and to know we were making a difference was an amazing feeling.” www.darlington.gov.uk

Sharon Rowntree and Eric Smitheringale with presenter Nick Knowles, left

one Darlington

19

News in brief Healthy eating campaign Change4Life is launching an exciting new campaign this month, supported by an app that will help you make healthier food choices. For more information visit www.changeforlife.co.uk

Grants make a difference County Durham Community Foundation provides grants that make a difference to the lives of local people. Anyone can apply, whether they are an individual, a charity or a community project. To find out more and to apply visit www.cdcf.org.uk or call 0191 378 6340.

Dry January There’s still time to get involved in Dry January. Why not cut down on your alcohol intake or go booze-free for the rest of the month? You’ll feel better and your bank balance will benefit. For information, or to sign up visit www.dryjanuary.co.uk

Looking to grow your business?

The Council’s economy team can offer support to help your business grow in 2017.

Last year the team gave personalised support to more than 200 businesses to help them reach their full potential.

Email business. support@darlington.gov.uk or call 406305.

Holocaust Memorial Day A ceremony to commemorate Holocaust Memorial Day will be held on Monday 30 January. It will start at 1pm in Central Hall at the Dolphin Centre. All are welcome.

For more information, call democratic services on 406444.

You shall go to the (Mayor’s) ball…

Tickets are now on sale for a fundraising charity ball hosted by the Mayor, Cllr Brian Jones.

posters, tickets and menus. The ball is sponsored by Ernest Bennett and Co.

The event, at the Dolphin Centre on Friday 28 April, will have a cops and robbers theme.

Tickets cost £50. To book, call 406971 or email susan.minto@darlington.gov.uk

It starts with a drinks reception at 6.45pm, followed by a five course meal, entertainment and dancing, with funds raised for the Mayor’s charities.

Students from Darlington College have been working on promotional materials for the event including

Students Maisie Humphries and Christian Spencer

Safety advice is just a few clicks away Everyone has the right to live free from abuse and we want people to know how they can keep themselves, their family, friends and colleagues safe.

This includes children and young people.

The joint safeguarding boards have a new website at www.darlingtonsafeguardingboards.co.uk.

The site offers guidance about what to do if you are worried about a child or a vulnerable adult. There is also useful advice about how to keep safe, including information for children, young people, parents and carers.

You can also find out about the work of the safeguarding boards and how they work in partnership with other agencies to protect and promote the safety and welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults.

We are waiting to hear from you!

We want to hear your views. If you have any questions or ideas about how we can engage and promote safeguarding in the Borough, email safeguardingboards@darlington.gov.uk

20 www.darlington.gov.uk

G N I R E E T N U L O V FAIR y r a u r b e F 2 y a Thursd 2-6pm , l l a H l Centra e r t n e C n i h p l The Do

Come along and see how you can make a difference in your community #MakeaDifferenceDarlo

I’m a volunteer and

y e l y a H

I worked with Darlington Cares and Ready for Work to deliver an employability course to Year 10 students at St Aidan’s School.

The sessions covered skills, CVs, interviews and a mock group assessment, then we brought the students to Cummins (where I work) for mock interviews and a tour of the plant. I was inspired to take part to show the kids that they possess so many more skills and qualities than they think and to help improve their confidence and self-esteem when applying for colleges, apprenticeships or jobs.

I have worked as a volunteer guide at Head of Steam – Darlington Railway Museum for two years. I talk to visitors and show them the booking office. I love meeting people and putting a smile on their faces. I love looking after the booking office and seeing the children’s faces when they get a free platform ticket. It makes me feel good that I’ve helped people in the museum.

Paul

e Daphn

I have been a volunteer receptionist at Age UK Darlington, Bradbury House for three years. I chose Age UK Darlington because of the valuable services they offer to older people.

What I most enjoy about volunteering is seeing customers coming and going with big smiles on their faces and thoroughly enjoying all the activities. It also makes me feel useful and keeps my brain active.

I work on a voluntary basis as chairman of County Durham Community Foundation’s audit committee and as a trustee. The Community Foundation plays an important role in supporting many local organisations across the county. I enjoy helping with the strategy and governance of the Community Foundation which allows organisations like Darlington’s Café JJ to thrive. Visiting Café JJ is also always terrific!

02

#MakeADifferenceDarlo

Colin

I make a difference In 1992, I helped form Music for Darlington, which produced around 15 concerts with military bands and mass choirs and raised about £55,000 for local charities. I later became regional organiser of the International Military Music Society and helped form the Associated Northern Military Music Group, which produced 20 concerts and raised another £10,000 for charity. I’ve also organised the popular Proms in the Park event with the Council, raising about £4,000 for ABF The Soldiers’ Charity. I was inspired to become a volunteer as I always want to make things happen and get satisfaction from a successful event.

Liz

Ivor

For the last two years I’ve been volunteering for the Restorative Hub in Darlington. As a restorative facilitator, I offer victims of crime the chance to communicate with their offender (either in person or through me) to ask questions and get the explanation they deserve. It can be healing and empowering for them and offenders often turn their lives around after hearing victims’ talk about the effect the crime had on them. Just listening and showing someone you care can make a big difference.

I’d recommend volunteering to everyone.

It’s amazing to see the difference you can make.

I’ve been volunteering with Darlington Association on Disability (DAD) for four years. I volunteer on two projects. The first is the Carer Support Service, where I invite carers to events, provide a listening ear and do some administration.

The other project is the Voluntary Sector Brokerage scheme which involves speaking to people who may be isolated and lonely. I decided to volunteer after a bereavement, rather than becoming isolated and create further issues with my health and wellbeing. I’ve made friends and helped others who have similar experiences to me. DAD has a supportive environment and understands me.

Jonny

Sharo n

I’m a fundraising coordinator with Oxjam Darlo, a music festival that takes place in Darlington town centre in October. All profits from the day, along with other events I help organise such as a music quiz and comedy night, go to Oxfam. I was inspired at the outset to help increase the cultural offering in the town, but the £1,000s we raise for the world’s most vulnerable people has become very important. It’s one of the best things I’ve ever done. I’ve met some fantastic people and made some really good friends.

Volunteering Fair

03

I’m a volunteer and

Anna

I trained in the Ukraine as a lawyer before taking time out to bring up my family. I came here 18 months ago. I volunteer at Citizens Advice Darlington because I want to understand and see the country from the public’s perspective. I want to understand the problems people face on a daily basis and also develop my communication skills.

I was amazed people could come and share their problems for free, that we are able to empower people to act for themselves and can make changes locally and nationally by research and campaigning. It’s certainly been very rewarding.

I volunteer for Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust on Birch Ward at West Park Hospital. The rewards I get from volunteering enrich my life. I get to spend time with people who welcome a listening ear or an empathetic presence and I get to employ my creative skills.

It is such a privilege to be able to sit on the ward with the patients and respond to what they want to do and play a very small part in their recovery. I have always been welcomed and I know that what I do, which is sometimes simply just being there, is valued.

Mary

I have been volunteering as a Good Friend at Age UK Darlington for two and a half years. I had always been interested in helping older people and I had thought about being a care assistant, although my chosen profession is hairdressing. When I heard about Good Friends I thought it would be a good idea to get involved and I have been visiting ever since. I enjoy my volunteer role so much that when a part-time job as a carer came up, I applied and due to my experience in my voluntary role, I was successful in being appointed.

Liz I’ve been a Street Champion in Red Hall area for three years. I know the Council can’t do as much litter picking as is needed, so I thought I’d have a go at doing something myself. I just wanted to do something for my local community.

04

#MakeADifferenceDarlo

Michael

I make a difference This year I have taken part in The Lunch Project during the school holidays.

The project was set up by my friends and a local youth group and involves making lunch at a holiday club for around 60 kids who usually have access to free school meals at Tilery Primary School in Stockton. I feel it is important to give back to the community and to raise awareness around the stigma of ‘Benefits Street’ in the area of the school and show compassion for those who are less privileged than me and my friends.

Madi

Lydi a

I have volunteered at Healthwatch Darlington for more than a year as part of the Youthwatch group. We help improve health services for young people by making sure they are user friendly and, if needs be, organising projects to help make services better in the future. My work includes organising events, dealing with the media, producing surveys and taking part in observations into health services. Not only has my self-confidence and esteem improved from volunteering, but I’ve also gained masses of experience and met loads of new people.

We are delighted to have volunteered to make costumes for A Tale of Two Cities, a fantastic community production by the Civic Theatre and The Touring Consortium Theatre Company at Central Hall at the Dolphin Centre in November last year. We had not volunteered before but decided it was for us. We loved the whole experience, enjoyed meeting new people and it has encouraged us to look for other volunteering opportunities. We have also kept in touch with some of the other volunteers.

Caroly n&J anice

Steven

I have been a volunteer at Firthmoor & District Community Association (FDCA) for four years. I was the treasurer for three years and was recently elected as the chairman. The Firthmoor community centre strives to be the best community centre in Darlington offering a wide range of services, organised trips and community experiences for local residents. The team at the FDCA is hardworking and committed to enhancing people’s everyday lives. Seeing local residents take part in our events makes volunteering really worthwhile.

Volunteering Fair

05

I’m a volunteer and

Trish

As part of Darlington Building Society volunteering programme, I worked with a group of volunteers at Phoenix House, the Help for Heroes Rehabilitation Centre at Catterick, where we helped plant spring bulbs and planters with winter foliage. I found the whole Help for Heroes movement totally inspiring. I had imagined a totally different environment but what I found was a culture of hope and determination, which made our volunteering feel very inclusive to the whole healing ethos. It’s given me a totally different perspective on life and changed the way I feel about volunteering, and the positivity that comes from within.

I’ve been volunteering for years across many organisations in Darlington. I’m on the board of trustees at Gay Advice Darlington & Durham (GADD), as well as volunteering for The Hub as a restorative justice facilitator and I recently trained to become a community peer mentor. Volunteering is hugely rewarding and I’ve met some truly incredible people; I’m inspired every day by them. Whether it’s helping a friend, neighbour, providing advocacy and advice or simply keeping our beautiful town clean, it’s a truly rewarding experience to know we have it in us to care, and help.

Brian

I have been a volunteer at Tees Cottage Pumping Station in Darlington for four and a half years. I get involved in a wide variety of activities from maintaining the grounds, the buildings and the machinery to firing the boiler and running the beam engine, and I particularly enjoy talking to our visitors. I have been interested in industrial archaeology for many years and had visited Tees Cottage on open days. Retirement from full-time employment gave me the opportunity to join the team of enthusiastic volunteers who aim to protect this important historical site for the benefit of future generations.

I’m 21 years old and I attended 7th Elm Ridge Brownies when I was younger, then when I left was invited to come back and help. I have volunteered before and during my primary education degree for around three years. Initially this was to gain valuable experience for my course and latterly because I enjoy volunteering and I can see first-hand the difference it makes for the Brownies. I used to love being a Brownie and it just wouldn’t be possible to run the units without the support from all the volunteers.

06

Phillippa

#MakeADifferenceDarlo

Jessica

I make a difference I volunteer at a stay and play breakfast club on a Tuesday morning at Dodmire Children’s Centre. I’ve been volunteering there for two years now. As a stay at home parent to four boys, it’s important for me to have my own interests and volunteering enables me to do this. It’s great to meet new people at the breakfast club and give something back to such a worthwhile and vital part of our community.

w Andre

Clar e

I volunteer on the Hurworth village hall committee. The village hall plays a huge part in helping create the community spirit and atmosphere in the village. It is more than a hall, it helps to bring us together, to keep us connected to those who are around us people we may not have met otherwise. I believe we need more places like our village hall so we can help to support each other. To know that I am helping to continue the success of the village hall is a great achievement, and I am proud to be able to contribute towards it.

I volunteer with Darlington Citizens Advice and Volunteering In Action. As part of a team of Darlington Building Society employees, I helped some older people learn to use their personal electronic devices as part of the Growing Old Living in Darlington (GOLD) initiative. I also run the Volunteering In Action programme which aims to engage employees and our members.

Marc

Christine

I am chair of Lascelles Community Partnership and Lascelles Park Residents Association. We are a small but enthusiastic group of residents who work to improve the area in which we live. We hold regular meetings to discuss matters of concern to residents. Our activities include community litter picks, plots where we grow vegetables, several successful events such as green fairs, family fun days and parties for people in the sheltered housing. Above all we have lots of fun and would welcome more volunteers in the Lascelles area to join us.

Volunteering Fair

07

I make a difference Rosie

I’ve volunteered for Age UK Darlington as a Health and Wellbeing Centre assistant since I moved to the area in February 2015. Before moving here I volunteered for Age UK Havering so I was aware of the organisation. In my working life I worked with older people and after I retired I wanted to do something to occupy my time and use my skills. I think there’s a misconception around volunteering, people think it’s just about giving but you actually get back more than you give in enjoyment, new relationships and networking opportunities.

I’ve been volunteering as a breastfeeding peer supporter for four years, firstly with the NHS and then at the Breastfeeding Café and children’s centres around Darlington. I also volunteer at Mount Pleasant Children’s Centre, including helping run the stay and play sessions. I started volunteering because I wanted to help children and families, but the experience it has given me has helped me to find employment in a school.

Tanya

a Patrici

I volunteer as a friend of Rockwell Nature Reserve. It’s a fantastic wild space in an urban environment and it’s a pleasure to visit, help with the upkeep and get involved. I also update the reserve’s Facebook page to spread the word about what we’re up to. When I retired I missed the workplace banter and the feeling of making a difference and volunteering fills that gap, keeps me fit and helps with my mental wellbeing. I’ve met amazing, like-minded people and seen and experienced different parts of Darlington.

Have our wonderful volunteers inspired you?

There are loads of opportunities for you to get involved in volunteering in Darlington.

If you can’t make it along to the volunteer fair on Thursday 2 February (more details on front page of this supplement) then have a look at www.onedarlington.org.uk/volunteer to find the perfect opportunity for you. You can also call 406420.

Armed Forces support rewarded The Council was one of 11 organisations from across the region recognised for its support for the Armed Forces at a special awards evening.

Councillor Veronica Copeland, Veterans’ Champion for Darlington, who received a silver employer recognition certificate on behalf of the Council, said: “It was an honour to attend the evening and receive this award. There is still more to be done but I am proud to say that we have worked hard to support our Armed Forces and this work will continue.”

The awards recognise the support employers and organisations offer to members of the Armed Forces community and is a formal way of thanking them for their ongoing support.

Help and advice for the Armed Forces community locally includes an updated directory with information on moving schools, mortgage deals

and housing alongside pension and employment support when leaving the Armed Forces.

The Council is also putting in place a new policy for the employment of reservists as well as promoting the benefits of employing reservists.

Cllr Veronica Copeland receives the certificate from HRH Prince Michael of Kent

Top of the class for PSHE Awards for the teaching of personal, social, health and economic education (PSHE) were given out at a recent conference.

PSHE gives children and young people vital skills to enable them to make informed choices on health and life issues.

Although not required by law, it is recognised that schools rated as outstanding by Ofsted deliver high quality PSHE. The awards were presented by Jenny Chapman MP, who gave a speech promising to support PSHE at a national level.

The following schools have been accredited with a PSHE Quality Mark recognising best practice: St George’s Church of England Academy, Springfield Academy, Red Hall Primary and Hurworth School.

Laura Monkman, of Springfield Academy, won the PSHE Teacher of the Year award, after nominations were sought from schools across the Borough.

Red Hall Primary School won the Recognition of Good Practice in PSHE award.

www.darlington.gov.uk

PSHE Teacher of the Year Laura Monkman, of Springfield Academy, left, with Jenny Chapman MP

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WHAT’S ON!

WHAT’S ON! FEBRUARY

There’s never a reason to be bored in and around Darlington, and 2017 is no exception! On this double page you’ll find activities and events to keep you entertained this January and February.

Turn the page to get a flavour of what the rest of 2017 has in store.

First Wednesday Arts Network Wednesday 1, 6-8pm, The Forum, Borough Road. Informal drop-ins which allow people to share ideas about arts and culture in the area. Contact John Dean 07889 554931.

Visit the website listing all that’s going on in the area, you can also add your own event or club. Go to www.whatsonindarlington.co.uk for more details.

The Afternoon Lectures: ‘New French Light Rail Systems in the 21st Century’ a talk by Graham Jellett – Saturday 4, 1.45pm, Head of Steam. Free to members of the Friends, non-members welcome.

JANUARY

Darlington New Orleans Jazz Club presents Savannah Jazz Band – Saturday 4, 12.30pm, St Augustine’s Parish Centre. Tickets £10.

North Road Works: 50 Years of Memories – Saturday 14 Jan - Sunday 5 Mar, 11am-3.30pm Wednesday to Sunday, Head of Steam Temporary Exhibition Gallery. 2016 marked the 50th anniversary of the closure of North Road Works after 103 years of making and repairing locomotives. To commemorate the anniversary, Head of Steam asked the local community to contribute their memories of the Works to an online archive. Normal entrance fee.

Spring Term Arts Courses – starting Monday 16, the Bridge. Arts courses from jewellery making to ceramics to textiles. All courses run for 10 weeks.

Darlington Music Society presents Riyad Nicholas – Saturday 21, 7.30pm, Central Hall, Dolphin Centre.

Mayor’s Eurovision Song Contest – Friday 10, 6pm, Dolphin Centre. Children Starlight – with Chris Bostock, the from Darlington’s primary schools will storyteller – Saturday 28, 11.30am and perform songs from countries around the 2.30pm, Crown Street Art Gallery. See page world.

24.

History Wardrobe: Dressed to Impress – Sunday 12, 1.30pm, Head of Steam.

Tickets £8.50 (including light refreshments).

1930s sophistication, Swinging sixties, Outrageous ‘80s. Join the two Lucys as they showcase ballgowns and work suits, Open Mic for writers – Thursday 26, 7pm, first date frocks and frillies for the wedding night. You get to choose your favourite Voodoo Café. The monthly night offers a fashions from the 20th century! forum for writers to read their material and audiences to enjoy it. Writers with any level of experience welcome.

Darlington Music Society – Saturday 18, 7.30pm, Central Hall.

Family Learning Workshops – Chinese New Year – Tuesday 24, 3.30-4.30pm, Gurney Pease Academy; Wednesday 25, 3.30-4.30pm, The Coleridge Centre.

Chinese New Year celebrations – Monday 30, 11.40am at Joseph Pease Place. Traditional lion dance followed by Chinese-themed entertainment provided by local schools.

Tamara Young (harp) & Holly Cook (flute) play Bach, Faure, Piazzolla, Bizet and many more. More details at www.dms.btck.co.uk.

Town centre fairground – Saturday 18 – Saturday 25.

Classical piano featuring music from Chopin, Bach, Scarlatti, Ravel and Beethoven. Free to young people aged 25 and under. Tickets for individual concerts available at the door or at any time before the concert from the Dolphin Centre. More details at www.dms.btck.co.uk.

Darlington Orchestra Winter Concert – Saturday 28, 7.30pm, Dolphin Centre, tickets £7 (£5 concessions) Darlington Orchestra’s informal and accessible concert features a wide variety of classical music ranging from Beethoven, Borodin, Strauss and Rossini to some 21st century works and performances by special guests.

22

International rugby - England Under 20s vs Italy – Friday 24, 7.45pm, Northern Echo Arena.

The Arena is one of three stadiums to host England’s home fixtures in the 2017 campaign. Tickets will be on sale from the Arena.

www.whatsonindarlington.co.uk

WHAT’S ON! WHAT’S ON! USEFUL CONTACTS

Family Arts and Crafts – Thursday 23 and Friday 24, 1-3pm, Head of Steam.

Join us in February half term for fun arts and crafts for all the family. Included in admission and yearly passes.

Dolphin Centre Call 406000/406411.

MARCH

Head of Steam Call 405060 or visit www.head-ofsteam.co.uk; email headofsteam@ darlington.gov.uk. Entrance fees apply in most cases.

First Wednesday Arts Network Wednesday 1, 6-8pm, The Forum, Borough Road. Informal drop-ins which allow people to share ideas about arts and culture in the area. Contact John Dean 07889 554931.

Darlington Music Society – Saturday 18, 7.30pm, Central Hall - Primrose Piano Quartet play Brahms, Schumann and Beethoven. More details at www.dms.btck.co.uk.

Crown Street Library Call 462034. Contact the library for details of Bookstart sessions.

Cockerton Library Call 461320.

The Forum Call 363135 or visit www.theforumonline.co.uk The Bridge Visit www.thebridgedarlington.org.uk, Call 244174 or email info@thebridgedarlington.org.uk Civic Theatre events Civic Theatre box office on the ground floor of the Cornmill Centre. Open 10am-2pm MondayFriday and 10am-4pm Saturday. Call 486555 between 10am– 6pm Monday-Saturday, or visit www.darlingtoncivic.co.uk to book online.

If you have any events you would like listing in future editions, email communications@darlington.gov.uk or call 406058.

Listings are free and we will try and include as many as we can. Please note, deadlines for listings are around eight weeks before publication date.

One Darlington comes out bi-monthly.

A 2017 jam packed with fun There’s plenty to look forward to in Darlington this year.

SPRING

The opulent Mayor’s ball will take place in April in a magnificent marquee in the Dolphin Centre. This year’s poster will have a cops and robbers theme designed by Darlington College.

The fifth Darlington Arts Festival, a Celebration of Talent, will run from late April to the end of May. Co-ordinated by Darlington for Culture, it will include readings and creative writing workshops, arts events, a film festival and music events.

In April we’ll make a toast for St George’s Day at the Market Cross.

The ever-popular vintage vehicle rally will take place at the Head of Steam on 21 May with vehicles from across the North East and Yorkshire.

The Distinctly Delicious food festival will return in May.

SUMMER

The summer will hold the first in our series of cycle rides, the Round 50 Mile on Sunday 4 June.

The community carnival will parade through the streets on Saturday 24 June.

The mass dancers will fill the market square with moves on Saturday 8 July.

AUTUMN

Buildings across the country will be open for Heritage Open Days on Saturday and Sunday, 9 and 10 September. There’ll be free access to the Head of Steam and guided tours by the Friends of the museum.

The Festival of Ingenuity is back! This time with a week long run-up in conjunction with businesses, the festival will take place on Friday 22 and Saturday 23 September.

WINTER www.whatsonindarlington.co.uk

Santa will be back again in Darlington in 2017! There’ll be grottos in shopping centres and Santa at the Station will return.

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The Civic Theatre presents Starlight with Chris Bostock, the Storyteller – Saturday 28 Jan 11.30am & 2.30pm, Crown Street Art Gallery, Crown Street Library. Tickets £4, Family ticket £14.

Starlight is the charming story of a little possum who collects starlight from the night sky. When his mother is ill, he is sent out alone into the big wide world to find his own food. Lost in the dark he has to find his own way home by starlight.

For children between two and six years old with their families. _____________________________________ Hidden Histories: A Spotter’s Guide to the British Landscape – Saturday 11 Feb, 7.30pm Central Hall, Dolphin Centre. Tickets £12, discounts £11, RGSIBG members and one guest £10 each (quote membership number). Join TV presenter and archaeology writer MaryAnn Ochota on a journey through Britain’s historic landscape. Drawing on her new book, Hidden Histories, and with clues and examples of what and where to look to decipher the story of the landscape around us. _____________________________________

SPONGE – Thursday 23 Feb, 11am & 2pm, Central Hall, Dolphin Centre. Tickets £5, Family ticket £16.

Roll, squeeze and pop yourself through a new malleable kind of family dance show. Set to a 1970s-influenced score and perfect for babies, young children and families. Sponge is about all things spongy, a child’s ability to soak information up like a sponge and the squishy, squashy texture that fascinates children and adults alike. _____________________________________

Eddie ‘The Eagle’ Edwards – Try Hard, presented by Speakers from the Edge – Tuesday 13 June, 7.30pm, Central Hall Dolphin Centre, tickets £16.

A unique British sporting hero with an incredible story to tell. Eddie describes his incredible life-journey; from self-taught ski-jumping to the extensive surgery to rebuild his face and body following years of spectacular crashes as he set out to break world records in stunt jumping and speed-skiing. _____________________________________

Sammy and the Snow Leopard – Saturday 11 & Monday 13 March, Sat 2pm & 4pm; Mon 10.30am & 1.30pm, Crown St Art Gallery, for ages 5-10 years.

Sammy loves animals, but his mum won’t let him have any in the house. Then a parcel arrives and Sammy finds himself on a crazy adventure, involving stuffed animals, evil neighbours, school projects and limes…

Civic Theatre box office on the ground floor of the Cornmill Centre.

Open 10am-2pm Monday-Friday and 10am-4pm Saturday.

Call 486555 10am-6pm Monday-Saturday, or visit www.darlingtoncivic.co.uk to book online.

24

www.whatsonindarlington.co.uk

A special thank you to our Good Friends A local support system for older people is growing from strength to strength as more residents receive help to improve their quality of life.

The Good Friends initiative, which began in October 2013, has filled a gap in services which was identified

by Age UK Darlington and the police. During this time, Good Friends volunteers have provided residents with social support, decreased their feeling of isolation and promoted positive wellbeing.

The scheme is backed by Ron Hogg, the Police, Crime and Victims’ Commissioner for County Durham and Darlington.

In his Police, Crime and Victims’ Plan for the next four years, Ron is working to ensure that victims and the vulnerable feel supported.

He said: “It is excellent to see how much this project has thrived over the last three years, with so many vulnerable people receiving this additional

support to improve their quality of life. As well as assisting those who feel isolated or who are struggling, Good Friends also accompany people on shopping trips and help residents attend lunch clubs and other activities that they wouldn’t usually have had the confidence to go to alone.”

One person can have numerous Good Friends all carrying out small acts of kindness, which together add to a support system for someone in need.

The scheme was also named the Best Health and Social Care project at the Local Government Chronicle Awards 2015.

“I would like to thank the dedicated Good Friends who volunteer their time to improve the quality of life for older people in and around Darlington” said Ron. “If you would like to make a difference and become a Good Friend, or know someone who needs some extra help, I encourage you to get in touch.”

For details about Good Friends, please call 362832 or visit www.goodfriends.org.uk.

Have your say!

Ron is seeking your views as part of his annual public consultation on next year's budget.

He said: “So that I can deliver a policing service that meets the needs of local communities across County Durham and Darlington, I want to know what you think the increase, if any, in the police precept (police element of council tax) should be for 2017/18. I encourage you to get involved and have your say.”

Residents can fill in the short survey online at www.durham-pcc.gov.uk or search for Durham PCC on Facebook and Twitter. If you don’t have internet access you can call 0191 375 2001.

Some of our Good Friends

www.durham-pcc.gov.uk

The consultation closes at midnight on Sunday 29 January.

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Supported lodgings providers Angela Birleson and Alistair Campbell

Can you help a young person get on in life?

Do you have a spare room in your home?

Would you like to make a difference to a young person’s life without interrupting your career and earn money at the same time? If so, becoming a supported lodgings provider could be for you.

Supported lodgings give young people (aged 16-21) who are leaving care, the chance to develop the skills they need to live on their own, while they are in education, training or employment.

As a supported lodgings provider you offer a young person a safe and welcoming home environment, a bedroom for their exclusive use and ongoing support to help prepare them to move on and live on their own.

People from all different walks of life can become supported lodgings providers - no matter what your cultural background, marital status, religious beliefs or child care experience.

Training and ongoing support is provided.

Angela Birleson and Alistair Campbell, supported lodging providers, said: “We feel we’ve become a combination of a parent, coach and friend. We’ve helped our young person to understand how to look after money and budget to live and pay the bills. It’s great when he achieves something he thought was impossible, to share in his success and take pride in the fact that we’ve helped.”

Will Carter*, a young person living in supported lodgings, said: “I had been in care for about a year and was worried where I was going to live next.

I knew I didn’t want to live on my own, so when I was offered the chance to go into supported lodgings, although I was really nervous, I decided to give it a go. I’m so pleased I did. The people I live with are lovely and I still see my family when I want to. It’s great having my own room and independence and the support I need to do the things I want to do.” *Not his real name

26 www.darlington.gov.uk/supportedliving

Could you be a foster carer?

If you have room in your home, a passion for helping and are able to offer a safe, stable, protective environment for a baby, child, young person or siblings, then becoming a foster carer could be for you.

There is no such thing as an ideal foster carer.

No matter what your background, experience, relationship status or religious beliefs, we would love to hear from you.

There are many different types of foster care needed, from a few regular hours a week, to long term care and parent and child placements.

Whatever time and care you can offer, it will be very much appreciated.

Foster carers and children are assigned their own social workers who make regular home visits to ensure placements are going well and ongoing

Do you want to find out more?

Visit www.darlington.gov.uk/fosteringandadoption www.darlington.gov.uk/supportedlodgings Email fostering@darlington.gov.uk supportedlodgings@darlington.gov.uk Call: 406222 /DBCFamilyPlacement /@DBCFamPla

www.darlington.gov.uk/fostering

training, support and advice is always available if needed.

Debbie, a single mum, who has been a foster carer for three years, said: “I enquired about becoming a foster carer after reading an article in a magazine.

I live on my own and thought I wouldn’t qualify.

However, following a phone call to find out more, along with relevant training, six months later I was approved to become a foster carer. Support from the family placement team and access to other foster carers are on hand if I need it. So far six children have been placed with me. It’s not an easy ride, there are challenges, but the fulfilment of helping and making a difference to people’s lives far outweighs them.”

If you’re thinking about fostering, please make the call and start your journey to making a difference.

Come along to one of the following information sessions: Monday 16 January, 12-2pm & Monday 23 January, 6-7pm Mercure Darlington Kings Hotel, 9-12 Priestgate.

First Monday of every month – 6-7pm, Central House Annex, Gladstone Street.

There’s no need to book, simply drop in, we’d be delighted to meet you.

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As winter continues, we all need to take care of ourselves and others a little more than usual. Wrapping up warm against the cold weather and eating healthily are important, particularly for the elderly and very young.

We’ve a number of initiatives supporting our patients, at either end of the age spectrum, to eat well.

Support for elderly at risk of undernutrition As winter continues, we all need to take care of ourselves and others a little more...

Dietitians based at Darlington Memorial Hospital have introduced a new service called Healthcall Undernutrition. They want to identify older people living locally who would benefit from being invited to a series of lunches, run in partnership with Age UK Darlington, where they can get advice, information and enjoy a free two course hot meal.

Please call Catherine McShane, specialist dietitian, on 07717 480208 or Dave Regan, activities co-ordinator at Age UK Darlington, on 362832 to find out more.

Catherine explains: “Following assessment, patients come for lunch fortnightly for three months, where they can also weigh themselves and have access to specialist advice, so we’ll be able to identify anyone who is losing weight. Hand held devices provided by digital technology company, Inhealthcare, enable volunteers from Age UK Darlington to submit information about the patient’s weight and appetite, using an app. A clinician reviews this and gets in touch with any patients they’re concerned about.

Enjoying lunch

Patients benefit

“Age UK Darlington has shared with us their expertise in arranging lunch clubs and the food is provided by the caterers at Darlington Memorial Hospital, so this really is about partners working together for the benefit of the vulnerable elderly people in our community.

“The lunches started in November but continue throughout the winter and we really want to hear from anyone who thinks they might benefit from attending, so we can undertake an initial assessment.”

Our respiratory team and members of the lung cancer support group

28 www.cdft.nhs.uk

Buffet-style breakfast for children’s ward A new buffet-style breakfast has been introduced to the children’s ward at Darlington Memorial Hospital to encourage the young patients to start the day with a good meal.

Matron, Angela Price, said: “We want children to have the best experience they can when they’re in our care which is one of the reasons we’ve introduced the buffet breakfast.

“When you’re under the weather, your appetite can suffer and we hope that making the buffet available for two hours each morning will give the children an opportunity to eat when they feel able to. Eating well at the start of the day is so important for young children and even more so when they are poorly.

“The buffet features a wide selection of healthy food and drinks and we also make toast for those who want it. Parents can help with their selection, but otherwise, we will. They can either eat in the breakfast room or take a tray back to their bed. Of course, if they feel too poorly to get up, we’ll bring breakfast to them.”

Sharon Thompson, whose son Taylor Brownson

Two young patients, Julia Jankowska, six, and Taylor Brownson, nine, were on hand to help with the first buffet

was in hospital, said: “This is a great idea and a good way to encourage the children to have a nice breakfast and to choose what they would like. Taylor was admitted last night and was quite tired this morning, so it was reassuring knowing he could have breakfast when he wanted it and that the choices are all healthy. I hope he doesn’t expect a buffet at home!”

from support group fundraising Respiratory problems can be exacerbated by cold weather so we’re delighted that the Darlington and Bishop Auckland lung cancer support group, which has been fundraising for Darlington Memorial Hospital since 2003, has raised more than £1,000 to buy two pulse oxymeters which are used to determine whether patients require oxygen support or more radical treatment.

Karen Capenhurst, respiratory oncology clinical nurse specialist at County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Pulse oxymeters give us accurate information about a patient’s blood oxygen levels, which otherwise requires a

www.cdft.nhs.uk

blood test. As you would imagine, patients much prefer not to have a blood test if possible and the results are also instant, so any necessary treatment changes can begin immediately.”

George Addison, a member of the support group, said: “I underwent surgery a couple of years ago when a growth was successfully removed from my lung. It was an unusual diagnosis and I was incredibly impressed with the care I received throughout and the attitude of everyone involved.

I joined the support group as a way of saying thank you and to give something back, through fundraising, which will hopefully benefit future patients.”

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New Year’s resolution: Don’t give money to beggars Guest editor John Elliston makes a plea to think twice before you give to beggars.

A young man sits in a shop doorway with a piece of paper on which the words ‘homeless and hungry’ are scrawled. It is a scene that is becoming increasingly common in Darlington.

Against the background of the Government’s attempts to reduce expenditure and increase cuts, one would be forgiven for interpreting it as a sign of the times, signalling an increase in homelessness and rough sleeping.

However, in Darlington, this is not the case. The Council and the voluntary sector have worked together over many years to develop some of the best homelessness services in the country: no one needs to rough sleep in Darlington. Rather than a homelessness issue, what that young man in the shop doorway illustrates is a significant rise in begging in Darlington.

In most cases, it is neither homelessness nor hunger that leads someone to beg - it is money. Raising, on average, £30-£40 a session, although illegal, begging can be very lucrative. In a fairly prosperous market town like Darlington it is profitable and that is why people persist, in spite of the risk of prosecution, sometimes even paying the bus fare from Stockton or Middlesbrough to get here.

Of course, begging is only profitable if you and I respond. Confronted with someone in apparently desperate need, our hearts tend to rule and we find it hard to just walk by. We reach into a pocket or a purse and gather the small change to toss into the begging bowl. But before you give tomorrow, or the next day, just pause a moment and ask yourself “what will my donation be spent on?” Sadly, it is unlikely to be used to buy food or accommodation, instead it may be drugs or alcohol.

These reflex acts of generosity do not help the person, rather they can deepen the damage. Even if you buy the person a sandwich, rather than giving money, unless more is done, the situation of need is not changed. If you really want to assist homeless people in Darlington, resist those who beg, and support your local homelessness charity instead. Giving to local homelessness charities really does help because you become part of solving the person’s problems rather than perpetuating them or deepening them.

For the genuinely hungry, emergency food is available 24/7, so if you come across someone sleeping rough please call Streetlink on 0300 500 0914 and local services will help.

Dr John Elliston MBE Chief Executive of the 700 Club

Homelessness charities working here and how to contact them 700 Club – 366397 www.700club.org.uk Kings Church – 469884 www.kingschurchdarlington.org YMCA – 462452 www.ymcateesvalley.co.uk First Stop – 254463 www.firststopdarlington.org.uk

30 www.onedarlington.org.uk

You’re never too young to Move More! Move More Star Meet our young Move More Stars...

Most babies and young children love water. Kelly Smith signed herself and her five month old son, Mason, up for a myfirstswim academy course. The course consists of ten weekly, 30 minute sessions in the Dolphin Centre swimming pool for parents/ grandparents/carers and babies and toddlers up to three. Kelly said: “Our swimming sessions give me the chance to get active, meet up with other mums and spend quality time with Mason.

“We sing songs and play games. Mason has become so much stronger and more confident - in and out of the water - since we started to go. It gives both of us the chance to socialise and have fun. The instructor is really friendly and gets everyone involved.”

on r baby Mas te a w d n a h Kelly Smit

Cynthia Linsley treats her granddaughters Isabella, four, Florence, two, and one year old Georgina, to a trip to the Under The Sea soft play area in the Dolphin Centre, at least once a week. Cynthia said: “They love visiting the soft play area. It’s such a fabulous facility. The girls can interact with other children in a safe, friendly, fun environment. The staff are always so welcoming and they help encourage activity.

We usually grab a bite to eat in the Bistro, where there is a great choice of food, with healthy options, which is great as I like to teach the girls the importance of r e d n U e th being active and g sley enjoyin r in L te h ia g u th a n d y C nd eating healthy.” play with gra the Sea soft Georgina

t ar S e r o M e Mov

S t ar e r o M e v Mo

Eva McGeough, eight, has been coming to gymnastics classes at the Dolphin Centre since she was five. The wouldbe Olympian says the sessions are fun and make her feel happy.

Eva’s mum, Tracey, said: “Eva has gained confidence, muscle tone and strong bones from her gymnastics training and has made lots of friends outside of school, which helps her mix well with different age groups.”

ugh Eva McGeo t s a n m y g Young

For details of activities at the Dolphin Centre, including gymnastics, soft play and swimming (including myfirstswim academy) visit www.healthydarlington.co.uk or call 406000.

www.healthydarlington.co.uk

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New Year New Courses!

Learning & Skills Service offers a variety courses, which are available to all people in Darlington including parents, carers, grandparents and to anyone who would like to learn something new this year!

Courses run at various venues across Darlington

We also offer a variety of Employabilty courses such as Functional Skills in English, Maths and ICT

• ICT Courses

Level 3 Award in Education and Training for those who would like to go into teaching

• Cookery • Languages and many more

Working with Children and Young People Level 1 and Level 2 is also available

Fun and Free courses • Healthy Eating • Family Budgeting • Child Development and many more

For further information, please telephone the Learning & Skills team on: (01325) 405601, email: l&s@darlington.gov.uk or text us at: 07932 869325.

You can visit our website for more information on the courses we deliver: www.darlington.gov.uk/learningandskills 32

www.darlington.gov.uk

Down by the Riverside Park Work will start soon on the first phase of the exciting Riverside Park project.

Once complete, the redevelopment will improve the western bank of the River Skerne behind the Town Hall and Bishopsgate House.

The project includes walkways, tree planting, seating areas and a viewing platform.

For details of alternative car parking, including the Feethams multi-storey car park, please visit www.darlington.gov.uk/carparking To keep up to date on the Riverside Park project take a look at www.darlington.gov.uk/riversidepark

Stone from an archaeological dig, which was carried out on the land where Bishopsgate House now stands, will be used in the scheme.

To make these improvements possible, the car park behind the Town Hall will be closed.

Money for the project will come from the Homes and Communities Agency and proceeds from the Feethams Leisure Development, which has been specially allocated and cannot be spent elsewhere.

An artist’s impression of how the new park will look

I’m getting my free childcare for 2 year olds in Darlington for up to 15 hours a week...

...is your child?

Check your child’s eligibility online at www.darlington.gov.uk/childcarechecker You just need your National Insurance number, or call Darlington’s People and Families Information Support on 406222 with your National Insurance number or e-mail pfis@darlington.gov.uk

www.darlington.gov.uk

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Fire Authority seeks your views Crew manager Becky Brown

A public consultation is running to help County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) plan for the future provision of services.

The 12 week consultation, which began in November last year, will run until 20 February.

Colin Bage, deputy chief fire officer for CDDFRS, said: “We would be very grateful if people could spare a few minutes to take part in our consultation. This is your fire and rescue service, funded by you and in existence to protect the community. Your help is invaluable to us as we prepare to make decisions about future spending priorities.

“It is important to stress that of the three proposals we are consulting on, none of them include closure of fire stations in County Durham and Darlington, reduction in the number of fire appliances that we run or fewer firefighters. In fact, we are recruiting our first intake of firefighter apprentices and we will soon be beginning another round of firefighter recruitment.

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“The three proposals we are consulting on cover further collaboration with partner organisations such as police, ambulance, local councils and health services. We hope our consultation will give everyone living and working in our area time to express their views.”

Since 2010, CDDFRS has transformed the way it provides services to the community in response to a £6m cut in government funding. In 2016 the Fire Authority agreed to accept the Government’s offer of a four year funding settlement. This settlement still results in a reduction in government funding of 19 per cent in the medium term, forcing the service to consider further proposals to reduce costs.

For more background information go to www.ddfire.gov.uk/service-plans or bit.ly/consultation_2017-18 To read the proposals and have your say in the survey go to www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/consultation2017-18 If you would like a paper copy of the survey please call 0845 3058383 or email ServiceHQ@ddfire.gov.uk

www.ddfire.gov.uk

The next phase of the local plan Now that the guiding principles strategic framework of the local plan have been agreed by Cabinet, work has started on developing the detail of the plan.

This includes: • The policies that will be used to determine planning applications on things like housing, employment, retail, transport, heritage, biodiversity and climate change • Allocations of land for housing, employment and other uses • Creation of masterplans for strategic development areas

Masterplans A masterplan is created before a planning application for a site and sets out matters of importance, but not the specific design. It means large areas can be planned in a coordinated way for things like schools, open spaces, community facilities and transport.

• Development of a robust evidence base to support the plan.

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New/improved highway network New east/west highway links Potential areas for strategic locations Previously identified sites

This next phase will involve close partnership working with local and national stakeholders such as Highways England, landowners, developers and other interest groups. Consultation with people who live and work in Darlington will also continue.

We already have a good evidence base of work that has been done on previous plans, which will

www.darlington.gov.uk/localplan

© Crown copyright and database rights 2016 Ordnance Survey 0100023728. You are not permitted to copy, sub-license, distribute or sell any of this data to third parties in any form. LB October 2016

enable us to prepare a plan much more quickly than usual.

Throughout the development of the plan we will be providing updates on key proposals and consultations on our website. For more information, visit www.darlington.gov.uk/localplan

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Council Leader’s Column Darlington has a wealth of volunteers and I am very proud that so many of you give so much of your time to help other people. Volunteers are at the heart of so much good work in the Borough and we all benefit from the selfless acts of other people who give up their time to make this such a fantastic place to work and live.

When Darlington Partnership asked for volunteers to share their stories in the supplement in this edition of the magazine they were inundated with people wanting to inspire others to help the community.

As we start a new year I think it is a great chance for us all to look at our lives and see what we could do, however big or small, to help those around us. Volunteering doesn’t have to mean a big commitment or making a formal agreement to give your time – simply popping in to have a coffee with a neighbour or picking up a piece of litter is a great way to give to others and add to a growing sense of community spirit.

If you do have a bit of time to spare but you don’t know how to volunteer, why not pop to the Borough’s first volunteer fair on Thursday 2 February in the Dolphin Centre? This will be a great opportunity to meet volunteers of all ages from across the Borough as well as organisations that rely on the goodwill of others to survive. I am saddened that, due to government cuts, the Council is unable to carry out many of the services people rely on, and so it has never been more important for us all to pull together and help one another in any way we can.

I hope you all had a good Christmas and I wish you all the best for a peaceful 2017.

I am confident that by working together, helping one another and playing to our strengths, we can make this a great year for Darlington.

Cllr Bill Dixon MBE (@billdixondton) Leader of the Council

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Ward surgeries Ward Your local councillor is there to listen to you and find out about the issues that are affecting life in your ward. You can email, telephone or meet with your local councillor at regular ward surgeries. Find out more at www.darlington.gov.uk/your-council Emailing councillors If you wish to email your councillor their email address is firstname.lastname@darlington.gov.uk For example, if you wish to email Bill Dixon, type in bill.dixon@darlington.gov.uk The only exceptions are Andy Scott (Haughton and Springfield Ward), Anne-Marie Curry (North Road Ward) and Tom Nutt (Whinfield Ward); their email addresses are shown with their ward surgery details.

BANK TOP AND LASCELLES

Veronica Copeland (L) Tel: 358530; Chris Taylor (L) Tel: 243298; Wendy Newall (L) Tel: 251574. Cleveland Bridge Social Club – Sat 14 Jan, 11 Feb and 11 Mar - Noon-1pm. King William Street Community Centre - Fri 20 Jan, 17 Feb and 17 Mar - 5-6pm.

BRINKBURN AND FAVERDALE

Sue Richmond (L) Tel: 351538. Brinkburn RA Club – Thu 2 Feb and 2 Mar - 6-7pm. Richard Grundy (C) Tel: 266314; Rachel Mills (C) Tel: 482906/ 07534 285614.

Brinkburn RA Club - Tue 7 Feb and 7 Mar - 6-7pm. West Park Academy - Wed 11 Jan, 8 Feb and 8 Mar - 6-7pm.

COCKERTON

Paul Baldwin (L) Tel: 362690; Jan Cossins (L) Tel: 241124; David Regan (L) Tel: 495258. Windsor Court – Tue 10 Jan, 14 Feb and 14 Mar - 10-11am. Cockerton Library - Thu 12 Jan, 9 Feb and 9 Mar - 6–7pm.

COLLEGE

Tony Richmond (C) Tel: 351538; Ian Galletley (C) Tel: 07507 904109. Abbey Junior School - Wed 11 Jan, 8 Feb and 8 Mar - 6-7pm.

EASTBOURNE

Roderick Crichlow (L) Tel: 488173; Bill Dixon (L) Tel: 486588. Pilmoor Green Community Centre - Wed 18 Jan, 15 Feb and 15 Mar - 5-6pm. Firthmoor Community Centre Wed 25 Jan, 22 Feb and 29 Mar - 3-4pm. Kevin Nicholson (I) Tel: 07791 807629. Pilmoor Green Community Centre - Thu 19 Jan, 16 Feb and 16 Mar - 1-2pm.

HARROWGATE HILL

Gill Cartwright (C) No Ward surgery held, please contact Tel: 382276/07963 200893. Marjory Knowles (L) Tel: 265847; David Lyonette (L) Tel: 464693. - Harrowgate CIU Ltd - Wed 11 Jan, 8 Feb and 8 Mar - 7-8pm.

www.darlington.gov.uk/your-council

in in your your area area

Key: (L) Labour (C) Conservative (LD) Liberal Democrat (I) Independent

HAUGHTON AND SPRINGFIELD

PARK EAST

Chris McEwan (L) Tel: 283262; Andy Scott (L) Tel: 253707, andrew.scott@darlington.gov.uk; Nick Wallis (L) Tel: 07960 247554. Haughton Methodist Church – Wed 11 Jan, 8 Feb and 8 Mar – 7-8pm. Salvation Army, Thompson St; Wed 11 Jan, 8 Feb and 8 Mar - 6-7pm.

ASDA Foyer – Sat 4 Feb and 4 Mar - 10-11am.

Cyndi Hughes (L) Tel: 480975; Malcolm Wright (L) Tel: 484374; Michael Nicholson (L) Tel: 240750/ 07906 552714. St Augustine’s Parish Centre – Wed 11 Jan, 8 Feb and 8 Mar - 6.30-7.15pm. Forum Music Centre - Wed 4 Jan, 1 Feb and 1 Mar – 6-7pm. The Coleridge Centre – Fri 10 Feb – 6-7pm. St Columba’s Church, Clifton Road – Fri 13 Jan and 10 Mar – 6-7pm.

HEIGHINGTON AND CONISCLIFFE Gerald Lee (C) Tel: 314622; Paul Crudass (C) Tel: 374537. Brafferton Village Hall – Sat 4 Feb – 10-11am.

Killerby & Summerhouse Village Hall – Sat 4 Mar – 10-11am.

HUMMERSKNOTT Alan Coultas (C) Tel: 07788 542859; Charles Johnson (C) Tel: 463712. Carmel RC College – Mon 30 Jan, 20 Feb and Tue 28 Mar - 6-7pm.

HURWORTH Joe Kelley (LD) Tel: 266760 – Hurworth Grange Community Library, Hurworth Road – Thu 5 Jan, 2 Feb and 2 Mar - 6-7pm. Lorraine Tostevin (C) Tel: 333382.

- Hurworth Grange Community Library, Hurworth Road Wed 18 Jan, 15 Feb and 15 Mar - 6-7pm.

MOWDEN Bill Stenson (C) Tel: 468249; Pauline Culley (C) Tel: 07535 470805. Mowden Junior School - Mon 9 Jan, 6 Feb and 6 Mar - 6.30-7.30pm.

NORTHGATE Eleanor Lister (L) Tel: 254091; Sonia Kane (L) Tel: 486754. Corporation Road Primary School – Wed 4 Jan, 1 Feb and 1 Mar - 6-7pm.

NORTH ROAD Anne-Marie Curry (LD) Tel: 07531 304050, annemarie.curry@darlington.gov.uk; Fred Lawton (LD) Tel: 467413. St Thomas Aquinas Church, North Road – Wed 25 Jan, 22 Feb and 22 Mar - 1-2pm. Morrison’s North Road, Car Park Entrance - Wed 11 Jan, 8 Feb and 8 Mar – 6-7pm.

Dawn Storr (L) Tel: 07543 159224. Morrison’s North Road, car park entrance – Wed 1 Feb and 1 Mar - 6-7pm.

PARK WEST Bob Donoghue (C) Tel: 352582; Heather Scott (C) Tel: 468547. 76 Carmel Road South - Fri 20 Jan, 17 Feb and 17 Mar - 5-6pm.

PIERREMONT Bob Carson (L) Tel: 240627; Stephen Harker (L) Tel: 380039; Linda Hughes (L) Tel: 07904 772387. – Reid Street Primary School - Wed 4 Jan, 1 Feb and 1 Mar - 6-7pm.

RED HALL AND LINGFIELD Ian Haszeldine (L) Tel: 741508/ 07807 381613; Lynne Haszeldine (L) Tel: 250328. Red Hall Community Centre, Headingley Crescent - Wed 11 Jan, 8 Feb and 8 Mar - 6-7pm. Heathfield Primary School - Wed 25 Jan, 22 Feb and 22 Mar - 6-7pm.

SADBERGE AND MIDDLETON ST GEORGE Brian Jones (C) Tel: 332820; Doris Jones (C) Tel: 332820; Steve York (C) Tel: 332025. Sadberge Village Hall -Tue 31 Jan and 28 Mar - 6-7pm. Dinsdale Court – Tue 24 Jan, 28 Feb and 28 Mar - 6.15-7.15pm.

Bishopton Village Hall – Tue 7 Mar - 6-7pm.

STEPHENSON Jan Taylor (L) Tel: 243298; Katie Kelly (L) Tel: 260239. Wesley Court Community Centre - Sat 28 Jan, 25 Feb and 25 Mar – 11am-noon. Gurney Pease School – Wed 11 Jan - 6-7pm.

WHINFIELD Helen Crumbie (L) Tel: 462642; Tom Nutt (L) Tel: 360953, thomas.nutt@darlington.gov.uk. Asda Foyer – Sat 7 Jan, Sat 4 Feb and Sat 4 Mar - 10-11am.

MPs’ SURGERIES: Jenny Chapman (Darlington MP) will be holding surgeries at her constituency office, 40a Coniscliffe Road, Darlington DL3 7RG on alternate Fridays from 9.30am to 11am. Please call 382345 for an appointment.

www.darlington.gov.uk/your-council

Phil Wilson (Sedgefield MP) constituency office – 4 Beveridge Walkway, Newton Aycliffe DL5 4EE – is open to the public from 10am to 3pm Monday to Friday.

For a dedicated surgery call 321603 or email trippettp@parliament.uk

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Clubs and societies Three cheers for the volunteers Helpers are the lifeblood of many clubs and societies. Some are run completely by unpaid volunteers who use their spare time to do a host of things such as organising events and venues, coaching sports for young and old, entertaining through music and arts, fundraising for their clubs and much more.

One club that relies on its volunteers is Lazer Cheer, which provides cheerleading training based around gymnastic tumbling, stunts, throws and dance.

Regional, national and international competition opportunities are on offer for members aged five and over. Training is available from the age of three, while the adult team has members in their 40s. Anyone can do it, all that’s asked is that you’re willing to work hard and be a team player. Sessions are held on Tuesdays from 4.30-5.30pm for ages five to eight and from 5.30-7pm for ages nine and over at Kings Centre, Prospect Place, Whessoe Road.

The group has been helped by a team of volunteer parents. Friends of Lazer Cheer was set up in 2014 by the parents of some young members, to help the club financially. Their fundraising has helped the club give members a discount on new uniforms in 2015; bought a new sound system and an iPad, as well helping other local charities.

For details of Lazer Cheer call 07508 673297, email michelle@lazercheer.co.uk or visit www.lazercheer.co.uk or search for them on Facebook.

Darlington Historical Society hosts lectures and meetings at Friends Meeting House, Skinnergate.

Upcoming events include A History of Darlington Grammar School, by Dennis Perkins on 18 January; the History of the Civic Theatre, by Lynda Winstanley on 15 February and Body Snatchers in the North of England, by Suzie Lennox on 15 March. Visit www.darlingtonhistoricalsociety.wordpress.com The Community Environmental Care Agency meets at Harrowgate Hill Methodist Church on the last Wednesday of the month at 6.30pm. The group aims to tackle issues such as fly tipping, littering and dog fouling. Call 03334 050340, search for them on Facebook, email office@communityenvirocare.org.uk or visit www.communityenvirocare.org.uk Darlington New Orleans Jazz Club meets at St Augustine’s Parish Hall, Larchfield Street at 12.30pm (doors open at noon) on the first Saturday of every month except January. Entry is £10 at the door. Call 07860 368022, email ray@darlingtonjazz.co.uk or visit www.darlingtonjazz.co.uk Darlington Lecture Association hosts lectures at Carmel RC College. The next one is at 7.30pm on 13 February, when ceramics expert Lars Tharp presents A Brief History of the World in Clay.

Lawyer and novelist Jim Williams presents Tales of History’s Great Forgers in Art and Literature at 7.30pm on 13 March.

Visit www.darlingtonlecture.org.uk or call 363350.

Breathe Easy Darlington meets first Tuesday of the month at the Copper Beech, Neasham Road, from 1-3.30pm. A support and friendship group for anyone with respiratory illness. Email breatheeasydarlington@hotmail.com or call 07858 615154.

If you would like your club or society listed on this page, please get in touch. We will include as many as we can. Listings are free.

Email communications@darlington.gov.uk or call 406058. There is a web page on the Council’s website dedicated to clubs and societies. Visit www.darlington.gov.uk/clubs

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www.darlington.gov.uk/clubs

Community Learning Mental Health Research Project

A FREE Short Course

Darlington Borough Council’s Learning & Skills service is part of a national research project to determine whether short adult education courses will benefit individuals with mild to moderate mental health issues.

We will be measuring the impact of attending a course on an individual’s mental wellbeing using specific assessment tools.

It is hoped that this national research will prove that such courses have a positive impact on people’s mental wellbeing and the evidence will help secure government funding for adult education courses in the future.

The project is open to anyone aged 19 years and over who has mild to moderate mental health conditions such as anxiety, stress and low mood.

Everyone who is interested will take part in a 1:1 meeting with a member of our staff who will discuss how you feel and ask you to complete three simple questionnaires to determine your eligibility for the research. You will discuss which particular course is appealing to you and will discuss a start date.

Most courses last 2-3 hours per week for a six-week period.

You will only be eligible to attend one course, so careful selection will be part of the discussion in order that you attend the course most appropriate for your needs.

We repeat the short questionnaires during your programme of learning to see how this will impact on your mental health, and optional top up sessions will be available.

The course you could choose will be one of these:

SHINE to help you with anxiety, stress and low mood Monday 9am-1pm, at Evolution, Church Row Starts 16 January and runs for five weeks

Designed to improve your confidence and self-esteem to enable you to be your best and help you ‘shine’ more in everyday life. We will explore comfort zones, confidence, self-esteem, mindfulness and living well (healthy eating, sleep etc.)

Laugh Away Your Stress

Tuesday 9am-12:30pm, at Evolution, Church Row Starts 17 January and runs for six weeks

This course is designed to help you understand stress, your personal stress triggers and how laughter, yoga and other strategies can help. You will learn relaxation exercises, and each session will provide the opportunity to share ideas, strategies and experiences, check on progress and receive support from your tutor.

Write For Me

Monday 9am-12:30pm at Crown Street Library ICT room Starts 16 January and runs for six weeks

Join this informal and therapeutic creative writing course and explore how to express your thoughts and feelings through writing. Discover how writing can help us express ourselves and cope better. Whether you are a complete beginner (good spelling and grammar not important) or have experienced the joy of writing before, we will all learn together in a friendly and supportive manner.

Re-focus with Digital Photography

Wednesday 1:30-5pm at The Coleridge Centre ICT room Starts 18 January and runs for six weeks

This informal and therapeutic course will include in-depth demonstration of techniques, explanations as to the function and hands-on instruction with your own camera, as well as providing an opportunity to share activities that help you recognise and manage your symptoms.

Sessions will often include field trips to local points of interest in order to make practical use of your new skills.

During the course you will need to bring a digital camera plus any accessories you may wish to use. It is highly recommended that you bring your manual and spare, fully charged batteries and a spare empty memory card.

Create Wellbeing

Monday 12:30-4pm – at The Bridge Centre for Visual Arts, Yarm Road Starts 16 January and runs for six weeks. Tutor – Petra Lloyd

Creativity can be good for you. Gain confidence and develop new skills, make new friends and learn something fun in a relaxed atmosphere. Explore ideas and techniques with ceramics, textiles, printing, drawing and painting.

Rejuvenate with Upcycled Art

Tuesday 5pm-8:30pm – Scrap Studio Arts in Borough Road Nursery Starts 17 January 2017 and runs for six weeks Tutor – Yvonne Preston

Working with recycled or upcycled materials, you can transform and create whatever you wish through the use of collage, painting, printing, sewing, modelling etc. or get creative and work on your own project. A great opportunity to express yourself in a hands-on, friendly environment.

What happens at my first meeting?

At your first agreed meeting, you will be given a self-assessment to complete which will give us an indication of your mental wellbeing. We will discuss your aspirations and any barriers you are facing and provide information, advice and guidance for your next steps. If all of this sounds interesting and appealing and you want to book your 1:1 chat, or you want to talk with someone to find out more about the project and the courses, please call us now on 01325 405601 or email us l&s@darlington.gov.uk www.darlington.gov.uk/your-council

How to enrol?

If you are aged over 19 years and feel you have a mild to moderate mental health condition please call us on 01325 405601 or email l&s@darlington.gov.uk and we will arrange your 1:1 chat. If you are reading this and know a family member or a friend you would like to refer, please discuss this with them and ask them to get touch with39 us. oneinDarlington

Recycle right and win!

If you sort your recycling correctly you could win a family swim and ÂŁ20 worth of food and drink at the Dolphin Centre!

Every week during February and March one household which recycles right will be chosen at random to receive the prize.

To make sure you are recycling right and to find out more go to www.darlington.gov.uk/recycleright Find us on social media @darlingtonbc #recycleright