Town News - Issue 9 - November 2022

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TOWN

PATCHWAY TOWN COUNCIL COMMUNITY HUB

At the meeting of Patchway Town Council in October, it was unanimously agreed by all Councillors to carry on the ‘The Community Hub’ for the foreseeable future in The Casson Centre

IN REMEMBRANCE: MICHAEL GROTZKE

Patchway Town Council were extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former Mayor and Town Councillor, Michael Grotzke. Michael served between the years of 1999 2019 on Patchway Town Council and in those twenty years made an impact on trying to improve Patchway for all who lived here He was a kind and committed person and will be sorely missed

Mike was Vice Chairman of Patchway Town Council from 2006 2008 as well as 2011 2014. Mike also served as the Town’s Chairman and Mayor from 2014 2015 In 2019, Mike stood down from Patchway Town Council but still continued to take an involved role in the community of Patchway.

On Mr Grotzke, current Mayor of Patchway Cllr Dayley Lawrence remarked that ‘Michael was an extremely committed member of Patchway Town Council and served his community well over 20 years. Although I did not personally know him, other members as well as people in the community had taken to his extremely committed nature and he always strived for the best for all of our residents’

Patchway Town Council’s Book of Remembrance will be open for signing until 4:30pm each weekday, for anyone who wishes to leave a message in remembrance.

Mike's family have informed us that his funeral is to be held at 3.15pm on Monday 7th November at Westerleigh Crematorium, gathering afterwards at Patchway Sports & Social Club Lounge All are welcome to attend.

PATCHWAY TOWN COUNCIL AWARDS £3050 TO LOCAL GROUPS

Patchway Town Council are pleased to announce that they have funded £3050 to local groups as part of their grant awarding process Each year, Patchway Town Council provides grants that benefit our local community and residents The recipients of the latest round of grants can be seen below.

Pretoria Road Allotment Society have been awarded £800 for a new roof on their existing building on the allotment site

The Link Club have been awarded £1000 towards local support and events for disabled residents in Patchway

The Senior Citizens Wednesday Lunch Club have been awarded £250 for new cooking equipment for their group who meet at Patchway Community Centre

Patchway’s Men in Sheds have been awarded £1000 towards the cost of a new container and outdoor area, which will enable the group to expand and grow.

More information on how to apply for a grant and how they are decided can be found at: www patchwaytowncouncil gov uk/grants

PATCHWAY FIREWORK DISPLAY 2022

We are getting increasingly closer to our first ever fireworks display at Scott Park and we wanted to share some information with all ticket holders before the event.

Event Timings: The event space will be open from 5pm on Friday 4th November 2022. There will be live music and outdoor performers from 5pm ready to entertain you! We will also have outdoor food and drink vendors open from 5pm The 15 minute firework display will start at 8:30pm and this will be strictly adhered to for safety reasons The car park at Scott Park will be closed from Thursday 3rd November 2022 at 4pm and will remain closed until midnight on Friday 4th November 2022.

Things to do: We have lots of things for people of all ages to do once you arrive in Scott Park and there is a variety of entertainment, novelties, food and drink

For something to eat, we will be joined by:

The Burger Bus Gourmet burgers.

Scooby Snacks Legendary Baps

Bombay Bruuunch Indian snacks and treats

Treat Catering Donuts, candy floss and frankfurters!

Cheeky Pancakes Bristol A little taste of the Netherlands!

Sweet Bella Boo Retro Sweets Vintage sweets.

For something to drink, we will be joined by:

The Booze Box Outdoor bar in a Horsebox!

Deja Brew Coffee Hot drink specialists!

To keep you entertained, we have:

BKS Family Amusements Hook a Duck and flashing lights!

Mini Concerts Live music for the whole family!

Fire performers and Stilt Walkers

Johnny G’s Kids’ Balloon Modelling

Parking: There will be strictly NO parking at this event and residents are advised to walk to avoid congestion in the area We are asking all residents to be mindful of fellow residents if they do choose to park in residential streets

Accessing Scott Park: For this evening, we are only permitting ticket holders into Scott Park Entry is via the gate in the lane from Coniston Road (which can be seen at https://www patchwaytowncouncil gov uk/post/scott park main gate closure and diversion) Please ensure you have your ticket ready to show. We are advising all people to arrive as early as possible to ensure we can get all ticket holders in prior to 8:30pm.

Accessing Patchway Sports and Social Club:

There will be access permitted to Patchway Sports and Social Club for any non ticket holders This will be only possible on the production of a valid PSSC membership card

Dos and Don'ts:

Please remember that this is a community event and all the staff on site have volunteered their time to ensure the smooth running of this event Please do not bring any animals onto site. Please do not bring any sparklers onto site as this will result in your ejection from the site

If you have any issues, please find a volunteer in a high vis jacket or contact a member of the security team who will be visible at all times

We will also be raising money for the two Mayoral charities on the evening with a bucket collection and we want to ask residents to donate what they can

THE

VISITS OUR TWIN TOWN!

In the latter part of October half term, the Mayor of Patchway Cllr Dayley Lawrence and residents from Patchway attended the latest Civic visit to our German Twin Town, Gauting

The exchange was a reciprocal visit to celebrate 20 years of Twinning between Patchway and Gauting. Patchway had welcomed a large delegation of official's and residents in June, which was a great success

This visit was a chance for the civic heads of all thee town's to come together and to further strengthen the twinning partnership The programme was packed to the rafters with sight seeing and official visits

After the delegation from Patchway had flown from London to Munich, they were greeted by their hosts and taken back to where they would be staying for the next few days. All of the delegation from Patchway had paid for their own flights and travel, showing their determination to make this visit a successful one

On the first day of the exchange, the delegation were taken to a local high school whereby they received a presentation on waste management and recycling They were then transported to a local brewery in Gauting and then a guided tour of the rural part of the German Town.

On the second day of the exchange, the delegation were welcomed to the town hall where they received a presentation on 'Patchway Anger'. This presentation was about a new development in Gauting and they had named it after our very own town! After this, they had a guided tour of the natural history museum and then a visit to Castle Nymphenburg In the evening, the delegation were treated to a traditional Bavarian evening with dancing and food in abundance.

On the third day, the delegation had the chance to travel to anywhere that they would have liked to see with their hosts In the evening, the civic dinner was held and all three Mayor's exchanged speeches around how the twinning partnerships can help with the ongoing struggles in the world The evening was a great success!

On the final day, the delegation got to visit a historic Roman site in Gauting The Mayor of Patchway stayed until the Monday and was given a tour of the town hall and their service department

The twinning exchange had been a real positive step and has really strengthened our relationships with our twin towns Moving forwards, we have the successful pen pal scheme for our young people as well as trying to re establish our twinning committee If this is something you would be interested in, please contact us via email to office@patchwaytowncouncil gov uk

INITIAL CONSULTATION ON THE REVOCATION OF A BYELAW ON NORMAN SCOTT PARK, PATCHWAY.

Patchway Town Council are proposing the amend the byelaw on Norman Scott Park to allow dogs to be able to exercise on the pathway only and within a fenced off area within the park

The Council have made this decision to try and increase footfall through the park

The existing byelaw on Norman Scott Park, on byelaw 5 IV, made under Section 164 of the Public Health Act 1875 on the eighth day of November 1985, reads 'A person shall not cause or suffer any dog belonging to him or in his charge to enter or remain in the ground with the exception of guide dogs for the blind'

PUBLIC CONSULTATION EVENT ON THE UNDERPASS AT THE PARADE

This event will be held on Wednesday 2nd November from 2pm 6pm at Callicroft House, Rodway Road, Patchway, BS34 5DQ

Your views are crucial to the enhancement of the area, and we would like all residents to attend.

PATCHWAY TOWN COUNCIL MAKES A DONATION TO THE MAYOR’S CHARITIES

Patchway Town Council have agreed to donate £100 to the Mayor’s Charities for the 2022/2023 Civic Year.

The Link Club and the 2nd Patchway Scout Group will benefit from a donation of £50 from the Council towards the work they have been doing in the local area This donation will be topped up from any money received from the fundraising events we have planned for this year. The first event being the firework night on 4th November, where we will have bucket collections for both of the charities We are politely asking residents to donate what they can to benefit these two long standing Patchway groups. A similar collection will be held at the Christmas Light Switch on event on Friday 25th November

If residents wish to donate, there is a collection bucket at Callicroft House

You can find out more information about the Mayor’s Charity at www patchwaytowncouncil gov uk/mayor

South Gloucestershire Council along with Bromford Housing Association are holding a public consultation event on future plans for the underpass at The Parade in Patchway

Patchway Town Council would like to encourage residents to fill out this short online survey The survey will close on Wednesday 9th November 2022 Please visit https://www surveymonkey co uk/r/nspdogs to access the survey

CALLING ALL BUSINESSSES, RESIDENTS AND COMMUNITY GROUPS

Christmas Light Sponsorship

We want to light up Patchway this year and we need your help! We are asking for any donations towards our festive plans, which will be shared with the Mayor’s Charities

The money raised will go towards benefitting the Patchway community including two youth organisations!

There is no minimum donations as every little helps this time of year!

All businesses or people who sponsor the lights, will have their logo or name added to a board which will be proudly displayed within the Town You will also receive a place on our website as well as social media shout outs!

If you can help in any way, please email office@patchwaytowncouncil.gov.uk

Community Giving Tree

Patchway Town Council are excited to announce the launch of our community giving tree to help all of our residents in Patchway!

The tree will be located in our Community Hub inside The Casson Centre and this will be how it works:

There will be tags on the tree with the age of the person and the type of present they’d like to receive.

Please take a tag and donate a present

Please return the wrapped present with the tag fixed onto it.

We will then distribute these gifts from our community in time for Christmas.

If you can assist in any way, please do let us know!

TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE - HIGHWOOD ROAD, PATCHWAY

South Gloucestershire Council have advised of a temporary road closure on Highwood Road, Patchway in connection with Urgent Telecoms Mast Works.

They have written: Notice is hereby given that the South Gloucestershire Council in pursuance of the provisions contained within the above Act will for a period of up to 5 Days commencing on 3rd November 2022 prohibit *ANY Vehicle, Pedestrian, Cyclist and Equestrian proceeding along Highwood Road, Patchway (North Eastbound) from its junction with Durban Road for 50m Northeast

The above restriction is necessary because Urgent Telecoms Mast Works are being executed on or near the carriageway consequent upon which is the need to avoid danger to road users, and the operatives engaged upon the works and serious damage to the road

ALTERNATIVE ROUTE

The Alternative Route for Vehicles is via Coniston Road

*These works are anticipated to occupy the highway on 03/11/22 until 04/11/22 between 2200 0500 only.

SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE COUNCIL CONSULTATION - CONISTON ROAD SUBWAY REMOVAL AND NEW CROSSING

South Gloucestershire Council are consulting on a proposed scheme to fill in the underpass and provide a parallel crossing on a raised table across Coniston Road at the same location There will also be a continuous, level footway along the south side of Coniston Road. They say:

We are consulting on a scheme to improve safety for people using Coniston Road, Patchway by replacing the out of date underpass with a new cycle and pedestrian crossing

You have from today until midnight on 20 Nov to have your say.

Local children told us they are too scared to use the underpass and prefer to cross the road so the proposal provides a safe solution

The railings are not fit for purpose and reinforcing parts of the underpass would be more expensive.

Other benefits include:

Better for pedestrians/mobility scooters along Coniston Road

Reduces anti social behaviour

Encourages walking and cycling to school Cheaper to maintain

NEWS

YOUR MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT JACK LOPRESTI MP

This month I made two visits to the University of the West of England, first for the Freshers Fair 28th September which was an exciting event with a great atmosphere, I wish all the new students a great academic year. I then had a very interesting meeting with Professor Steve West CBE, Vice Chancellor of UWE. We discussed future provision and expansion of university accommodation with 900 new units of accommodation scheduled for the next academic year with plans for a further 2,500.

These vital facilities will reduce the reliance of the student population on HMOs and should definitely be supported by the local area as well as being an exciting development for the university to expand and a boost to the local economy We also discussed higher education funding, STEM, apprenticeships and mental health support for students, and the future of government strategy working with universities

We also had a ministerial visit in the constituency from Will Quince MP, Minister of State for Health who I accompanied to the NHS Blood and Transplant HQ in Filton as part of NHSBT’s efforts to encourage greater diversity in blood donation to meet multiple health challenges such as sickle cell anaemia

I hear from my constituents that the most significant issue of the moment is the cost of living crisis, the government has subsequently announced a large raft of measures to help households with rising bills. From 6th November the government is cutting National Insurance by 1 25 percentage points and cancelling the Health & Social Care Levy This will: reduce the tax on jobs, let families keep more of what they earn and support economic growth From October, the Energy Price Guarantee will limit the price customers can be charged for energy. This means the typical household will now likely pay £2,500 for their annual energy use, a £1,000 saving. These measures will reduce the impact of Putin’s war in Ukraine on the household budgets of people in our area

The Energy Bill Relief Scheme will help to cut energy prices for businesses, charities and public sector organisations, such as schools and hospitals The scheme will run for 6 months, and cover energy used from 1 October 2022 to 31 March 2023 In relation to this help for our communities, I met with Jon Rogers at Cattybrook Brickworks to discuss their strategy to deal with energy prices, the stability of global energy markets and the integrity and security of energy supplies Issues which have great significance for the businesses, community organisations and households in our area

Last Friday (October 7th), I held my regular surgery for local residents. I often hold these in community hubs across our area, most recently, this was held at my constituency office in Bradley Stoke where I met a number of residents who had requested a meeting with me to discuss their concerns and situations

As always, should you need my help with anything, my office is open from Monday to Friday between 9am and 6pm. Please telephone me on 01454 617783 or email me at: jack.lopresti.mp@parliament.uk if I can be of assistance or to book a surgery

I also visited Aerospace Bristol and it was very nice to meet the new CEO of Aerospace Bristol, Sally Cordwell, who leads a fantastic local attraction which demonstrates the great aerospace heritage in our area. It also has a STEM learning centre, which will help to inspire the next generation of engineers and scientists Aerospace Bristol achieved Arts Council accreditation at the beginning of the year

SCOTT PARK SKATE PARK

On 27th October, with the help of FACE Charity and a community artist, the young people of Patchway were given the opportunity to design and paint new artwork for the skate park in Scott Park

This was funded by Patchway Town Council and we hope that these new designs are respected by all

Patchway Community Centre Rodway Road

Timetable of Regular groups/clubs

Am/Pm/Eve

Community Learning

Short Mat Bowls GKR Karate Tai Chi for health

Wednesday

Am/Pm/Eve Pm Eve Eve

Community Learning

Wednesday Lunch Club (over 55's) McClennan Academy Irish Dancing South Gloucestershire Karate

Group Group Group Group

Am/Pm/Eve Pm Eve Eve Eve Eve Eve

Am/Pm/Eve Am/Pm/Eve

Silver Surfers PHAB (1st Friday of the month) South Gloucestershire Karate

Circuits with Jordan South Gloucestershire Karate Whitefield Players Drama Tai Chi (1st Sunday of the month)

Body Moves Keep Fit Time2dance Codeing Am Am Pm Am Am Pm Am/Pm

Am/Pm/Eve

Group Group Group Office Hours

Am/Pm/Eve

Line Dancing Danceworks & Ballet Bunnies Talk to the Paw Dog Training Circuits with Jordan Ki Aikido Yoga Danceworks & Ballet Bunnies Indian Dance Off Ice Dance Ballroom

Thursday

Community Learning Mums & Tots Slimmingworld Panthers Kickboxing

Tuesday Saturday

Monday to Friday Office Mobile

Am Pm Eve Eve Eve Eve Am Am/Pm Am Pm

Am/Pm/Eve Am Eve Eve

Am/Pm/Eve Am/Pm/Eve

09.00 - 13.00 01454 868549

2ND PATCHWAY SCOUT GROUP

2nd Patchway Scout Group welcomed a team of volunteers from Aviva who made an excellent job of staining the outside of one of our buildings This is now well protected against the winter weather to come. The team also cleared and tidied some of the grounds behind our HQ.

Although this was a team building exercise we would like to send our grateful thanks to all who worked so hard to help us

We are gradually investing several young people into the different sections of the Scout Group, with some new ones starting their Scouting journey over the next few weeks

As always the Group will take part in the Patchway Remembrance Day parade on November 20th and will lay a wreath to remember those who fell in conflicts over the years.

COMMUNITY LARDER

As part of the new Community Hub, there will be a Community Larder available within Casson Centre for anyone who needs it

We are asking if any residents, groups or businesses have any donations that they can offer, to please get in touch as we would be grateful for any donations that you can spare.

Items such as tins, rice, pasta, cereals and long life items would be most useful as well as toiletries and household essentials

You can drop off any items between 10am 2pm weekdays at the Community Hub

If you are interested in becoming a Leader or helper we would be very glad to hear from you This doesn’t have to be a weekly commitment as any time you can spare would be useful to us

Contact Kathy on 01179694410 if you’d like more information

November AT PATCHWAY LIBRARY

Patchway Hub, Rodway Rd BS34 5PE

For up-to-date information and opening hours visit www.southglos.gov.uk/librarychanges

Usual staffed hours: Tues/Weds/Fri 10am 5pm and Sat 9:30am 12:30pm

Use the library when staff aren’t there (including Bank Holidays) with Open Access, our system that lets you into library buildings at times when they are not open with staff. Library members can complete a quick oneoff Open Access induction session to register to use Open Access

Find out more, including Open Access hours and how to book your one off Open Access induction at www.southglos.gov.uk/openaccess

November activities

It’s FREE to come along to our activities, but for the comfort and enjoyment of all attendees,some activities have limited spaces and must be booked in advance. To book your placeon any of the activities below, or for more details, visit the library during staffed hours or email Patchway.Library@southglos.gov.uk

• Tea, Talk and Stories, Tuesdays 11:15 - 13:00

• Our Tea, Talk and Stories group is a place to relax, make new friends and share stories with others every week. Drop in

• Community Learning Feedback Sessions, 3rd Friday of each month, 10:00 – 12:00 Come along and discuss courses, learning and support needs, fill out an enrolment form or just find out what we offer Drop in

• Volunteer Centre Drop-in Sessions, 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month, 13:00 - 15:00

If you are thinking of volunteering or need volunteers, come along and chat to Katie about available opportunities. Drop in

• Rhymetime, Tuesdays 10.30am to 11am

Have fun and learn new rhymes to share with your little one. Most suitable for babies aged 0 to 17 months. Drop in

• Lego Club: Saturday 12th of November 10am-11am

Creative fun listen to stories and poems, then make a model to display at the library. For primary school aged children and their families. Please email to book your place.

South Gloucestershire Libraries: the space where people, communities and ideas grow patchway library@southglos gov uk

RECRUITING MORE BUS DRIVERS FOR BETTER SERVICES

There are jobs for around 200 bus drivers and if we find them, people will enjoy better services

That’s the message from Metro Mayor Dan Norris as he works with bus companies to get to grips with the bus driver shortage.

On a recent visit to a bus depot, the Metro Mayor spoke with current drivers about what they like about their roles including the flexibility, variety, and of course, meeting passengers Some say that being a bus driver means a job in the most thanked profession in the world

The Mayor is also supporting a bus driver recruitment team, funded by the West of England Combined Authority, helping bus companies across the region to target new would be drivers.

The recruitment drive is being backed by tailored careers support and training from the West of England Combined Authority with a single access point for people interested in becoming a bus driver

A region wide campaign featuring current drivers that highlights the rewards of driving a bus will kick off shortly as well as targeted work to encourage more women and people from ethnic minorities who are currently underrepresented in the industry to consider driving a bus

Dan Norris said: "Sorting the driver shortage is a vital step to fix the bus network Do you or someone you know fancy a career change? Then why not become a bus driver? Your community needs your skills to get vital buses moving. Under my leadership I’m determined the West of England gets more bus drivers trained up "

John Burch, Manager Wales & West, Confederation of Passenger Transport UK, said: "Staff shortages are challenging all bus and coach operators currently I welcome this initiative to provide some resource to help operators recruit more staff and raise awareness of the important role of drivers. Buses and coaches are an important part of our public transport. We are keen to improve the diversity of our driving teams This is a friendly industry and one that is particularly suited to those who potentially enjoy driving and working with people and who might be looking for a change I look forward to being able to work with the Mayor to unlock some of that potential "

For more information on becoming a bus driver, please visit: https://www westofengland ca gov uk/what we do/transport/bus/become a bus driver/

JOBS BOOST FOR CARE LEAVERS: THANKS TO £720,000 METRO MAYOR GRANT

Over 150 care leavers across the West of England are gaining new skills to help them secure good jobs thanks to a £720,000 cash injection from the West of England Authority, led by Metro Mayor Dan Norris The ‘Jobs First’ Mayor visited the scheme as part of National Care Leavers Week, as he met some of the 16 25 year olds taking part in the scheme.

Sadly, many care leavers do not achieve the same outcomes as their peers 41% of care leavers aged 19 to 21 do not have a job, and are not in education or training, compared to just 9% for this age group overall. The three year West of England funded programme will support youngsters through coaching and work placements

Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “I started my career as a child protection social worker, I’ve worked in residential children’s homes and with children in foster care so I know life as a care leaver can be tough I am determined that we do better for our care levers as they develop into independent young adults. These young people need and deserve extra support whether it’s introductions to employers or paid work placements With this bumper £720,000 cash injection, the West of England is ensuring more people in our region are given the opportunities and support they need to get a good job and thrive”

Wednesday Lunch Club

SOUTH

Annual Council Budget 2023/24

Have your say on the council budget proposals for 2023/24

South Gloucestershire Council is responsible for a range of local services including refuse collections and disposal, street cleaning, planning, education, social care services and road maintenance

Each year, they ask residents for their views before agreeing on a budget and council tax levels for the year ahead. They are also consulting on the savings plan they are proposing to put in place

The public consultation will be in two parts The first phase, which started on 17th October focuses on the council’s draft budget proposals It asks about where your priorities lie in protecting frontline services, making further efficiencies and increasing our income, perhaps by charging for some things or reducing the number of discretionary services that we offer, for example, as well as views on increasing the council tax

The second phase will begin on December 6th and will ask about options that are currently being developed and South Glos Council will share once they have more information on government funding

More information including consultation documents, analysis and assessments and FAQs can be found at: https://consultations.southglos.gov.uk/budget23/consultationHome

New town and parish councils in South Gloucestershire

South Gloucestershire Council has approved the creation of four brand new town and parish councils across the district, alongside a range of changes to those already in existence.

Following the decision, taken at the meeting of full Council on Wednesday 12 October, the council will now progress the creation of new parish councils for Charlton Hayes, Stoke Park and Cheswick, and Staple Hill and Mangotsfield, along with a new town council for Kingswood These new bodies will increase local representation in their communities, providing a greater local identity, with strong local voices helping them to act quickly and make important decisions on local priorities, whilst delivering value for money for residents A number of other smaller changes to existing town and parish councils were also agreed, such as name changes, boundary modifications and reviewing the number of councillors to reflect changes to housing numbers

These proposals were all developed in collaboration with the relevant town and parish councils and with input from residents

An extensive Community Governance Review (CGR) was carried out by South Gloucestershire Council, which looked at current governance structures across various areas in the district and examined how well they serve local democracy The process began in March 2021, following a growth in population in the district area and a number of requests from local parish councils South Gloucestershire residents were given the chance to have their say on the proposals through a consultation between October 2021 and January 2022 The findings, proposals and feedback were presented to the council’s Regulatory Committee in February and September 2022, before final agreement was made by full Council.

Councillor Rachael Hunt, cabinet member responsible for communities and local place at South Gloucestershire Council, said: said: “I’m delighted that the council will be introducing these new town and parish councils across South Gloucestershire. Solving community challenges using local knowledge and contacts is something that town and parish councils can often do better and more cost effectively.

“Residents in these areas will now have a stronger voice and will be able to focus on what matters to them in their local area such as keeping streets and open spaces clean and tidy, and having flower displays to brighten up community areas.

“Additionally, these town and parish councils will help progress crucial issues in their communities such as driving forward the momentum surrounding the council’s multimillion pound masterplan for the regeneration of Kingswood Town Centre and addressing the climate and nature emergency through local nature action plans ”

For any unparished areas in the district, there is already a Special Expenses levy added to council tax bills to pay for the services town and parish councils may carry out Following these changes and once the new councils are up and running, this will be reviewed with an expectation that elements may be replaced within the Parish Precept, helping keep costs down.

The anticipated changes to electoral arrangements arising as a consequence of the Elections Act 2022 were also noted by full Council and authority was delegated to the Returning Officer to make any necessary changes to polling arrangements for the delivery of the district election in May 2023

Christmas crafts for families

Where:

Mary.Connolly@southglos.gov.uk

Fundedby:

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Christmas crafting for

Opportunity to be creative in a relaxed atmosphere.

Explore crafting techniques

Gain confidence working in small groups.

Improve wellbeing

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Where: PatchwayCom

When: Tuesday 20221000am

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Bookhere: Mary.Connolly 07759720535

*Foradultsaged19+withfewornoqualifications;orexperiencingotherbarrierst

Christmas crafting for wellbeing

Opportunity to be creative in a relaxed atmosphere

Explore crafting techniques Gain confidence working in small groups. Improve wellbeing

Eventdetails

Re engage with learning and the community Upskill and progress to further learning or employment opportunities.

Where: LittleStokeCommunityHall

When: Friday04.11.2022 09.12.2022 10.45am12.45pm

Howtobook

Bookhere: MaryConnolly@southglosgovuk 07759720535

*Foradultsaged19+withfewornoqualifications;orexperiencingotherbarrierstowork

Fundedby:

Wren delivers surprise new parcel for ReACH and the Community.

Here is the UK’s largest Fitted Kitchen Company doing their bit for our local Community in Charlton Hayes. Wren Kitchens have a strong relationship with this area and our Community in particular, so we knew who to turn to when we needed help. Thank you Wren.

This new ReACH mega Community Mural is being delivered to Aerospace Bristol, in preparation for display and viewing to the general public later this year. Over 5 metres long, this one off, hand painted Mural reflects on our Heritage and History of over 75 years.

It is planned to be displayed in their modern and spacious café, which is part of their overall collection of historic planes and equipment built on site for even longer. And of course, there is the iconic, supersonic Concorde on display as well, in its purpose built hanger.

But the café is free to all local Residents and general public. Go and see for yourselves. So look out for more details and be one of the first Residents to see this Mural in position. Why not bring all the family too for tasty snacks, meals and drinks, while soaking up the atmosphere and history of our own unique Heritage Trail and get free colouring pads for children to fill in, or take home and finish them off there.

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MONTHLY MESSAGE FROM THE FRAUD TEAM AT AVON AND SOMERSET POLICE

Project Falcon safeguarding people living with dementia from fraud.

As Fraud Protect Officers of Avon and Somerset Police, we identified that vulnerable people with memory issues were being repeatedly targeted by fraudsters on the telephone, purporting to be from reputable organisations such as the bank, leading victims to hand over personal information or money. Normally, fraud prevention advice would suffice in protecting them from future fraudulent calls. However, those with memory issues simply could not remember what they had been told, opening them up to repeat victimisation.

Project Falcon was created to take the responsibility of identifying fraud away from the phone user, encouraging them to come off the phone as quickly as possible This immediately mitigates the risk of the user engaging with potential criminals, releasing personal information or even parting with funds. We collaborated with Dementia UK and designed a phone prompt card which instructs the user to end the call and contact their trusted person this can be cut out As an extra layer of protection, we would also advise looking into call blocking options by talking to the phone provider.

In September we sent 2350 covid and flu vaccination letters to patients aged 80 and over, across Bristol and North Somerset.

We are currently inviting those within the cohorts 50 64 years old and 18 64 years old who are at risk, for their covid and flu vaccinations

GET IN TOUCH!

We love to get patients involved with the newsletter, after all it's written for you! Please send us your suggestions for future topics, good news stories and feedback

on how we're doing We're continually looking to turn our patients' feedback into real improvements in the services we provide

Visit our website: www.mendipvale.nhs.uk

By phone: 01934839820

By Email: bnssg.mendipvale.scanners@nhs.net

COVID AND FLU BOOSTER VACCINES

Our latest vaccine clinic was a success on Saturday 17th September, with 2000 patients, aged 80 years and older receiving their covid and flu boosters. We are currently inviting those within the cohorts 50 64 years old and 18 64 years old who are at risk, for their covid and flu vaccinations Please be reassured that you will be contacted when it is your turn for the COVID 19 vaccine

If you are unable to attend our clinic days, call 119 or book into the National Booking Centre to find alternative clinics near you.

For more information, search the Mendip Vale Website: www mendipvale nhs uk/patient info/covid 19 information/

Frequently asked questions

I cannot make the time given to me in my invitation letter

We strongly encourage patients to make every effort to attend for these important vaccinations on the date and time given to you appointments are spread across the day to avoid over-crowding and queues, to keep people safe. If you are unable to attend the appointment given, you can come to other clinics as above You do not need to contact the surgery to say you are coming at another day/time.

I am not over 65 or at risk, can I have the winter booster?

Currently no, unless you have received an invitation letter from us in this initial cohort you cannot have a vaccination at these initial clinics. Further details will come from NHS England and Public Health on when other groups can obtain their vaccinations and we will organise further clinics and invite patients at that time.

How are the vaccines administered?

The covid and flu vaccines are two separate injections, one into each arm. The vaccines are not compulsory, therefore if you would prefer to have one and not the other then that is okay. You do not need to contact the surgery before the clinic regarding this

WELLBEING LIFESTYLE CLUB

The Mendip Vale Wellbeing Lifestyle club delivers free workshops to promote self care and positive lifestyle changes to improve the community wellbeing.

Our September workshop provided support and advice on how you can keep warm this winter, with smart tools on how you can save energy.

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Yatton Methodist Hall

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To mark International Week of the Deaf, the North Somerset Deaf Awareness Partnership issued its report on the area’s Deaf inclusion. The report assesses the accessibility levels of services for Deaf and Hard of Hearing people. As deafness is not a visible condition, Deaf, deafened, and hard of hearing people can feel misunderstood, unseen, invisible and isolated as some services are not Deaf Aware Launching a simple survey to the d/Deaf* community during May and June 2022, recipients were asked to provide examples of positive inclusions and how services can be more accessibly inclusive and be deaf aware.

Mendip Vale were recognised for its positive interaction with d/Deaf patients, with highlighted areas including the removal of facemasks when talking with patients, the use of transcription apps, typing/ writing information down and the easy use of e consult. The Deaf inclusion report helped us recognise areas of how we can improve our deaf awareness by implementing further inclusion strategies inspired from other services As such we will be implementing a Hard of Hearing cards in all Mendip Vale surgery receptions (Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire)

Hard of Hearing Assistance Cards

Designed as an easy to carry item, the cards provide awareness to staff and other patients that they are hard of hearing Its purpose is to provide reassurance to the patient, help communication and support conversations so the patient gets the assistance they need. This includes providing best practice tips for communication with someone with hearing loss. Patient can pick these cards up in reception when checking in and return them when their time in the surgery is complete More information regarding the Hard of Hearing cards coming soon

I am the lead volunteer for our Free Patchway Memory Cafe which meets twice a month for people with Dementia and their carers, from 10.30 till 12.30 in St Chads Church Hall Rodway Road, Patchway

The cafe is open to anyone experiencing memory problems or living with dementia to come along with their carer. After I retired I did experience a period of loss and lack of purpose so I decided to look for some volunteering work that would interest me and help people in my community

I decided to volunteer for the memory cafe as some members of my family had dementia and I know how important it is for those people living with dementia and their carers to get back into their community and socialise I love my volunteer role it gives me a sense of giving back to my community and a real bonus is I have got to know so many people and work with a lovely team of volunteers to make the cafe a success We give six hours a month to running the cafe. Its such fun with our cafe members and we all enjoy the sessions and get to know those people so well and we learn by their feed back how important coming to the cafe twice a month is for them. There are so many volunteer roles to choose from and you can give as much or as little as you wish to volunteering but you get so much back

If you are interested in volunteering for the memory cafe, or one of the many local groups who are looking for volunteers please get in touch We would love to hear from you email volunteeringpfs@southernbrooks.org.uk or there is a drop in session at Patchway Library on the first and third Tuesday of the month from 1 3pm (term time only).

Come along we would love to meet you, if you can give a few hours a month it will help so many.

Sue

THINKING OF BUYING OR DO YOU OWN AN IPAD, COMPUTER OR LAPTOP AND NEED SOME HELP?

FREE DROP IN SESSIONS

Then come along to the Silver Surfers group who will support and teach you new skills to browse or shop on the internet, write an email, or read your daily papers

All levels are welcome from beginners to those who want to get more from their computer or iPad

It’s so easy and the volunteers will guide you through the steps to make it possible to learn new skills on your own equipment or make that decision to shop and buy one

The Silver Surfers meet once a week on Fridays from 10 15 till 12 00 We also have iPads ,Laptops for you to use or you can bring along your own At present we meet in Patchway Library every Friday Come along and visit us From the 14th October we will be meeting in the Patchway Community Centre, Rodway Road, Patchway at 10 15 12 noon

We want to help get people involved with technology in a social environment

If you would like more information call : Gloria: 07544548818, Lorraine: 07792786885 or Pat:0117 9290929

Musical Memories are currently Closed. We will let you know when they reopen

Older Peoples Tea Party is OPEN to people of Patchway and surrounding areas on the last Sunday of the month 2pm till 4pm at Coniston Cafe please contact Tanya on 07876501227 For more information.

Men in Sheds are OPEN and ready to welcome new members from Patchway and surrounding areas Wednesday 10 am Patchway allotments

Please phone Les on 07786134883

The Patchway mini Bus is volunteer run service for residents and groups who live and operate in Patchway and surrounding areas. We are currently looking for more volunteer drivers would you like to join Please ring Ray on 07434011337 For more information