North West Swindon Link February edition

Editor’s Note

By Jamie Hill

Jamie@positive-media.co.uk

Last month we introduced a seismic change to Swindon Link by going from gloss to newsprint.

There were several reasons for the change but the main one was so we could print the magazine on 100% recycled paper as we focus more and more on climate change and the impact we all have on the environment.

But another reason is the ongoing cost of living crisis as in the past 12 months we’ve seen printer cost increases of more than 25%. The last thing we wanted to do was pass on any of these rises to our customers in these hard times so changing the paper was a way that we could mitigate that increase. We are proud that our rates haven’t risen in five years.

As well as affecting residents across the town the cost of living crisis has been hard on every business and as a now 100% recycled publication, delivered on foot, we look forward to supporting local businesses even more in 2023.

Rotary Club send portable ultrasound scanner to Ukrainian hospital

By Jessica Durston jessica@positive-media.co.uk

The Rotary Club of Royal Wootton Bassett & District used funds raised from charity events to purchase a portable ultrasound scanner unit to send to Cherkassy hospital in Ukraine.

The portable scanner unit was transported into Ukraine and forwarded on to Nina, the secretary of the Rotary club in Cherkassy.

The Bassett rotary club corresponds with Nina regularly, and she was on hand to present the scanner to the hospital there on the club’s behalf.

The shipment also included dental restorative materials which were a total surprise for the Stomatology department at the hospital.

Clothing, blankets, log burners and a generator - all donated to the rotary club by local residents - were also included in the shipment that was given to the local people in Cherkassy.

A spokesperson for the rotary club said that the Cherkassy hospital team were delighted with their Christmas presents.

More information about the Royal Wootton Bassett club can be found online at www.rotaryribi.org/clubs

Group Editor and Owner: Jamie Hill

Deputy Editor: Barrie Hudson

Reporter: Jessica Durston

Sales: Dave Stewart and Rosy

Presley

Accounts Manager: Karen Randall

Contributors: Tyler Ody, Becky Cox, Maurice Spillane and Alfie Howlett

The Eco

Top recycling tips to help your household ‘Be The Change’

Reducing what you waste is a great way to reduce your impact on the environment. Meanwhile, many of the things we throw away haven’t always reached the end of their useful life. Sometimes items you don’t want any more can still be used by someone else.

More than 30 per cent of our clothing goes to landfill, with nearly half of us putting some clothing in the bin. All of our clothing can either be reused or recycled.

Recycling saves energy and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Current levels of UK recycling are estimated to save over 18 million tonnes of CO2 a year – the same as taking five million cars off the road. Here are seven top tips for

recycling in Swindon:

1. To get the most out of your recycling boxes, flatten down cardboard boxes and cans as much as possible so you can fit more in.

2. When recycling plastic pots, trays and bottles, remember to wash them out beforehand, otherwise it might contaminate the rest of your recycling.

3. Not all recyclable items come from the kitchen –check your bathroom and bedroom for recyclable items like empty deodorant and hairspray aerosols, tissue boxes, shampoo and conditioner bottles.

4. Separate your recycling by putting paper and card in one recycling box, and metal and glass in another.

5. Put unwanted clothing out

for collection at the same time as your recycling boxes. Just make sure that they are dry and securely tied in a carrier bag marked ‘TEXTILES’ before placing them on top of, or inside, your recycling boxes.

6. Cardboard that is too big to fit in your recycling box can still be collected if it’s bundled and tied together. The cardboard bundle should be no taller than the height of two recycling boxes or wider than one recycling box

(approximately 65cm x 65cm).

7. Take large items such as mattresses, wood, car batteries, carpets, fridges and freezers to Swindon’s Household Waste Recycling Centre (SN2 2PN). Prebook your visit on at www. swindon.gov.uk/hwrc

If you’re unsure on whether or not an item can be recycled, check the council’s Guide to Recycling – search ‘recycling’ at www.swindon. gov.uk

Photo ID now required to vote in elections

By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk

Voters in Swindon will need to show an approved form of photo ID in order to vote at a polling station in the borough and parish elections on Thursday, 4 May.

The change follows new UK-wide legislation introduced by the Government in the Elections Act 2022.

Accepted forms of photo ID include passports,

photographic driving licences, biometric immigration documents and some concessionary travel passes.

People can still use their photo ID if it’s out of date, as long as it looks like them. The name on their ID should be the same name they used to register to vote.

Anyone who does not have accepted photo ID can apply for a free voter ID document, which is known as a Voter Authority Certificate

(VAC).

Those voting by proxy will need to ensure that the person going to vote on their behalf takes their own ID, and not ID for the person they are voting for. Postal voting procedures will remain the same.

Applications for a Voter Authority Certificate can be made online at voterauthority-certificate.service. gov.uk

To apply for the VAC by post, people should call

Swindon Borough Council on 01793 445500.

To apply in person they should visit the Civic Offices in Euclid Street, Swindon, SN1 2JH on any working day between 09.30am and 4pm.

More information about voter identification and further details on how to apply for the Voter Authority Certificate can be found on Swindon Borough Council’s website: www. swindon.gov.uk/voterid

Borough council says benefits are going unclaimed

By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk

Swindon Borough Council says people making sure to claim benefits they’re entitled to can help to tackle the cost of living crisis.

It is estimated that £15bn in benefits goes unclaimed each year.

This includes 1.3m families who don’t take up an offer of up to £2,000 a year for childcare costs, and around 850,000 eligible households who are missing out on Pension Credit, worth an average of £1,900 a year. Could you be one of them?

Taking a few minutes to use one of the online benefits calculators could open the door to hundreds of pounds extra per month for food, bills and fuel – just search ‘benefits calculator’ online.

A list of 19 measures which can potentially help with the cost of living is available on the council’s website at www. swindon.gov.uk/costofliving

Some of the measures signposted include:

- Pension Credit, which tops up weekly income to a guaranteed minimum

level of £182.60 a week for single pensioners or £278.70 for couples. It is a tax-free payment for those who have reached State

Allowance and/or an extra amount called the ‘carer element’ within Universal Credit, which could mean £69.70 a week in Carer’s

for opening times, www. citizensadviceswindon.org.uk, or call 0808 278 7813. Getting certain meanstested benefits can also open the door to the several new cost of living payments expected throughout this coming year.

This includes £900 for means-tested benefit claimants that will go direct to bank accounts in three payments over the financial year.

Pension age, and live in Great Britain

- If Housing Benefit or Universal Credit doesn’t cover all your rent, check to see if you can make a claim for a discretionary housing payment

- Swindon residents of working age who claim means-tested benefits such as Universal Credit or Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), may be eligible to apply for Council Tax Support, which pays up to 80% of your council tax bill

- If you’re a carer, you may be entitled to Carer’s

Allowance

- If you or your child receive certain benefits, you can apply for free school meals from Year 3 and above

It’s worth taking five minutes to check if you’re missing out on anything which you’re entitled to.

The benefits system can be confusing, so get in touch with Citizens Advice Swindon before you make an application – they can increase the chances of getting accepted. Citizens Advice Swindon also offers in-person advice, so check their website

Exact payment windows will be announced closer to the time, but will be spread across a longer period to provide support throughout the year. Those eligible can expect to receive:

- First Cost of Living Payment of £301 during Spring 2023

- Disability Payment of £150 during Summer 2023

- Second Cost of Living Payment of £300 during Autumn 2023

- Pensioner Payment of £300 during Winter 2023/4

- Third Cost of Living Payment of £299 during Spring 2024

Local charity helps to donate over 17,000 menstruation ‘Freedom Kit Bags’ to communities in Nepal

By Jessica Durston jessica@positive-media.co.uk

Dr Rosa Matheson and Dr Ian Matheson from the Friends of Angel’s Orphanage charity have announced that over 17,000 Freedom Kit Bags have been distributed to girls and women in Nepal.

The Freedom Kit Bags (FKB) consist of three pad-holders, 12 two-layer pads, six inserts, three panties, a carry purse, a water-proof bag for used pads, a soap bag and soap, a washing line and pegs and a bag made from recycledsaris to keep everything together.

These bags are intended to last the user for three or more years.

The project was started when Rosa and Ian visited

Kathmandu and met a Nepalese woman – Beni Rani Ghale - who was making ‘pads’ for girls at the small school in her village.

Rosa said the lack of period protection means many girls in Nepal have an interrupted education at best, or drop out of education completely.

Rosa and Ian looked at Beni’s kits and found they were inadequate for getting women through their monthly period.

Rosa said: “From the feedback we received from hundreds of women and girls, we then modified the kits five times.

“Many girls and women describe it as ‘the best gift in the world’ or ‘the best gift I will ever have’. The Kit Bags are about more than just ‘periods’.”

As well as delivering these kits, the FKB team have trained ambassadors to give educational sessions to teach girls, boys, women and men, how to use the bags, and the facts about menstruation.

The sessions aim to remove any negative stigma and myth-bust.

Rosa added: “We are proud to say that we have now distributed 17,000 plus Freedom Kit Bags to women and girls, free-of-charge. That equates to 663,000 periods or 2,983,500 ‘Days of Dignity.’ We say ‘If you help the woman you help

the family’, and if you help the family, you help the community – and that means many more thousands can be helped too.”

The Freedom Kit Bags cost £25 and the Paypal account can be found at www. paypal.com/uk/fundraiser/ charity/3617787

Rosa’s column detailing the story of FKB from formation to the 17,000 milestone can be found at swindonlink. com/charity/rosa-mathesoncolumn-freedom-kit-bags

Two popular fundraising events in aid of Prospect Hospice to return for 2023

By Jessica Durston jessica@positive-media.co.uk

This year will see the return of two of the most popular fundraising events for Prospect Hospice – the Spring Run and Starlight Walk.

The Spring Run will take place on Sunday 12 March at Stanton Country Park.

Those taking part will be able to choose whether they wish to undertake a 2.5km fun run, or 5km or 10km multiterrain routes.

Both the 5km or 10km will be chip timed.

All runners will also receive a medal.

Entry is priced at £7 for the 2.5km run, £15 for the 5km run, and £18 for the 10km run.

In addition, Prospect Hopice’s popular Starlight Walk will also make its return this year, on Saturday 24 June.

There will be an option of 10km or 15km routes for participants to choose from.

The Prospect Hospice team sayss that the 2023 Starlight Walk theme will be ‘festival fever’ and participants are welcome to dress up when taking part.

Signing up before 1 April will give entrants access to the early bird price of £12.

After this, standard entry will be priced at £15.

For more information on both of these events and about the services offered by Prospect Hospice, people can visit www. prospect-hospice.net

An image taken from 2022’s Starlight Walk

New management at two GP practices

Two GP practices in Swindon are under new management following a successful transition from their previous provider.

Abbey Meads Medical Group and Moredon Medical Centre, previously run by Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, are now being managed by Westrop Medical Practice, Victoria Cross Surgery and North Swindon Practice, which have come together as a new collaborative entity.

Return of Swindon and Wiltshire Pride

Swindon & Wiltshire Pride have announced details of this summer’s festival, which will be held on 12 August.

Pride was held in the form of a picnic at Queen’s Park last year, with thousands attending, and the positive response to the new location has prompted a late summer return with what the organisers promise will be a landmark 15th anniversary celebration with a range of attractions.

Building firm helps essential charity

A charity which gives lifechanging opportunities to vulnerable young people has received a £17,000 donation from Beard Construction.

Staff at Beard’s head office in Swindon nominated the Youth Adventure Trust as their chosen charity for 2022 and pledged to raise £3,600 during the year. However, they excelled themselves with a range of activities including dress down days to walking challenges.

Animal brain specialist at Swindon vet surgery

By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk

Eastcott Veterinary Referrals has grown its neurology department with the appointment of a new consultant.

Consultant in neurology and neurosurgery Marcos Raposo Galván has joined following the completion of a three-year ECVN residency programme.

The appointment will enable Eastcott to treat more patients amid growing demand for its neurology services.

Marcos said: “I’m pleased to have joined such a highly regarded and knowledgeable team at Eastcott, and to have the opportunity to continue my professional development

alongside such skilled veterinary specialists.

“During my training, I developed a special interest in inflammatory central nervous system (CNS) disease and treatment of CNS neoplasm, like radiotherapy, and this is an area I will be specialising in within my new role.

“My goal is to continue improving my neurosurgery knowledge and develop

more complex techniques, like hypophysectomy and other complex approaches, for the benefit of our patients.”

Niki Burton, hospital director at Eastcott Veterinary Referrals, said: “As a team, we are thrilled to welcome Marcos to Eastcott as we continue to invest in highly skilled specialists.” She added that his skills would be very valuable.

MP praises campaigners after golf course plans are rejected

Swindon Borough Council’s Planning Committee has rejected a bid to build on Broome Manor Golf Course.

The decision prompted South Swindon MP Sir Robert Buckland to praise the efforts of local residents and local ward councillor Jenny Jeffries in rallying opposition to the plan.

Sir Robert himself, pictured with Cllr Jeffries, opposed the proposals by leaseholder Twigmarket Ltd, which would have resulted in the loss of three holes on the complex’s nine-hole course.

He said: “I was extremely concerned that instead of improving and expanding upon this site, this proposed development would have resulted in the loss of a much needed and wellused golfing facility here in Swindon.

“The nine-hole course is a very useful entry point for junior golfers taking up the sport, as well as recreational use for more senior residents, the less able, and those who have limits on their time, particularly during the winter months. Especially as the complex is the only facility for golf in Swindon.

“I was concerned that the loss of the nine-hole golfing

option would have an extremely detrimental effect on a large user group and does not promote inclusion.

“It is also vital that we maintain the green buffer zone of Broome Manor and Coate Water for the benefit of future generations of Swindon residents.”

Cllr Jeffries thanked the local people who shared their views with her.

Consultantt in neurology and neurosurgery Marcos Raposo Galvan

Swindon secondary school now offering free breakfast to pupils and staff

By Jessica Durston jessica@positive-media.co.uk

Bradon Forest School staff say they are pleased to start the new year off by announcing free breakfast porridge for the whole school community.

This new breakfast service started early in January at the Swindon secondary school.

ABM Catering teamed up with Bradon Forest to deliver the new restaurant service, entitled ‘Mint’, where students and staff can receive free porridge.

The Bradon Forest team say this initiative was set up due to the current cost of living crisis, and in order to support the belief that everyone should start the day with a hearty breakfast.

Headteacher, Mrs Sarah Haines, said: “We are delighted to welcome ABM to Bradon Forest. They have some

excellent ideas to further encourage healthy eating, regular hydration and sustainability.”

The school says its vibrant new look canteen, together with a range of freshly prepared, innovative,

seasonally influenced menus will be offered at breakfast, morning break and lunch services.

More information about Bradon Forest School can be found on its website at bradonforest.org.uk

Haydon Wick Parish Council wins gold at local council awards

Haydon Wick Parish Council has received the highest accolade of Quality Gold award as part of the Local Council Award Scheme.

The award represents a significant achievement, as Haydon Wick is the first parish council in Swindon to be accredited at the Quality Gold level. The award recognises that the council achieves good practice in governance, community engagement and council improvement.

It will be celebrated and presented at the Annual Council Meeting in March.

New College to offer job seekers courses to help with employability

New College will be running a number of employability courses designed to help people who are unemployed and looking to return to work. They will run across Feb and March 2023.

The courses will be available to anyone aged 19 years and over, who has been a resident in the UK/ EU for over three years.

These courses are also free to those claiming benefits or who fall into the ‘low earner bracket’.

Individuals who are interested in attending are asked to see the eligibility criteria before applying.

All courses will run at New College’s Adult Learning Centre site in Swindon town centre on Fleet Street.

More details about the eligibility criteria can be found via 01793 511 665 or emailing ALC@ newcollege.ac.uk

Big Dog Art Trail ‘Swinpups’ ready to go walkies to local schools

By Jessica Durston jessica@positive-media.co.uk

The Big Dog Art Trail team say a parade of Swinpups are getting ready to travel to classrooms across Swindon for the UK’s first balloon dog art trail this Summer. Schools, colleges, and children’s nurseries are being invited to adopt and design their own 80 centimetre-tall balloon dog sculpture, as part of Swindon’s Big Dog Art Trail’s learning programme. Once decorated, the mini Swinpups will feature on the free art trail through some of Swindon’s most iconic and historic places, alongside around 30 giant Swindog sculptures, which will be painted by a mixture of professional and up-andcoming artists. The Swinpups will then be returned to their ‘forever homes’ for schools and communities to continue to enjoy.

The Big Dog Art Trail is being brought to town by global art trail producer Wild in Art and the Wiltshire children’s hospice charity, Julia’s House.

As well as receiving a Swinpup sculpture to decorate and keep forever, participating schools and communities will also receive advice to help them fundraise a target amount of £500 for Julia’s House to help the charity continue its life-changing care in the local community.

This creative learning adventure for children and young people is being supported by Swindon Borough Council - the trail’s official Learning Programme Partner. The council recently announced its support for The Big Dog Art Trail, allocating grant funds of £80,000.

Running from 15 July - 3

September 2023, The Big Dog Art Trail is expected to attract thousands of visitors from outside Swindon and encourage local residents to rediscover the town, and provide a welcome boost for local businesses.

The team say the major art trail will end with a grand farewell finale where all of the sculptures will be brought together under one roof, followed by a charity auction.

To apply for a Swinpup, people must complete an application form by Friday 10 February online at www. bigdogarttrail.co.uk/pups

Wyvern Theatre announce this year’s Summer Youth Project

Swindon’s Wyvern Theatre’s Summer Youth Project performance will be the Wizard of Oz this year.

Applications are now open and those aged nine to 21, interested in getting involved, can apply before Saturday 8 April.

The Summer Youth Project team say it is the perfect way for young individuals to get a taste for the world of musical theatre. This year’s project will yet again allow 200 young people to produce and perform five full-scale performances with the help of a professional creative team and live band.

The Wyvern Theatre say they are looking for enthusiastic, committed, and talented young people to take part in this all-singing,

all-dancing, musical extravaganza.

Auditions will be open to anyone aged 9-21 and technical opportunities available for ages 1626. They will be held on Sunday 23 April at the Wyvern Theatre.

Those interested in the Summer Youth Project but too old to participate can also join in as a chaperone. The SYP team say they are always looking for licensed chaperones, or those with a DBS certificate who would like to become a chaperone, to help with the Summer Youth Project.

Those interested in taking part or becoming a chaperone can visit: swindontheatres.co.uk/ Online/swindonyouthproject

The project will run from Sunday 6 - Saturday 19 August. Successful participants must be available for all these dates. The performance dates for the show will be Thursday 17, Friday 18 and Saturday 19 August.

Tickets will be on sale for these shows and will be available to book online at swindontheatres.co.uk or via the theatre’s central ticket line on 0343 310 0040.

A look inside Swindon Hub

By Jessica Durston | jessica@positive-media.co.uk

Swindon Link paid a visit to Swindon Hub and met with the team to learn more about the town centre-based community hotspot and why its volunteers are so important.

The History of the Hub:

Swindon Hub was set up back in 2021, by a group of local volunteers who wanted to create something for the community.

It can be found in the Parade in the town centre - next door to Wilko (SN1 1BA), and is open Tuesday - Saturday from 10am - 5pm.

Last November saw the Hub celebrate its first birthday and it has become a multi-purpose community space, that offers free activities and services to members of the public.

One of the longstanding shift leaders at the Hub, Pearl, spoke a little about how the space grew from a small idea shared by a group of people, to the

What’s on offer:

The Hub has grown over time to accommodate different sectors in its top and bottom floors.

There is a community notice board and display space on entering, along with a reception desk. Local organisations can drop off literature or other information resources to be placed there. Further inside the space, the bottom floor has a ‘jamming corner’ complete with musical instruments, a

more thriving community space it is today.

She said: “I signed up to volunteer the week it first opened. I saw things about a community hub space popping up on social media and wanted to get involved. Initially I think, there was the idea to create a climate emergency centre of sorts – but then over time the Hub gradually evolved into what it is today.

“It’s been like an evolution of different people from the community coming together and I suppose it’s like a really good social experiment in many ways. We have all been muddling along and it’s been great to have hit that

play area for children, a space for displaying and selling local makers’ work, an exhibition space, and an affordable cafe.

The cafe sells a range of hot drinks and other refreshments, and receives donations of sandwiches and cakes to sell to visitors. The play area is adjacent to the cafe’s seating space, so children can play while their parents or guardians can sit and enjoy their

refreshments.

one-year milestone recently, become bigger, and have regular things in place. People that come here on a weekly basis, are now coming for a specific reason.

“It has been amazing to see people giving their time up since the Hub’s formation, helping to create what we have here now. It just goes to show that a lot of what we do, is obviously needed and valued by people within the community.”

The Hub’s exhibition space changes every six weeks, and local artists or organisations can get in touch if they wish to show some artwork.

Pearl said: “For such a small corner space for our display, we have had some really gorgeous artwork and exhibitions – and it just goes to show how creative Swindon is.”

Similarly, the Hub’s retail

area that sells local makers’ handmade wares works on a three-month rotational basis. Local creators can get in touch with the Hub if they are interested in displaying and selling their items. The Hub also has some regular classes running each week now.

These include writing club and Qigong classes on Wednesdays, arts and crafts, table tennis on Thursdays, and more.

A call for volunteers

Swindon Hub’s volunteer team range from people in their 20s to their 70s, and all of them come from different backgrounds - with two of the staff members originally from Hong Kong.

The Hub team say they are still however, in need of more help to keep the community space running.

Volunteer shifts can take place in the morning or afternoon, and the Hub team say they offer flexible schedules. Even if people can only offer a couple of hours every so often, they are encouraged to apply.

Shift leader Pearl recognises how important volunteers are in this stage

A place for collaboration:

Swindon Hub aims to be a place for all to use.

While it hosts its own free classes and activity groups, some events are also hosted by people outside of the Hub staff body, and cost a small fee.

Other regular groups that use the Hub include Hope Street (a peer-led support group for people in recovery or for families dealing with addiction), MIND, Coffee and Conversation (a group for refugees and non-English speakers to learn the language), and Tea and Chat (a group for individuals with learning difficulties).

of the Hub’s evolvement.

She said: “It’s impressive to look back on how far the Hub has come, and it’s obviously something that is needed within the Swindon community. It’s like that quote from Field of Dreams... ‘If you build it – they will come.’ We really want to keep going now, and to do that we do need volunteers.”

With the current cost-of-living crisis, the Hub team say they are pleased to help provide a community space that offers free activities. At the same time, the team say they will graciously accept any donations from the Swindon public.

Pearl said: “We welcome donations if

Businesses and organisations also have the opportunity to utilise the Hub’s space and resources. The upstairs space can be booked, as well as the downstairs cafe area.

The Hub also has links with many of Swindon’s other community groups including Artsite, Urban Sketchers, the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, Big Breakfast, Plastic-Free Swindon, Swindon City of Sanctuary and more.

Additionally, the community notice board area within the Hub can be used by organisations to place literature and posters, signposting members of the public towards useful services.

The Swindon

Upcoming Events

• The Swindon Vegan Fair will be held at the Hub on 4 February. More information on this event can be found online at swindonlink.com/lifestyle/vegan-fair-swindonhub

• Local theatre company The Scullions will also be performing a new debut show on Saturday 11 February at the Hub. More information about this event can be found online at swindonlink.com/lifestyle/ scullions-at-swindon-hub

people feel they can or that they want to. “Basically everything we have has been donated - furniture, books, food, musical instruments, artwork, our sports equipment. We invest where we can, but we’re always doing shout outs for donations. It’s amazing what people have gifted to us to help make things happen.”

Hub team has also been working closely with the inSwindon BID team.

Shift leader Pearl said: “It’s easy to be negative about Swindon’s town centre, but I think it would surprise a lot of people to see the effort that is being made to revive it. We have worked with inSwindon BID, and try and facilitate events and promote each other’s work and activities.”

Contact & Important Links:

More information about Swindon Hub can be found on its social media pages at:

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/hubswindon

• Twitter: twitter.com/hubswindon

• Instagram: www.instagram.com/hubswindon/?hl=en

Those wishing to get in touch with Swindon Hub can do so by emailing the following:

• General and volunteering enquiries - info@ swindonhub.org.uk

• Booking enquiries - booking@swindonhub.org.uk

• Retail enquiries - retail@swindonhub.org.uk

• Individuals can also pop into the Hub and speak to the team about volunteering, or any other queries they may have.

LINK PEOPLE Interview: Alan Holland, Manager at Twigs Community Gardens

By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk

“It’s a very grounding activity, gardening,” said Alan Holland.

This is something the people who are helped by Twigs Community Gardens know very well.

Although the organisation, based at the Manor Garden Centre site on the Cheney Manor Industrial Estate, has been around for a quarter of a century, many people do not know of its work.

Established in November of 1997 by Anne Billingham, a visionary social entrepreneur, Twigs provides horticultural and craft-based activities for people who are struggling with their mental health.

It is part of the Recovery Tree charity, which also runs the Olive Tree Cafe at the nearby garden centre, which provides work opportunities for people recovering from or at risk of mental illness.

Mr Holland has worked there since 1999, having previously worked at a residential school for boys with emotional and behavioural problems.

For anybody who wonders how something so seemingly ordinary as gardening can help people who are recovering from mental health issues, Mr Holland is happy to explain.

“While you’re immersed in the garden, all your senses are being bombarded with the sound of bird calls, the wind through the trees. the sun on your face.

“You are stimulated to be

grounded in the moment, whereas quite often when people are suffering from depression, their thought processes are tied up with things that have happened in the past. For people with anxiety, quite often it’s being concerned with things that might happen in the future.

“That grounding to the moment gardening can give us, or indeed being in any natural environment, can take us away from those negative thought processes. We start to slow down and tune in to what’s around us.

“Basically, we all have what is called biophilia, this innate connection to nature which all of us have from millennia past, and I think we don’t necessarily feel complete or at ease if we are detached from the natural world.”

Does modern life play a role in this detachment?

“To a degree.

“In the age of the laptop, the mobile phone, screens, the amount of time we all spend sitting in front of screens - I think that is an unnatural thing for us. It’s very tiring on our brains and our concentration and our eyes.

“We can end up with a feeling of being mentally drained. Attention Restoration Theory is one of the theories behind horticultural therapy, and basically that is explaining that we are so unrelaxed when we’re on our screens. We’re heightened to being asked about something or finding out about something, and it’s absorbing all our attention away from relaxing stimulus.

“The garden is able to give

us that, and if we have had time sitting at a screen, just sitting in the garden for 15 minutes, not necessarily doing gardening activities but just sitting in the garden, can repair, if you like, our fraught brain.”

Thousands of people have been helped by Twigs over the years, and there are currently about 60 clients. People generally spend a year with Twigs, and can attend up to two morning or afternoon sessions per week.

In addition to gardening, there are opportunities to take part in crafts.

“We have currently got a volunteer who is teaching people to throw on the potter’s wheel on Thursday mornings.

“In the run-up to Christmas we had lantern-making workshops, and we look to, where funding permits, buy in artists to come and provide complete programmes for us, series of six or eight workshops.”

There are 54 volunteers, with opportunities always open for more.

The organisation has significant backing from Swindon Borough Council and a number of other organisations including Zurich, but is always happy to hear from individuals and companies able to offer help.

Some of the people helped by Twigs are referred by professionals while others self-refer.

The Twigs website, twigscommunitygardens. org.uk, has full details and referral information.

Welcome to Bradon Forest School!

Bradon Forest School provides an excellent education for all their students in a supportive environment.

Their values of challenge, aspiration, respect, resilience and excellence, run through all aspects of school life and ensure that students are motivated and inspired to achieve outstanding results in everything that they do whilst placing an importance on an ethos of respect for all.

Set in the village of Purton, just outside Swindon, surrounded by stunning Wiltshire countryside, Bradon Forest School is committed to delivering a school experience that is both ambitious and supportive.

Their aim is to be an aspirational and respectful community, and they are proud to be a truly comprehensive school providing an education of a high quality for students.

School Profile: Bradon Forest School

Get to know the schools in your area

This issue: Bradon Forest School

Address: The Peak, Purton, Wiltshire, SN5 4AT

Tel: 01793 770570

Email: enquiry@bradonforest.wilts.sch.uk

Website: bradonforest.org.uk

Headteacher: Mrs S Haines

Our curriculum and care:

The school is clear that as well as academic excellence delivered through their broad and challenging curriculum, they have a responsibility to develop their students into happy, well-prepared and confident young people and offer a large range of extracurricular opportunities to enhance their school experience.

From trips to Nepal and New York, through to successful sports teams, every child will be encouraged to aspire and excel at something that they feel passionate about.

As an established school that has been successfully educating children for almost 60 years, the committed and skilled staff are on hand to help students learn and make progress in all areas of their life.

A word from the Headteacher:

“I am honoured to be the Headteacher of Bradon Forest School and to lead the school community with the support of a dedicated staff. Our aim is to ensure that every child is inspired and supported to achieve excellence in some way every day and to leave school with a sense of self-worth and achievement.”

Pastoral care is a key strength of the school and enables young people to also develop resilience and confidence as they navigate their teenage years.

Furthermore, the SixthForm model offered enables students to have a supportive progression route into an outstandng school sixth form environment.

By Jessica Durston | jessica@positive-media.co.uk

Swindon resident Zac’s success story started when he joined GA Plant and Tool Hire Ltd through the Government scheme Kickstart, around 18 months ago.

During the pandemic, the scheme was set up and aimed to get young people aged between 18 and 23 back into work. To qualify for the scheme, young people had to have been unemployed for at least a year.

The Government would then pay the young individual minimum wage for up to 20 hours a week.

GA Plant shares success story of young employee as result of Government scheme

GA Plant owner, Angus Lacy-Hulbert, explained that the Government offered the business £1,000 to go towards Zac’s training needs as well as covering his weekly mimunum wage fee.

Angus said: “As an employer we were expected to support Zac for a minimum of six months but there was no obligation to offer full time employment beyond that period.”

Angus said that Zac’s own work ethic and determination are why he still remains on the books.

Angus explained: “Zac was a bit of a lost soul when came to us. He had no real qualifications or aims in life, and had been long-term unemployed.

“He started off washing

machinery and helping to tidy up the yard. Quickly, he showed an interest in the workshop and started picking up a range of different skills. He was motivated and continued to learn and progress.

“It is so rewarding as an employer to see Zac thriving at what he does.”

Now 22, Zac has been with GA Plant for around two years, and is receiving more training so he has the opportunity to progress further within the company.

Zac said: “GA Plant has given me the support I needed to turn my life around.”

Angus added: “He has grown so much since he started here. I think young

people that are struggling with employment are sometimes written off too quickly. Zac is great with the customers, has taken on new tasks, and it’s been great to see him really take the opportunity with Kickstart and run with it.

“He has told us that he has a new flat and a girlfriend too. Zac has really turned his life around.”

More information about GA Plant can be found at gaplant.co.uk

LINK POLITICS

A column by Swindon Borough Council Leader David Renard

Over the next few months you are likely to see plenty of reminders linked to the forthcoming local elections in May.

Voters across the borough will be required this year to show an approved form of photo ID if they wish to cast their votes in both the borough and parish elections. This is something people will be required to do by law after new legislation was passed by the Government last year.

Under the new rules, all voters will, from now on, have to bring photographic ID to the polling stations for any local elections, Police and Crime Commissioner elections, UK parliamentary by-elections and recall petitions as well as future general elections from

Make sure you bring your photographic ID on polling day

October 2023.

Acceptable forms of ID include photographic driving licences, passports, some concessionary travel passes and biometric immigration documents.

You can see a list of acceptable forms of ID at www.swindon.gov.uk/voterID

Of course bringing ID to vote in local elections is not completely new to Swindon residents.

You may remember that back in 2018, Swindon was chosen as one of a few pilot areas across the UK to trial the use of voter ID.

The trial was a success with just 0.04 per cent of the 62,166 people who turned up to vote failing to return with alternative ID or seek a replacement poll card after not bringing the appropriate ID initially.

We will be doing

everything we can this year to make sure that as many people as possible are able to cast their vote and that those who may not have the appropriate photographic identification can take the necessary steps to allow them to vote.

Residents need to be registered to vote by Monday, 17 April 2023 and, if you haven’t already registered it just takes a few minutes.

Anyone not currently registered to vote can do this at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote

You can still use your photo ID if it is out of date, but the photograph needs to be a likely representation of the person who appears on the ID.

If you don’t have an acceptable photo ID you can apply online at GOV.UK for a free voter ID document before 25 April.

You can also apply for a Voter Authority Certificate by post by calling the council on 01793 445 500.

You can apply in person on any working day between 9.30am and 4pm at the Civic Offices in Euclid Street, Swindon, SN1 2JH.

If you want to vote by proxy you will need to make sure the person going to vote on your behalf takes their own ID, and not ID for you. The arrangements for postal voting will remain the same. Details of how to vote by post or proxy are available on the council’s website.

Labour leader Jim Robbins on a time for change in Swindon

It is time for change.

For too long, Swindon has been stuck. Stuck in the past, stuck between bigger towns and cities reimagining themselves, stuck in traffic and stuck with austerity. Stuck with a wasteful and failing Conservative administration for the last 20 years who have overseen the slow decline of the town.

It is clear that the Conservative administration are all out of ideas. They have racked up a massive debt of over £350m which is crippling our finances with costly repayments, whilst their Government crashed the economy, slashed our funding and they have broken public services across the country. Meanwhile,

demand for the essential council services keeps going up.

It is clear that things need to change. It is clear the council needs to change, in order to be able to change Swindon.

Labour has a plan. We want to change the way the council works, making it much more responsive to you and your needs. We want to stop the feeling that the council does things to you, and make it start doing things in partnership with you. We’ll stop wasteful council spending and keep Council Tax as low as possible to help you through the Government’s cost of living crisis.

We want you to be guiding

us to the best way forward for you and your family, and we’ll make sure that the council listens to you. A recent review of the council criticised the poor levels of engagement from the council. This needs to change.

We’ve been listening to residents all year round, as we carry out thousands of conversations on the doorstep. This is what you have told us to focus on so far:

Your Roads – We’ll get Swindon moving by stopping excessive roadworks

Your Parks – We’ll protect Swindon’s green open spaces from development

Your Economy – We’ll put Swindon businesses, jobs, and people first

Your Community – We’ll build a greener, healthier, safer and fairer Swindon

Your Money – We’ll relentlessly focus on making sure we spend money wisely We’ll keep listening and keep building our offer for the town as we continue to have conversations with residents in the lead-up to and after the election. We know Swindon Deserves Better, and we are determined to be that change.

Town centre arts and culture trail will be a yearlong celebration of creativity

By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk

A new town centre attraction will celebrate the arts in the heart of Swindon throughout 2023. Building on the success of the Swindon Paint Fest last October, inSwindon BID has introduced the trail, which will include murals, statues and sculptures together with light and mosaic installations.

Visitors are promised an

eclectic mix of stunning large scale artwork which will be both unique and thought provoking.

Having proactively funded local artists to create 12 murals in recent years in partnership with Swindon community charity Artsite & The Post Modern, inSwindon BID aims to continue to make art and culture free and accessible to all.

Anita Bellinger, inSwindon

& 23

BID’s Executive Director, said: “The trail is for all to enjoy and the experience is an opportunity to be outdoors and explore the town whilst getting some exercise, stopping for refreshments and a little retail therapy along the way.”

There are printed and downloadable versions of the map for the art trail experience in the Town Centre.

The physical maps will be available to pick up from Artsite & The Post Modern in Theatre Square, Swindon Central Library in Regent Circus, The Community Hub in The Parade, Waterstones in Canal Walk, Sewcraft in Havelock Street and Love Brownies in Faringdon Road. A map can be found at www.swindontowncentre. co.uk

Excitement builds for this year’s Festival of Tommorrow

Excitement is building as the full programme is announced for Swindon’s award-winning Festival of Tomorrow, with even more activities taking place across the town this February half-term.

Organisers are urging families to register early to secure their free admission tickets to the main public Festival, taking place on 17 and 18 February at The Deanery CE Academy in Wichelstowe.

LINK CULTURE

The free admission tickets, from www.festivaloftomorrow.com give visitors access to five exciting Discovery Zones to explore amazing exhibits, chat with leading researchers, engineers and artists, watch live demonstrations and take part in hands on family activities.

What’s on: The Discovery Zones

• Space For the Future Zone – supported by the UK Space Agency

Discover the latest on the UK’s role in the space sector, explore the universe with free planetarium shows, or make your own space-inspired artworks.

• Future You Zone – supported by Catalent

Delve into the science of what makes you you, discover some of the latest health and well-being innovations, and explore the links between science and art with free drop-in creative workshops.

• Tomorrow Makers Zone – supported by The James Dyson Foundation

Prepare to be wowed by amazing live demonstrations by some of the young scientists of tomorrow and try your hand at fun engineering challenges for all the family.

• Future Realities Zone

Discover how the latest tech is shaping our future, with lots of intriguing demonstrations and hands-on activities from organisations including Intel, Bristol University Bristol Quantum Engineering CDT.

• Our World Zone

Meet the organisations and innovators who are helping to care for our environment and tackle the challenges of climate change, with exhibitors including Reading University, Westmill Sustainable Energy Trust and the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust.

The festival is once again supported by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and festivalgoers will have the chance to learn more about the unprecedented opportunities to create value for society and the economy offered by research and technological advance, as UKRI CEO Prof Dame Ottoline Leyser will join Festival Director Dr Rod Hebden in conversation to launch the programme of events. Members of the public can visit www.festivaloftomorrow.com for the latest updates.

The Phoenix. Painted by Harrie Dearing Photographed by Michelle Whitmore.

The full show programme:

CULTURE

What can attendees expect this year? LINK

Bookings are open for a programme of spectacular shows, thought-provoking talks and inspiring panels, covering everything from how we’ll live on Mars, to the science of farts!

Tickets for under 18s are free for all talks and shows, but under 16s must always be accompanied by an adult ticketholder.

This year’s schedule of events includes:

• Rude Science

BBC Gastronaut Stefan Gates’ explosive new 2023 show reveals everything you always wanted to know about the revolting (but vital) science that no-one ever talks about. Expect zits, burps, farts, snot, scabs, pee, vomit, snot, blood, sweat and tears, all brought to life with stunts, rockets, fart machines, sneeze machines and enormous bottoms.

• The Dangerous Science Show

Festival favourites Wonderstruck return with their most dangerous show of all! The Dangerous Science Show examines the impact that our ability to use the energy of expanding gases has had on human civilisation. This show contains some of their most dangerous demos, from the Burning Bed of Nails to the Fire Axe Pendulum and even the Exploding Helmet of Pain!

• How to Live on Mars!

Humans will soon make their first trip to Mars. How will we get there? What challenges will you have to overcome and what spectacular sights await the successful? In a talk packed full of stunning visuals and the latest scientific thinking, astronomer and author, Dr Colin Stuart will take you on a journey to the Red Planet to witness the majesty of a Martian sunset.

• How to build a star? Can fusion energy save us?

As the world races to find a way to produce the energy we need without burning fossil fuels, solar, wind and nuclear fission dominate most of the debate. But the promise of clean, safe, limitless power from fusion feels tantalisingly close, but still out of reach. BBC science journalist, Roland Pease, gets straight to the crux of the challenge, to ask if we’re really going to get there.

• Can flying machines be part of a Green future?

From Hybrid electric planes to ion-powered drones inspired by Star Trek, the challenge is on to find the technologies to power the future of flight. Roland Pease takes on the future of flight in the last of his Big Questions series.

• Wild Isles and The People’s Plan for Nature

How do we mobilise a generation to take action for nature? Join us for a behind the scenes look at Wild Isles, a new national broadcast focused on UK nature, and the People’s Plan for Nature - new initiatives being delivered in partnership between RSPB, National Trust and WWF - UK.

• Science of Sport

From keeping elite athletes at peak performance, to getting the best from our own bodies, science is at the heart of modern sport. Swindon 105.5 presenter Ayaan Jami quizzes a former international rugby player, a sports science researcher, and tries out some brain-scanning tech being trialled to tackle sports concussions.

Wait, there’s more?

As well as the schedule of events found to the left of this page, there will be free half-term activities held across the town.

Don’t miss the chance to see SUN – a breathtaking 6M wide representation of our closest star, which will be installed at Steam – Museum of the Great Western Railway between Tuesday 12 and Sunday 18 February. A collaboration between British artist Alex Rinsler and leading solar physicist Professor Robert Walsh, SUN uses a moving digital projection to present data from NASA’s Solar Dynamic Observatory in 360° with smoke effects to mimic the sun’s outer atmosphere

The cosmic art theme continues as Swindon artist Harrie Dearing illuminates the Small Pool at the Health Hydro with a unique immersive art installation, Stories Written in the Stars, and an Augmented Reality space trail will take people around the town centre.

LINK POETRY

How a kind word and a smile can change everything for the better

Maurice Spillane: Of Poetry Swindon

I’ve dark feelings when winter clouds are grey and miserable over Swindon

Even the dog is laconic, still wants his walks, happy to jump in the stream but cringes when I unravel the hose. The garden paths are slippery, been on a list for weeks, but I’ve no energy to hose them while it’s raining. I could go on.

Then I enter a pub or shop or café and my mood

is lifted by a lovely smile, such as the server in Lidl, Greenbridge, who smiled and said “follow me” when I couldn’t find batteries; the smiler in Phone Fixers who fixed my phone and wouldn’t charge me; the Brazilian barbers in Excellent Cut who like winter; the ushers in Empire Cinema who really, really want you to have a nice day.

But the best is Emilie and colleagues in Choppers (A338 just after Burbage). Great food, reasonable prices, big smiles. On a cold, wet morning, that’s the place to be for breakfast. Here are a few stanzas from “Your Smile” which I composed there:

The open and close of a café door, the lift of your eyes, and the soft rush to your smile like a great big magnet pulsing heartbeats, my adolescent blush.

I wonder what magic exudes such warmth, replicates your smile with another’s, does for the inconsequent, as

comfortable as removing shoes by an open door.

I searched the Impressionists for such smiles but found few, perhaps Mona Lisa’s form blending the edge between colours in a soft transitional smile, but nothing of your warmth.

This is how we see ourselves and each other when we greet: Sunshine and open doors, dashed embargoes, opening teasers, all of these because of your smile, and more.

www.mauricespillane.co.uk

The Blunsdon Arms - a good lunch that could have been great LINK FOOD AND DRINK

By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk

My colleagues and I headed for The Blunsdon Arms in search of a hearty lunch ahead of a meeting and found one.

Or rather, we found half a dozen of them, each a fine antidote to the miserable January day outside.

The atmosphere at the venue pulls off the often attempted but rarely achieved feat of being bright and modern yet somehow homely in an oldfashioned way, and service after we ordered at the bar was efficient and friendly.

We ordered a diverse array of dishes from the

extensive menu, and while nobody was dissatisfied - completely the oppositethere were suggestions as to how something good might be made even better.

Old favourite haddock and chips (£11.99) came with a

generous serving of mushy peas and a perfectly crispy batter.

Upmarket sibling Posh Fish and Chips (£13.49), pictured, substituted sea bass and was rated delicious, although the colleague who

ordered it said he could have done with rather more chips.

Chicken, Bacon and Avocado Salad (£10.79) was rated delightful, and the Sweet Potato and Apricot Falafel Wrap (£6.49), with its contrast between sweetness and the savour of the chilli jam, was another hit.

Vegan Katsu Curry (£11.29), with mint and coriander rice, was also highly rated, although it would have been better with something like a small side salad for contrast, and the Vegan Greek-style Salad (£9.49) was tasty - although the recipient said it could have done with a little onion.

Alfie Howlett: Swindon Town FC writer

It might be a new year but the factors which make STFC the club it is very much remain.

Having been in the job for just six months, Scott Lindsey found himself poached by League 2 strugglers Crawley Town. This gave the Swindon faithful an all too familiar feeling of deja vu.

It also reflected the incredible downfall of Swindon Town. In 1993 they lost manager Glenn Hoddle to Chelsea. 30 years later in 2023 they’d lose their manager to Crawley.

The emotions which greeted the departure of Lindsey were unlike any I’ve seen before. Usually when a team is deprived of the services of their manager it’s met with

2023 Starts In True Swindon Town Fashion LINK FOOTBALL

an outpouring of grief from the fan base. Normally this is due to the fact that the manager would’ve made a great impression at the club. However, Lindsey made few impressions in his short tenure at SN1. Despite leaving Town in the play-offs his departure was greeted with relief. But why was this the case? To begin with, the style of play under Lindsey was tough to watch. The football lacked attacking intent and free flowing passing. This led to many fans feeling shortchanged after shelling out the pennies on a ticket. It was also widely noticed that Lindsey’s in-game management could be questionable. These factors meant that supporters

were rapidly losing faith in his ability to steer the club towards promotion. Therefore his unexpected departure allows the team to find a manager more suited towards the task in hand. At the time of writing Swindon are still searching for their 27th manager since 2000. But one thing is for certain, whoever fills the vacancy will have a chance to work with royalty. That’s right, after nearly 12 years away from The County Ground legendary striker Charlie Austin has returned. The now 33-year-old has signed a six month deal having left the sunny climes of Australia. In his first spell in a Town shirt Austin hit prolific figures, almost firing Swindon

to the Championship. Despite being on the decline it’s hoped that Austin can roll back the years and fire the Robins to promotion. On his homecoming Austin picked up where he left off to open the scoring with a trademark header. What better way to celebrate the return of the King than a coronation come May?

Based off the last month and general life at STFC we can safely predict that the next 11 months won’t be dull. Supporting Swindon is an emotional roller-coasterbut a roller-coaster I’m sure very few would want to get off. Here’s to hoping that the new man driving that roller-coaster knows what he’s doing!

AGONY GIRL

From the pages of Swindon Link's sister publication The Ocelot comes Agony Girl in the form of nine-year-old Amy. We read her the questions and she tells us the answers. To ask Agony Girl a question yourself email us at publisher@ swindonlink.com with 'Agony Girl' in the subject line.

Dear Agony Girl, I hear you are turning 10 years old this month.

How does it feel to be reaching double digits?

Tyler, Swindon

Weird. Because I’m turning into an old woman. It means I was born ten years ago which is ages. It means my hair will grow long and I’ll soon be watching Emmerdale every night.

Dear Agony Girl, I’m stuck for ideas on how to make Valentine’s Day super special for my other half. I’ve got loads of ideas like balloon rides and candlelit dinners but have you got anything that would be really romantic?

Tony, Toothill

Maybe you should just go on the spinny thing in London that goes round and round called The London Eye and then propose to her. Maybe have someone

dressed as Elvis with you so they can marry you.

Dear Agony Girl, I think I’ve been friendzoned as my crush seems to want to just go to the gym with me and have long conversations but there’s never anything romantic going on. How do I get him to move it up a level or should I just move on and find someone who likes me for me?

Sharon, Groundwell

You should ask him to go to lunch with you and then go to London for shopping and treat yourself if he turns out to be toxic and spend all his money. Friendzone him instead if he continues. Boys don’t like being friendzoned.

Dear Agony Girl

My husband and I invested in an electric blanket during the recent cold weather. It is one of those

fancy ones with different heat settings for the two sides of the bed. Unfortunately he tends to prefer his side so hot that the entire bed is like a furnace and I find myself retreating to the edge of my half with our cat.

How can I persuade him to cool his side down a bit?

Doris, Abbey Meads

Wake him and whilst he’s still half asleep blow a fan at him super cold and then pour a bucket of water on his head and tell him if he doesn’t change that you’ll do it every day. I just found out that a woodpecker is a kind of bird.