Filtonvoice February 2022 by Richard Coulter

FREE MONTHLY for people and businesses in Filton

filtonvoice February 2022 Issue 124

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

Calls for Give Way at junction after series of accidents. Pages 4&5

HMOs filtonvoice

The Filton shop which transforms those old trainers. P6&7

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No rise in Filton precept Councillors vote to keep payment at 2021 level. P3

As your local news magazine, we are urging you to take part in this consultation. It may be the last chance for a generation to change the way housing is developed in Filton. See P16&17.

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On Pages 16 and 17 this month there is information about proposals from South Glos Council which could change the way Houses of Multiple Occupancy are created in Filton. The council has recognised that there are serious concerns in Filton around parking, waste and general amenity. There is also a housing crisis, particularly for young people. The proposals would mean that future HMOs in Filton of all sizes would need to go through the planning process. Currently, smaller HMOs are not required to do this. To make this change happen, the council needs views from residents and landlords. This is every resident's chance to shape the future of the town.

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Is the cure to your migraines hiding in your neck? It can affect your sleep, your marriage and your job. Nothing is worse than feeling physically held back from life because your neck hurts and the pain just won’t go away! If you live with the misery of recurring headaches, you are not alone. The working from home changes we’ve endured over the last two year has hit many people hard causing headaches, neck pain and general back ache, some of it serious. In fact, it’s causing a big rise in problems states local chiropractor Liam Rice (Doctor of Chiropractic) at Willow Chiropractic in Nailsea. Liam goes on to explain, “It can be difficult to get good office ergonomics at home. We’re seeing lots of people who are just using a laptop. Many people don’t realise that a laptop is only designed for limited use and the stress on your body starts to build after only 20 minutes of use.” The result? People are telling us things like - “I feel like my head is in a vice.” “My eyes hurt; I feel so drowsy.” And - “I often have to lie down, it’s exhausting.” He continues, “They tell us they’re sick and tired of jumping from one headache medication to the

the things you want to do in life, but it can also be preventive, stopping problems from developing later in life. We’ve been helping patients with neck tension, headaches and migraines live pain-free for years now.

next, which isn’t surprising. Pain medications are addictive and, if taken regularly, could have drastic sideeffects. How many more pills can your body handle? If you stopped taking them, can you handle the torment of head-splitting migraines?”

Imagine being able to live life like a normal person again, pain-free and without headaches. Being able to play with your kids, enjoy time with your family, and not have to worry that your headache will hit you at just the wrong time.

Approximately 6 million people are affected by migraines in the UK, and most don’t realise there is a drug-free, pain-free way to end the problem for good.

Too often patients tell Willow Chiropractic, “I only wish I had found you sooner!” So we’ve decided to do something about it.

It is proven that most headaches are caused by damaged structures around the neck e.g. joints, ligaments, muscles and cervical discs, all of which have complex nerve endings. In most cases, if you end your neck problem, you end your headaches. It’s that simple. Research has proven that chiropractic care has great success with headaches – even better than massage and medications, and with no side effects. Willow Chiropractic can not only help you get out of pain and back to doing

In conjunction with Filton Voice, Willow Chiropractic is offering a discounted pain relief consultation where they will carry out a full examination and tell you exactly what they find. There is no obligation, all for only £10. So, whether you’ve suffered from headaches for a while, or started recently, just call on 01275 380 048 for your consultation and start the process to living a pain-free life. Call any time between 8 am and 8 pm Monday to Friday and tell the receptionist you’d like to come in for the Filton Voice offer.

Are you in pain? We can help

0 1 £ tation l u s n o c

Scan the QR code and fill out a short form and we’ll call you back

) ly £48 (usual

CALL TODAY to arrange your consultation: 0117 325 3235

Unit 10, Shield Retail Centre, Filton, Bristol BS34 7BR

www.willowlife.co.uk

February, 2022

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News

Filton councillors vote for freeze on precept Filton's councillors have voted to freeze the council tax precept for 2022/23 at last year's levels. Band D property owners will again pay £318.20 per year for Filton Town Council services. This equates to approximately £7.42 per week for those paying monthly direct debits over 10 months. Overall Council Tax, however, will almost certainly rise with increases likely in the South Glos element, Fire Service and Police precepts. Cllr Adam Monk told the January finance meeting: "Given the uncertainty of where we are with energy price hikes, I proposes we don't increase the precept but also do not make cuts. My fear is that (if we made cuts) we would need to go into our reserves then put it up again. "We can now work hard on budgets over the next 12 months." Cllr Monk's proposal was supported by Cllr Chris Wood and carried by the council. A combination of lower wage

bills during the pandemic, a building up of council reserves and the outsourcing of the facility to Active Nation mean councillors can offer residents the standstill precept in 2022/23 - after years of increases, including a 35% increase in 2020 then a 0.95% increase last year. In December, the council's accountant Derek Kemp described the 2022 budget as involving 'large and frightening figures' as he outlined the options faced by councillors setting the parish precept. The town council, having faced several challenging years financing the loss-making pool, is now outsourcing responsibility for running the sports centre to leisure provider Active Nation. Funding for a wholesale revamp of the Elm Park facility

MP: Boris knows No 10 'events' were a mistake Filton MP Jack Lopresti, right, has said Prime Minister Boris Johnson realises staff gatherings in Downing Street during a period of Covid restrictions were a 'mistake'. He also praised Mr Johnson's 'sincere' apology over the allegations and said there was a need to await the outcome of the inquiry by civil servant Sue Gray. The inquiry was launched last year after allegations emerged about a series of parties in Downing Street in the winter lockdown of 2020, including a Christmas party and a leaving do, as well as a drinks event at the Department for Education. The remit has now widened to cover up to 16 alleged gatherings, including two in the garden of No 10 in May 2020 where the prime minister was in attendance for a short time, and two held by No 10 staff on the eve of the Duke of

Edinburgh’s funeral in April 2021. Mr Lopresti said on his website: "I was impressed with the Prime Minister's apology in the House of Commons, it was heartfelt and sincere. "He has led the country through the most difficult couple of years, and on a personal level his own life was at risk when he was hospitalised with Covid-19, an illness he recovered from and immediately went back to work after. "The Prime Minister clearly realises that the events in the garden of 10 Downing Street were a mistake and in hindsight he wishes that he had done something different. "I agree with him entirely that we must await the conclusions of the ongoing inquiry, and it would not be proper for me to second guess the findings of that investigation." As Filtonvoice went to press, it was anticipated the publication of Ms Gray's report was imminent. MP column: page 24

is coming from a £4.45 million loan, taken out by the council. Once Active Nation is up and running, revenue will be returned to the council to service the loan. Mr Kemp told councillors that his favoured strategy was to continue to build reserves as a

contingency fund to pay the loan 'if something went wrong' with the Active Nation arrangement. Mr Kemp said that in the event of problems in the future, the council would still own the (newly refurbished) facility and could run it itself but the loan would still need to be repaid.

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Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

Contacts Richard Coulter Editor and publisher

0777 555 0607 | richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

You can find Filtonvoice on Facebook www.facebook. com/filtonvoice and on Twitter @filtonvoice

The aftermath of the collision in January; opposite, the approach to Dunkeld Avenue from Rannoch Road

Shane Gibson Editorial and Advertising sales

0770 674 1200 | shane@filtonvoice.co.uk

COMPLAINTS If you have a complaint about anything in the Filtonvoice, contact the Editor using the details below. We take complaints seriously and aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour. Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website www.localvoicenetwork.co.uk, or can be obtained by contacting the publisher, above. EDITOR’S NOTE: Filtonvoice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered although we have used some of the services. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Filtonvoice is distributed each month to all Filton residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from Filton Library. Feedback is welcomed, call editor Richard Coulter on 0777 555 0607 or richard@filtonvoice.co.uk.

NEWLAND CONSTRUCTION DESIGN & BUILD

Design & Build

MARK NEWLAND

01179 692962 07456 444202

Quality local Filton builder for all your needs

newlandconstruction70@outlook.com

Gales Farm Meats

Quality Fresh Farm Meats

Winter warmers of stewing meat, braising steak and roasting joints • Game & Venison • Great selection of Homemade Pies and Pasties • Beef, Pork & Lamb Joints • Sausages & Sausagemeat

• Fresh Vegetables and Groceries always available • Great selection of Pickles and Chutneys

Tel: 0117 969 1232 | www.galesfarmmeats.co.uk 4 Church View, Filton, BS34 7BT Also Gales of Westbury Park, 31 North View, Westbury Park | Good old-fashioned service

Free range chickens

February, 2022

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News

Call for 'Give Way' sign at accident hotspot by Shane Gibson A couple in Dunkeld Avenue are calling for change after another accident at the junction of Rannoch Road - the third in 12 months. At 7:37am on January 19 another accident happened at the crossroads. An ambulance turning at Dunkeld Avenue to head up Rannoch Road collided with a Volkswagen Tiguan driving down Rannoch Road heading towards Southmead Road. According to witnesses the collision caused the Volkswagen to spin. Resident Michelle Warsop was woken by the collision. She said: “The driver of the Volkswagen came across, without waiting, which is what many of them (drivers) do. “If there was a signpost that actually said give way it would help, because the 'Give Way'

painted on the road has faded, and if visibility is poor, you cannot see it on the road at all.” Michelle and her husband Wilson live close to the point of impact. He said: “We are grateful that no vehicles have crashed into our property. "But half an hour later and children would have been on

their way to school for breakfast clubs.” Michelle referred to an accident from last year at the same spot. She said: “An off-duty police officer was hit by somebody who just shot out in the pouring rain. "A neighbour and I stood in high vis jackets to signal to drivers during the relentless

traffic, but still, they would not slow down." Wilson, a member of the Neighbourhood Watch added: “It really is an accident blackspot here. "There have been three accidents now in the past twelve months and something needs to be done to make it safer. "Hopefully bringing publicity to it will help the cause.” Councillor Adam Monk said: “Wilson has brought the situation to me in the past, and I have requested for a 'Give Way' sign in the past, but to no avail. “I believe that there should be a 'Give Way' sign, particularly for people travelling towards Southmead Road, who rightly or wrongly see it as a continuation of the same road. "There is requirement for something to happen to rectify this situation and I will be following it up.”

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

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February, 2022

News

A sneaky peek at Filton's custom shoe shop by Shane Gibson If you have not heard, Sneek Geek is the freshest shop on Gloucester Road North. A combination of sneaker store, sneaker cleaning restoring and customising, and vintage sneaker finder, always with a cup of tea on hand for anyone who walks in. Founder Ronnie Arathoon came up with the idea whilst cleaning his own shoes. “I was just cleaning my own trainers, they were an expensive pair, and I thought about sending them to somewhere like Birmingham or London to get them professionally cleaned and restored. I then realised that no one in Bristol was doing it. That was my spark, first it was friends and then I started cleaning shoes with a collection and delivery service for people and it all kicked off from there,” said Ronnie. It started out in his bedroom

Is your child short sighted? Did you know you can do things to help?

“One day I’ll explore the Amazon” Slow their short-sightedness not their ambition

At Lynne Fernandes Optometrists, we offer a programme which is clinically proven to slow down short-sightedness progression in children by 59% on average.1† This reduces your child’s dependency on glasses, can provide thinner lenses, and decreases the likelihood of certain eye health conditions later in life. We are passionate about this opportunity to protect children’s future eye health. Our myopia management clinics are backed with evidence and research, so you can be reassured that you and your child will have the best care.

182a Wells Rd, Knowle, Bristol BS4 2AL bristol@lynnefernandes.co.uk 0117 977 6330

Call the practice to book an assessment or visit our website www.lynnefernandes.co.uk/questions-about-myopia to find out more.

75 Gloucester Road, Bristol BS7 8AS bristolgr@lynnefernandes.co.uk 0117 942 6843

† Over 3 years, compared to a single vision 1 day lens. 1. Chamberlain P, et al. Optom Vis Sci. 2019;96:556–567

124a High Street, Nailsea BS48 1AH nailsea@lynnefernandes.co.uk 01275 854946

To advertise, contact shane@filtonvoice.co.uk and on 0770 674 1200 or Richard on 0777 555 0607

INICALLY CL

PRO EN V

February, 2022

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News as an online business in June 2018 until April 2021 and then came the store. “When I first spoke to friends and family about the idea they laughed. But now people spend up to thousands on shoes, and they are too scared to touch it. Especially materials like suede, but me, I am an expert at it, and that just shows the demand for what we do.” The shop in Filton has been open a few months now, and business has been good. “I’ll be honest we don’t get a huge amount of footfall from the locals, but we have such a vast online presence that it is bringing people into the store and into Filton.” Sneek Geek has received endorsements from athletes and celebrities as well as attention from MTV and has been associated with Clarks Originals. “We just happen to have got really popular throughout Bristol and the surrounding area. During lockdowns, people were not going out so much so there were less trainers to clean. So, I went back to my college contacts, from when I used to trade limited edition trainers, and which kept things going but also got us noticed by more people. Now we do everything in store, including searching out limited edition trainers for customers,” said Ronnie. With one full-time and three part-time members of staff, Sneek Geek is continuing to build, and to fulfil the demands from customers. “Everybody wants to buy, but they also want customised shoes as well. We can do any type of design you want, and I am 99 per cent sure that we can find any trainer and any size that you need,” said Ronnie. Ronnie is originally from the Lockleaze area of Bristol, and although he has gained a lot of attention, he has not forgotten his roots. “We get a lot of local people come in, asking for jobs. I Right, the shop on Gloucester Road North; above, team member Noy customising a shoe; and opposite, staff Noy, Ronnie and Rory in the shop

am really selective of whom I employ, but I do not care where they have come from or their background. It is all about chemistry and attitude. Anyone can learn how to do this, but it's attitude that is important. I treat everyone who works here as family.” Ronnie shared that his previous week was successful with over fifty cleans and sixty sales. His goal for the future is more of the same. “You know, people ask me what’s next? But this is my baby. What I am focusing on is getting this place popping even more than it is now,” he said. "Once its absolutely smashing, running perfectly with a great handpicked manager, then I’ll look at opening another store with confidence that the Filton store will be looked after properly."

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February, 2022

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Young Leader award for Filton Scout David December saw a special presentation for one young person at 1st Filton Scouts. David Boyes started with the group as a Beaver aged six and progressed up through the sections. When he was 14, David began volunteering as a Young Leader with the Cubs. Shortly after, he moved on to become an Explorer Scout with the closest group, Solar, in Stoke Gifford, but continued volunteering with Filton. Over the past 4 years, he has spent time as a Young Leader in Cubs and Beavers before finally moving to help with the Scout section. In the lockdown last January, he used his experience of online Scouting with Solar to be instrumental in getting 1st Filton Scouting up and running online for all 3 sections. During all of this time, David was also working towards his Young Leader award. This consists of various modules of training which then have to be put into action and demonstrated by planning and leading games and sessions with the group. Despite this training being interrupted by restrictions, David managed to

complete all of the requirements to gain his Young Leader award by October this year. Steve Daniels, Brunel Explorer Leader (Young Leader Unit), attended a session at 1st Filton to present David with his award which includes the Young Leader belt – a ceremonial belt which can be worn as part of his Scout uniform. Dave Buchan, Scout leader, said “I was super impressed with David, not just for completing Mission 4 but over the last year, especially while helping with the Scout section. "I have watched David come up through Cubs where I was an occasional helper through to Scouts then onward to Explorers and have been blown away with his commitment and enthusiasm throughout!” Since completing his Young Leader training, David has turned 18 and is now signed on to become an adult leader within the group.

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David Boyes with his Young Leader award. Inset, David receiving the award from Steve Daniels, Brunel Explorer Leader (Young Leader Unit)

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February, 2022

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Airbus jobs hopes as industry bounces back Airbus is looking to recruit again after signs of a bounceback from the pandemic, with jobs likely to be created at the Filton site. With the aerospace industry showing strong signs of recovery post-COVID, and while Airbus continues to prepare the future of aviation and implement its roadmap for decarbonisation, the Company said it intends to start 2022 with a recruitment plan of around 6,000 new hires worldwide across the entire group. It is understood jobs will be created at Filton as well as Broughton in north Wales. The sites at Filton and Broughton design, test and manufacture the wings for all Airbus’ commercial aircraft with the exception of the A220, directly sustaining about 9,000 UK jobs. Core activities at Filton, pictured, where an additional

Google 3,000 people work, are the design, engineering and support for Airbus wings, fuel systems and landing gear. Teams also work on aerodynamics research, development and test facilities, while wings for the A400M transporter are assembled on site. Thierry Baril, Airbus Chief Human Resources & Workplace Officer, said "Airbus

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of recruitment, which will take place worldwide and across all our businesses, the number of external hires will be reassessed before mid-year 2022 and we will adjust our needs accordingly. "Not only will we look at acquiring the new skills that Airbus needs in the post-COVID world, but we will also do our utmost to reinforce diversity across the Company, fostering a safe and inclusive culture reinforcing Team Airbus to be ready to pioneer sustainable aerospace.” About a quarter of the planned recruitments should focus on acquiring the new skills to support the Company’s long-term projects and ambition, notably in the fields of decarbonisation, digital transformation and cyber technology. A third of the total recruitment will be allocated to young graduates.

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To advertise, contact shane@filtonvoice.co.uk and on 0770 674 1200 or Richard on 0777 555 0607

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Chiropractic clinic opens at Filton's Shield centre Willow Chiropractic, with seven clinics across the South West, including Nailsea, Clevedon and Bristol, has opened its newest branch at the Shield Retail Centre, Filton. The clinic offers patients treatments for a range of conditions including chronic back pain, tennis elbow, osteoarthritis and migraines. Willow also offers a free service to businesses in the area, giving advice on how to promote healthy habits in and out of the workplace. The company has completely refurbished the former Frith Rugs building to create a warm, welcoming reception area and stunning open-plan clinic to help the local area get out of pain. Dane Jacks, a chiropractor at the Filton clinic, said: “Our goal is to offer a safe, caring and attentive service at an affordable price. We are excited

about the opportunity to serve the local area in an extremely energising environment and have seen how happy, relaxed, and more energised our patients are leaving our clinics after treatment. They find the experience less stressful and more supportive than other forms of treatment.” Stephen, a patient at Willow Chiropractic, said: “All of the staff are so friendly and welcoming - it’s fantastic. It’s such a relaxed atmosphere. I feel like they’re always there to help and listen to what is going on. I never used to think “I should go to a Chiropractor”, but now it’s become almost second nature. I know when it’s time to go for my next adjustment.” If you would like more information, contact Willow today 0117 325 3235 or visit Unit 10, Shield Retail Centre, Filton, Bristol BS34 7BR.

Southmead

The Greenway Centre Monday 9.00am & 10.30am Tuesdays 5.30pm & 7.00pm Friday 9.30am & 11.00am Tel: Nicola 07873 818193

Bishopston

B&A Church Thursday 9.00am & 5.15pm Tel: Sue 0117 9243556

The Willow team at Filton

Horfield & Lockleaze

The Lockleaze Sports Centre Monday 6.00pm Tel: Amanda 07850 444306

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07873 818193

Filton NEW CONSULTANT St Andrews Methodist Church Tuesday 9.30am Tel: Kerry 07738 572188

Little Stoke

Little Stoke Community Hall Wednesday 5.30pm & 7.00pm Thursday 9.30am & 11.00am Tel: Sharron 07947 064711

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

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February, 2022

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City centre bus links to new Filton arena by BBC LDRS staff for Filtonvoice New details about shuttle buses that will take concert-goers to and from a planned new Bristol arena have emerged. The buses are part of a £4.9million package of transport measures linked to the huge stadium in Filton, the funding of which the city’s transport chief has been forced to defend. The 17,000-capacity arena in the Brabazon Hangar in Filton Airfield is due open in 2024, after previous plans for an arena in Temple Island were scrapped by city mayor Marvin Rees. Papers describing ‘YTL Arena Bristol travel mitigations’ came before Bristol’s ruling Labour administration in January, along with a request for £2.7million of public funding. Bristol City Council has always insisted Malaysian investment firm YTL will pay for the arena, and the developer

has promised to contribute £3.1million towards transport infrastructure in the area, where a number of large new housing developments are being built. ‘Bespoke arena shuttle bus stops’ in the city centre were among the measures listed in the papers to the cabinet meeting in January. Others included expansion of the Portway Park and Ride, an event-day residents’ parking scheme for Brentry and Southmead, and a segregated cycle route along Charlton Road. Deputy mayor Craig Cheney, who chaired the meeting in the absence of a reportedly ill Mr Rees, said: “The operator’s going to be putting on some shuttle buses from various locations and paying for them.” No details about the exact number or location of the shuttle bus stops were presented, but the developer must pay for “two large

bus stop facilities” in the city centre, according to one report. Transport officers said the large bus stops were necessary to avoid “severe disruption to other services, risking the safety and convenience of all bus passengers in the city centre”, as happened when Massive Attack played at Filton Airfield in 2019 and long queues for shuttle buses caused chaos, the report shows. YTL must put on the shuttle buses for every event with a capacity of 7,000 or more, it says. The operator is planning 130 events of this size every year – up to three a week. People going to a concert would have to choose their public transport option – rail, shuttle bus or MetroBus – when buying a ticket. For a 17,000-capacity event, 37 city centre shuttle buses would be needed beforehand and 93 afterwards to ensure 16 per cent

of people choose that option, as expected by the council. Officers sought and received cabinet approval for the council to join with South Gloucestershire Council in asking the West of England Combined Authority (Weca) for £2.7million towards the package of travel measures. The report requesting the funding referred to “measures required to be delivered and operational by [the] summer/ autumn 2024 opening date for the YTL Arena”. It said: “The timely delivery of a package of sustainable transport and network management interventions is required in order to enhance the accessibility of the arena whilst minimising its impact on local communities in north Bristol as well as supporting delivery of various housing developments in the area.”

Brand New Mama Bear’s Day Nursery and Pre-school

Coming Soon to Charlton Hayes This new nursery will be opening in Spring 2022 – for babies from 3 months to children of 5 years: Offering a flexible booking system – so you only pay for the care you require Extended opening hours and all year-round provision Government funded childcare available Meeting the needs of each individual child

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To advertise, contact shane@filtonvoice.co.uk and on 0770 674 1200 or Richard on 0777 555 0607

23/09/2021 14:40

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Introducing the report, cabinet member for transport Don Alexander said: “The arena is in a major development that includes several thousand homes, a park and a lake with excellent facilities. “This paper provides a match of private and public funds to support the housing, from which the arena will benefit.” Resident Suzanne Audrey queried the request for taxpayers’ money to help pay for the transport infrastructure, saying “it has been repeatedly stated that no public money is needed for the YTL arena”. Cllr Alexander said: “The arena itself and the access roads to it are funded entirely by YTL. This has saved the city at least £165million and removed all the city’s liability to the private operator, YTL. “I’m very happy to put public money into transport infrastructure in order that we create a sustainable neighbourhood.”

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Hate crime figures still high after rise in 2020 by BBC LDRS reporters for Filtonvoice Police are concerned about the level of hate crime in South Gloucestershire, which remains high after a huge spike in reported incidents just over a year ago. Some 390 hate crimes were reported to Avon and Somerset Police in the 12 months to November, latest figures for South Gloucestershire show. That means police received just over one report of hate crime every day in the district over the past year. District area commander Dan Forster said police were concerned about the persistently high levels of reporting in South Gloucestershire, which jumped by 24 per cent just over a year ago. The sudden rise in 2020

reflected a national rise in reports of hate crime that year, he told members of South Gloucestershire’s multi-agency community safety partnership. “At the time we did some analysis around that to understand why that was the case, and there’s no doubt whatsoever that international factors were coming into play there,” chief inspector Forster said. “So things like the Trump administration, locally the BLM [Black Lives Matter] protests, Brexit, all of that played into this increase in hate crime,” he said. While the latest figures represent a 0.5 per cent reduction compared with the previous 12 months, CI Forster said the “general increase” was of concern to police. “Half of those offences have

been race-hate type offences,” he told South Gloucestershire’s safer and stronger communities strategic partnership in December . “Violence against the person and public disorder take the lion’s share of those types of offences. “This is obviously something we’re concerned about.” Despite the high number of reports, police believe hate crime is underreported in South Gloucestershire, CI Forster said. The force is working with Stand Against Racism and Inequality (SARI), which provides support and advice to victims of any type of hate crime, on the issues, he said. Overall, one per cent less crime was reported in South Gloucestershire over the past year than in the previous 12

months, CI Forster said in a briefing on crime trends to the partnership. The safer and stronger communities strategic partnership is South Gloucestershire’s statutory community safety partnership. Community safety partnerships are multi-agency groups tasked with helping to reduce crime and improve safety for communities.

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Filton Town Council How it could be all change for HMO developers in Filton HMOs (House in Multiple Occupancy) have been a concern for residents over recent months and years. Now South Glos is considering changes which would mean ALL HMOs must fall within planning rules. Town councillors are urging residents to make their voice heard on this crucial issue Residents in Filton are being encouraged to give their views on proposed changes to the way permission is given for Houses of Multiple Occupancy (HMOs). HMOs are properties rented out to at least three people from different households and Filton has one of the highest concentrations of these homes in South Gloucestershire. This has led to complaints from residents that too many HMOs lead to parking problems, issues around waste collection, anti-social behaviour and in some cases has resulted in a perception that mixed communities are no longer supported. Last year, Filtonvoice reported that more than 40% of large HMOs (more than five bedrooms) in South Glos were in Filton but there are many more smaller HMOs which are not recorded in official records. Now South Gloucestershire Council wants to bring in an 'Article 4 Directive' which would mean ALL HMOs would need to go through the planning system. Currently, under what is known as 'permitted development rights', only seven-bed HMOs and larger need planning permission. By introducing the proposed A4Ds, this would require all proposals for HMOs to apply for planning permission, so the Council can have more control around HMOs to help avoid any negative impacts and enable the views of local residents to be taken into account. In a report to councillors, officers said: "Most HMOs are

conversions or subdivisions of larger houses and currently, as at 2021, planning permission is only needed if providing 7 or more bedrooms. HMOs meet a variety of needs for private rented housing ranging from young professionals ‘house-shares’ and students wanting to live off campus, as well as providing a vital source of housing supply for people on lower incomes. "For many people, HMOs provide a practical and affordable housing option that meets their housing needs...... "However, evidence shows that there has been an increase in this type of development in South Gloucestershire over recent years to meet demand. This has resulted in concentrations of HMOs in particular parts of the district which has, in some cases, heightened concerns from neighbouring properties and wider community with regard to parking pressures, noise, management of waste and recycling and anti-social behaviour, and in some cases has result in a perception that mixed communities are no longer supported. "The development of HMOs, particularly under permitted development rights, has resulted in concentrations of HMOs within residential communities in many cities and towns in England. While this development may be responding to demand for such tenure, for example amongst students or those requiring an affordable form of housing, the unregulated and rapid nature of HMO development in some

A number of HMO applications have been made for properties in the Northville Road area Picture, Google Opposite, the proposed Article 4 Directive area for Filton

Filton Town Council

Proposed Filton A4D Boundary areas has also been associated with harmful effects to local communities and imbalance in the housing market. " Due to the existing regulatory systems for HMO development, there is no single dataset nationally or locally which can definitively identify every HMO. In addition, the potential impacts of HMO development are often varied and difficult to measure. "Filton ward consistently scores as one of the highest wards in the district in terms of housing-related complaints and has the most COAs (Census Output Areas - smaller areas within a council ward such as Filton) with a concentration of licensed HMOs of any ward. "In the areas where an Article 4 Direction would apply, all property owners or prospective landlords would no longer have permitted development rights to convert a dwelling house (C3) to a small HMO (C4) without planning permission. This would not mean that HMOs within A4D areas are unacceptable, rather that it would bring these into the planning system to allow consideration of the proposed development against policies." The report said in the communities of the North and East Fringes of Bristol, demand is primarily driven by a large student population and a concentration of major employment sites, as well as the opportunities for developers to achieve high yields. The council officers say, due to issues around compensation, a non-immediate A4D would be appropriate. In this case, an A4D direction is made but does not come into effect for at least 28 days, or no longer than 2 years. If at least 12 months’ notice is given in advance of

Filton Town Council meetings Council meetings are again 'in-person' meetings at the town council halls at Elm Park. Details at www.filtontowncouncil.gov.uk

Council office change

The council offices have moved temporarily to the snooker hall while refurbishment takes place at the Elm Park site. The council is unable to have visitors to the office at the moment but appointments can be made or enquiries made at the Leisure Centre reception – which is now situated at the rear of the building. Please contact us at office@ filtontowncouncil.gov.uk or by phone 01454866698/01454 803918 to arrange an appointment if necessary. If you have an enquiry or wish to report a problem email office@filtontowncouncil.gov.uk.

a direction taking effect, there is no liability to pay compensation. A consultation is due to start on 7th February and run for 6 weeks. All residents in Filton who live in the proposed A4D area will receive a letter from the council outlining the issues. Further details about the proposals to introduce the two A4Ds will be available on the Council’s website at https://www.southglos.gov.uk/ council-and-democracy/consultations/

Sports & Leisure Centre A warm welcome to Filton Sports & Leisure Centre. We have swimming lessons available, public swimming, Aquafit, dinky dolphins, softplay and softplay parties. We also offer parties on our pool inflatable. -------Since 1st November there have been changes to the way the centre operates. Access to the pools and softplay are through our temporary reception area, located round the back of the Leisure Centre. We look forward to seeing you soon.

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Woodland volunteers look forward to returning A conservation group is looking forward to returning to normal in its work looking after the historic Splatts Abbey Wood, which is situated near the MoD and UWE. Splatts Abbey Wood Conservation Group is back working with its sister woodland Sims Hill Community Woodland, sited around the Bristol Business Park near UWE. The Splatts Abbey Wood Conservation Group is will also be resuming working with student volunteers from UWE and the Students' Union at UWE. This relationship started in 2014 when the group approached the UWE Volunteering Department which set up the Greenspace group, which over the last seven years has done much work with both Sims Hill Woodland and the Splatts Abbey Wood. The UWE student volunteers and Students Union members

will be continuing their work throughout the academic year. Faith Terry-Doyle of the

Students' Union at UWE said: "At The Students' Union at UWE, we are really excited to be getting

the conservation volunteer sessions going again soon at Splatts Abbey Wood. "Pre-covid, students made a transformational impact on the woodland, and won an award for their outstanding contribution to the community. "Getting the sessions going again will be a fantastic opportunity for students to enjoy the wellbeing benefits of being outside, make a real contribution to their local community, and get some hands on experience of conservation." David Bell, Chairman of the Splatts Abbey Wood Conservation Group, said: "The two woodlands and other partners have worked very well together to help maintain them, and to increase access for the public. "We are delighted with our partnership working, which benefits everybody."

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to normal The Splatts Abbey Wood Conservation Group has been going for many years and is responsible for the historic woodland. It can trace the wood's roots back centuries. The committee currently has members of the public and representatives from other bodies on it. The Splatts Abbey Wood group can be contacted at the email address splattsabw@ gmail.com The Sims Hill Woodland Community Woodland can be contacted at: simshillcw@gmail. com Several Splatts Abbey Wood Committee members have won the prestigious South Gloucestershire Council Chair's Awards for their volunteering: Fred Hillberg, Andy Ward, UWE Greenspace (student volunteers), and David Bell.

Opposite, representatives of Splatts Abbey Wood and Sims Hill Wood after a meeting at UWE. Above, UWE student volunteers at Splatts woodland

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Focus on Guiding

Girls, are you seeking a new challenge in 2022? In this article, two leaders of Girlguiding locally explain about the many opportunities on offer for girls aged four and up

new year is a time when many people make resolutions in an effort to enhance their lives, or the lives of others. Some vow to become healthier while others take up a new hobby or perhaps embark on an interesting college course. But this year why not do something a bit different? Girlguiding UK is a lively, dynamic organization incorporating young girls and women from all backgrounds, which offers tremendous variety, supportive friendship, and a chance to gain knowledge and skills. Girls aged four and upward can become a valued member of the guiding family, gradually developing a sense of independence, self-awareness, and a commitment to caring and sharing for each other and the wider community. Along the way they have immense fun, gain confidence, and develop new ideas. If you become a unit helper or a volunteer leader you will encourage this process and celebrate the unique contributions of each and every girl. The guiding journey is incredible, but you don’t have to take my word for it ... Dr Penny Starns Division Commissioner, Concorde Division (inc Filton)

have many fond experiences of being a guide. Going camping every summer was a highlight! I refound guiding halfway through my time at university. I turned up one evening to a meeting in a scout hut and naively agreed to help refound 'Kohoutek', a county team work competition aimed at scouts and guides. Little did I know that it would be successful enough to attract 250 scouts and guides and all of their helpers! Although it seemed like a massive challenge, I enjoyed the supportive environment I was surrounded by and liked it so much as to run it another year and then mentor another set of students to take over. To see everyone having such a fantastic time, bringing the county together and to give back to the local community was a really rewarding experience. I then found the Student Scout and Guide Organisation and found myself on many exciting adventures, from a trip away to the Netherlands to getting the chance to go one a square rigger, the TS Royalist for a week! Having graduated from university, I now help out with rangers on a more chilled, weekly basis and am currently helping to run the pantomime which has

been written by one of them! It’s great to be able to watch the young people grow in confidence and is a great way to unwind from work by getting stuck in making mouse ears. Guiding has allowed me to grow as an individual, supporting me to complete my Queens Guide award and Gold Duke of Edinburgh award. Throughout it all, I have made friends for life and have managed to get involved with many opportunities that I would not otherwise have been able to do, from seeing Ed Sheeran at the big gig, girl guiding’s very own music festival, to going rifle shooting. To anyone who has an hour

to spare a week and is looking for something new to get involved with, I say go for it! The opportunities that are available to you are endless! To anyone with girls aged 4-18 there are many units available. They will have lots of opportunities available for them and will have endless fun, especially on the camps - I know this because I did! Shona Allman

Please contact: concordedivision@ girlguidingbsg.org.uk or visit our website https://www.girlguiding.org. uk for more details.

Shona on an international trip to the Netherlands with scouting and guiding during her time at university

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Aero museum recognised with Arts Council status The Aerospace Bristol museum in Filton has received another major boost in the form of Arts Council accreditation: the UK industry standard for museums and galleries. Accredited status means that Aerospace Bristol is operated to professional industry standards and shows that the museum takes proper care of its collection including the last Concorde ever to fly and the many other important objects and archive records in order to make them accessible and safeguard our aerospace heritage for the future. Lloyd Burnell, Executive Director, Aerospace Bristol said: "Achieving Arts Council accredited status is an important step forward for Aerospace Bristol. As the national benchmark of a wellrun museum, this award is testament to the professionalism and high standards that our staff and volunteers work hard

to maintain. Accreditation demonstrates that our collection is in safe hands, opens up exciting funding and partnership opportunities, and will give confidence to donors and supporters who wish to join us in preserving our aerospace

heritage and inspiring future generations." Stefanie Vincent, Collections Manager, Aerospace Bristol added: "Aerospace Bristol has always been committed to manging and caring for our collection to the highest

professional standards and ensuring that as many people as possible can access and engage with the objects, stories and records in our collection. "It is fantastic to see this hard work being recognised with Arts Council accredited status." David Gelsthorpe, interim Chair of the UK Accreditation Committee, said: "Accreditation is a fantastic achievement which provides an important framework to support ongoing development and future planning, especially during these challenging times. I am extremely pleased to welcome Aerospace Bristol to the scheme, which will help to increase access to the collection and protect it for generations Aerospace Bristol is currently open Tuesday to Sunday during term time and 7 days per week during school holidays, with more information and tickets available at aerospacebristol.org.

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February, 2022

Filton MP Jack Lopresti

My hopes that we are heading towards normality

am hoping this year will be the beginning of a return to normality for all of us. I spent Christmas and New Year with my wife, Andrea, and our son, Clifford. However, after Andrea and I both tested positive for Covid-19 on Christmas Eve, our celebrations were smaller than intended, but special nonetheless! Thankfully, I had been called for my booster jab a few days prior, which was administered by the fantastic team at my local Bradley Stoke surgery. I would again like to reiterate that the efficient service on offer from the staff and volunteers at our local healthcare providers with this vaccine has been second-to-none. I sincerely thank everyone who is involved in helping our country get through this pandemic – and allowing us to finally start looking forward. Across the country, more than 35 million booster jabs have now been administered. A truly

phenomenal effort and a clear example of how the government can work efficiently with the pharmaceutical and science sectors alongside our fantastic NHS, to deliver on the people’s priorities and to protect us all. To those who are eligible for the booster jab, I encourage you all to book in to receive it as soon as possible. I am very pleased that there are now 4,800 more doctors and 10,900 more nurses working

across the NHS than there were last year and that Government have funded the service accordingly to achieve this. As schools and businesses have welcomed back students and staff for the new year, the Government has remained fully committed to our recovery, whilst taking sensible precautions where necessary to keep us safe. More than 31 million Covid test kits have been supplied to schools across the country to encourage face-to-face teaching; ensuring students continue to receive the highest education possible. In addition, 8,000 air cleaning units have been provided to early learning centres, schools and colleges to improve ventilation. For businesses which have continued to be disproportionately affected by coronavirus, a further support package exceeding £1 billion has been announced by the

Government, which includes grants for the hospitality and leisure sectors and additional support for the Culture Recovery Fund. Since speaking in Parliament and meeting Government Ministers about this initiative, this has been invaluable support for many local businesses at a time of need, such as Aerospace Bristol, which received several hundred thousand pounds from the Government. I have been truly moved and really impressed with how our communities have pulled together and looked out for each other during this awful pandemic. It has been wonderful to see so much kindness and patience and I hope that after the pandemic, this will continue. If I can be of any help to you on any matter, or you would like to book a surgery appointment to see me, please call my office on 01454 617 783 or email jack. lopresti.mp@parliament.uk

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FREE Events at filtonvoice Filton Library in February

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Every week:

This month:

Story & Rhyme Time

Wednesdays 10.30 – 11am Rhymes & stories for pre-school children with musical instruments! Advanced booking essential To book your place and for more details email: filton.library@southglos.gov.uk with your name and contact phone number. Did you know that you can reserve and renew books online? You can also download eBooks, eAudiobooks and digital magazines & eComics. Find out all that’s on offer at www.librarieswest.org.uk

Available during the school holiday Come pick up your FREE Marvellous Magical Creatures craft bag, suitable for ages 4-11, any time the library is staffed.

Open (Staffed) Hours:

You can use the library 7 days a week at times when it is unstaffed By registering for Open Access* Find out more and how to book your one-off Open Access induction at www.southglos.gov.uk/openaccess Or ask us during Staffed Hours on Mon/Weds/Thurs 105.30 & Sat 9.30-1.00pm. All *T&Cs apply, min. age 16 yrs.

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Saturday 12th 10am – 10:45am OR 11am – 11:45am Join us for theme-based creative building fun for primary school aged children. All children must be accompanied by a grown-up. This is a popular activity, so we are running two sessions to fit everyone in: book early to avoid disappointment. Advanced booking essential To book your place and for more details email: filton.library@southglos.gov.uk with your name and contact phone number

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n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR

Bringing public transport together I FINISHED my last Voice column welcoming the new more frequent half-hourly train services between Temple Meads and Severn Beach. Transport issues continue to dominate my New Year work for you, too. January 15 was ‘National Pothole Day’ and I know the huge frustrations people have about this issue. The statistics show they cost West of England motorists over a million pounds a year in repairs, and for cyclists they can be very dangerous. So I’m pleased to be allocating up to £125 million to help local councils across our region repair potholes over the next five years. Last year I was deeply proud to secure for the West of England the biggest per head investment in transport from the government in the country – over half a billion pounds. In 2022 we will see the first of that £540m invested, with an initial focus on buses. I am also creating West of England Sustainable Transport, which will gradually bring togeth-

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er buses, trains, e-scooters and other new public transport under one umbrella. The aim is to give you and your family and friends more reliable, affordable, greener and safe ways to travel – especially for the 23% of local people without access to a car. In time, you will be able to travel from A to B much more seamlessly as different types of transport become integrated. We will begin by improving some existing routes, and as more money becomes available, expand to new places. Sadly, such improvements are complex, so won’t happen overnight, and we will need to make big choices together, but I’m truly excited about what this significant sum of money can do to improve our local travel. Just as the classic ‘roundel’ design is iconic in London, our transport network needs a great logo too. I want the design to be inspired by you – West of England residents and passengers. So

Metro Mayor

Dan Norris

writes for the Voice

I’m running a competition open to all to help influence that logo. Entries are open until Friday February 12. Then the designs and ideas of local people will be finalised by professional designers who are working on the whole transport brand. I’m really excited to see what you come up with. I’m keen to see a design that is from the people, and for the people. Please join in by visiting www.westofengland-ca.gov.uk/logo-competition for more details. Our region is amazing. Together let’s make it the very best it can be.

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Visit: beta.southglos.gov.uk/search-planning-applications

Filton planning applications in January Applications 16 Hunters Way The erection of a single storey rear extension that will extend beyond the rear wall of the original dwellinghouse by 6 metres, with a maximum heights of 3 metres, and for which the height of the eaves will be 3 metres. 19 Branksome Drive Erection of a two storey side and single storey rear extensions, installation of 1 no. rear dormer to facilitate the change of use of 1 dwelling to 7 bedroom, 7 occupant House in multiple occupation (HMO) as defined in the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended). 41 Kenmore Crescent Installation of hip to gable roof extension, 1 rear dormer and 1 no. front rooflight. New Filton House Filton 20 Business Park Golf Course Lane Prior notification of the intention to install roof mounted solar panels. 32 Canberra Grove The erection of a single storey rear extension that will extend beyond the rear wall of the original house by 5.99m, for which the maximum height will be 3.5m and for which the height of the eaves will be 3m.

39 Kenmore Crescent The erection of a single storey rear extension which would extend beyond the rear wall of the original house by 4.3 metres, for which the maximum height would be 3.9 metres, and for which the height of the eaves would be 3.0 metres. 38 Gloucester Road North Erection of 1 dwelling with parking and associated works. (Re-submission of P21/06131/F) Decisions 37 Wades Road Erection of single storey rear extension to form additional living accommodation. Approve with Conditions 13 Elm Park Installation of rear dormer to facilitate loft conversion. Approve Certificate of Lawfulness 74 Northville Road Erection of single storey rear/side extension to form additional living accommodation. Demolition of existing roofs and replacement with one sloped roof. Approve with Conditions Abbey Wood Retail Park, Station Road Non material amendments to planning

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permission P20/08495/F as detailed in the covering letter. Approve Non Material Amendment 845 Filton Avenue The erection of a single storey rear extension, which would extend beyond the rear wall of the original house by 4.0m, for which the maximum height would be 3.68m, and for which the height of the eaves would be 2.5m. Prior Approval Not Required 5 Mackie Road Erection of a single storey side and rear extension to form additional living accommodation. Approve with Conditions 2 Branksome Drive Erection of single storey extension to detached garage to facilitate change of use of building and host dwelling from Class C4 to 7-person house in multiple occupation (sui generis) as defined in the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended). Formation of 3 vehicular parking spaces. Approve with conditions Former Filton Airfield Discharge of condition 5 (Design Code), 6 (Tall Buildings), 27 (Remediation) attached to planning permission PT14/3867/O and P21/02390/RVC Mixed use development on 143.73

watch

hectares of land comprising: residential development for up to 2,675 dwellings and apartments (comprising 2,635 x Use Class C3 and 40 x Live Work Units - Sui Generis); 24ha of stand-alone employment land (comprising up to 12ha Use Class B1a and a minimum of 12ha Use Class B1b/c, B2 ) ; 120 Bed Hotel up to 3,800 sqm (Use Class C1); Rail Station (0.45ha Use Class Sui Generis); Education provision to include a Secondary School (8.31ha), 2 no. Primary Schools (total 5ha) and 2 no. Childrens Nurseries (total 0.8ha) (all Use Class D1); Community Centre incorporating Library, Built Sports facilities and Doctors surgery up to 3,400 sqm (Use Classes D1 & D2); Dental Surgery up to 800sqm; (Use Class D1); 70 Bed Extra Care Facility up to 12,500sqm (Use Class C2); Shops/ Financial Services/Food and Drink facilities up to 4,787sqm (Use Classes A1, A2, A3, A4 and A5) - comprising Retail Supermarket up to 2,787sqm gross maximum (Use Class A1); Business Offices up to 500sqm (Use Class B1) together with; supporting infrastructure and facilities including demolition, ground works and remediation, highways, utilities, landscaping, sustainable urban drainage system, wildlife water basins and public open space. Outline application including access, with all other matters reserved. Filton South Gloucestershire BS34 7AU Discharge of Conditions Decided

Advertising feature North Bristol Advice Centre

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Have you had your PIP or ESA benefit claim turned down? If so, you’re not alone. Many people who apply for Personal Independence Payments (PIP) and Employment Support Allowance (ESA) benefits are having their claims unjustly refused. This, despite suffering from serious health problems. If this has happened to you, North Bristol Advice Centre can help. Our experienced advisers can provide one-toone support to help you challenge the decision and appeal. This includes gathering evidence and preparing the paperwork for your case. They can even be there with you at the tribunal hearing, making it less stressful. North Bristol Advice Centre’s overall success rate at appeal is around 90%. If you or anyone you know is struggling to challenge an unfair decision regarding a PIP or ESA claim, please contact North Bristol Advice Centre. Tel: 0117 951 5751 or visit: www.northbristoladvice.org.uk to arrange an appointment by phone, or face-to-face in Kingswood and Patchway each week.

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

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T: 0777 555 0607

February, 2022

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC

New plan sets out priorities for police I AM delighted to announce that I have recently published my new Police and Crime Plan, which will set the strategic direction for how policing and crime services should be delivered in Avon and Somerset. As I mentioned during the consultation process last autumn, I have a legal duty to produce a plan that sets out my police and crime priorities for the force area, as well as how I will hold the Chief Constable to account. After consulting with local people, working with my team and Avon and Somerset Police, my four police and crime priorities are: • preventing and fighting crime; • engaging, supporting and working with communities, victims and partner organisations; • leading the police to be efficient and effective; • increasing the legitimacy of, and public confidence in, the police and criminal justice system. I am determined that local

people will have the most efficient, effective and legitimate police service that meets the needs of communities while delivering the best value for money. I will be working with my office to monitor and scrutinise the performance of Avon and Somerset Police, in a transparent way, to help ensure delivery of the plan. I want the force to reassure our communities by putting an emphasis on preventing crime. My plan will support this through focusing on strengthening partnership working, greater visibility, better engagement within communities, early intervention, reducing reoffending and, most importantly, improving the outcomes and support for victims and witnesses of crime. Preventing and fighting crime cannot be done by the police alone: only by working together with partners and local people will we find solutions. I promise that, as your PCC, I will

do everything in my power to engage with you and bring these partners together to work hard and deliver safe communities for all. Finally, I want to urge family members of online daters to help protect their relatives from becoming a victim of romance fraud, as new figures show almost £92 million has been lost nationally through dating scams over the past year. Across Avon and Somerset, losses of £2.4m were reported in the 12-month period up to and including October 2021. Romance fraud is an awful, heart-breaking crime; victims invest time into someone and think they have a genuine connection when, in fact, it has been a cruel lie to commit fraud. Criminals often use a range of stories to get victims to transfer money without raising suspicion. The stories are often believable, to a certain extent, and something the victim would find hard to say no to, especially because of the

With Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford emotional attachment. I know many victims feel ashamed when they realise they have been scammed by romance fraudsters, but please know support is available from the police and Action Fraud. If you think a family member or friend is a victim of this terrible crime, please make them aware of the signs and help them access help.

A WARM WELCOME AWAITS AT FIELD HOUSE NURSING HOME Providing top quality, best value, holistic care Field House in Horfield offers safe and nurturing care

We also ensure: • Strict Infection Control measures approved by Public Health England are fully implemented

We are now enabling close • Care staff wear PPE at all contact visits in the home, times and we have ensured a every resident is able to have an high volume of supply essential care giver, and there is no isolation required for new • Skilled nurses are on residents from the community. site 24/7 and respiratory We still have a varied activity equipment is at hand schedule which keeps life • Safe face-to-face visits interesting and happy. where possible

BEST BEST IN CLASS BEST IN CLASS FOR

IN CLASS FOR

VITIES IFOR ACT I IES TIIV VIT TIES AC ACT

BEST BEST IN CLASS BEST IN CLASS FOR

IN CLASS FOR RING E FOR CAT ATER CA RING C TE ING

BEST BEST IN CLASS BEST IN CLASS FOR

IN CLASS FOR PLAN REFOR CA RE PLANSS CA RE PLAN S CA

BEST BEST IN CLASS BEST IN CLASS IN CLASS FOR

RING E FOR CAT R CATERING CATE ING FOR

BEST BEST IN CLASS BEST IN CLASS IN CLASS FOR

FOR PLAN REFOR CA RE PLA SS CARE PLAN NS CA

We’d love to hear from you and we’d be very happy to give you a virtual tour of the home...

Give us a call on 0117 969 0990 or visit our website at bristolcarehomes.co.uk To advertise, contact shane@filtonvoice.co.uk and on 0770 674 1200 or Richard on 0777 555 0607

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

February, 2022

The FIEND

filtonvoice

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

PUZZLES for all Each row, column and square (9 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-9, without repeating any numbers within the row, column or square.

For younger readers

9 5 7 7 8 3 6 1 3 6 2 4 2 8 3 7 5 9 5 7 3 2 1 1

A 1

Q 5

G I

L A

L D

I 3

T 4

4 3

Down 1 4727 (4) 2 64437 (5) 3 3465263 (7) 4 48259 (5) 6 4826 (4)

Word Scramble answers 1. The package will be here at midnight. 2. Look for the man in a top hat. 3. The ship sails tomorrow.

Across 1 4726 (4) 5 842632 (6) 6 4376269 (7) 7 22626342 (8)

Txtpert

Each row, column and square (4 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-4, without repeating any numbers within the row, column or square.

Theme: Countries

Easier sudoku Solution

Use the phone keypad to decode the clues. For example: 2 could be A, B or C ... and 5678 could be LOST

Txtpert

Graham Cook Gardener and handyman

Grass cutting, hedge and shrub trimming, weeding, planting, felling small trees, winter preparation, clearing, small painting jobs and other maintenance work. Please call for a no-obligation chat

Call 0117 377 0644 or 07415 658 205 Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

T: 0777 555 0607

filtonvoice

News

Some children are at risk of ‘significant harm’ as Ofsted delivers verdict on social services by BBC LDRS staff for Filtonvoice Social services in South Gloucestershire are failing some children and leaving a few at risk of “significant harm”, according to watchdogs. Ofsted found multiple flaws in the local authority’s process for handling concerns raised by members of the public about children’s safety. Its findings about the so-called ‘front door’ to South Gloucestershire Council’s children’s service come two and a half years after the service as a whole was judged ‘requires improvement’. In a letter to the council following a twoday visit in Novermber, inspector Tracey Scott said: “Delays in children being seen, in the completion of assessments of their needs, and in carrying out child-protection enquiries mean that some children are left in situations of unassessed risk. “For a few children, this has meant that they have been left in situations where they are known to be at risk of significant harm but are not receiving the help and support they need. “The pace of improvement at the front door since the last inspection in 2019 has been too slow and, in some areas of practice, the quality of work has deteriorated.” The damning assessment follows the recent deaths of 16-month-old Star Hobson in Bradford, who was murdered by her mother’s girlfriend while her mother was convicted of causing or allowing her death, and six-year-old Arthur Labinjo-Hughes in Solihull, who was murdered by his stepmother while his father was convicted of his manslaughter. South Gloucestershire Council has accepted Ofsted’s findings and promised to “significantly and swiftly” improve the front door to its children’s service. The front door, technically known as the ‘access and response team’, handles calls from the public and gathers information about any child safety concerns, before assessing each case and deciding what to do next. Inspector Scott told the council it must make improvements in a number of areas, including the timeliness and quality of visits to children, assessments of risks, and the size of social worker caseloads. The service also needs to keep better and more accurate records about children so that decisions are based on “full and accurate information”, the inspector wrote. The council must submit an action plan

for making priority improvements within 70 working days. Cabinet member for children and young people, Conservative councillor Samuel Bromiley, said: “There is no other way to read this report than to accept it shows we are not doing well enough to support those children, young people and their families who need us the most. “It does not blame the dedicated staff who do an incredibly difficult job with real commitment and empathy, but it is clear that we must take collective responsibility for the fact that we have to improve our services significantly and swiftly.” Labour councillor Alison Evans said she was “completely dismayed” by the findings about South Gloucestershire’s front door service, which she described as “the safety mechanism for our most vulnerable children” in a written question to Cllr Bromiley at a meeting of full council on Wednesday (December 15). “Teachers, doctors, neighbours, family members and friends contact the ‘front door’ when they have concerns that a child like Arthur [Labinjo-Hughes] is suffering abuse; they do so in the expectation that their concerns will be acted on promptly and effectively. “To read Ofsted’s letter it is apparent that this is not happening. Unnecessary delays, declined quality of practice, thresholds not consistently understood or applied, re-referrals, records not kept, children stepped down too quickly, weak social work assessments and actions not completed… All these themes run through the report.” Cllr Bromiley told Cllr Evans in a written answer that the council was not waiting for an action plan but had already started to make improvements, including employing an extra team of five social workers. Any young people highlighted by Ofsted were “immediately reviewed” to ensure there were no safety concerns with their care, he said. The council has previously agreed to invest £10million on children’s services over the next four years.

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

February, 2022

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To advertise, contact shane@filtonvoice.co.uk and on 0770 674 1200 or Richard on 0777 555 0607

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