St Helens First magazine Summer 2015

St. Helens First Summer 2015

ST. HELENS COUNCIL’S COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

Let’s keep it clean - How we can all help

Supporting our Armed Forces

P10

New Look Council

P16 - 17

High School P22 - 23 Spotlight

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St. Helens council’s community magazine O LI C E

Are you ready for a new challenge?

If so, the Special Constabulary might be a perfect opportunity for you.

Merseyside Police is currently recruiting special constables who as trained volunteers, will work alongside and support their local police.

Working a minimum of 4 hours per week (or 16 hours per month) you will be involved in all aspects of policing, enjoying a variety of roles and performing duties such as; patrolling local areas and events, crime prevention initiatives, presenting evidence in court and performing house-to-house enquiries.

ST. HELENS FIRST summer 2015

As a Special not only will you make a real difference to people’s lives across Merseyside, but you will also gain invaluable skills and experience, such as solving problems and issues in local communities, making decisions daily and acting on them and working together with others as part of a team. Skills which could help you in your day job.

So, if you think you’ve got that special something, why not come along to one of our recruitment events to find out more.

Visit www.merseyside.police.uk to book a place at our next event.

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St. Helens council’s community magazine

Contents

St Helens Council Leader’s Column

Features

News

New look council

P16 & 17

High notes

P22 & 23

Health news

P26 & 27

Borough’s new MPs P5 Stay warm P9 Schools’ speed message P21 Housing boost P25

Whether it’s to find out how to recycle your household waste, check what’s on, pay your Council Tax or request a specific service, the way you contact the council is up to you!

Online: www.sthelens.gov.uk E: contactcentre@sthelens.gov.uk T: 01744 676789 (8am - 8pm, Monday - Friday and 10am - 2pm, Saturdays)

Editor: Nick Cook

Minicom: 01744 671671

St. Helens Council, Press and Public Relations Office, Town Hall, St. Helens WA10 1HP.

Face to Face: Contact Centre, Wesley House, Corporation Street, St. Helens (open 9am 5pm, Monday - Friday).

To contact your news team with suggestions for articles about you or your organisation T: 01744 676164/5/6 E: nickcook@sthelens.gov.uk St. Helens First is printed on environmentally-friendly paper.

Talking Pages St. Helens First is now available in talking book form for visually impaired people.

For details contact the Press and Public Relations office on 01744 676164/5/6.

At the library: Call into any library in St. Helens to pay your Council Tax. St. Helens Council offers a translation and interpretation service including foreign languages, British Sign Language, Braille and Audio Tape.

Adverts included in St Helens First do not imply endorsement by St Helens Council

HATE CRIME Any form of hate crime should not be tolerated. If you or someone you know is being victimised or targeted because of age, disability, gender, sexuality, race or religion this can be reported confidentially to the following numbers:

St. Helens Council: 01744 676789 Merseyside Police: 0151 709 6010

Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111 Emergencies only: 999

01744 676789

This is the first issue of St Helens First since the elections – when the people of this borough made their views known very clearly indeed.

There weren’t many places where the Labour party actually increased its majority but, I’m pleased to say, St Helens was one of them.

So a big thank you to all those who voted for us. And to those who didn’t - you have my assurance that we will work hard on everyone’s behalf to make St Helens a better place in terms of education, opportunity, housing, employment and health care.

It’s not going to be easy.

We’ll be doing all we can to protect our vulnerable residents but in the face of more funding cuts – sure to be coming our way - there will have to be a radical re-think as to how we do things.

I set out some of the challenges we face in this issue of First, along with our economic goals in the year ahead.

As usual we turn the spotlight on some of the services available to our residents.

You can also check who your councillors are and meet the new Mayor, Councillor Stephen Glover.

Barrie Grunewald

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lets keep it clean

St. Helens Counil’s street sweeping team.

Love St Helens - loathe litter Be honest…What’s your reaction when you see someone drop litter in the street or throw it out of a car window?

Most observers probably have a grumble to themselves, shake their heads and carry on. Understandably, there are few who would challenge this sort of anti-social behaviour.

Yet in 2015 – after decades of growing environmental awareness – it’s seems unbelievable that a mindless minority are still blissfully unaware of their civic responsibilities, and this resulted in 1,066 reports of flytipping and littering over the year.

“The few can often spoil things for the many,” said Councillor Seve Gomez-Aspron, St Helens Council’s Cabinet Member for Green Smart and Sustainable Borough.

“Our streets, parks and open spaces can be blighted by fast food wrappers, cans, bottles and chewing gum – undoing at a stroke all the good work we try to do in keeping the borough clean.”

In a bid to tackle the problem, the council last year created a new team of Environmental Wardens, designed ST. HELENS FIRST summer 2015

to stop those dropping litter.

Environmental Wardens handle general littering in streets, but also undertake targeted work to stop littering from cars and dumping in rear alleyways. They can issue fixed-penalty notices (FPNs) of £75 to those seen littering. If left unpaid, the council can prosecute through the Magistrates Court, leading to hefty fines, on top of court fees, of up to £2500.

Since their inception, the wardens have issued 1067 FPNs for littering in the streets - generating £31,050 to put back into the budget - of which 70 cases were prosecuted, costing litterers £18,705 in court fines and legal costs. A further 80 cases are currently pending. Throwing litter from cars can be just as costly - with 123 FPN’s issued for that offence in the last six months.

Clean up costs come out of residents’ council tax, which means those who don’t drop litter, pick up the bill of those who do.

In fact, last year the council spent £1,759,713 cleaning and tidying

public areas. A 35 strong team sweeps roads and pavements, (either manually or with mechanical brushes), empties the 2,200 litter bins and removes chewing gum from pavements.

“It’s a full time job,” said Councillor Gomez-Aspron, “and the fact that most of our public bins fill up quickly proves that the vast majority of people do the right thing.

“It’s just really sad that a few make no attempt to dispose of their rubbish responsibly – either finding the nearest litter bin or taking it home with them. We are proud of St.Helens and are committed to ensuring we all live in a healthy, safe and pleasant environment.”

Remember, you can call 01744 676789 to report littering offences and over-full bins, or download the council’s free mobile app to communicate with us on the move at www.sthelens.gov. uk/what-we-do/environmentalservices/mobile-app/ or via your app store by searching ‘St.Helens’.

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NEWS

NEWS IN BRIEF

Marie and Conor are our new MPs

Economy pledge Council Leader Barrie Grunewald has promised to redouble the authority’s efforts to protect vulnerable residents and communities - in the face of what he expects to be a triple whammy funding cut from central government.

At last month’s annual meeting he told guests, members and council officers that St Helens sat in all three categories where the Local Government Association (LGA) was warning of further cuts.

• At least two more new businesses joining Aldi on the Linkway West retail development.

•

A commitment that the next 12 months will see the first planning application for the Parkside site.

• The production of a long term economic vision for the borough

“I cannot overstate how difficult the years ahead might be for our town and for this council,” said Councillor Grunewald.

Councillor Grunewald said a radical re-think would be taking place within the council as to how the borough’s most vulnerable communities could be supported during a period when up to £23 million could be taken away from St Helens.

The Leader dismissed criticism of ‘municipal paternalism’ across parts of the UK and insisted it was ‘absolutely right’ that St Helens Council should care about housing, health, schools and opportunities.

An increased focus on the borough’s economic future was also promised, with Councillor Grunewald making several key announcements.

They include: • A new town centre manager’s post – to work with businesses and lead on attracting more visitors.

Councillor Grunewald also pointed to several key infrastructure projects – already underway – that would bring long term benefits to the borough. They included £14.4 million funding secured for the Newton rail interchange, extra cash for improvements at Windle Island and on the A570 Linkway and over £2 million that will be invested in sustainable transport.

Two new Labour MPs have been elected to represent St Helens in Parliament.

Former St Helens Council leader Marie Rimmer became the first female MP for St Helens after she was victorious in St Helens South and Whiston, receiving 28,950 votes – giving her a majority of 21,243, to claim the seat vacated by Shaun Woodward.

Northern Irishman Conor McGinn took the St Helens North seat with 26,378 votes – a majority of 17,291 – to replace Dave Watts, who stepped down earlier this year after representing the constituency for 18 years.

The turnout in St Helens South and Whiston was 62.5 per cent, while 61.6 per cent of those in St Helens North cast their vote.

Meanwhile Labour maintained its grip on the council - securing all 14 of the wards it was defending.

The make-up of the council remains 42 Labour Councillors, three Liberal Democrats and three Conservatives.

There has also been massive investment in improving local stretches of the M6 (£250 million) as well as major work at junction 22 (£50 million).

However the Leader stressed that a bright economic future was equally dependant on having the right skills and training in place.

“I stood here last year and said that ‘every child matters in St Helens’ – and I reaffirm that statement,” he said.

“We were one of the first councils in the country to appoint a schools commissioner and our work supporting schools being is being recognised nationally.”

01744 676789

Marie Rimmer and Conor McGinn celebrate after being selected as St Helens MPs

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6

Children’s centre

Get set for starting school Want to give your children the best possible start before they start school?

Then why not drop in at your local children’s centre?

There are eight of them across the borough – offering a bumper package of fun, support and childcare services for families with children aged up to five years old and parents-to-be, regardless of financial circumstances or social backgrounds.

Sue Murphy, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Young People said: “The emphasis is on fun, but behind it all is the promotion of learning, play and getting children ready to start school.

“There are a variety of activities on offer that help families to use their imaginations and play together.

Many families have told us that the experience has given their confidence a real boost.”

Parents, carers, guardians and family members can receive support and advice from professionals and partner agencies about a wide range of issues. Also offered is a range of adult literacy and numeracy courses, as well as more practical options like first aid and numerous volunteering opportunities.

Ian Henry, Children’s Centre Manager said: “The centres all work closely with health visitors, midwives, smoking cessation specialists and the Early Help and Priority Families ST. HELENS FIRST summer 2015

teams to ensure families have access to a range of opportunities that give children the best start in life.

“One partner agency told us they really value having professional support for parents and that the advice the staff gives is supportive and backed up with resources that are family friendly.”

For more information and to find your nearest centre, call Central Link Children’s Centre on 01744 673444 or Parr Children’s Centre on 01744 671788.

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NEWS

Emotional encounter Rainhill High year 9 history students Emily Hulse and James White, along with teacher Daniel Procter, joined 15 other schools on a four-day long First World War Centenary Battlefield Tours Programme, across Northern France and Belgium, to develop a better understanding of The Great War. On the tour, they attended The Last Post Ceremony in Ypres, which occurs every night under the Menin Gate, as well as museums, battlefield sites, memorials and cemeteries.

James said: “The centenary project has provided us with a wonderful and perhaps once in a lifetime opportunity. The act of remembrance is just as important for people to make a hundred years on; to realise the loss and tragedy that war can bring and the effect on a nation.”

It was a particularly emotional encounter when Emily and James found the grave of local Rainhill soldier Private Henry Bothamley at Lijssenthoek in Belgium - by the field hospital where he died.

“Going out to the battlefields and seeing the landscape and the history of the war made it easier for us to visualise the scale of the war and the lives lost,” said Emily.

The First World War Centenary Battlefield Tours Programme runs until March 2019. Eligible schools should visit www.centenarybattlefieldtours.org to register for a place.

Emily and James in Belgium.

Bank’s helping hand Rail warning

Town Hall weddings

St Helens Council and Network Rail are urging parents to make clear the dangers of trespassing on the railway to their children and ask them to stay away from the tracks.

Overhead power cables have now been installed on the rail line between Manchester and Liverpool through St Helens. These overhead power cables carry 25,000v of electricity. The electricity is never switched off.

If you have information regarding a trespassing incident please contact British Transport Police on 0800 405040. The Network Rail National Helpline can be reached on 03457 114141.

St Helens Town Hall - a building of timeless elegance - is available to hire for wedding ceremonies and receptions. This historic setting is full of character, ornate details and stunning architecture.

The Main Hall provides an opulent setting for wedding breakfasts and evening receptions and can accommodate up to 150 guests.

The catering and bar team can provide a range of delicious food and drink menus to suit all tastes and budgets.

Contact Suzanne Davies to check availability and arrange a viewing by calling 01744 676360 or emailing suzannedavies@sthelens.gov.uk.

Local charities, organisations and schools are being given a helping hand by staff at the local branch of Lloyds Bank.

As part of the bank’s community programme, employees are given time off to volunteer - and use their skills to help local good causes.

Mentoring, digital skills, school governorships, reading partners and business classes are all areas where bank staff can help.

St Helens branch manager Phil Burton said: “Many of our staff already help out locally, but we’re keen to do more – and would like to hear from any groups who need help with their fundraising projects or developing their organisational skills.”

Groups looking for support can contact Phil direct on 0782 8984137.

01744 676789

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Get fit this summer

Summer holiday fun for everyone!

An action packed selection of indoor and outdoor activities throughout the summer is being provided by St Helens Council for everyone to enjoy through the Community Sport Activation and Fit Forever programmes and the Sports Development Sports Festival 2015.

Free Community Sport Activation Project for people aged 16+ • Running Clubs taking place on Mondays from 7pm-8pm at Newton Cricket Club, meeting in the Club House, Tuesdays - 5:30pm-6:30pm in Victoria Park and Wednesdays - 6pm-7pm at Billinge London Fields.

• Women’s Fitness sessions on Mondays – 11am-12pm at Peter Street, opposite Queens Park.

• Women’s Fitness & Sports Sessions on Tuesdays – 10am-12pm at Park Farm Community Centre, Moss Bank and on Wednesdays – 10am-12pm at Newton Sports Club • Get Active – Young Disabled People on Wednesdays – 1pm-3pm at 4F Centre, Rainhill.

• Rounders on Thursdays – 6pm-7pm at Sutton Leisure Centre • Aged 50+ Newton activity sessions on Fridays – 10:30am-12:15pm at Newton Community Session • Football League on Fridays - 7pm-9pm at Ruskin Drive

Free 60+ Fit Forever project • United Reform Church every second Monday from 1pm-2:30pm.

Archery, Boccia, Darts, New Age Kurling, Swing Ball, Table Tennis • Rainhill Village Hall every Monday from 10:30-12:30pm. Archery, Boccia, Darts, Indoor Golf, New Age Kurling, Swing Ball, Table Tennis •

St Nicholas Church Hall, Sutton every second Monday from 1:20pm-3:30pm and every Wednesday, 11am-1pm. Archery, Badminton, Boccia, Bowls, Darts, Indoor Golf, New Age Kurling, Swing Ball, Table Tennis

• Park Farm Community Hall every Tuesday from 1pm-3pm and every Friday from 10am-12pm. Archery, Badminton, Boccia, Bowls, Darts, New Age Kurling, Swing Ball, Table Tennis • YMCA Beacon Building every Wednesday from 6:45pm-8pm.

Walking Football • Deafness Resource Centre every Thursday from 1pm-3pm. Archery, Boccia, Darts, Indoor Golf, New Age Kurling, Pool, Swing Ball, Table Tennis • Newton Family Community Centre every Friday from 10:30am-12:15pm. Archery, Badminton, Boccia, Darts, Hockey, New Age Kurling, Swing Ball, Table Tennis • Queens Park Health & Fitness for 50+ years every Friday from 1pm-3pm. Archery, Badminton, Basketball, Boccia, Football, Hockey, New Age Kurling, Soft Tennis, Swing Ball, Table Tennis

ST. HELENS FIRST summer 2015

Sports Development Sport Festival 2015.

This annual event is a showcase of local sport and is widely accepted as the region’s biggest multi sports event, with over 5,000 participants and spectators attending last year.

Held at Ruskin Drive Leisure Complex on 11 and 12 July the sports that will take place are bowls, cricket, football, hockey, rounders, rugby league, rugby union and tennis.

New to this year’s festival will be the increasingly popular Walking Football.

Contact terrybates@sthelens.gov.uk for more details.

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NEWS

Canal call The Sankey Canal Restoration Society is looking for new members and volunteers to help restore Sankey Canal – St Helens’ own hidden gem.

The heat is on to save you money on energy bills Nearly 200 households in St Helens will collectively save over £48,000 on their energy bills over the next year, thanks to the Switch Together Save Together campaign.

Organised by local charity, Energy Projects Plus –the Switch Together Save Together campaign is backed

by St Helens Council, alongside the other Merseyside local authorities.

The latest round of results found that the average saving was £266 per household; however some residents saved considerably more with 22 households projected to save over £400 per year.

St Helens Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, Housing and Community Safety, Councillor Richard McCauley, said:

Warm Home Discount Scheme 2015/16

If residents can’t wait for the next collective switch they can still check for better deals through the collective switch website www.lcrenergyswitch.co.uk or can telephone our local Save Energy Advice Line on 0800 043 0151 to find out more.

Should you require further information about anything in the Energy Efficiency section, please contact a member of the St Helens Council Affordable Warmth Team on 01744 676555.

Youth Advice

The Warm Home Discount Scheme (WHDS) is a Government initiative administered by energy suppliers to provide rebates on the electricity bills of households that need it most.

Eligible customers are offered a oneoff payment on their electricity bill.

For Winter 2015/16, this will be £140.

Don’t miss out - find out more by going to www.sthelens.gov.uk/ warmhomediscount

”The response in St Helens has been outstanding. Residents were keen to back the campaign with registrations and switches outperforming other larger local authority areas on Merseyside, and we hope that the next switch in autumn will see even more residents taking part.”

St Helens Clinical Commissioning Group and St Helens Council is launching an app for teenagers to help them access information to improve their health and wellbeing.

Download it for free by searching for St Helens Youth Advice on iTunes or Google Play app stores or through the website: www.sthelenshealthadviceforyp.uk

01744 676789

The history of the canal – the first industrial canal in England - dates back to the mid-1700s, before the town of St Helens was even established - when it was used to transport thousands of tons of coal from Haydock and Parr to Liverpool.

With help from St Helens Council, the society has been able to have sections of the canal dredged, locks restored, new bridges installed and towpaths reconstructed.

Contact Colin Greenall on 01744 732031 (daytime) 01744 731746 (evenings)

A family of swans on Sankey Canal

Watching our healthcare…

Healthwatch is the new consumer watchdog for health and social care services in England, giving people a voice locally and making sure their views about the services they use are heard on local and national levels.

Healthwatch St Helens is able to give local people the opportunity to influence the delivery and design of their local services, and contribute to local strategy.

Currently, the main goal is to put together a more detailed picture of GP services across the borough – rated as the highest priority for residents in a survey last year – through a simple online questionnaire. This could help to bring about real changes in GP services on the issues that matter most to you.

Help shape local health services, as well as find out how you can play an active role in Healthwatch St Helens through free membership, visit www.healthwatchsthelens.co.uk or call 0300 111 0007.

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10

Supporting our armed forces

Local heroes honoured A special commemorative paving stone has been laid at the Cenotaph in Victoria Square to mark the 100th anniversary of a local World War One hero receiving his Victoria Cross medal.

Taking the King’s shilling...Jimmy Williams, a former Warrant Officer class 2 (left) with ex-Major and battery commander John Pender.

Mayor joins veterans for centenary dinner Former Mayor of St Helens, Councillor Geoff Pearl, joined veterans and guests at Jubilee Barracks as the 5th Battalion, South Lancashire Regiment (Prince of Wales Volunteers) commemorated the centenary of its entry into the First World War. The Territorial unit, then based at Mill Street barracks, St Helens (today’s TS Scimitar) was sent to France on 13 February, 1915 – Landing at Le Havre. They moved on to the front line the following day – Valentine’s Day. To mark the event, the unit held an annual dinner and reunion which included a display of memorabilia and a performance by the Royal Artillery Band.

The band played countless First World War classics, and the National Anthem, while the names of the

Royal British Legion pop-in sessions The Royal British Legion is launching pop-in sessions offering information, advice and guidance for serving members of the armed forces, reservists, veterans and their families.

Sessions take place every third Friday of the month from 10am to 12.30pm at the Citizen’s Advice Bureau based in the Millennium Centre.

For more information call 0808 802 8080, or visit www.britishlegion.org.uk ST. HELENS FIRST summer 2015

St Helens fallen were read out during the hymn, Abide with Me. On arrival, guests were asked to ‘sign on’ as if they signing up to war and issued with a penny, which could be used to buy a drink.

They were also given a shilling as a keepsake and a replica edition of the Active Service St John’s Gospel, re-issued for the 100th anniversary of the First World War. One of the organisers, Ron Phelan said: “It was such a wonderful evening. The best one we have had yet. It gives you a real sense of St Helens pride.”

Co-organiser Jimmy Williams added: “We will continue to hold these events every year to honour the memory of the many young men from St Helens who set off to war –never to return, to ensure they are never forgotten.”

Online help for vets The AFCOM (Armed Forces Community) Directory is the Veterans’ Council’s single point of contact that links serving personnel, veterans, reservists and their families with support from accredited service providers.

This new online resource supports service users and their families with various problems including health and wellbeing, welfare and legal issues, education, employment and housing.

For more information visit www.afcom.directory.

The paving stone is one of four, with the remaining three due to be laid in 2017 and 2018 on the anniversaries of other local recipients being awarded their Victoria Cross.

They will provide a lasting legacy for local heroes within their communities On 24 April 1915, Frederick William Hall was posthumously awarded the highest military decoration for his efforts to reach a wounded soldier in the face of heavy enemy fire.

His body was never found, however his name is listed on the Menin Gate Memorial, which bears the names of those who fell at Ypres Salient, but were denied a burial.

Frederick was born in Kilkenny, Ireland in 1895, but lived in St Helens - at 81 Ormskirk Street with his father Frederick, mother Mary and siblings before emigrating to Canada in 1910.

The stones for John Molyneux from Sutton/Parr of the Royal Fusiliers will be laid on 9 October, 2017 and for John Thomas Davies from St Helens of the South Lancashire Regiment on 24 March 2018 at the Cenotaph in Victoria Square. The stone for Norman Harvey of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers and The Royal Engineers will be laid by the War Memorial in Newton-le-Willows on 25 October, 2018.

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News

It’s a classic…

The Phoenix-Clock Face Classic Vehicle Club is inviting owners of historic motors to join up.

Owners of all makes and models of older cars are welcome to join the over 30-strong group.

Driving home the CSE message received warnings for driving without a licensed badge.

A joint licensing operation between St Helens Council and Merseyside police to drive up taxi trade standards around the borough has proved successful.

A second phase of the operation saw taxi drivers invited to St Helens Town Hall to further broaden their knowledge on CSE at an awareness session held by St Helens Council, Merseyside Police and Catch 22 a service that works with young people under 18-years-old across St Helens who are missing from home or care or who are experiencing - or at risk of - child sexual exploitation.

The operation, part of a new regular enforcement regime, was also used to draw attention to child sexual exploitation (CSE) - and how taxi drivers can assist the police and authorities.

Police handed each driver a leaflet containing details on what signs to look out for if they suspect a child is being sexually exploited.

The vast majority of drivers stopped by officers passed the vehicle checks.

A total of 23 drivers were stopped, five of whom were issued with condition notices for contraventions relating to their vehicle - such as vehicle damage, cleanliness and damaged taxi plates. Two drivers

St Helens Council’s Licensing and Land Charges Manager Lorraine Simpson, said: “We will continue to work closely with our partners and taxi drivers around St Helens with the aim of seeing these numbers further improve. It is paramount that local taxi companies are alert to the warning signs of CSE and how they can help to protect young people.”

Rural access plan on track Cyclists and walkers around St Helens are now able to enjoy around 13 miles of rural space, thanks to a Local Sustainable Transport Grant.

Haydock, Newton-le-Willows and Rainford – for both cyclists and walkers - that weren’t easy to get to in the past.

For club details call 01744 637052 or email davidjones66@blueyonder.co.uk, or simply go along to one of the casual meetings, held every second Wednesday of the month at the Clock Face Hotel, Clock Face Road.

Walk the walk With over 80 years’ experience of organising rambles and holidays, the St Helens and District Rambling club is the perfect place to meet new friends and explore St Helens and the North West on fortnightly coach trips – providing five grades of walks to suit all abilities.

Why not join them on: • Sunday 19 July Coniston, Lake District • Sunday 2 August Dolgellau, North Wales • Sunday 16 August Tebay, Cumbria

The new route will link the full length of the Sankey Canal route through to Widnes via Warrington and follows the completion earlier this year of the conversion of the former disused mineral rail line from Dream sculpture in Sutton to Widnes.

It’s some of the most significant funding of its type and has enabled the council to open places in

If you’re simply an admirer, you’ll likely catch the club at a community event. They exhibit at Church Square and the Mansion House, St.Helens and Market Square, Earlestown and as far afield as Bridlington.

For more information, please call Dennis Price on 07535953488 between 6pm and 8pm, or visit www.shdrc.btck.uk Cyclists and walkers are now able to enjoy around 13 miles of rural space.

01744 676789

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12

listen to my story

Council backs new campaign St Helens Council is backing the Listen to my Story Campaign and is calling on people - particularly those working with children - to show their support by looking out for potential signs of child abuse.

The 12 month campaign has been developed by the St Helens Safeguarding Children Board, Merseyside Police and local councils across Merseyside to raise awareness of child sexual exploitation (CSE) in communities.

It aims to educate young people, parents, carers, teachers, health professionals and service industry workers as to the signs and vulnerabilities of CSE.

child spending excessive amounts of time online or on their mobile and becoming increasingly secretive about this activity, may indicate that a child is being exploited.

Awareness raising materials are being distributed throughout council buildings and schools - and are also available via www.listentomystory.co.uk

If you are concerned your child is at risk you can contact Merseyside Police either by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency. You can also contact the Children & Young People’s Contact Centre on 01744 676600.

“Everyone has a role to play in raising awareness of child sexual exploitation,” said St Helens Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Young People Sue Murphy.

“Child sexual exploitation and abuse can have a devastating impact on young people throughout their lives.

On average it takes a victim seven years to tell someone what has happened to them - either because they are ashamed, they have no-one they can trust to believe them, or no-one actually asks in the first place.”

There are no stereotypical victims of exploitation, but signs such as the

Can you help?

Could you help to keep vulnerable children safe? If so, the St Helens Safeguarding Children Board would like to hear from you.

The board is looking for two additional lay members who can bring some ‘grass roots’ perspective to safeguarding. As members of the public, they will join an existing lay member and have a key role monitoring and scrutinising the work of partners and challenging poor practice.

Independent Chair Susan Richardson said: “St Helens Safeguarding Board really values the work our lay members do, and the contribution they can make. There is nothing more important than protecting children and young people and keeping them safe, and if you feel you have the ability to support the work of the board we would really like to hear from you.”

Applicants should ideally have an understanding of working with young people and the confidence to challenge people in a constructive way. They will be expected to attend four meetings a year, a development day and other sub-committees as appropriate.

For an informal chat about the role, call Jan Higgins on 01744 671708.

ST. HELENS FIRST summer 2015

13

News

Assistance for dogs St.Helens guide and assistance dog owners were invited to a special event at the Armed Forces Centurion Centre to hear about new laws designed to protect their loyal pets.

At the event, representatives of the council’s Dog Welfare and Enforcement Team, The Dogs Trust, Guide Dogs UK and other assistance dog agencies told how the Dangerous Dogs Act was extended last year to cover attacks by dogs on assistance dogs – giving them the same protection as people.

Clampdown!

“We usually experience problems with neighbour nuisance as the evenings get lighter. By raising awareness of the potential impact of our behaviour and clamping down on anti-social issues we can all enjoy a safer spring period.”

Lighter nights have triggered a clampdown on anti-social behaviour throughout the borough.

The annual SpringWatch campaign sees agencies including St Helens Council, Merseyside Police and Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service target off-road vehicle nuisance, anti-social fire setting and neighbourhood nuisance which usually increases at this time of year.

Kate Morris, Arson Reduction Officer at Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, said: “This year we are focusing on deliberate grass fires, as well as fly tipping and wheelie bins that can be a target for anti-social behaviour and deliberate fires. We are working hard to reduce deliberate fires across St Helens and we work with the police to help catch those responsible.”

Young people can also access a range of activities during the campaign through St Helens Council’s Youth Action Zone (YAZ) and other local agencies - diverting them away from potentially harmful anti-social behaviour.

To report anti-social behaviour, contact Merseyside Police on 101.

To report anti-social fires dial 999.

Colette McIntyre from the council’s Safer Communities team, said:

Under One Roof service opens doors St Helens Council is building on its existing partnerships with housing associations in the borough to promote the Under One Roof service.

Membership for Under One Roof is free and no deposits are necessary.

Just complete an application form which can be found on the website www.under-one-roof.org.uk

It’s for people looking to rent a home from a housing association, works with a number of associations and including Helena Partnerships, Your Housing Group (formerly Arena Homes), Riverside and Regenda.

For more information Call 01744 63 63 63

The service is open to everyone looking for a new home including young working people, those who cannot access homeownership and people wanting to relocate to St Helens.

The changes mean that it will now be a criminal offence to allow any dog to attack assistance or guide dogs, with the owner of the attacking dog facing a possible prison sentence.

St.Helens Council and Merseyside Police will take action against dangerous dog owners.

Those attending were also told about new Community Protection Notices (CPN) – which will be issued to people who repeatedly allow their dogs to stray and cause nuisance to residents.

Failure to comply with a CPN results in a £100 Fixed Penalty Notice being issued, with further hefty fines if unpaid. Four have already been issued locally.

You can do your part to protect guide and assistance dogs.

Remember to keep your dog on a lead, and if you see an incident where a dog is attacking an assistance dog, the Dog Welfare and Enforcement Team urges you to report the details to the Police.

Or write to the Under One Roof Team, Helena Central, 4 Corporation Street, St. Helens, Merseyside, WA9 1LD.

01744 676789

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14

Trading standards

Summer scams

Factfile Within the last year:

St Helens Council’s Trading Standards team is warming up for a busy summer!

Complaints - particularly around underage alcohol and tobacco purchases – can soar. But a crackdown in conjunction with Merseyside Police is already producing results.

Last year, ten shops out of 57 visited were issued with fixed penalty notices for serving underage volunteers alcohol. Five were formally warned for selling cigarettes to minors.

Chief Trading Standards Officer Darrell Wilson, said: “These statistics highlight the work we’re doing to ensure children are protected from age-restricted products.

“We continue to work closely with Merseyside Police and, with the cooperation of licensees, hope to see these numbers drop further.”

Last month marked ‘scams awareness month,’ which helps consumers to identify scams, share experiences and take action by reporting suspicious activity.

Lighter evenings can also attract rogue traders who target vulnerable people by overcharging them for sub-standard building or gardening work, or in some cases, conning them into paying for work that’s never completed.

To help people make the right choice, St Helens Trading Standards run the Trader Register, containing almost 100 local businesses covering a range of trade sectors.

Feedback is provided by customers and all members are vetted by Trading Standards.

Call 03454 040506 or visit www. traderregister.org.uk/sthelens/ index.php for details.

Thanks to an agreement between the two organisations you can report a problem to Trading Standards by contacting the Citizens Advice consumer service.

Call 03454 04 05 06 or visit http://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/ index/consumer_service

Trading Standards officers are piloting a scheme across Merseyside that’s helped hundreds of victims and potential victims - of mail order scams. Recipients, many of them elderly and vulnerable, have been saved from losing thousands of pounds and, in some cases, even had money returned.

St Helens Council’s Cabinet Member for Green Smart and Sustainable Borough, Councillor Seve GomezAspron, said: “Our advice is to never give personal or financial information to anyone who sends you unsolicited mailshots or cold calls you on the telephone. Genuine businesses will never ask for this sort of information.

Be cautious and, if in doubt, hang up.”

Louise Wilson Director of Wagtail International, with Chief Trading Standards Officer Darrell Wilson.

ST. HELENS FIRST summer 2015

•

A local car dealer was sentenced to 21 months imprisonment for selling ‘clocked’ cars.

•

A publican was jailed for nine months for selling fake and dangerous vodka from a St Helens pub.

•

5 farms and five animal feed manufacturers were visited to check compliance with animal feed hygiene laws - all of which passed the checks.

• A survey revealed traces of undeclared peanut in samples of takeaway food.

• 57 alcohol test purchase attempts have been undertaken with the assistance of underage volunteers.

•

167 medical weighing scales were tested at clinics and doctors’ surgeries across St Helens, with over ten percent of the scales needing to be adjusted.

•

7,380 cigarettes were seized - 60 per cent counterfeit, 30 per cent intended for a different market and ten percent ‘cheap white’ - legally manufactured abroad but sold illegally in the UK without paying tax.

15

New Cabinet

Leader announces new Cabinet

Leader of St.Helens Council, Barrie Grunewald has announced his Cabinet for 2015-16.

Councillor Barrie Grunewald

Councillor Richard McCauley

Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Strategy, Governance & External Affairs – with responsibility for Audit and Governance, Budget Strategy, City Region Cabinet, Combined Authority, European Initiatives, External Affairs, Grants to Voluntary Organisations, Local Enterprise Partnership, Local Government Association, Policy Development, Press and Public Relations, Regional Devolution, Town Twinning and Town Centre.

Cabinet Member for Transport, Housing & Community Safety – with responsibility for Armed Forces Support, Public Transport Policy, Highways, Roads and Transport Services, Community Safety, Contracts Management, Crime Prevention, Crime and Disorder Strategies, Helena Board Housing & Homelessness, Neighbourhood Initiatives, Neighbourhood Management, Private Sector Housing Liaison, Housing Renewal and Supporting People.

Councillor Andy Bowden Cabinet Member for Public Health & Wellbeing – with responsibility for Accidental Injury Prevention, Cancer Prevention, Culture and Arts, Dental Public Health Services, Drugs and Alcohol Misuse Services, Environmental Risks, Health Inequalities, Healthy Child Programme Immunisation and Screening Programmes, Increasing Physical Activity, Integrated Health Services – Children, Leisure Services/ Centres & Sports Development, Libraries and Adult Learning, National Child Measurement Programme Services, Nutritional Initiatives, NHS Health Check Assessments, Obesity and Weight Management, Public Health Services for Children, Public Health Protection, Population health care advice to the NHS, Public Mental Health Services, Reducing and Preventing Birth Defects, Smoking Cessation, Support for Community Safety and Violence Prevention, Teenage Pregnancy/Sexual Health Services and Contraception, Tobacco Control, Workplace Health Interventions and World of Glass.

Councillor Anthony Johnson Cabinet Member for Corporate Services – with responsibility for Budget Implementation, Community Budgets, Contact Centre, Customer Services Policies & Implementation, Democratic Representation, Financial Services, Human Resources Strategy & Policy, IT Strategy and Policy, Legal Services, Local Taxation, Local Welfare Assistance, Member Development and Training Performance Management, Procurement, Public Consultations, Quality Assurance, Registrars, Risk Management, Health & Safety and Emergency Planning, Social Inclusion and Equalities and Welfare Reform.

Councillor John Fulham Cabinet Member for Employment, Planning & Growth – with responsibility for Asset Management, Building Control, Corporate Estates, Corporate Events, Development Control Planning (LDF), St Helens Chamber, Tourism and Urban Regeneration.

Councillor Sue Murphy Cabinet Member for Children, Families & Young People, and Statutory Lead for Children’s Services – with responsibility for Children’s Centres, Child Poverty, Child Protection, Children in Care, Children’s Social Services, Early Years Development, Family Support, Fostering and Adoption, Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH), Safeguarding, Special Educational Needs, Troubled Families, Youth Justice and Youth Services & Volunteering.

Councillor Jeanette Banks Cabinet Member for Education & Lifelong Learning – with responsibility for Adult Education, Additional Needs Team, Behaviour Improvement Services, College Liaison, Careers, Education Welfare, Governor Services, Nursery Schools, Primary, Secondary and Special Schools, School Admissions and Capacity, Planning and School Intervention.

Councillor Marlene Quinn Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care & Health – with responsibility for Adult Social Services Clinical Commissioning Groups and Community Health Services, Five Borough Trust Liaison, Health Watch, Hospital Liaison and Support, Integrated Health and Social Care - Adults, Social Services Modernisation Programme and Safeguarding.

Councillor Seve Gomez-Aspron Cabinet Member for Green, Smart & Sustainable Borough – with responsibility for Carbon Reduction & Sustainability, Cemeteries and Crematorium, Consumer Protection, Councillor Improvement Fund, Sustainable Communities, Environmental Health, Licensing, Parks and Open Spaces, Recycling and Collection and Waste Disposal.

Councillor Linda Maloney Chief Whip

Other appointments include: City Region Combined Authority - Cllr B Grunewald, Cllr A Bowden (substitute); Combined Authority Merseytravel Committee - Cllr K Roberts, Cllr T Shields; Combined Authority Scrutiny Panel - Cllr A Burns, Cllr D Baines; Combined Authority Housing and Spatial Planning Board - Cllr R McCauley; Combined Authority Employment and Skills Board - Cllr J Fulham, Cllr R McCauley (Substitute); Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority - Cllr L Maloney, Cllr R Ayres ; Merseyside Police & Crime Panel - Cllr J Johnson, Cllr J Bell; Merseyside Recycling and Waste Authority - Cllr A Cunliffe; Local Enterprise Partnership - Cllr B Grunewald

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ST. HELENS FIRST summer 2015

Your Council

17

Your Council

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18

New Mayor

New Mayor for St Helens Councillor Steve Glover has been sworn in as the new Mayor of St Helens for 2015-16.

Councillor Glover was born in Grange Park, St Helens, and grew up in Windlehurst.

He attended St Thomas of Canterbury Catholic Primary School, and then went on to Grange Park Technical School.

On completion of his education, he was employed by Pilkington Brothers and worked in their laboratories at Eccleston Grange.

After several years, Councillor Glover was successful in applying for a new role at Pilkington’s Cowley Hill works, where he was a member of the newly formed Statistical Quality Control Team. He remained there until 2001.

Councillor Glover met his wife Lynn, in 1979 and they married in 1981.

They have four children from previous marriages, Leighton, Simon, Alison and Lynsey - with Leanne completing the family in 1982. They have nine grandchildren.

New Mayor…Councillor Stephen Glover.

Currently serving Rainhill Ward, Steve became a councillor in 2003, with his wife Lynn also becoming a councillor in 2010, currently serving Windle.

Looking forward to his year in the civic office, he said: “I’m looking forward to getting out and about across the borough – and seeing first-hand some of the wonderful work that our residents do in the voluntary, charity, commercial and service sectors.

“St Helens has so many hard-working, caring and compassionate people and organisations. As Mayor, I’ll be doing my best to highlight their efforts and help them achieve the recognition they deserve.”

Councillor Glover has chosen Home-Start St Helens as his Mayor’s charity for 2015-16. Councillor Dave Banks was sworn in as Deputy Mayor.

Deputy Mayor Dave Banks

Proud moment…Councillor Glover with family members ST. HELENS FIRST summer 2015

19

News

It’s showtime!

Hopes are high for some glorious sunshine and family fun, as the annual Newton Town Show - which promises to be better than ever returns this summer.

bigger and better, as well as funding local groups’ and schools’ projects throughout the year, creating a wonderfully community-oriented day.

Held at Mesnes Park, and hosted by the non-profit Newton and Earlestown Community Group, the event will be packed full of fantastic attractions for all ages.

The event takes place on Saturday 1 August, opening at 11am.

Must-see events include an appearance by two army attack helicopters and a motorcycle display team, but there will also be funfair rides, birds of prey, arts and crafts, classic cars, zip-lines, samba and brass bands, Segway rallying, the annual highly-contested Tug o’ War competition and much more besides.

Entry is free and all donations and proceeds from the show go towards making the following year’s event

The Millennium Academy of Art opened the doors of its arts exhibition space to the public earlier this year, displaying an eclectic mix of artistic styles, from abstract to realism and contemporary to antique, in a range of mediums.

Situated in the Millennium Centre, Corporation Street, the idea is to further extend accessibility of the vibrant local arts scene.

The academy provides a space for old-hands and novices, particularly those in local schools and colleges, giving them a platform to learn and experiment creatively, and even sell their work.

A programme of exhibitions is currently being developed from insight gained at the opening event.

The vision is to make the Millennium Academy of Art a unique space to be shared and celebrated with the people of St Helens, encouraging an appreciation of art and promoting cultural cohesion within the community.

Online savers .A new website that supports local businesses is up and running. Local-E Coupons allows you to browse local offers to save money on eating out, groceries, clothing and day trips. Simply enter your details and they’ll keep you updated with all the latest discounts and offers in your area. To register, visit www.local-ecoupons.co.uk

Free childcare places

A £1m Business Grant Fund, managed by St Helens Chamber on behalf of St Helens Council, has already benefited 50 local businesses and created 72 new jobs in the borough.

Will your child be three on or before 31 August 2015? If so, then they are eligible for a free childcare place from 1 September 2015.

For more information please visit www.sthelens.gov.uk/fis.

Depending upon family circumstances, some two year olds will also be eligible for a place. Visit: www.sthelens.gov.uk/free2 to find out more.

The fund, which offers grants to both start-ups and established businesses, can provide between £500 and £10,000 to help small to medium sized businesses expand and create jobs.

‘Knit ‘n’ Natter’ group welcomes new members

Over £125,000 of grant funding has been handed out so far for a range of business development projects.

The long-standing casual crafts group ‘Knit ‘n’ Natter’ is keen to welcome new members.

Haydock-based confidential waste disposal expert SafeShred was the first company to benefit after being awarded a £4500 grant towards the cost of a new service van, creating an additional job role in the company for a new van driver.

Based at Newton-le-Willows library, the group gathers every Monday morning from 10am – 12pm.

Dropping in…Army helicopters will be among the attractions at Newton Show

Grants boost local business

Arts boost

NEWS IN BRIEF

For more information about business grants, visit www.sthelenschamber. com/business_grants For new business assistance call Tracey Rigby on 01744 742082 or for established business enquiries call Ian Fletcher on 01744 742108.

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The ‘knitters ‘n’ natterers’, largely retirees, enjoy having a creative outlet, a network of support outside of the family, and believe the meetings to be a great way to start the week.

For further information contact Newton-le-Willows Library on 01744 677885

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20

Fostering

Did you ‘make a connection?’

St. Helens Council’s Fostering Service used this year’s Foster Care Fortnight to underline the message that fostering can be one of the most rewarding experiences you can have.

The national campaign, organised

by The Fostering Network, aimed to raise awareness of fostering and encouraged people to ‘make a connection’.

In St Helens there’s a real need for foster carers to look after teenagers and siblings who want to stay together.

By becoming a foster carer you can turn around the lives of local young people and help them to achieve their true potential.

St.Helens Council offers allowances, training, help and advice and should you take up the opportunity you will be helped at every step of the way by the Fostering Service support team.

You may have children of your own or experience gained in a work environment, or you may be keen to develop a career working with young people.

Applications are welcomed from those who are single, in a relationship, married or divorced, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. All are assessed on their own merits and the type of care you could offer a child is the most important thing.

ST. HELENS FIRST summer 2015

One St Helens foster carer said: “We’ve been foster carers for over 20 years and love what we do.

We’ve had some lovely teens who just needed stability, support and guidance. They seem to thrive doing well in school and college, and making new friends.”

If you’re interested, the Fostering Team would love to hear from you.

Just contact 01744 671199 or you can email dutyfostering@sthelens.gov.uk.

For more information you can visit the website at www.sthelens.gov.uk/fostering.

21

News

Safe return The St Helens People’s Forum has re-launched the Safer in Town initiative.

First introduced in 2010 by the People’s Choice (a self-advocacy group for people with learning disabilities), St Helens Safer in Town (SIT) aims to protect and give confidence to the vulnerable people of St Helens.

Slow down…School children get their message across.

introduced in partnership with public health and the road safety teams.

St Helens Council Cabinet Member for Transport, Housing and Community Safety, Councillor Richard McCauley, said: “St Helens Council continues to do its utmost to support and protect the people who need it most though the St Helens Safer in Town initiative.

The five 20mph zones are designed to improve safety and encourage pupils to walk and cycle to school as part of the council’s Healthy Balance, healthy weight strategy.

“The safety of our people visiting the town centre remains our number one priority and they should be assured that we are more than committed to help.”

Director of Public Health Liz Gaulton said: Parents are often worried about “traffic” and this is one of the reasons that stops their children from walking or cycling to school. People feel safer walking and cycling in 20mph zones which encourages us all to be more active.”

For more information, please contact Peter Mallett on 01744 673021 or email petermallett@sthelens.gov.uk

Signs of success Pupils from local primary and high schools received an award in the council chamber.

They won a competition to design signs for the new 20 mph speed zones near their schools. Students from St Cuthbert’s High School, St Theresa’s Primary (Cannon Street,) Willow Tree Primary, Sutton Manor Primary, Allanson Street Primary and Eaves Primary all took part in the project.

The children’s drawings will be part of the traffic signs in the zones

Champion chip shops go platinum Takeaways in St Helens are frying high – with 19 of them now achieving the Gold Chip Fryer award from St Helens Council’s Environmental Health team.

And with 13 of the top takeaways going on to claim the even more prestigious Platinum awards, customers can be confident that many local ‘chippy teas’ now contain less saturated fat – but are still just as tasty.

To achieve either gold or platinum standards businesses must adopt cooking and preparation processes to produce chips that not only taste better, but absorb up to 40 per cent less fat.

Crispy Cod owner Michael Eleftheriou, who also added the platinum award to his gold grading said: “Customers say they can taste the difference in our chips - compared with other traditional chip fryers - as they are crisp and not greasy. I think the award is a great thing for serious chip fryers and separates us from the rest of the businesses out there.”

Teresa Mercer, Community and Business Health Promotions Officer said: “While obesity is an issue in the town, people still enjoy a treat and the chip shops can make small changes now that can have a big impact for the future.”

To apply contact Environmental Health department on 01744 676333.

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Self-development with Prince’s Trust Aged 16-25? Looking to improve your job prospects, and develop your confidence and skills? Like the sound of discovering your hidden talents and meeting new people?

Then why not join a Prince’s Trust Team programme at St Helens College!

These twelve-week self-development programmes are starting on 31 August and 21 September, and they’re completely free to join!

Call 01744 623357 or email prowlett@sthelens.ac.uk for more information today.

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22

High Notes

St Helens secondary schools are improving rapidly. In this issue of St Helens First we start taking a look at each of our local high schools – to find out how they are making headway against ever tougher inspection criteria. We begin with St Augustine of Canterbury….

It all adds up...Head teacher Linda Mousdale with students at St Augustine School.

Extra maths?

It’s definitely worth it Forty extra maths lessons a year might not sound like every student’s idea of fun, but young people at St Augustine of Canterbury are more than happy to tackle the extracurricular activity.

St Augustine is a Catholic high school for students aged 11 to 16 (years 7 to 11). Specialising in visual arts, it hosts a number of development schemes for students in this field.

For most, it’s a small price to pay to be part of a success story that’s seen the school move from an ‘inadequate’ Ofsted grading just 14 months ago to ‘good.’

Its mission statement includes the aim of educating ‘the whole child academically, spiritually, morally, socially and culturally and to prepare each child for their future economic wellbeing.’

“You have to have a vision of where you want to go,” said Head teacher Linda Mousdale, “so we look at areas where we need to make improvement and see how we can intervene to make a difference.”

It’s a responsibility that Linda and her six-strong leadership team take extremely seriously. “At this age, young people are going through some of the most difficult times of their lives,” she said, “so we

ST. HELENS FIRST summer 2015

ensure that strong pastoral support is available every day.”

For many parents though, it’s academic performance that a school is judged on. Here too though St Augustine is delivering.

Factfile No of students: 650 Specialism: Visual arts Ofsted rating: Good Website: www.staugs.org.uk

23

High Notes

Last year students celebrated the school’s best ever GCSE results – with 59 per cent achieving five A* to C grades, including English and maths. That’s seven per cent above the national average.

Again, the improvements are down to timely interventions by staff – helping students who may be struggling and pushing those who may be capable of achieving more.

“We provide a tailored, individual approach,” said Linda. “We don’t just intervene at the lower end of the achievement scale, but at the top too. It really is the case that every child matters.

“We are all on a journey and hopefully at St Augustine’s it’s going to be an even more pleasant journey into the future in terms of better outcomes for the children.”

Glasswork is a class act

It was a valuable opportunity – particularly for French GCSE students in the party.

St Augustine students are using their artistic skills to build on St Helens’ glassmaking heritage.

The school also runs annual glass fusing classes for the community keeping the town’s heritage alive.

Students make glass fused GCSE awards too – not just for their own presentation evening but for another school too!

Students produce a varied range of high quality objects and products for their GCSE work – using glass fusing techniques – that showcase the high standards of teaching and learning across the school.

They also use glass for enterprise through a long standing and highly profitable jewellery making business.

St Augustine hosts the St Helens Open Art competition in conjunction with the World of Glass and St Helens Council.

This year’s event attracted entries from 48 schools across the borough.

Their products have been sold at a range of external events through the Young Chamber including in the past, as winners of a Young Chamber competition, a trade fair in Bordeaux through the French Chamber of Commerce.

Cutting edge design...Director for the Arts and Technology Sheena Smith with student Ellie Atherton.

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24

Teenage Pregnancy

Let’s talk about it Easy to access sexual health services for young people have helped to trigger a drop in under-18s unintended pregnancies, and continue to help parents to discuss sex and relationships with their teenagers.

Fewer under 18s in St Helens have become pregnant over the last few years - although figures for the borough are still higher than North West and England averages.

The reduction is thanks, in part to local young people’s sexual health service the Teen Advice Zone (TAZ) and its Outreach Team.

This trend could be improved if parants and guardians of teens make homes an open and honest space in which to talk about sex, health and relationships. This helps young people to make informed decisions about choosing when to start a family and avoid the devastation of sexually transmitted infections.

Director of Public Health for St Helens Council, Liz Gaulton said: “Young people often shy away from asking questions or seeking support because they are embarrassed.

This means that many worry or suffer unnecessarily when modern, confidential services, staffed by experienced professionals, could help.

“Sexual health affects us physically, mentally and emotionally. It is an essential part of who we are as human beings and is central to some of the most important relationships in our lives. Don’t let embarrassment stop you from getting the support you need to stay healthy and strong”.

To find out more about sexual health visit www.getiton.org.uk or www.tazsh.com or you can follow the TAZ Outreach Team @TAZStHelens and follow the CaSH service @CaSH_StHK or call 0845 155 0156 for more information.

ST. HELENS FIRST summer 2015

Here to help...TAZ outreach worker Jacqueline Boocock offers advice.

Top tips for talking to your children For parents or guardians of young people struggling to find the right moment or way of broaching conversation about sexual health, the TAZ Outreach Team offers a tailored ‘Top Tips’ training programme.

This fun and participatory session promises to give parents and guardians the confidence to talk with their children and teenagers about body changes, puberty, growing-up, healthy relationships and staying safe on-line.

One parent said: “The course from the TAZ Outreach team has been great for me and my child in showing me ways to talk about growing up and body changes, having healthy relationships with family and friends, as well as sexual health, and has helped me to talk to my child about these issues with more confidence.”

For further Information, contact the TAZ Outreach Team on 01744 675665 or, alternatively, email Taz@sthelens.gov.uk

25

News

Housing boom when it comes to net completions.”

The number of new houses being built in St Helens continues to rise.

The Help to Buy scheme – which assists first time buyers with their deposit – has also had a big impact in St Helens, playing a part in up to 175 local transactions during 2014-15.

During the 2014-15 financial year a total of 632 new dwellings were completed – including 112 homes that fall into the ‘affordable’ category. It’s the borough’s best performance in housing terms since 2004.

The new figures represent a sharp increase on the 2013-14 performance - when 503 new homes were built.

This year Thatto Heath, Newton-le-Willows and the town centre saw the highest number of new homes built within the borough.

St Helens Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, Housing and Community Safety Councillor Richard McCauley said: “We are building more houses than many of our larger, neighbouring authorities - and continue to buck the national trend

“We’re seeing a real improvement in the housing situation locally,” said Councillor McCauley.

“We work closely with developers to ensure that the housing schemes we deliver are appropriate, attractive and high quality,” said Councillor McCauley, “providing residents with opportunity and choice.

“Building more new houses reduces social problems, improves public health and helps the local economy, so we are delighted to see this upturn in the number of new homes being built.”

St Helens remembers Residents turned out to pay their respects - as St Helens hosted two events to commemorate the 70th anniversary of VE Day. A ceremony was held at the Victoria Square Cenotaph, with a two minutes’ silence commencing at 3pm, the exact time - 70 years ago – when Winston Churchill broadcast his historic speech, announcing the end of World War Two. Elsewhere, a large crowd gathered on Taylor Park hill as former Mayor of St Helens, Geoff Pearl, along with 94-year- old war veteran Don Anderson, John Burns, Chairman of Ashton in Makerfield Royal British Legion and Able Cadet Scott Bull, lit a beacon as part of the national commemoration.

St Helens was selected as one of over 100 areas to take part, which saw beacons lit across the countryat the same time as the country’s sign of respect.

Smokefree first for council meet in a room where no one has been smoking for 30 minutes before they arrive.

St Helens Council has become the first organisation in Merseyside and Cheshire to receive the Breathing Space Award – recognising its efforts to protect staff working in the community from exposure to second-hand smoke.

The award was developed by the Cheshire and Merseyside Health Equalities Group, who presented it to representatives of the council’s Public Health team and the Early Intervention team at Sutton Children’s Centre who, along with other frontline teams, have actively been involved in attaining the award.

Liz Gaulton, Director of Public Health, said “It’s important to protect staff who work in the community from the dangers of second-hand smoke, and also to give staff the information they need to be able to advise clients of the risks and signpost them to local support.”

If you are being visited by staff from the council, or NHS they will ask to

Anyone looking to quit can contact the St Helens Stop Smoking Service on 01744 586 247 or text QUIT to 61825 to receive free support. You’re three times more likely to succeed in quitting with professional support and this is now available via text and online as well as face to face. visit www.readytostopsmoking.org.uk

Peace of the action

Well done...Robin Ireland, Chief Executive of the Health Equalities Group, presents the Breathing Space award to Carol Knight, Manager of the South East Early Help team, Councillor Andy Bowden, Cabinet Member for Public Health & Wellbeing, Liz Gaulton, Director of Public Health and Dympna Edwards, Assistant Director.

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St Helens Mental Health Sports Group is inviting people down to Queens Park Health and Fitness to play badminton with peace of mind.

The aim is to use sport to help adults cope and recover from mental ill health. Sessions (£2) take place on Thursdays at 3:30pm For more information, please email sthelensmhsport@gmail.com

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26

Your Health

A true ‘get fit’ story In a wonderful story of self-belief and community engagement, a local young person has proven his commitment to health and fitness.

Daniel Rigby contacted St.Helens Council’s Youth Sports Programme, asking for advice. He needed to lose a large amount of weight in order to have a much needed operation to solve a recurring knee injury.

Youth Health Champions with Julie Dunning of the council’s Public Health team (front, centre) and Rachel Jones, Lay-member for Patient Engagement and Service Transformation of the CCG (back, centre).

Can you help your friends get healthy?

Wanted - young people from across St Helens who can help their friends lead healthier lifestyles.

Youth Health Champions, aged 13-19, are already volunteering to help inspire and encourage others at their school, college, youth club or any other project they are involved with.

Those taking part are helping their friends to learn more about looking after their own health and making healthier and safer lifestyle choices.

But scheme organisers are keen to hear from more people who want to take part.

The scheme gives the new champions improved confidence, enables them to learn new skills, develops their problem solving skills and helps them make – and inspire - new friends. It also brings big benefits for the health of the local community.

The initiative was launched at Saints’ Langtree Park stadium earlier this year – at an event supported by partners including the Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), Bridgewater Trust, Public Health, the Youth Service, Healthwatch St Helens and the St Helens and Knowsley NHS Trust.

It’s easy to get involved just contact the Health Champions Team on 01744 675665, at HealthChampions@sthelens.gov.uk or visit www.sthelens.gov.uk/ healthchampions.

Daniel has been working hard at regular gym sessions with the Sports Development team as part his tailored programme of weights and cardio exercises. In just 12 weeks Daniel lost 34lbs and reduced his body fat percentage by over five per cent.

“Getting fit involves so much hard work and determination, but I’ve had lots of support from my family, friends and personal trainer, and the results are so worthwhile,” said Daniel, “I’m determined to keep on improving my health.”

It’s just one example of a local person working towards health and fitness with the Sports Development team, which provides a range of opportunities for participation in sport for all.

Activities are already taking place seven days a week across the borough, so what are you waiting for? Get active, healthy and happy this summer!

For information on how you can get involved contact the Sports Development team on 01744 675400 or follow them on Twitter (@YouthSportsSTH) and Facebook (Youth Sports STH).

Michelle Davies from St Helens Council’s Public Health team said: “Health and Wellbeing Champions will be aiming to increase participation and promote healthy active lifestyles and help to signpost young people to the health services and facilities available within the local community.”

Daniel (seated) with members of the Sports Development team.

ST. HELENS FIRST summer 2015

27

Your Health

Stay safe in the sun

•

Thankfully the days are getting warmer. But it’s worth remembering that even on cooler summer days, the sun’s rays are still strong.

Wear sunglasses with the ‘CE Mark’ and British Standard (BS EN 1836:1997), a UV 400 label or a statement that the sunglasses offer 100 per cent UV protection

Go smoke free with new service

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer - and it’s on the rise in the UK. Most cases are caused by ultraviolet rays from the sun or sunbeds. While limited exposure to sunlight helps to produce Vitamin D, which helps to prevent osteoporosis and rickets, too much unprotected exposure will increase the risk of skin cancer.

The new St Helens Smokefree stop smoking service was launched by City Health Care Partnership CIC on 1 April this year.

The service offers a range of FREE and convenient services to suit different lifestyles including:

St Helens Council’s Assistant Director of Public Health, Sue Forster said: “We all feel better when the weather gets warmer and the sun is shining - but by following a few simple messages we can all enjoy the sun safely.”

When the weather is hot it’s important to keep the body cool and hydrated to prevent the risk of heat exhaustion. So make sure you:

• Fair skin that burns easily in strong sun • Lots of moles or freckles

• Stay out of the midday sun (11am – 3pm)

• Red or fair hair • Light-coloured eyes • A personal or family history of skin cancer • A history of sunburn.

• Keep hydrated with plenty of cool drinks • Avoid drinks containing alcohol and caffeine • Wear loose clothing • Do not leave animals in closed vehicles in direct sunlight

Protect yourself

• Protect children in cars from direct sunlight

Follow the tips below: Use a sun screen with at least a SPF of 15 and a high star rating to protect against UVA and UVB rays

• Even sunscreens that claim to be ‘water resistant’ or ‘waterproof’ should be reapplied after going in the water.

• Quit Online 24 hour support in the comfort of your own home.

Keep cool

Anyone can develop skin cancer but some people are more at risk, particularly those with:

•

• Drop in 1-2-1 (no appointment needed)

•

On sunny and hot days it’s important that we look out for those that are vulnerable such as elderly and sick neighbours.

For more information on sun and heat protection go to NHS Choices Website http://www.nhs.uk/

• Stopping in a group.

• Quit Buddy text message support via your mobile phone • Telephone support 1-2-1 at a time that suits you.

Eligible clients, who are ready to quit, can receive FREE nicotine replacement therapy products, such as patches and gum, alongside the support that the service provides.

For more information about Smokefree St Helens, call 01744 586247, text QUIT to 61825 or visit www.readytostopsmoking. co.uk

Online health help

• Spend time in the shade between 11am and 3pm.

The new Healthy Living website for St Helens has now launched! Here you will find information about local health improvement services, from exercise, weight management and nutrition to smoking cessation, and mental health and wellbeing.

• Wear a t-shirt, hat and sunglasses.

You can access the website at www.healthysthelens.co.uk.

• Apply generously

01744 676789

contactcentre@sthelens.gov.uk

www.sthelens.gov.uk

28

What’s on in st. helens

WHAT’S

ON

St. Helens We’re all set for a spectacular summer of St.Helens culture.

Here’s your guide to what’s happening where and when.

July WIGAN YOUTH BRASS BAND

Bird box making 29 July Clock Face Country Park

4 July

Ramble

St James Church, Haydock

29 July

Master of the house (youth theatre)

Clock Face Country Park

16 July Citadel Arts Centre ride45 - willowbrook hospice 19 July Sutton Leisure Centre LIVE MUSIC AND BAND 19 July Mesnes Park Summer beach 23 July - 29 August Church Square

August newton town show 1 August Mesnes Park senior voice forum

Crafts display 23 August Victoria Park Bugsy malone (musical) 27 - 28 August Theatre Royal

September Sprint cup 3 - 5 September Haydock Park Racecourse

5 August

Reminisce dance classics festival

Mansion House, Victoria Park

5 September

racing and music night Kaiser chiefs

Sherdley Park

7 August Haydock Park Racecourse

Laughter comedy night 5 September Citadel Arts Centre

family fun day

Summer streets

Concert band

26 July

7 - 8 August

6 September

Taylor Park

Church Street and Church Square.

Victoria Park

The town centre comes alive with comedy, music, juggling, storytelling and street theatre.

11 September

The 39 steps (comedy play) 27 - 28 July Theatre Royal family fun day 28 July

Ramble

Victoria Park

9 August

The st.helens open art exhibition

Bankes Park to SIding Lane Bug HUnt

28 July - 11 September

19 August

The World of Glass

Mesnes Park

ST. HELENS FIRST summer 2015

blake Theatre Royal Martin carthy and dave swarbrick (folk) 12 September Citadel Arts Centre heritage open days 13 - 14 September Venues throughout the borough

29

What’s on in st. helens

October

Senior voice forum 16 September

superhero walk willowbrook hospice

Crownway Community Centre, Earlestown

3 October

Classic car show

Knowsley Leisure and Culture Park

19 September

Rainford 10K

Church Square

Senior voice forum

The World of Glass

7 October

Kite festival

Crownway Community Centre

20 September

Karnataka

Taylor Park

Citadel Arts Centre

20 September Stanley Bank Woodland

Field of celebration willowbrook hospice

Acorn antiques the musical

10 October

24 - 26 September

Willowbrook Hospice

Theatre Royal

Laughter comedy night

St. helens male voice live

11 October

26 September

Citadel Arts Centre

St. Helens Town Hall

James bond ball willowbook hospice

Led into zeppelin (tribute act) 26 September Citadel Arts Centre

Theatre Royal MY DUATHLON – WILLOWBROOK HOSPICE 27 September

18 October

23 - 31 October Church Square live - sinfonietta 24 October wizard of oz (musical) 24 October - 1 November Theatre Royal Bear and butterfly (children’s theatre) 25 October Citadel Arts Centre Fungal FOrage 25 October Clock Face Country Park

16 October

Merry Hell (Folk)

Thistle Hotel, Haydock

31 October Citadel Arts Centre

the tommy cooper show 27 September

Coppelia (ballet)

St. Helens Town Hall

10 October

Fungal Forage

St Helens Town Hall

Olde tyme funfair

Rainford

19 September - 13 November

17 October

Theatre Royal

4 October

the big draw

haydock male voice choir live

For more information about what’s happening in St.Helens go to www.whatsoninsthelens.com For regular event updates go to facebook.com/whatsoninsthelens and ‘like’ our page or follow us on twitter.com/whatsonsthelens or ring 01744 676731.

Knowsley Safari Park 01744 676789

contactcentre@sthelens.gov.uk

www.sthelens.gov.uk

30

www.sthelens.gov.uk

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour - What do YOU think?

St. Helens Council, Merseyside Police and other local agencies which form the Community Safety Partnership (CSP) want to know what you think about crime and anti-social behaviour where you live. Simply fill in this quick survey and send it back to us freepost at the following address.

Safer Communities, St. Helens Council, Freepost, NAT 22039, Wesley House, St. Helens WA10 1HF Your views are important to us, and will be used to determine policies and actions to help fight crime and keep St.Helens a safe place to live, work and visit for everyone!

Your Details Name: Address:....................................................................................................................................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................ Postcode: ...................................................................

Ethnicity, please circle: White English

White Irish

White European

Bangladeshi

Pakistani Indian Caribbean African Somali Yemeni Roma Irish Traveller Other Do you consider yourself disabled?

Yes

No

If Yes, please state...................................................................................................................................................................................

About You - Your Gender:

Female

Male

Your Age:

35 - 44

45 - 54

16 - 24

25 - 34

55 - 64

65 - 74

75+

1. How important do you think it is for us to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour where you live? (Please tick one) Very important

Fairly important

Fairly unimportant

Very unimportant

Neither important or unimportant

2. How well do you think St. Helens Council and its partners are doing in tackling crime and anti-social behaviour where you live? (Please tick one) Very well

Fairly well

Very poorly

Neither well nor poorly

3. How well-informed do you feel about the work that St.Helens Council and its partners are doing to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour where you live? (Please tick one) Very well-informed

Fairly well-informed

Neither well nor poorly-informed

ST. HELENS FIRST summer 2015

Fairly poorly-informed

Very poorly-informed

31

www.sthelens.gov.uk

4. How safe do you feel in the area where you live? (Please tick one) Very Safe

Fairly Safe

Fairly unsafe

Very unsafe

Neither safe nor unsafe

5. How much of a problem are the following types of anti-social behaviour in your neighbourhood? (Please tick one box for each type) Very big

Fairly big Not very big

Not at all Don’t know

Nuisance neighbours or loud parties Teenagers hanging around on the streets Vandalism, graffiti and other deliberate damage People using or dealing drugs People being drunk or rowdy in public places Rubbish and litter lying around Abandoned or burnt out cars Street prostitution Begging/rough sleeping Nuisance vehicles in public spaces (off-road motor bikes etc) Dog Fouling People being abused because of their skin colour People being abused because of their sexuality People being abused because of their disability People being abused because of their age 6. How often do you see Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) patrolling within your neighbourhood?

Daily

Every few days

Never

Rarely

Other (Please provide details)

7. If you have seen Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) patrolling within your community, what impact has that had on your feelings of safety?

Very big impact

Fairly big impact

Slight impact

No impact at all

Don’t know

8. We take all crime and disorder issues seriously but we would like to know what you think we should be prioritising ? (Please tick three in total) Hate Crime Domestic Burglary Anti-Social Behaviour Child Sexual Exploitation

Shop lifting

Vehicle Crime

Drugs

Domestic Violence & Abuse

Violent Crime

What’s your problem?

‘What’s your problem’ takes a break this issue, but we still want to know how we can help if there’s a problem in your area. Whether it’s fly tipping, dog fouling or a missed bin collection, get in touch with our contact centre by calling 01744 676789, emailing contactcentre@sthelens.gov.uk or via the council website – www.sthelens.gov.uk.

01744 676789

contactcentre@sthelens.gov.uk

www.sthelens.gov.uk