Outlook issue 28 Winter 2013

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YOUR OFFICIAL SOUTHEND-ON-SEA BOROUGH COUNCIL MAGAZINE www.southend.gov.uk

ISSUE 28 Winter 2013

Centre makes

LEARNING NATURAL PAGE SEVEN

£27m Forum opens a world of knowledge CENTRE PAGES

WIN £1,000 worth of family leisure vouchers

D NEW YEA N R A

oll ecti on dates

CHRISTMA S

PAGE NINE

w

as PAGE 16 c te a nd recycling

SEE SOUTHENDERS ON PAGE SIX

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Christmas is a great opportunity to back our local economy

Winter 2013

By Council Leader Councillor NIGEL HOLDCROFT

N E W S & F E AT U R E S ‘Miracle workers’ help family find a home . . . . . . . . . . . 5

CHRISTMAS is always an exciting time in the Borough and our ‘Christmas-on-Sea’ feature on the back page tells you all about the variety of festive events on offer this year.

The festive season also presents an excellent opportunity to support our local economy. I would encourage all our residents to shop locally during the Christmas shopping period; it’s only by giving our local businesses our patronage that they will be able to prosper now and in the future.

We also have our new weekly market, which takes place every Thursday from 8.30am-5.30pm on Southend High Street. The market, a welcome addition to our bustling High Street, includes all kinds of stalls selling goods such as fresh food, clothes, household goods and gifts.

As an added attraction to the terrific shopping opportunities we already offer, it has already proved to be extremely popular with residents and visitors to Southend, and I hope as many people as possible will continue to come along to browse and buy.

Looking ahead to the New Year, we’re already working on our spending plans. In a few weeks’ time, we will hear from the Government what our financial settlement will be for 2014/15, and that will tell us how much money we will, or will not, have to spend on services.

We have already made considerable savings through careful efficiencies and reorganisations; however, the challenges ahead are greater than ever as we face an increasing demand for our services at a time of severe financial constraint.

Rest assured we will continue to make the most of the money available, protecting our services and looking after our residents as best we can.

I wish all of you and your families an enjoyable Christmas and a happy, peaceful and prosperous New Year.

This magazine can be provided in alternative formats such as Braille, audio-tape or in large print. For a copy of this magazine in another format, or to order more copies, please call 01702 215000 ext 4376 or email youroutlook@southend.gov.uk.

COUNCIL OF THE YEAR 2012

Students sign up to flu spray pilot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Woodland centre leads walk on the wild side . . . . . . . . 7 College learners aim far higher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Residents back bustling market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Warning over risks of festive boozing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Housing scheme boost for disabled residents . . . . . . 11

CONTENTS

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Forum opens world of knowledge and culture . . 12&13 Partners join forces to clamp down on crime . . . . . . 14 Lottery bid to give children the best start in life . . . 15 Recycling Christmas junk to start new year in style . 16 True grit – dedicated teams prepare for winter . . . . 17

DO IT ONLINE! Smartphone users – scan the QR code below with a barcode scanner app to access our website.

Stay well in Winter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Help available over ways to pay Council Tax . . . . . . . . . . 19 Suggestions needed to boost pier’s pulling power . . . . 20 What’s On Sea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Know your councillors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22/23 Christmas-on-Sea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Outlook is written, designed and produced by Smith Davis Press in partnership with Southend-on-Sea Borough Council. The information contained in this publication has been accepted from the contributors in good faith, and whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of going to press, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council cannot accept responsibility for any errors, misrepresentations or subsequent changes. Whilst all possible care is taken in the preparation of this publication, no responsibility for loss occasioned by any person acting as a result of the material contained herein can be accepted by Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, the authors or the publisher. Southend-on-Sea Borough Council does not endorse any of the products or services advertised within this publication. Printed by PCP.

Say it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

for Southend Outlook is printed on recycled paper. When you have finished with this publication please help the environment by passing it on to a friend or recycling it.

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Primary School Admissions September 2014 If you have a child born between 1st September 2009 and 31st August 2010 he or she is due to start school in September 2014.

The closing date for applications is

15th January 2014 The Primary School Admissions booklet and online applications are available on:

www.southend.gov.uk/admissions

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If however you would prefer a paper copy of the admissions booklet please contact the Customer Service Centre: Telephone: 01702 215007 Email: admissions@southend.gov.uk Customer Service Centre, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, Civic Centre, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea SS2 6ER.

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Local councils often come under fire for failing to adequately respond to the needs of families in distress. But when single mum Karen Migliorini found herself about to be made homeless along with her teenage daughter and two disabled adult sons, Southend’s Housing Options team moved heaven and earth to come to their aid.

MOVING ON UP: Karen Migliorini and her sons Philip, 23, left and Christopher, 25, right, packing up their ornaments ready for their new home.

Family find home through

‘MIRACLE WORKERS’ K

AREN Migliorini has lived in a four-bedroom privately rented property in Leigh-on-Sea since September 2009. A single mum, she cares for her sons Christopher, 25, and Philip, 23 – both of whom have severe learning difficulties – and her able-bodied daughter Stephanie, 18.

But earlier this year she was served notice to quit by her landlord who wanted to sell the house.

Housing Options Officer Layla Warren takes up the story: “Karen came to us and explained that because both her sons have severe learning difficulties they cannot share a room, which is why the family really needs four bedrooms.

“Finding a four-bed social housing property in Leigh-on-Sea is an almost impossible task. But after assessing her application and giving her appropriate priority she was successful in her bid on a housing association property.

“She will be moving in shortly

and that means we can avoid the need for the family to be placed in hostel accommodation which would have been costly and far from ideal.”

Changes to benefit rules meant that Karen faced problems covering the cost of renting the new property. But Council officials reassessed her circumstances and moved her into a higher benefit entitlement banding.

Karen, whose days start at 6.30am when she gets up to care for her sons, described Layla and her colleagues as “miracle workers”.

She said: “Both my boys need 24 hour-a-day care, particularly Christopher who doesn’t sleep very much and is often up and about during the night.

“In the morning I wash and dress them, then give them their breakfast before taking them to their day centres.

“In the afternoon I pick them up and bring them home for tea, then most evenings I take them

Report it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

out again to various activities.

They don’t get on well together, so it is best to keep them occupied.”

Karen, a former school lunchtime supervisor who now does voluntary work at the day centres attended by her sons, said she was “devastated” when her landlord told her she would have to move out.

“I knew I couldn’t afford to rent another four-bed property in Leigh and I was really worried about what was going to happen to us. But the council has been brilliant. Layla has done an almost impossible job and we are due to move to the new house in the next few weeks.

“I am extremely grateful to her and to everyone else at the council, they are miracle workers.”

Layla added: “As a housing authority we always try to do the very best we can to meet people’s needs. We don’t achieve success every time, but every case is looked at and considered on its merits.”

Calling all landlords – join voluntary SEAL scheme and make a difference PRIVATE landlords with properties in Southend are being urged to join a voluntary registration scheme that benefits themselves and their tenants.

SEAL – the South East Alliance of Landlords, Agents and Residents – was launched in February 2013 to improve standards in the private rental market and act as a mark of quality.

It helps landlords and managing agents renting to private tenants improve management skills, reduce antisocial behaviour and improve property conditions.

The organisation currently has 55 members managing more than 6,200 properties across the Borough.

David Colwill, Manager of Southend-on-Sea Borough Council’s Private Sector Housing Team, said privately rented houses and flats make up a significant proportion of residential accommodation within the Borough.

He said:“SEAL is a mark of quality and by fully complying with its requirements, SEAL members can show that they are dedicated to improving property conditions and reducing antisocial behaviour.”

The code of conduct includes rules on how often properties should be inspected, procedures to be followed in the event of a tenant being evicted, minimum standards for the condition of properties and actions necessary to control any antisocial behaviour.

David added:“In time, as more and more landlords and letting agents join the scheme and become more proactive and competent in their property management, the Council anticipates receiving very few complaints from the public about private landlords and managing agents who are members of SEAL.” ● For more information about joining the organisation contact SEAL’s Compliance and Monitoring Officer on 07722 600639 or visit the SEAL website at www.southeastalliance.org

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Southenders School pupils join FLU SPRAY PILOT T

HOUSANDS of children aged 4-11 across the Borough of Southend are taking part in a pilot project to help them avoid the flu.

A vaccine, known as Fluenz, is given as a nasil spray squirted up each nostril... especially good for the squeamish who do not like needles.

Not only does it do away with the need for an injection, it actually works even better than the injected flu vaccine in children. In addition, this year for the first time, the flu vaccine is being offered across Great Britain to all children aged two to three, because they are key ‘spreaders’ of the virus.

Elderly and vulnerable Flu can cause serious medical complications – and even be fatal – for elderly and other vulnerable people.

However, an annual flu vaccination can protect people from falling victim to the virus.

Getting the flu jab is simple. People who are aged 65 or over, or who fall into any of the following ‘at risk’ categories, can get the flu jab for free by contacting their GP surgery:

OOH, LA, LA! Resort Assistant Doug Hawes dons Gallic garb... but that’s not France in the background, it’s Kent.

Mangetout Rodders...

France is closer to home than we think SHEERNESS sur Mer is Southend’s new seaside neighbour – according, that is, to some visitors to the Pier who gaze out wistfully across the Thames Estuary thinking it’s the Straits of Dover... and Kent is France!

It’s an easy mistake to make when a person’s geographical gyroscope goes haywire, but it’s made time and time again according to Pier staff.

A dedicated Council team of 16 permanent staff augmented by 14 seasonal colleagues welcomed 250,653 trippers to the Pier by the end of September this year and it was still in the top four of questions they were asked.

Resort Services Manager Lynn Jones said: “If I had a Euro for every time I’ve been asked ‘what part of France is that over there’, I’d be a rich woman with a pied a terre in Paris!”

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Other frequently asked questions include “Where is the tide? It was here when I came this time last week” and “If the tide is in in Essex, is it out in Kent?”

“We get all sorts of interesting queries, most of the time made in all innocence, which make us smile like mad,” said Lynn.

“I was once serving on the Pier train when a couple of girls asked for tickets to Barking. And just this year, someone asked me if they could set up a barbecue on the wooden decking. My blood ran cold as I thought about the Pier fire of 2005.”

Keeping visitors happy is what Lynn’s team is all about though so dealing with slightly off-the-wall questions is all in a days’ work – or as Del Boy from TV’s Only Fools and Horses might say on a visit to Le Jardin D’Angleterre “Mangetout Rodders”.

● Pregnancy (the flu vaccine can be given at any stage of pregnancy) ● A heart problem ● A chest complaint or breathing difficulties, including asthma, bronchitis and emphysema ● Kidney disease ● Liver disease ● Diabetes ● A problem with the spleen or have had spleen removed

● Lowered immunity due to disease or treatment (such as steroid medication or cancer treatment) ● A stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA) ● A neurological condition such as cerebral palsy or multiple sclerosis Even for people who do not fall into any of these categories, the flu jab is available for a small fee at GP surgeries or at some of the larger pharmacies.

Margaret Gray, Head of Public Health at Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, said the authority was particularly keen to get the flu jab message across to pregnant women and young people with chronic conditions such as asthma.

“Even if people in the ‘at risk’ category feel fit and well, it’s still vitally important that they get the flu jab. The flu vaccine is the safest and most effective way to protect against the potential serious harm that flu can cause. I would encourage everyone who is eligible to get the vaccine to help protect themselves and their families and reduce the impact of flu this winter.”

Dr Marimuthu Velmurugan, a GP in Westcliff said: “It’s an excellent idea and it’s great for the children who will be getting it.

“It will keep them healthy and will be non-disruptive to their school day. It’s painless and is very successful. Children generally don’t like needles, so this is non intrusive, painless and easy to administer. It cannot fail.”

TOTALLY PAINLESS...

The Fluenz flu vaccine is given to a pupil through a nasal spray.

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r Steve Bottom.

Manage TAKE A SEAT: Centre

WRIGGLE RESEARCH: Kasey-Lei Roberts and Riley Boxshall, both aged nine, with worm farms they made at the Belfairs Woodland Centre.

CENTRE LEADS WALK ON

THE WILD SIDE A

NEW £800,000 centre has opened providing space for schools, groups and families to learn about south Essex’s ancient woodland.

The Belfairs Woodland Centre at Leigh-on-Sea aims to educate visitors on the wildlife, history and heritage of the 1,160-acre Daws Heath and Belfairs Living Landscape.

Officially opened by BBC Springwatch presenter Martin Hughes-Games, the energy-efficient, wooden-clad building is expected to become a focal point for activities for the whole community. The centre hosts an education hall, shop, information displays and a refreshments area. Regular events already include a preschool club and working parties carrying out conservation work.

Visitors exploring the woodland can also enjoy a new sculpture trail with six features created by renowned chainsaw artist Ben Loughrill.

Paul Jenkinson, Parks Technical Officer at Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, said: “We are very fortunate to have this historic landscape on our doorstep to access for free and it is the largest green space in Southend.

“We are working in partnership with the Essex Wildlife Trust and hope the centre will encourage more people to explore the site and to help preserve the landscape for future generations.”

Essex Wildlife Trust, who manage the centre, have appointed an education officer to provide visitors with information, events and activities in the centre and across the landscape.

A woodland ranger undertakes practical conservation work and helps volunteers get involved in wildlife surveying, practical work-parties and wildlife walks. Species that make their home in the woodland include dormice, rare heath fritillary butterflies, badgers and song thrushes.

The building, which was part-funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, has been sensitively designed and landscaping will encourage wildlife to come close to the centre and its viewing areas.

Getting there There are lots of cheap, healthy and quick ways to travel to the centre: ● Cycling – the Prittlebrook Greenway cycle path runs from Priory Park to Belfairs Park. The centre offers cycle parking and electric vehicle charging points. ● Bus – services 6a, 18 and 29 run close by. ● Walking – there are lots of footpaths for those who choose to walk to the centre.

For further information on how to get there visit www.ideasinmotionsouthend.co.uk

NEW CENTRE: The whole community is welcome to use the £800,000 energy efficient centre.

Apply for it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

LIVING LANDSCAPE: Education and Community Officer Jo Loman with a sculpture showing some of the species which live at Belfairs.

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Ambitious plans to

AIM FAR HIGHER A

newly-created college for youngsters with behaviour, emotional and social challenges in Southend is offering a wide range of support and training and has high aspirations for its young learners.

Seabrook College has been formed by federating Priory School in Prittlewell and the Renown Centre for Learning in Shoeburyness, following a Southend-on-Sea Borough Council consultation process.

The new college is based on a number of sites – the Prittlewell Centre and the Shoebury Centre, as well as a vocational centre in Stock Road.

At the same time there are plans to run a virtual school for students who have medical needs or other emotional challenges.

The college, in its first term under the new regime, takes students from Primary level to Year 11, usually after they have been referred by their schools.

Some are tutored on a short-term basis, and some are

offered support to prevent a permanent exclusion. But there are also a number of full-time students who have longer-term complex needs.

The new college has ambitious plans to offer a wider curriculum than before, with more opportunities for the students to take a wide range of Headteacher qualifications including GCSEs. Alice Hexter and Whereas previous vocational Head of School training was carried out for Tawanda Madhlangobe Priory School by external fly the flag for the providers, Seabrook College is new Seabrook bringing the training “in-house,” College. through its vocational centre where students are taking GCSEs and doing motor mechanics and construction courses.

Executive Head Teacher Alice On the main college sites, Hexter. students are taught basic literacy “For pupils in Key Stage 2 and 3, and numeracy skills and are given we go out to be with them for the support to develop their social first week in their school, they skills. come into the centre for an “For younger students we have eight-week specific programme, a specific preventative programme and then we accompany them for for helping them at an early stage the last week back in their school. so that they can cope better in Some students may need help their mainstream school,” said with anger management.

“We have outreach teachers who go into schools to work with children and who can refer them for a preventative programme where necessary.”

Seabrook College is currently recruiting for teaching staff.

Anyone who wishes to apply should contact the Prittlewell site on 01702 347490.

COULD YOU FOSTER A TEENAGER? Southend Borough Council can offer you:

24 hour telephone support Dedicated supervising social worker Peer support groups for you and your family Fostering network membership

call

Commitment to your ongoing training & development Organised events & activities Be seen as a true professional

01702 212938

or email: fostering@southend.gov.uk to find out more

www.southend.gov.uk/fostering

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COMPETITION

WIN

£1,000 of passes for KEEP FIT FUN TIME SOWING SEEDS OF SUCCESS: Deputy Mayor Councillor Chris Walker checks out the new market with Crafty Plants stallholder Trevor Day.

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HOPPERS can now enjoy a new weekly market selling a wide variety of goods.

The market along Southend’s High Street now runs every Thursday offering everything from gifts to household items, fresh fruit and vegetables and fashion for men, women and children.

Up to 20 stalls operate from outside NatWest Bank to where the railway bridge crosses the High Street and more are due to be added next year.

Town Centre Manager Marzia Abel said: “We did a lot of surveys with businesses and the public and found that a market was one of the top things they wanted to see in the town.

“Markets are a great way of bringing the community

Residents back

our bustling new market to the town centre and this new one is a great addition to the shopping opportunities we already provide. We also expect it to increase the footfall and

support the offer that is already there.

“We have started off small but we hope to expand it next year.”

Applications for stalls were considered by a market trader panel, which included Council officers and a representative from Southend Business Improvement District.

Stalls are in such demand from traders that a waiting list has been drawn up.

TEENAGER Olivia Southend-on-Sea Borough Caughey is Council’s Deputy Leader, pictured playing the Councillor John Lamb, who part of a dove during the led the all-party working epic staging of Benjamin group behind the market Britten’s youth opera plans, said: “We have had Noye’s Fludde (which overwhelming support from means Noah’s Flood in Medieval English). residents, visitors and the The 15-year-old business community for a from The Sweyne new weekly market.

Park School at “We are very pleased that Rayleigh was joined the prospect of a new weekly by performers from market has been so warmly Southend Boys’ and welcomed across the town.”

Girls’s Choirs, eight The market, which runs schools and two youth between 8.30am and 5.30pm, orchestras for the was officially opened by performance to mark the Deputy Mayor of Southend, composer’s centenary.

Councillor Chris Walker.

Schools stage epic OPERA SHOW

Apply for it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

FABULOUS leisure centre family memberships worth more than £1,000 are up for grabs in our winter edition competition as the Council helps two lucky families enjoy free keep fit fun for six months.

We are offering two memberships – each for two adults and two children under 14 – covering full use of gyms including induction, fitness classes, swimming, health suites and four courts a week for racket sports.

They can be used at Belfairs Swim Centre, Chase Sports and Fitness Centre, Shoeburyness Leisure Centre, Southend Swimming and Diving Centre and Southend Leisure and Tennis Centre .

Simply answer the following question to be in with a chance of winning: When is Santa last appearing in his Grotto on Southend Pier this year?

The answer can be found in the Christmas-on-Sea listings on the back page of this magazine.

Send your answer on a postcard, with your name, address and daytime telephone number to: Family Membership Competition, Outlook Magazine, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, Civic Centre, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, SS2 6ER. Alternatively, you can email outlook@southend. gov.uk While you are sending in your entry please let us know your thoughts on what you like and what you would like to see more of in future issues of Outlook.

The closing date for entries is Monday, 16 December. ● TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY: visit www.southend.gov.uk/outlook for more information.

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SOUL MAN...

WARNING over risks of

SOS bus organiser John Bastin with some of the free flip flops he hands out to sore-footed revellers.

festive boozing H

EALTH experts say alcohol consumption goes up almost 40 per cent over the festive season. And while not wanting to put a dampener on anyone’s Christmas celebrations, they are urging people to be sensible about their drinking – because alcohol can make them more reckless and prone to accidents.

“There is nothing wrong with having a drink or two to celebrate at Christmas and the New Year but be sensible about it,” said Liesel Park from Public Health at Southend-on-Sea Borough Council. “Be sensible, be safe.”

Liesel said festive revellers needed to be aware of how many units of alcohol they were consuming and also to be aware of the amount they drink at home before they go out at night (known as ‘front-loading’) because ‘home’ measures are often much larger than pub or club measures.

People should also be aware of how much they drank the night before if considering getting in the car to drive to work the next day.

“Alcohol is removed from the blood at the rate of about one unit an hour,” she said. “This does vary

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from person to person and there is nothing you can do to speed the process up.”

People should make sure they are wearing clothing appropriate for the weather when they do go out for a night on the town in Southend – which has a Purple Flag Award for having a clean, safe and inviting environment for a night out in the town centre.

Liesel said: “Take your coat – outfits that look great when you’re clubbing and on the dance floor won’t offer protection from the cold and wet once you start making your way home.”

Anyone who does find themselves worse for wear in Southend town centre this Christmas can get help and advice from the YMCA SOS Bus, a converted double-decker manned by volunteers who offer first aid, counselling, and a safe haven until further assistance can be arranged.

Female revellers who find themselves unable to cope with their high heels after an evening’s drinking can even get free flip flops from the bus which will be in Southend High Street from 9pm to 3am every Friday and Saturday from now until the New Year.

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Housing boost for disabled residents T

HE site of a former care home which has been derelict and unloved for eight years is being transformed into state-of-the-art supported housing for adults with learning difficulties.

The former Shelford House Hostel in West Street – just across the road from Southend United's Roots Hall Stadium – closed in 2005 and was eventually demolished in 2011, leaving the site clear for redevelopment.

Building work on a new scheme of 13 flats and three four-bedroom houses is now under way with completion expected in April next year.

In addition to the new buildings, the St Mary’s almshouses, built in 1870 and adjacent to the site, are being fully refurbished as three one-bedroom bungalows.

The scheme is a partnership project between Southend-on-Sea Borough Borough Council and Genesis Housing Association.

Genesis Housing Association Development Project Officer Yvonne Wright looks at plans for the new supported housing project with site manager Keith Harding.

The houses will become new homes for people currently living at Saxon Lodge care home at Shoeburyness.

Once finished, the £1 million scheme will become home to people with varying degrees of learning difficulty. The service will allow them to live independently, but with the support of staff on site to provide help and support when required.

Lesley Salter, Executive Councillor for Adult Social Care, Health and Housing, said: “The site has been derelict for several years and is now being put to a new and exciting use.

“It will provide vital facilities for adults with learning difficulties across the Borough and I am sure people living in the area will be glad to see the land redeveloped and used for this really important project.”

How the finished scheme at West Street will look.

Customer hub on the move THE Council-based Customer Services Centre and Registration Service will be moving to a temporary home early in the New Year.

Self-serve PCs and phones, the general enquiries section and staff who deal with births, deaths and marriages are being relocated to the ground-floor of Margaret Thatcher House while the necessary refurbishment work is carried

out at the Civic Centre. Signs and leaflets will be widely publicised closer to the time informing people about dates and access. This information will also be posted on the Council’s website. The services involved are expected to return by the summer.

Please remember customers can access the Council website at southend.gov.uk for general enquiries.

Pay it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

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Top chef cooks up masterclass CATERING apprentices from South Essex College enjoyed a masterclass from a top chef.

Paul Boorman, Executive Chef of Wivenhoe House, demonstrated his culinary and hospitality skills as part of the event laid on by the college, the Council and the University of Essex.

He said:“It was a great session, the apprentices are very receptive and I am hoping that they will pay a return visit to Wivenhoe House shortly.”

The apprentices then put their new found skills to the test by providing the hospitality at a series of festival events at the The Forum Southend-on-Sea. These included serving up afternoon tea at the sell-out Wendy Cope poetry reading session.

Free CV advice is just the job YOUNG people aged 15 to 19 attended a free advice session to help their job applications shine.

The event at South Essex College featured interview techniques and help on how to construct a good CV. It was run by Southend business bosses and the Council.

Council Deputy Leader, Councillor John Lamb said: “This was a terrific free opportunity to help young people discover exactly what business leaders will look for when they are choosing who to interview and who to hire.”

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OUTHEND’S inspiring new £27 million library and academic centre is offering people of all ages greater opportunities to explore the world of knowledge and culture.

The Forum Southend-on-Sea, housed in a stunning ultra-modern structure in Elmer Square, offers an enhanced arts-based experience by locating book-lending, e-learning, lectures and an internationally acclaimed contemporary art gallery under one roof.

This is the first fully integrated academic and public library anywhere in the UK which gives local library members access to over one million academic journals and books.

As part of the opening celebrations, physicist and TV science presenter Professor Brian Cox gave an inaugural lecture on the theme of the cosmos.

The Focal Point Gallery opened with artist Elizabeth Price’s first solo exhibition since winning the Turner Prize in 2012.

The four-storey learning zone for the public and students shines like a beacon at night. A big screen stationed in the public square combines student content

NIGHT AND DAY: The Forum after dark, and, right, a view of the building showing the bike racks outside. with commissioned art works.

The first of these is a video comprised of archival films by Renee Vaughan Sutherland, in collaboration with local film organisation The White Bus. As well as a joint public and academic library over the first two floors and a teaching space for University and College use on the top two, the iconic building provides a new home for the Focal Point Gallery, together with a 200-seat lecture theatre and café. The centre, which has risen

OPEN FOR BUSINESS: Super-cool TV scientist Professor Brian Cox gives his seal of approval to the centre’s launch, when he gave the inaugural lecture.

phoenix-like on the site of a former multi-storey car park, has been created by a unique three-cornered partnership project between Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, the University of Essex and South Essex College.

The main library, which starts on the ground floor, offers 150,000 books plus DVDs, CDs and audio books. A total of 98 computers are available to the public, along with languages resources and a children’s library.

Two meeting rooms on the ground floor, as well as the University teaching rooms elsewhere in the building, are available to hire and the gallery wall outside the lecture theatre can be hired to exhibit artworks.

The main library

continues on the first floor, where the academic books can be consulted by the public. Students have 24/7 access to the library online research resources.

The second floor is for students on the University’s Southend campus and contains a Learning Hub, media rooms, a reading area and a careers information point. “We are proud to be a part of The Forum Southend-on-Sea enterprise which is the first of its kind in the UK,” said Zoe Manning, Southend Campus Manager for the University of Essex. “The facilities are being greeted very positively.”

On the third floor the College’s students, including those who are taking University degrees, will undertake the theoretical part of

their courses and enjoy quiet study areas.

“This is a fantastic new teaching facility for the College and we are delighted to have the whole floor,” said Anthony McGarel, Deputy Chief Executive at South Essex College.

Southend-on-Sea Borough Council’s Executive Councillor for Culture and Tourism, Councillor Derek Jarvis, paid tribute to the multi-agency partnership working.

He added: “This magnificent structure and all that it contains will become a major forum for the whole community.”

LEARNING IS FUN: Nicola Szczypka with Nilah, three, and Vevie, six, in the children’s library.

It’s super accessible... so many ways to get there

Fitness fun for the over 55s MORE than 70 people aged between 55 and 85 flocked to try fun fitness sessions in Priory Park.

People taking part in the Active 50+ event held by the bandstand also benefited from free NHS checks and received information on local sports and activity clubs.

The fitness classes were funded by ActiveSouthend and included Disco Fit, Active Zumba, Nordic Walking and Yoga.

12 Outlook WINTER 2013

CLASSY SPACE:

Save time – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

Southend’s Executive Councillor for Culture and Tourism Councillor Derek Jarvis takes a seat in the stylish atrium.

STATE-OF-THE-ART: Vice President of the Students’ Union for Southend and Loughton Max Slipczcec in the futuristic lecture theatre.

WITH its superb location in the centre of town, it is easy to visit The Forum Southend-on-Sea: ● By train – Southend Centre and Victoria train stations are minutes way on foot. ● By bus – all buses travelling to Southend town centre end at the Travel Centre, a short walk away. The nearest bus stop to The Forum Southend-on-Sea is Warrior Square. ● By bicycle – The Forum Southend-on-Sea offers ample parking for bikes.

For information on how to get there, visit www.ideasinmotion southend.co.uk

WINTER 2013 Outlook

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Top chef cooks up masterclass CATERING apprentices from South Essex College enjoyed a masterclass from a top chef.

Paul Boorman, Executive Chef of Wivenhoe House, demonstrated his culinary and hospitality skills as part of the event laid on by the college, the Council and the University of Essex.

He said:“It was a great session, the apprentices are very receptive and I am hoping that they will pay a return visit to Wivenhoe House shortly.”

The apprentices then put their new found skills to the test by providing the hospitality at a series of festival events at the The Forum Southend-on-Sea. These included serving up afternoon tea at the sell-out Wendy Cope poetry reading session.

Free CV advice is just the job YOUNG people aged 15 to 19 attended a free advice session to help their job applications shine.

The event at South Essex College featured interview techniques and help on how to construct a good CV. It was run by Southend business bosses and the Council.

Council Deputy Leader, Councillor John Lamb said: “This was a terrific free opportunity to help young people discover exactly what business leaders will look for when they are choosing who to interview and who to hire.”

S

OUTHEND’S inspiring new £27 million library and academic centre is offering people of all ages greater opportunities to explore the world of knowledge and culture.

The Forum Southend-on-Sea, housed in a stunning ultra-modern structure in Elmer Square, offers an enhanced arts-based experience by locating book-lending, e-learning, lectures and an internationally acclaimed contemporary art gallery under one roof.

This is the first fully integrated academic and public library anywhere in the UK which gives local library members access to over one million academic journals and books.

As part of the opening celebrations, physicist and TV science presenter Professor Brian Cox gave an inaugural lecture on the theme of the cosmos.

The Focal Point Gallery opened with artist Elizabeth Price’s first solo exhibition since winning the Turner Prize in 2012.

The four-storey learning zone for the public and students shines like a beacon at night. A big screen stationed in the public square combines student content

NIGHT AND DAY: The Forum after dark, and, right, a view of the building showing the bike racks outside. with commissioned art works.

The first of these is a video comprised of archival films by Renee Vaughan Sutherland, in collaboration with local film organisation The White Bus. As well as a joint public and academic library over the first two floors and a teaching space for University and College use on the top two, the iconic building provides a new home for the Focal Point Gallery, together with a 200-seat lecture theatre and café. The centre, which has risen

OPEN FOR BUSINESS: Super-cool TV scientist Professor Brian Cox gives his seal of approval to the centre’s launch, when he gave the inaugural lecture.

phoenix-like on the site of a former multi-storey car park, has been created by a unique three-cornered partnership project between Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, the University of Essex and South Essex College.

The main library, which starts on the ground floor, offers 150,000 books plus DVDs, CDs and audio books. A total of 98 computers are available to the public, along with languages resources and a children’s library.

Two meeting rooms on the ground floor, as well as the University teaching rooms elsewhere in the building, are available to hire and the gallery wall outside the lecture theatre can be hired to exhibit artworks.

The main library

continues on the first floor, where the academic books can be consulted by the public. Students have 24/7 access to the library online research resources.

The second floor is for students on the University’s Southend campus and contains a Learning Hub, media rooms, a reading area and a careers information point. “We are proud to be a part of The Forum Southend-on-Sea enterprise which is the first of its kind in the UK,” said Zoe Manning, Southend Campus Manager for the University of Essex. “The facilities are being greeted very positively.”

On the third floor the College’s students, including those who are taking University degrees, will undertake the theoretical part of

their courses and enjoy quiet study areas.

“This is a fantastic new teaching facility for the College and we are delighted to have the whole floor,” said Anthony McGarel, Deputy Chief Executive at South Essex College.

Southend-on-Sea Borough Council’s Executive Councillor for Culture and Tourism, Councillor Derek Jarvis, paid tribute to the multi-agency partnership working.

He added: “This magnificent structure and all that it contains will become a major forum for the whole community.”

LEARNING IS FUN: Nicola Szczypka with Nilah, three, and Vevie, six, in the children’s library.

It’s super accessible... so many ways to get there

Fitness fun for the over 55s MORE than 70 people aged between 55 and 85 flocked to try fun fitness sessions in Priory Park.

People taking part in the Active 50+ event held by the bandstand also benefited from free NHS checks and received information on local sports and activity clubs.

The fitness classes were funded by ActiveSouthend and included Disco Fit, Active Zumba, Nordic Walking and Yoga.

12 Outlook WINTER 2013

CLASSY SPACE:

Save time – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

Southend’s Executive Councillor for Culture and Tourism Councillor Derek Jarvis takes a seat in the stylish atrium.

STATE-OF-THE-ART: Vice President of the Students’ Union for Southend and Loughton Max Slipczcec in the futuristic lecture theatre.

WITH its superb location in the centre of town, it is easy to visit The Forum Southend-on-Sea: ● By train – Southend Centre and Victoria train stations are minutes way on foot. ● By bus – all buses travelling to Southend town centre end at the Travel Centre, a short walk away. The nearest bus stop to The Forum Southend-on-Sea is Warrior Square. ● By bicycle – The Forum Southend-on-Sea offers ample parking for bikes.

For information on how to get there, visit www.ideasinmotion southend.co.uk

WINTER 2013 Outlook

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to cut down on

CRIME A

NEW initiative is expected to lead to a crackdown on burglaries and other crime across the Borough.

The joint project will analyse data so police can predict where crime is likely to happen; identify vulnerable premises and warn occupants of the risks and support elderly and other vulnerable people to make their homes more secure.

Southend Community Safety Partnership Manager Simon Ford explained that the new database would allow police to identify crime hotspots and then allocate resources to them.

“From the Council's point of view, it is about identifying what our own service teams can do in terms of acting as eyes and ears on the ground while they are out and about on the streets of Southend,” he said.

The second part of the project has been codenamed Operation Bisley and involves staff from the Council’s Community Safety Unit along with local police teams visiting various parts of the Borough to identify buildings which could prove attractive to a burglar.

SAFE AS HOUSES: Community safety volunteers Chris Webster, Victoria Young and Charles Neale with ultraviolet property marking pens, messages in a bottle and nominated neighbour cards which they hand out to residents as part of their efforts to reduce crime in the Borough.

Simon said: “Its about prevention, and if our teams see a house with a wide open window or gate, they will knock on the door and just make sure the occupant is aware of the potential risk of crime that presents.”

The third initiative is aimed directly at vulnerable people – including the elderly – in their own homes.

The initiative funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Office is being managed by Southend Association of Voluntary Services and includes staff providing home security advice to elderly residents.

Helping to make your life simpler

This part of the project is being funded through an £18,000 grant obtained from the local Police and Crime Commissioner Nick Alston by Southend Association for Voluntary Services.

Simon added: “In Southend we recently experienced a spike in opportunistic burglaries and these initiatives are aimed at tackling that.

We are also approaching the Christmas period when this sort of crime can increase.

“People need to be aware of that and to work in partnership with us and the police to minimise the risk. It is about raising awareness.”

CH A RA R N NO ISTM GE W A O IN S G F ST IFT OC S K

Living simply is something we all aim for. Whether it’s a walking stick to help with our mobility or a long shoe horn to help us with putting on our shoes or even a spring clean, small things can make a very big difference.

Southend Independent Living is here to help grow your confidence with our wide range of aids to assist with daily living as well as useful products that will help give you a new lease of life!

We’re based in Southend, are wholly-owned by Southend-on-Sea Borough Council and can provide free local delivery to residents in the borough.

01702 212021 Open Monday-Friday 9am-4pm www.southendindependentliving.co.uk

CALL NOW TO REQUEST YOUR CATALOGUE AND MAKE YOUR ORDER

BY DECEMBER 31ST TO RECEIVE A 10% DISCOUNT*

BY QUOTING ‘OUTLOOK’ * Excludes delivery charge if applicable.

14 Outlook WINTER 2013

Outlook p15

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‘‘’’ THE NUMBERS ADD UP: Ryan Dean, Jasmine Wright, Tia Sibanda, Alina Kara, Lexi Daly and Alfie Smith – all three years old – show the lottery fund figure which could transform lives in Southend.

Lottery bid to give children the

BEST START IN LIFE S

OUTHEND-on-Sea could win £33.5 million to improve the lives of children from birth to three-years-old.

A partnership between the Council and the Pre-school Learning Alliance has already been awarded £200,000 to develop long-term plans for families in six wards.

The local authority is one of just 15 in the country to reach the final stage of the Big Lottery’s Fulfilling Lives: A Better Start programme, which could see a £33.5 million investment over eight to 10 years.

The initial focus will be on the wards of

Choirs show off talents with classical show MEMBERS of Southend Boys’ and Girls’ Choirs presented a programme of varied seasonal music to a packed audience.

The Autumn Leaves concert took place at Crowstone U.R. Church in Westcliff and featured music by Carl Orff, Schubert and Verdi. It was also a chance to show off the talents of the new tenor and bass section of the choir.

For more details about up and coming concerts and choral events visit www.southendchoirs.org.uk

Kursaal, Milton, Shoeburyness, Victoria, West Shoebury and Westborough but the changes could affect the whole Borough.

Elaine Hammans, the Council’s Early Years Commissioning and Quality Manager, said: “Plans for how to spend the money are still in the very early stages and a key factor for us is hearing from parents, or prospective parents about what could improve things for them.

“We would love to hear about what it is like for those in the Borough who are currently pregnant, what experience parents of children under four had when their little ones came

This is a real opportunity for Southend-on-Sea to implement real change and provide proven preventative services that make a significant difference to people’s lives.

JANE YOUDALE

along and what our current service users think could be improved.”

Jane Youdale, Pre-school Learning Alliance County Manager, said: “This is a real opportunity for Southend-on-Sea to implement real change and provide proven preventative services that make a significant difference to people’s lives.”

To get involved, visit any of the Borough’s children’s centres, call Angela Caten on 01702 215007 or email betterstartbid@ southend.gov.uk

Council backs drive to create new jobs BUSINESS support offered by the Southend-on-Sea Borough Council is being ramped up through initiatives to encourage economic growth and create new jobs: ● Creating a taskforce in the wake of the Lloyds Banking Group’s decision to close its contact centre in the town – with the loss of more than 600 jobs – to coordinate support for all those affected.

A Jobs Fair has been staged to help people find new employment or training opportunities and the Council, along with its partners, is continuing to assist with further support for job seekers. ● Staging a week of seminars and workshops during its ‘Take a Step Forward’ campaign as part of Global Entrepreneurship Week. ● Offering advice on business start ups, mentoring for young people and information on

Tell us – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

networking. Small Business Saturday events take place across the Borough on 7 December, mostly with a festive theme. Among events already confirmed is a festive funday in the High Street. ● Supporting the Southend Business and Community Charter which rewards organisations with bronze, silver or gold Charter status for demonstrating strong community commitment.

Emma Cooney, the Council’s Enterprise and Community Manager, said:“These initiatives and events show just how much effort we’re putting in as a council to support local business and enable the local economy to thrive and grow.”

Support is available thought the Council’s Enterprise and Community Team. ● To contact the team, call 01702 215022 or email economicd@southend.gov. uk

WINTER 2013 Outlook

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Recycling all that festive junk to start

NEW YEAR IN STYLE

GREEN DEAL...

Recycling Loader Ben Wilson puts pink bags on the wagon.

F

ROM Christmas trees to wrapping paper, cards and the turkey, many of the icons of the festive season become waste once the decorations are taken down.

But residents in the Borough who are already recycling 54 per cent of waste, are encouraged to keep up the good work over the festive period.

Miranda Valenzuela, Waste and Recycling Officer at Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, said: “Recycling household waste allows valuable materials to be reused, saving energy and preventing waste from decomposing in

Dates to note THE Civic Centre will be closed on the following dates over the Christmas period: Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Friday 27 December and New Year’s Day. The out of hours emergency service will still be available on 01702 215000.

landfill sites and causing harm to the environment.

“It also helps the Council financially because it reduces the amount of your money the local authority spends sending waste to landfill.

“We always encourage residents to recycle as much as possible but this is even more important following the festive period when there is more waste to dispose of.”

The following tips have been issued to help residents be more sustainable: ● Food waste of any sort – raw and uncooked, including fish bones and turkey carcasses – can be put in the free compostable food waste liners provided by the Council and recycled in the blue food waste bins. ● Wrapping paper, cards, glass bottles and jars and packaging such as biscuit tins, food and drink cartons, plastic drinks bottles and

Revised Christmas and New Year 2013/14 2010/11

Collection Dates

meat trays can be placed into pink recycling sacks and put out on collection day. Items must be free from food waste or they cannot be recycled. ● Anything that cannot be recycled, such as crisp packets, kitchen roll, tissues and polystyrene should be disposed of in black sacks. ● Real Christmas trees – free from decorations – can be taken to either of the Council’s Household Waste Recycling Centres or presented on collection day for free.

Residents should place the tree in a visible location at the edge of their property and it will be collected within 10 working days. Call 01702 215006 if it is not collected. ● For more information about what can be recycled, call 01702 215006 or visit www.southend.gov.uk/recycling

Normal collection day

Revised collection day

Days late

Wednesday 25th December

Friday 27th December

2 days late

Thursday 26th December

Saturday 28th December

2 days late

Friday 27th December

Monday 30th December

3 days late

Monday 30th December

Tuesday 31st December

1 day late

Tuesday 31st December

Thursday 2nd January

2 days late

Wednesday 1st January

Friday 3rd January

2 days late

Thursday 2nd January

Saturday 4th January

2 days late

Friday 3rd January

Monday 6th January

3 days late

Monday 6th January

Tuesday 7th January

1 day late

Tuesday 7th January

Wednesday 8th January

1 day late

Wednesday 8th January

Thursday 9th January

1 day late

Thursday 9th January

Friday 10th January

1 day late

Friday 10th January

Saturday 11th January

1 day late

For more information call 01702 215006 or visit www.southend.gov.uk/recycling 16 Outlook WINTER 2013

Outlook p17

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TRUE

GRIT! ON YOUR BIKE: Driver Bismark Herrera prepares one of the Council’s quads for winter gritting.

G

RITTING plans are now in place as the Council prepares for the first freezing weather of winter and urges residents to do the same.

Four gritting vehicles, which can be fitted with snowploughs, are on standby as well as three specialist quad bikes and trailers designed to help spread rock salt in pedestrian areas.

The Winter Service Plan gives priority to salting major and busy

roads, bus routes and selected hills on minor roads in the Borough.

Once those have been cleared, the Council also treats priority footpaths including shopping areas, underpasses and bridges.

Karon Grant, the Council’s Team Leader – Environmental Care, said: “With the best will in the world, we can’t keep all parts of the road and footway network clear at all times but we do have a plan in place to keep all major

roads safe if and when the snow and ice do come.

“We are also asking local community to keep themselves safe. There are more than 50 grit bins located across the town for people to use on side roads and footpaths.”

Motorists are being reminded to leave more time for their journey during a cold snap, to slow down and keep a safe distance from other vehicles and to avoid sudden

Stay healthy when big freeze bites THE cold weather can have a significant impact on health, and one of the best ways you can keep yourself healthy over the winter months is to keep you and your home warm. Here are some basic tips to follow: Keep your house warm. Your main living room should be 21C (70F) and the rest of the house heated to 18C (65F).

You may want to consider using a hot-water bottle or electric blanket (but not both at the same time) to keep warm while you’re in bed.

Eat well. Food is a vital source of energy, which helps to keep your body warm. Try to make sure that you have hot meals and warm non-alcoholic drinks regularly throughout the day and keep active in the home if you can.

Wrap up warm, inside and out. Layer your clothing to stay warm and wear shoes with a good grip if

you need to go outside. Be mindful of the impact of the cold if you have heart or respiratory problems.

Check on older neighbours or relatives to make sure they're safe and well. Make sure they are warm enough, especially at night, and have stocks of food and medicines so they don’t need to go out during very cold weather.

If you’re worried about a relative or an older neighbour, contact the access team on 01702 215008 or ring the Age UK helpline on 0800 009966.

Margaret Gray, Head of Public Health at Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, added:“It’s very important, particularly for older and other vulnerable people, to make sure they keep themselves warm.

“Following these simple tips will help people make sure they get through the winter safe and well.”

View it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

braking. They should also consider winter tyres and make sure their vehicles are properly serviced.

Pedestrians can help themselves by wearing shoes with a good grip and keeping alert on slippery surfaces.

Maps of all gritting routes and bin locations as well as alphabetical lists of gritting routes are available on the Council’s website at southend.gov.uk

HANDY CONTACTS RESIDENTS with central heating or gas fire problems can find a Gas Safe registered engineer by calling 0800 408 5500 or at www.gassaferegister.co.uk For information if an electricity supply fails call UK Power Networks on 0800 7838866 or visit www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk If you are worried about paying an energy bill you can call the Age Concern Home Heat helpline on 0800 336699 or Southend Citizens Advice Bureau on 01702 610610.

For health advice you can call the NHS111 non-emergency helpline or St Luke’s Walk-In Centre on 01702 611505.

Residents are advised to look up the telephone numbers of their GP surgery and pharmacy and keep them handy.

WINTER 2013 Outlook

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Cycle winner rides off after

scooping survey prize

Left to right Ideas in Motion Community Manager Ashley Dalton, Turning Tides Team Leader Lee Bagnall, competition winner Alexander Sadza and Richard Twomey, Manager of The Comfy Saddle.

LUCKY resident Alexander Sadza won a brand new bicycle after taking part in a Borough-wide travel survey.

The 21-year-old, who lives in Westcliff, was the 5,000th person to be interviewed as part of the Council’s Ideas in Motion project. The survey was carried out by travel advisor volunteers and the Turning Tides Project team. They knocked on thousands of people’s doors across Southend to offer the public travel planning advice.

Residents were asked about their current travel arrangements and offered

support and information about alternative options such as cycling, walking or using trains and buses.

Based on the information collected from more than 8,000 households, a Personalised Travel Planning Survey is being compiled.

Alexander collected his Forme Winster 3 bike from the Comfy Saddle centre based in Southend Central Station. ● People wanting to find out more about travel planning and alternative means of transport can visit www.ideasinmotion. southend.co.uk

STAY WELL IN WINTER Good planning can help to prevent flu and tummy bugs

P

EOPLE living in Southend are being encouraged to stay healthy this Christmas and to be prepared if they do fall ill.

While it might be the season to make merry and be jolly, it is important to look after your health to make sure that it is a Christmas to remember, not one to forget.

Margaret Gray, Head of Public Health at Southend-on-Sea Borough Council said: “It is important to be prepared for Christmas and stock up the medicine cabinet with items to help you manage the symptoms of cold and flu illnesses. It is also a good idea to have an up-to-date first aid kit.

“Your local pharmacy will stock all of these and will also offer advice to customers.

“Anyone who takes prescription medicines, should plan ahead and make sure they have enough to get them through the holiday period. Requests should be made in good time. We can all do our part to stay well by keeping warm and taking the appropriate action if we do begin to become ill.

“One of the best ways to avoid becoming ill with bugs and viruses is to wash your hands

Support helps smokers kick habit ACCORDING to the latest figures, the average price of a pack of 20 cigarettes is around £8. That means a 20-a-day smoker who kicks the habit would save nearly £3,000 a year!

A prescription to help to quit smoking would cost around £8.

Southend offers lots of choice to find the best support to anyone who wants to quit.

With the right medication and the support of a Stop Smoking advisor smokers are four times more likely to succeed – and the

18 Outlook WINTER 2013

real benefits would come in the form of improved health, for the smoker and their family, who will not then be breathing their second hand smoke.

Smokers know that by becoming smoke free they will become healthier; with improved breathing, sense of taste and smell – it will reduce the chances of children suffering from bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma and ear infections. ● Call 01702 212000 to speak to Southend’s Quit Smoking service.

Stocking up on medication for the winter ahead.

regularly and if you do have a cold, dispose of your tissues in the bin. People in ‘at risk’ groups such as the elderly, pregnant women and young people with chronic conditions, should also make sure they have had a flu jab.”

Margaret added that people needed to be aware that GP surgeries and pharmacies will be closed some days over the Christmas and New Year period and that for non-emergency health conditions people could seek advice from the new NHS 111 phone line. This is available 24 hours a day; seven days a week and all calls are free.

Medical help and advice is also available between 8am and 8pm, 365 days of the year, at the St Luke’s NHS walk-in centre, Pantile Avenue, Southend.

For urgent help when GPs are closed, call the surgery as usual and for redirection to the Out of Hours service.

Margaret said: “It is important that people use the appropriate service. The 999 service and Hospital Accident and Emergency departments, or A&E, provide urgent treatment for serious life-threatening conditions.”

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Help available over ways

TO PAY COUNCIL TAX P

EOPLE having difficulty paying their Council Tax should get in touch with the local authority as soon as possible to avoid going down a route that can lead to court action.

The advice has come from Lynn Hyam, Revenues Team Leader at Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, who stressed that help was available for anyone facing genuine financial problems.

“We try to make it as easy as possible for people to pay their Council Tax with a wide variety of options available including monthly direct debit, credit or debit card payments online, and Allpay cards which can be used in all Post Offices and local shops displaying the PayPoint logo.

“We’ll even accept weekly payments if someone is really struggling to manage their money.”

Lynn explained that weekly payments had been introduced to help low income people of working age who previously did not have to pay Council Tax, or only paid a small amount, but now had to make at least a 25 per cent contribution following changes to the welfare benefits rules introduced by the Government earlier this year.

She added: “The really important thing is that people who are struggling to pay should get in touch with us a soon as possible. They should not leave it until they are in arrears and about to receive a court summons. There is help available and we will always try to assist people who are in difficulties.”

Simply ignoring Council Tax

Register to ensure you keep vote SOUTHEND residents are being reminded that they are legally required to respond to household electoral registration forms going out to them across the Borough at the moment.

Householders who do not respond to their forms could be removed from the Electoral Register, losing their chance to vote and find it difficult to obtain credit.

If residents are happy with their details as already printed on the form, they can confirm them by using the FREE and SECURE internet or telephone service. Either method allows residents to request an application to vote by post should they wish to.

If residents need to change any details on the form, these should be amended and the form returned BY POST using the envelope provided.

bills will kick-start a process that begins with reminder notices and can eventually lead to a court summons and a liability order – with costs of £95 added to what people already owe. In extreme cases the Council is left with no

Southend resident Sheryll Dubouzet paying her Council Tax at the Civic Centre.

option but to engage bailiffs to recover the debt, while wilful non-payment of Council Tax is an offence punishable by up to three months in prison.

Inspectors praise support for families OUTREACH support delivered through Sure Start children’s centres across Southend continues to improve outcomes for families with young children according to Government inspectors.

Reports highlight how local knowledge is helping staff support families while home visits are encouraging more engagement from those who would not normally visit a centre.

Other comments reflect on how integral and effective outreach is in engaging with families new to the area. It is also praised for providing families considered most at risk with timely intervention and support.

Elaine Hammans, the Council’s Early Years

Commissioning and Quality Manager, said: “Outreach services offered by children’s centres and partners are vital in giving short term help to parents who need wider support with issues that are not just health related.”

Activities delivered through children’s centres include home visits to provide information and access to support, alongside projects like Family Storehouse and Women’s Refuge and holiday sessions like ‘Fun in the Park’.

Community toddler groups and sessions are also supported along with visits to health clinics and the development of other community support groups.

Book it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

Garden is blooming marvellous A trailblazing plan to create a custom-made sensory garden to help Southend dementia sufferers has won £270,645 worth of Department of Health specialist funding.

The garden, which will be based at St Martin’s Residential Care Home in Westcliff, will be used to trigger memories and stimulate senses with floral fragrances and colours.

There will also be activity areas for “no-bend” vegetable growing and workshops for painting and small craft work.

When complete the garden is set to become a national example of excellence in dementia care to specifically help with challenging behaviours.

WINTER 2013 Outlook

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Stars come out to honour kids www.flickr.com-littledutchboy

TV celebrities joined nearly 200 people who gathered to honour Southend’s looked after children. Corey Layzell from ITV’s Britain’s got Talent and Kirsty Swain from BBC One’s So You Think You Can Dance were special guests at the Looked Corey Layzell After Children’s Awards event at Shoeburyness High School.

The audience included young people with their foster carers, birth parents and Southend-on-Sea Borough Councillors. Among the accolades were nearly 80 awards presented for outstanding progress and effort including 30 bursaries from all major political groups within the Council.

My Southend now online SOUTHEND residents have a new way of keeping up to date with their council tax and other payments – an online system called My Southend.

By simply going online to my.southend.gov.uk people living in the Borough can access details of their council tax, housing benefit or non-domestic (business) rates to check what they have paid or make payments using a credit or debit card, 24 hours a day.

Once someone has registered with My Southend and set up a password, the system does away with the need to make a special trip to the Civic Centre or spend valuable time on phone calls.

Work starts on housing site BUILDING work is underway on a Council-backed scheme to build affordable housing on a brownfield site in the town. The Council sold the site in Southchurch Road to housing association the Guinness Trust. Site preparation work has started and 22 flats and 26 houses will be built by March 2015.

20 Outlook WINTER 2013

OH, WE DO LIKE TO STROLL ALONG THE PROM, PROM, PROM: keeping fit with a walk on Southend’s world-famous pier are, left to right, Pocket Places for People Project Co-ordinator Krithika Ramesh, Road Safety Officer Peter Swanwick, Regional Transport Secretary Maria Chamberline and Admin Officer Heather Ffrench.

Give us your ideas for activities on the pier P

EOPLE with suggestions for activities and events on Southend Pier are being urged to contact the Council as it encourages more community use of one of the town’s flagship leisure facilities.

Hundreds of people have already been attracted to archive film events, jazz concerts and cultural shows while The Royal Pavillion has also been hired for conferences.

Top chef Jamie Oliver and his mate Jimmy Doherty returned to the Pier for two weeks in September to film the second series of their highly-rated TV series Jamie and Jimmy’s Food Fight Club.

Events have already being pencilled in for the festive season but the Pier management team want to diversify. Resort Services Manager Lynn Jones said: “What we want to do is attract people who haven’t been to the Pier before, who have never seen what the

Pier has to offer and who can help us lay on a diverse range of activities. We’ve already had all sorts of ideas so far, some centred around using the Pier to help people stay fit. We’ve contacted a belly-dancing group and our own walking group here at the Council uses the Pier to enjoy a lunchtime stroll. You may have an idea yourself so why not get in touch.”

Walking group member Collette Kemp, a member of the Council’s sustainable transport scheme, said: “It’s a fantastic facility for keep fit. It’s the perfect length at a mile and a third, it’s flat and the views are great as you exercise and enjoy the fresh air.”

The Pier is closed on a Monday and Tuesday between 1 November and 1 April next year when it will re-open seven days a week.

To make a suggestion for events and activities, email vic@southend.gov.uk

Find it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

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What’s On Sea A GUIDE TO KEY WINTER EVENTS IN SOUTHEND

Every Thursday, 8:30am-5:30pm SOUTHEND HIGH STREET Southend’s bustling weekly market offers all kinds of goods including fresh food, clothes, household goods and gifts.

Starts 29 November PRINCELY TREASURES Central Museum,Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm An exhibition with artefacts from the Prittlewell Prince Saxon burial including the stunning gold buckle, coins and crosses as well as other significant pieces from the 2003 discovery.

For further information on visiting times, please visit www.southendmuseums.co.uk

that particular Wednesday being a special Christmas session For more information please contact the Bookstart Team on 01702 215011.

Until Wed 18 Dec LUNCHTIME WALKS Civic Centre,Victoria Avenue, 12:30pm Lunchtime walks every Wednesday.

Approximately 30 minutes per walk.

For more information please contact Ideas In Motion on 01702 215011 or email them at ideasinmotion@ southend.gov.uk

Until Thur 19 Dec STORYRHYMES

Thorpedene Library. 10:30am Stories and rhymes for children under 5 years old and their parents, everybody welcome!

Takes place on the first Friday of each month until Friday 6 December.

For more information please contact the Bookstart Team on 01702 215011.

Southchurch Library, 10:30am Stories and nursery rhymes for children under five years old and their parents, everybody welcome! Every Thursday during term-time only until 19th December, with that particular Thursday being a special Christmas session.

For more information please contact the Bookstart Team on 01702 215011.

Until Mon 16 Dec

Until Wed 26 Mar

Until Fri 6 Dec STORYRHYMES

STORYRHYMES Kent Elms Library and Friars Library, 10:30am Stories and nursery rhymes for children under 5 years old and their parents, everybody welcome! Every Monday until 16 Dec, with that particular Monday being a special Christmas session.

For more information please contact the Bookstart Team on 01702 215011.

Until Tue 17 Dec

PRINCELY TREASURES: Artefacts from the Prittlewell Prince Saxon burial will be on display at the Central Museum from 29 November.

WET WEDNESDAYS Southend Swimming and Diving Centre, Belfairs Swim Centre and Shoeburyness Leisure Centre.

Over 65-year olds are being invited to swim free on Wednesdays at pools in Southend.

For further information please contact the centre concerned on 01702 215011.

Tue 10 Dec LUNCHTIME RECORDED MUSIC – YOUR CHRISTMAS SELECTIONS

STORYRHYMES

Fri 22 Nov

Westcliff Library, 10:30am Stories and nursery rhymes for children under 5 years old and their parents, everybody welcome! Every Tuesday until 17 Dec, with that particular Tuesday being a special Christmas session.

For more information please contact the Bookstart Team on 01702 215011.

The Plaza Centre (Southend Christian Fellowship Centre), Southchurch Road, 8pm Please book online at www.southend.gov.uk/concerts

Civic Centre,Victoria Avenue, 12:45pm-1:45pm Personal choices of music introduced and presented for your enjoyment.This is the last session of this group. In the Council Chamber or a nominated Committee Room.

Tue 26 Nov

Wed 15 Jan

LUNCHTIME RECORDED MUSIC – OTTO DEUTSCH – EASY TO LISTEN TO MUSIC

LUNCHTIME RECITAL – TIN SMITH – PIANO

Until Wed 18 Dec STORYRHYMES The Forum Southend-on-Sea, 9:30am and 10:30am Stories and nursery rhymes for children under 5 years old and their parents, everybody welcome! Every Wednesday until 18 Dec, with

CONCERT SERIES – JOY LISNEY & JAMES LISNEY – CELLO AND PIANO

Civic Centre,Victoria Avenue, 12:45pm-1:45pm Personal choices of music introduced and presented for your enjoyment. Every Tuesday in the Council Chamber or a nominated Committee Room.

SNOWY SOUTHCHURCH: Southchurch Library will be the setting for Storyrhyme events until 19 December.

COUNCIL DIARY ■ Development Control Committee: Wednesday 11 December, 2pm ■ Council: Thursday 12 December, 6:30pm ■ Cabinet: Tuesday 7 January, 2pm ■ Development Control Committee: Wednesday 8 January, 2pm ■ Audit Committee: Wednesday 8 January, 6:30pm ■ Cabinet (Council Budget Only): Tuesday 21 January, 2pm ■ Development Control Committee: Wednesday 5 February, 2pm

Civic Centre, 12:15pm-1pm

Fri 17 Jan CONCERT SERIES – CRAIG OGDEN – GUITAR The Plaza Centre (Southend Christian Fellowship Centre), Southchurch Road, 8pm Please book online at www.southend.gov.uk/concerts

■ Southend Health and Wellbeing Board: Tuesday 11 February, 2pm ■ Cabinet (Council Budget Only): Thursday 13 February, 2pm ■ Council: Thursday 27 February, 6:30pm All meetings are held at the Civic Centre, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea. Details of all Council meetings are available at www.southend.gov.uk/ councilmeetings.

Youth Council meetings take place on the first Wednesday of every month in the Council Chamber at the Civic Centre, 5pm-7pm.

WINTER 2013 Outlook

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To find out which Ward you are in please visit www.southend.gov.uk/whereilive

The Council normally has 51 Councillors elected to represent you. There are 17 wards, each with three elected members.

See the map to find out which councillors represent you.

Your Councillors BELFAIRS WARD

BLENHEIM PARK

Cllr Stephen Aylen (Ind)

Cllr Fay Evans (Con)

Cllr Lesley Salter (Con)

Cllr James Courtenay (Con) Cllr Graham Longley (LD)

Cllr Duncan Russell (LD)

16 Woodside, Belfairs, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 4QU Tel: 01702 527747 cllraylen@southend.gov.uk

192 Highlands Boulevard, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3QX Tel: 01702 558657 cllrevans@southend.gov.uk

4 Chadwick Road, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 8LS Tel: 01702 432364 cllrsalter@southend.gov.uk

24 Surbiton Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS2 4NS Tel: 01702 611669 cllrcourtenay@southend.gov.uk

15 Lindisfarne Avenue, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3NR Tel: 01702 480713 cllrrussell@southend.gov.uk

CHALKWELL WARD

28 McDivitt Walk, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 5UD Tel: 01702 520234 cllrlongley@southend.gov.uk

EASTWOOD PARK WARD

Cllr Richard Brown (Con) Cllr Stephen Habermel (Con) Cllr Ian Robertson (Con)

Cllr Trevor Byford (Con)

Cllr Andrew Moring (Con) Cllr Chris Walker (Con)

16 Cherrybrook, Thorpe Bay SS1 3QZ Tel: 01702 584003 cllrbrown@southend.gov.uk

2 Badgers Close, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 0AP Tel: 01702 437274 cllrbyford@southend.gov.uk

554 Woodgrange Drive, Southend-on-Sea SS1 3EL Tel: 01702 585957 cllrmoring@southend.gov.uk

256 Rayleigh Road, Eastwood SS9 5XL Tel: 01702 528027 cllrwalker@southend.gov.uk

6 Leas Gardens, Southend-on-Sea SS0 8JL Tel: 01702 478354 cllrhabermel@southend.gov.uk

68 Thorpe Hall Avenue, Thorpe Bay SS1 3AU Tel: 01702 584580 cllritrobertson@southend.gov.uk

KURSAAL WARD

LEIGH WARD

Cllr Louise Burdett (Con)

Cllr Judy McMahon (Lab)

Cllr Anne Jones (Lab)

Cllr Alan Crystall (LD)

Cllr Barry Godwin (LD)

Cllr Peter Wexham (LD)

41 Shillingstone, Southend-on-Sea SS3 8BY Tel: 01702 430309 cllrburdett@southend.gov.uk

37A Pleasant Road, Southend-on-Sea SS1 2HQ Tel: 01702 462489 cllrmcmahon@southend.gov.uk

2 Hastings Road, Southend-on-Sea SS1 2DR Tel: 01702 460952 cllrannejones@southend.gov.uk

16 Cliff Parade, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 1AS Tel: 01702 474047 cllrcrystall@southend.gov.uk

63 Steyning Avenue, Southend-on-Sea SS2 4TW Tel: 01702 212879 cllrgodwin@southend.gov.uk

119 Vardon Drive, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3SH Tel: 01702 715981 cllrwexham@southend.gov.uk

MILTON WARD

PRITTLEWELL WARD

Cllr Dr Maria Caunce (Con) Cllr Julian Ware-Lane (Lab) Cllr Jonathan Garston (Con)

Cllr Mary Betson (LD)

Cllr Mike Grimwade (LD)

Cllr Ric Morgan (Ind)

Fairlight Lodge, 37 Park Road, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 7PQ Tel: 01702 430684 cllrcaunce@southend.gov.uk

11 Byfield, Eastwood SS9 5TG Tel: 01702 212861 cllrbetson@southend.gov.uk

94 Eastwood Old Road, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 4RS Tel: 01702 520642 cllrgrimwade@southend.gov.uk

5 Hobleythick Lane, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 0RP Tel: 01702 432361 cllrmorgan@southend.gov.uk

37 Nelson Road, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3HX Tel: 01702 472144 cllrware-lane@southend.gov.uk

22 Outlook WINTER 2013

23a Clifftown Parade, Southend-on-Sea SS1 1DN Tel: 01702 335017 cllrjgarston@southend.gov.uk

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SHOEBURYNESS WARD

SOUTHCHURCH WARD

Cllr Mike Assenheim (Ind) Cllr Roger Hadley (Con)

Cllr Anne Chalk (Ind)

Cllr David Garston (Con)

Cllr Ann Holland (Con)

Cllr Brian Kelly (Con)

76 Elm Road, Shoeburyness SS3 9RD Tel: 01702 291720 cllrassenheim@southend.gov.uk

94 High Street, Shoeburyness SS3 9AS Tel: 01702 295449 cllrchalk@southend.gov.uk

237 Maplin Way North, Southend-on-Sea SS1 3NY Tel: 01702 584278 cllrdgarston@southend.gov.uk

7 Silchester Court, Silchester Corner, Gt Wakering SS3 0PX Tel: 01702 580855 cllrholland@southend.gov.uk

10 Withypool, Shoeburyness SS3 8BH Tel: 01702 585015 cllrkelly@southend.gov.uk

33 Mountbatten Drive, Shoeburyness SS3 8UY Tel: 01702 294945 cllrhadley@southend.gov.uk

ST LAURENCE WARD

ST LUKES WARD

Cllr Mark Flewitt (Con)

Cllr Ted Lewin (LD)

Cllr Adam Jones (Con)

Cllr Brian Ayling (Ind)

Cllr Sally Carr (Con)

Cllr Paul Van Looy (Ind)

11 Borman Close, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 5UJ Tel: 01702 510463 cllrflewitt@southend.gov.uk

19 Little Thorpe, Thorpe Bay SS1 3RN Tel: 01702 586359 cllrlewin@southend.gov.uk

23 Mucking Hall Road, Barling Magna SS3 0NH Tel: 01702 219912 cllrjones@southend.gov.uk

108a Ennismore Gardens, Southend-on-Sea SS2 5RB Tel: 01702 461840 cllrayling@southend.gov.uk

42 Marcus Avenue, Southend-on-Sea SS1 3LA Tel: 01702 586231 cllrcarr@southend.gov.uk

54 Arlington Road, Southend-on-Sea SS2 4UW Tel: 01702 615658 cllrvanlooy@southend.gov.uk

THORPE WARD

VICTORIA WARD

Cllr Alex Kaye (Con)

Cllr Mike Stafford (Ind)

Cllr Ron Woodley (Ind)

Cllr Margaret Borton (Lab) Cllr Ian Gilbert (Lab)

Cllr David Norman (Lab)

470 Woodgrange Drive, Southend-on-Sea SS1 3ED Tel: 01702 588432 cllrkaye@southend.gov.uk

85 Maplin Way, Thorpe Bay, SS1 3NL Tel: 01702 297648 cllrstafford@southend.gov.uk

91 Tyrone Road, Southend-on-Sea SS1 3HD Tel: 01702 588662 cllrwoodley@southend.gov.uk

85 Rochester Drive, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 0NJ Tel: 01702 212862 cllrborton@southend.gov.uk

41 Vernon Road, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 2NG Tel: 01702 212897 cllrdnorman@southend.gov.uk

WEST LEIGH WARD

18 Avenue Road, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 7PW Tel: 01702 339765 cllrgilbert@southend.gov.uk

WEST SHOEBURY WARD

Cllr Nigel Holdcroft (Con) Cllr Gwen Horrigan MBE (Con) Cllr John Lamb (Con)

Cllr Tony Cox (Con)

Cllr Liz Day (Con)

Cllr Derek Jarvis (Con)

7 Sylvan Way, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3TU Tel: 01702 214008 cllrholdcroft@southend.gov.uk

Flat D Mill Lodge, West Road, Shoeburyness SS3 9DP Tel: 01702 297039 cllrcox@southend.gov.uk

5 Withypool, Shoeburyness SS3 8BH Tel: 01702 586185 cllreday@southend.gov.uk

Flat 1, Gunnery House, 2 Chapel Road, The Garrison, Shoeburyness SS3 9SL Tel: 01702 292744 cllrjarvis@southend.gov.uk

15 Hazelwood Grove, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 4DE Tel: 01702 524333 cllrhorrigan@southend.gov.uk

77 Vardon Drive, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3SJ Tel: 01702 483908 cllrlamb@southend.gov.uk

Southend-on-Sea Borough Council Cabinet

WESTBOROUGH WARD

Cllr Paul Collins (LD)

Cllr Martin Terry (Ind)

Cllr Dr Vel (Ind)

219 Green Lane, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 5QN Tel: 01702 512239 cllrcollins@southend.gov.uk

66 Victoria Road, Southend-on-Sea SS1 2TF Tel: 01702 619655 cllrterry@southend.gov.uk

61 Thorpebay Gardens, Thorpe Bay SS1 3NP Tel: 01702 711299 cllrvelmurugan@southend.gov.uk

Tell us – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

■ Nigel Holdcroft (Leader) ■ John Lamb (Deputy Leader with special responsibility for Regeneration and Enterprise) ■ Derek Jarvis (Culture and Tourism) ■ James Courtenay (Children and Learning) ■ Lesley Salter (Adult Social Care, Health and Housing) ■ Tony Cox (Public Protection, Waste and Transport) ■ Andrew Moring (Corporate Support Services) ■ Jonathan Garston (Planning) WINTER 2013 Outlook

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Shopping local pays

FESTIVE DIVIDENDS A

S well as visiting the shops and the market on Southend High Street, why not go off the beaten track and discover some of Southend’s ‘shopping hotspots’ including: ● Queen’s Road in central Southend – lots of good quality independent shops. ● Hamlet Court Road in Westcliff-on-Sea – some long established independent boutiques and department stores. ● The Broadway in Thorpe Bay – a pleasant mix of independent shops, including florists, children’s fashion and gifts. ● The Broadway, Leigh-on-Sea – a range of high quality independent shops and individual boutiques that reflect the personality of Leigh itself.

Wherever you chose to shop this Christmas, stay local, save on petrol and help your local economy.

Fri 22 Nov LEIGH LIGHTS CHRISTMAS SWITCH ON Leigh-on-Sea, Street entertainment and stalls from 4:30pm.

Procession from 6:20pm. Switch-on at 6:30pm.

Sat 23 Nov TUDOR CHRISTMAS SOUTHCHURCH HALL 10am-3pm. Enjoy mulled wine and the opportunity to buy crafts, jams, and chutney and speciality gifts from the various stalls.

Special Christmas Events Sat 23 Nov – Sun 22 Dec SANTA’S GROTTO ON SOUTHEND PIER 10am-4pm. Each weekend starting from Saturday 23 November until Sunday 22 December.Visit Father Christmas in his grotto on Southend Pier. Each child will receive a gift and a free train ride with an accompanying adult. Pre-booking is essential at www.visitsouthend.co.uk or 01702 618747.

Sat 30 Nov WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA ON THORPE BAY BROADWAY From 6pm. Lots of fabulous family festive fun on offer including stalls, a hog roast, lots of live entertainment and Santa’s grotto!

Sun 1 Dec THE ESSEX LANTERN PARADE Southend Victoria Shopping Centre, 3:30pm For details on taking part visit southendand chelmsfordradio.com or radioessex.com

Sat 7 Dec A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS ON HAMLET COURT ROAD From 2pm. Come and enjoy festive food and drink, Christmas carolling and, of course, plenty of Christmas shopping in the many independent retail shops on the Hamlet Court Road.

24 Outlook WINTER 2013

There’ll even be a visit from Santa!

For those who come along in Victorian attire, participating shops and restaurants will be offering a 20 per cent discount.

Sat 7 Dec FESTIVE FUN DAY 11am-4pm. Southend Town Centre .

Christmas fun for all the family including giant games, Santa cycle ride, mini farm and Snow White themed craft activities.

For more information visit www.southend.gov.uk

Sat 7 Dec CREATE YOUR OWN VICTORIAN THEMED CHRISTMAS CARD Prittlewell Priory, 10am-3pm. Craft cost: £2.50.

Sun 8 Dec SOUTHEND GIRLS’ CHOIR AND SOUTHEND VOX PRESENT A CHRISTMAS CRACKER 7pm. Palace Theatre,Westcliff-on-Sea. For more information or to book, please call 01702 351135.

Fri 13 Dec SOUTHEND BOYS’ AND GIRLS’ CHOIRS PRESENT CHRISTMAS CONCERT 8pm. Holy Trinity Church, Southchurch Boulevard. For more information or to book, please call 01702 303628.

Sat 14 Dec CAROLS FOR CHRISTMAS 11am-4pm. Enjoy traditional Christmas music and entertainment from Southend Boys and Girls choirs, Leigh Rock Choir, Funky Voices and Southend Brass Band on Southend High Street and the Victoria and Royals shopping centres.