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#greatgateshead Air Quality Plans New Homes Free School Meals
Here to help every step of the way Losing a loved one can be such a difficult time. Having a funeral plan in place can help give you and your family peace of mind. We’re here to help, please call us now to discuss the benefits of a pre-paid funeral plan. 0191 433 4499 regentfuneralservices.co.uk Saltwell Road South, Saltwell Park, Gateshead, NE9 6DT Wholly owned and controlled by Gateshead Council.
Welcome Major changes to air
from Leader of the Council
Martin Gannon
quality plans
Welcome to the Page 5
Autumn issue of
Council News.
The Council has
declared a climate
change emergency
and is pushing
forward plans to be
carbon neutral by 2030. In addition to
committing to making climate change
an integral part of all Council decision-
making, we have developed new
proposals for tackling poor air quality Remembrance Free school meals
on Tyneside in response to public
feedback. Further consultation on
Day services Page 12
proposals will take place with directly
affected people and organisations Page 6
during the autumn before final
proposals are confirmed and submitted
to Government later in the year.
Did you know that more than half of
Gateshead is made up of countryside?
Autumn is the perfect season to get
out and about and discover those
hidden gems on your doorstep, from
the beautiful Thornley Woods which
features on our front cover to Windy
Nook Nature Reserve. Check out the
Heritage Open Days on p25 or follow
Join the herd
#greatgateshead on Twitter for more
ideas on great days out.
Page 25
There’s lots of good news stories in
your area and in this issue we feature
the Marley Hill bowlers who have
taken over running their own bowling
green and pavilion and the residents
of Beacon Lough East who have
secured £2.1m of funding to help their
community thrive.
We also include our regular features
health matters, what’s on and much
more, including local news and key
Gateshead Council News is designed and published by Gateshead Council’s Communications
activities taking place over the next few
Team. Every effort is made to ensure that all information is correct at time of publication.
months. An online version can be viewed at www.gateshead.gov.uk/councilnews
It is distributed by The National Leaflet Company to homes and businesses across Gateshead.
For delivery queries please contact: 0191 415 5527. Printed by Acorn Web Offset Ltd.
Front cover: Thornley Woods by Brian Bolt
Different formats: If you would like to receive Council News in large print, Braille, CD or mp3,
Martin Gannon please contact the communications team on 0191 433 2072 or 2433 or email
councilnews@gateshead.gov.uk
© Gateshead Council, Regent Street,
Gateshead NE8 1HH. 0191 433 3000
www.gateshead.gov.uk @gateshead gatesheadcouncil 3
NEWS
Climate change emergency Community heroes celebrated
declared
Gateshead Council is pushing forward
with plans to be carbon neutral by
2030 after joining more than 100
other councils in declaring a climate
emergency.
The motion, which was passed
unanimously by the Council in May,
has committed to making the issue an
integral part of all Council decision-
making to ensure it reaches its 2030
target.
In addition, it committed to everyone
across the Council working with other
partners to take responsibility for
reducing carbon emissions as rapidly
as possible, to make the whole of
Gateshead carbon neutral in the same Our Gateshead Award winners 2019 celebrate their success
timescale.
Councillor Catherine Donovan, Volunteers, carers and other
Deputy Leader of the Council, said: inspirational community champions
“The impacts of climate breakdown who go the extra mile to help others
are already causing serious damage in Gateshead to thrive have been
around the world. All levels of recognised at the annual Gateshead
government (national, regional and Awards ceremony.
local) have a duty to act, and that as a
The awards organised by Gateshead
proactive local authority this Council
Council in partnership with intu
recognises that we should not wait
Metrocentre, Hoults Yard, Galliford
for national Government to change its
Try Partnerships, Gateshead College,
policies to act.”
Northgate Vehicle Hire and Tarmac,
recognise the dedication of those who
Ward surgery correction have made a real difference to the lives Carer of the year Ethan Pringle receives
of others in Gateshead. his award
The ward surgery times for Chopwell
and Rowlands Gill were incorrect Leading the way were two youngsters
who are an inspiration to all who know in the first all-England female box cup
in the last issue of Council News. where she won a silver medal.
Surgeries take place on the second them. Ethan Pringle, who won Carer
Saturday of the month at Rowlands of the Year, has helped care for his Other successes included Low Fell
Gill Library 10-11am and the third parents and his three sisters while still Community Choir, who performed at
Thursday of the month at Chopwell at primary school. Lucy Carr, 12, was the event and won Music Group of
Community Centre 6-7pm. awarded Young Achiever of the Year, the Year, a new category for 2019 and
due to the time she has spent raising three Lifetime Achievement Awards
awareness of alopecia having lost her were presented to Pam Coogan, John
Action for victims of hate own hair when she was six.
crime Stephenson and Alan Scott who
The Winlaton Centre had double between them have dedicated over 100
Have you been a victim of hate crime? success winning Voluntary Organisation years to the Borough.
Would you be interested in using this of the Year while Eileen Bullock, who
experience to join Northumbria Police, volunteers at the centre six days a week,
Gateshead Council and Victims First was awarded Volunteer of the Year.
Northumbria in working to increase
referrals for support? Gateshead’s sporting heritage was also
brought to the fore. Whickham Football
Any Gateshead residents who have Club, which qualified for the top tier of
been affected by Hate Crime and are the EBAC Northern League for the first
interested can contact: Steven Kelly, time in 30 years, won Sports Club of the
Community Safety Co-ordinator, Year. Boxer Jade Childs was awarded
Gateshead Council on 0191 433 2701 the Maureen Chaplin Sports Achiever
stevenkelly@gateshead.gov.uk of the Year having won six out of eight
bouts last year and being chosen to box
4 Gateshead Council News Autumn 2019
NEWS
Major changes to air quality plans
following public feedback
New proposals for tackling poor
air quality on Tyneside have been
developed in response to public
feedback.
Changes to the plans, which must be
implemented for 2021, could include a
significantly smaller charging zone and
a possible delay to the introduction of
charges for car drivers.
Newcastle, Gateshead and North
Tyneside councils have developed
the revised proposals following
consultation feedback which
highlighted concerns about the
potential impact of charges on
individuals, businesses and the local
economy. from work, in particular shift workers Councillor Martin Gannon, Leader of
and those on lower incomes for Gateshead Council, said: “People told us
A shortlist of updated options, together whom switching to public transport or they wanted us to prioritise investment
with latest modelling data, has been upgrading to a new car would be more in roads maintenance and public
submitted to Government for review. difficult. transport improvements and these are
The three shortlisted options are: things we are focusing on.
Charges
• the original proposal for a Low “There is some additional work to do
Emission Zone in Newcastle city In response, councils are considering
before we can make a final decision
centre with tolls on the Tyne, Swing whether they could, subject to
but we believe we are now moving
and Redheugh bridges from 2021; Government approval, adopt an option
towards a package of measures that will
which would delay introducing charges
comply with the legal order we have
• a smaller charging Clean Air Zone for private car drivers.
been given, respond to the consultation
covering only Newcastle city
This would allow time for investment in feedback and, most importantly, make
centre affecting all non-compliant
public transport, walking and cycling our area cleaner and healthier for
vehicles, including buses, taxis,
routes to take place, creating better everyone.”
HGVs, vans and cars, from 2021;
alternatives to driving, and allow time
Further consultation on proposals will
• a smaller charging Clean Air Zone, for councils to look at the impact of
take place with directly affected people
again covering only Newcastle city other measures before introducing any
and organisations in early autumn
centre, affecting all non-compliant charges for car drivers.
before the final proposals are confirmed
buses, taxis, HGVs and vans from It would also give car drivers some and submitted to Government later in
2021 alongside junction changes additional time to take steps to prepare, the year.
and lane restrictions on the Tyne for example by replacing older cars with
Bridge and Central Motorway. For more information visit
vehicles that meet emissions standards.
www.breathe-cleanair.com
The changes to the area covered by
the Clean Air Zone reflect the fact
that the vast majority of people who
commented on it said they thought it
was too big and would lead to re-
routing of traffic through residential
areas.
Making the area smaller would reduce
the amount of re-routing and keep
more traffic on main roads.
During the consultation many also
raised concerns about how charges
would affect people travelling to and
www.gateshead.gov.uk @gateshead gatesheadcouncil 5
NEWS
Remembrance Day Services 2019
Some of the events taking place to
mark Remembrance Day on Sunday
10 November include: Field of Remembrance
• Cenotaph, Prince Consort Road
Service will start at 10.45am followed
by a wreath laying ceremony and a
march past.
• Leave Birtley Community Centre
at 10.30am for Birtley Cenotaph,
10.45am service and wreath laying
ceremony.
• St Nicholas’ Church, Dunston
Service will start at 10am followed by
a wreath laying ceremony at the War
Memorial, Dunston at 11am.
• Garden of Remembrance, Felling
(if raining please make way to
St Mary’s Church, Heworth).
Service will start at 10.45am followed
by wreath laying ceremony at 11am.
• Town Square, Metrocentre
Service will start at 2.45pm followed
by wreath laying ceremony at 3pm. For the eighth year running, the North East Field of Remembrance
A choir will be singing from 2.30pm. will be in Saltwell Park.
• Assemble at School Street, From Monday 28 October crosses will be available for a small donation in
Whickham at 10.15am and proceed various venues around Gateshead including the Civic Centre, the café in
to war memorial for wreath laying Saltwell Towers and a Royal British Legion stall in Saltwell Park.
ceremony at 10.45am.
Thousands of crosses will be planted before the dedication ceremony
All information was correct at time of takes place on Saturday 2 November at 10.45am attended by the Mayor
going to print, but may be subject to of Gateshead together with other civic heads from the North East and
slight changes – please check www. representatives of the Armed Forces. As part of the ceremony a two-minute
gateshead.gov.uk/remembrance for the silence, marked with gunfire, will take place.
latest information, including a full list
The field will remain open for two weeks after the ceremony for anyone else
of services taking place, or contact the
wishing to plant a cross.
Mayor’s Secretary on 0191 433 2011 or
email mayorsoffice@gateshead.gov.uk
Guidance for communities in an emergency
Although emergencies are rare, it’s Gateshead Council has developed
likely that some of us will experience community emergency guidance
the disruption, and in some cases the for residents and businesses that is
devastation, they can bring at some full of practical advice on how you
point in our lives. can protect and prepare yourself,
your property and businesses.
The disruption could be caused by
The document also gives contact Council and emergency services to
something out of the ordinary such
details for those who can help in keep your community safe during an
as severe weather or flooding, or
emergencies and the type of help that incident.
something more common such as a
they can give.
power cut. The impact might be an Search for ‘Community Emergency
inconvenience for some but could be You can also find out how to get Guidance’ at www.gateshead.gov.uk
life threatening to others depending involved as a Volunteer Community If you would like a paper copy,
on the health and ability of those Resilience Warden, using your skills contact us on 0191 433 3986 or
affected and where they live. and local knowledge to assist the email resilience@gateshead.gov.uk
6 Gateshead Council News Autumn 2019
NEWS
Council calls on Government to create
National Care Service
Councillors in Gateshead have called Councillors from across the political “There is an unacceptable gap between
on the Government to create a National spectrum gave their backing to NHS care which is free at the point of
Care Service to end what they say is the demands for the Government to end delivery, and social care which is means-
current ‘care crisis’. what they consider to be a major care tested. Making social care free would
crisis. close that gap and would make it much
At their Council meeting in July,
easier to integrate the delivery of health
councillors called on the Government The calls were led by Councillor
and social care services.
to fully fund the introduction of free Michael McNestry, Gateshead’s Cabinet
personal care and to build a care service Member for Adult Social Care, who said “In light of our ageing population we
that would work alongside the National England’s care system was in desperate need bold changes to deliver a long-
Health Service. need of reform. He said; term funding solution for social care.”
It is fundamentally unfair that
to access basic care many older Last year, Gateshead
people face catastrophic costs Council spent more than
that can run into hundreds of £66m providing adult
thousands of pounds, wiping social care services to more
out a lifetime of savings and than 2,600 people.
forcing some families to sell
their homes.
“We need a long-term sustainable Your vote matters,
funding solution that will make
essential care free at the point of use.
don’t lose it
We have
been
canvassing
Gateshead Freeman of the Borough dies households
since the
It is with great education saw him beginning
sadness that instrumental in of August
Gateshead Council setting up Haskel, to check that the details we hold
has learned of the a charity providing on the electoral register are correct.
death of one of education and If you haven’t already done so you
its Freemen of the support to children must respond to this form, even if
Borough, Ezriel with special needs there are no changes to report.
Salomon MBE. and disabilities. If we have not received a response
Mr Salomon Gateshead Council from you by 13 September, we
was a pioneer in Leader, Councillor will need to send out one of our
community liaison, Martin Gannon, canvassers to confirm the details on
Ezriel Salomon with Mayor your doorstep. You can avoid this
being a founder Michael Hood in 2011 said: “I am deeply
member of the saddened to hear by responding today. Details on
Gateshead Interfaith Forum, and his of the death of a true friend of how to respond are on your form.
much-valued work in the community Gateshead. If you cannot locate your form or
was recognised in 2010 when he your circumstances have recently
“In a life devoted to the community, changed, such as moving home,
was awarded an MBE. A year later he
Ezriel Salomon made an immense please call the helpline 0191 433
was made a Freeman by Gateshead
contribution to the life of Gateshead, 7001 or email electoralregistration@
Council.
both as an advocate and an gateshead.gov.uk
Mr Salomon devoted his life to the ambassador for the Borough.
wellbeing of Gateshead’s Jewish Remember, if you are not
“It was with deep sadness that we
community. He was head teacher of registered, you cannot vote.
heard of his passing. We extend our
Gateshead Jewish Primary School You can register to vote online at:
deepest sympathies to his wife and
for 35 years, and his passion for www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
family.”
www.gateshead.gov.uk @gateshead gatesheadcouncil 7
NEWS
Summer schemes helped to tackle‘holiday hunger’
Gateshead Council International Stadium were
delivered more activities fully booked.
and fed more hungry Up to 12,500 free places were
children this summer than made available.
originally planned.
Deputy Council Leader,
Earlier this year, the Council Councillor Catherine Donovan,
secured more than £200,000 who chairs Gateshead’s
from the Government to Tackling Poverty Board, said:
develop summer activity “We know there are children
schemes at 19 venues across in Gateshead today who don’t
Gateshead. The schemes get any kind of proper meal
were to provide free meals for outside of their daily free
children who might otherwise More Gateshead children benefitted this year from healthy school meal, simply because
meals and activities programme
go hungry, as well as a range of their parents can’t afford to
healthy activities. provide one. That’s shocking, and you
The schemes proved popular, attracting almost can’t imagine how this could
However, when the Council compared
hundreds of children daily from across happen in the fifth richest country in
the venue locations with the latest data
Gateshead, with venues in Chopwell, the world.”
on free school meals it realised that
Highfield, Birtley, Deckham, Winlaton,
there were worrying gaps in provision “But what has been a growing concern
Bensham and Dunston reporting
in parts of the west, east and south for us is what those families do during
between 40 to 50 children attending
of the Borough, as well as a need for the six-week school holidays when free
each day. One venue in the west of
increased provision in areas of greatest school meals simply aren’t available.“
Gateshead reported almost 60 children
need.
attending. “Fortunately, this year we’ve been able
As a result, it decided to increase the to provide some measure of support
Projects at schools at Parkhead,
number of venues and providers to for hard-pressed families and it appears
Kibblesworth, Birtley East and Heworth
ensure that there was enough to meet to have been well received. Hopefully,
Grange ran at full capacity and all
the needs of all children eligible for free we’ll be able to offer similar support to
the athletics camps at Gateshead
school meals. tackle Holiday Hunger next year.”
Gateshead news
Gateshead Archive – coming soon direct to you
Gateshead Central Library is on and community groups to use the
course to have an exciting new visitor collection. The Gateshead Archive
space which will improve access to will quickly become yet another
the unique local history collection fantastic reason to visit Gateshead YOUR LOCAL NEWS
held at the library. Central Library.”
You can keep up to date with all
Gateshead Archive will showcase Work will start in September to the news from Gateshead Council
thousands of books, maps, improve and extend the facilities. by signing up to our free email
newspapers and images from There will be limited access to the newsletter, Gateshead Now.
Gateshead’s past through displays, local history collections during this
touchscreen terminals and a study time – customers are advised to Highlighting everything from jobs
space suitable for individuals or check ahead to see what is available. announcements to changes to
groups. A new events programme, Study and computer facilities will bin collections, roadworks in your
including a touring exhibition, will be remain open, though in temporary area to fly tipping prosecutions;
held in community venues, allowing areas of Central Library. Gateshead the bulletin will be delivered direct
people across the borough to Archive is expected to open in early to your inbox on a regular basis.
experience the Archive. 2020. Sign up at www.gateshead.gov.uk/
gatesheadnow
Cabinet Member for Culture, The Council secured £499,200
Councillor Angela Douglas, said: “This National Lottery funding to help Can’t wait for us to deliver the
project will not only make resources deliver this project. news? Check out our online
more freely available but will also newsroom www.gateshead.
To keep up to date with gov.uk/news for top stories,
introduce improved study facilities
developments go to community news, planning
to support research and there will
www.gateshead.gov.uk/libraries decisions, events and more.
be activities to encourage schools
8 Gateshead Council News Autumn 2019
NEWS
Two Green Flags for Gateshead parks
Saltwell Park can still boast of being for the unstinting work of our army of
one of the best parks in the UK after volunteers who help us in our work.”
retaining its Green Flag for yet another
“The Council has seen huge and
year - but this year it has been joined by
repeated reductions in the funding that
another park.
is available to us, and that has meant
Chase Park in Whickham has also been a big reduction in the sort of activities
singled out for the prestigious Green that I know local residents value. Caring
Flag Award. for our green spaces is an area of
spending that has been hit just as hard
The two parks are among a record-
as any other.”
breaking 1,970 parks and green spaces
in the UK to receive Green Flags. The I’m incredibly proud that our
international award which is now in
its third decade is a sign to the public
volunteers, supported by our
that the space boasts the highest diminished parks staff, have
environmental standards, is well been able to maintain our high
Green said: “Receiving these Green
maintained and has excellent visitor Flag Awards is a mark of national standards and have kept Saltwell
facilities. recognition not just for our work to Park and Chase Park looking
Cabinet member for Communities manage and maintain these important absolutely beautiful.
and Volunteering, Councillor Linda and much-loved community assets, but
Funding available to help Gateshead thrive
Community projects across • support the most vulnerable “Through the Thrive Fund, the Council
Gateshead have another opportunity neighbourhoods or residents is able to invest in and support the
to benefit from funding to help their such as children and those with growth and development of these
neighbourhoods thrive. disabilities organisations.”
Last year 24 organisations were • help address poverty Further information, and the online
supported through the Council’s application form, can be found at the
• build relationships between and
Thrive Fund with grants totalling Community Foundation’s website:
increase active participation by
£212,000. Groups benefiting included: www.communityfoundation.org.uk
residents
Friends of Chopwell Park, Gateshead
The deadline for submissions is
and Whickham ASC, Warriors • support and enable volunteering.
18 October 2019.
Community Project and Swalwell
Councillor Linda Green, Cabinet
Juniors Under 7s Football Club. Could
Member for Communities and
your project be next?
Volunteering, said: “Gateshead Council
We are looking for applications from is committed to supporting and
groups who have projects which: maintaining a vibrant voluntary and
community sector in the borough.
New rules for waste and recycling sites
A new permit scheme for people Residents will need to bring their Most councils already limit the
using the council’s Household Waste driving licence as proof of identity number of times residents with
and Recycling Centres (HWRC) is now and if it’s a hired van then the hire larger vehicles can use their HWRC
in effect. agreement will need to be presented. and the new rules have simply
brought Gateshead in line with other
Residents with cars don’t need a The scheme has been designed to
authorities in the region.
permit to use the Waste and Recycling discourage builders and other firms
Centres at Wrekenton or Blaydon, from illegally dumping commercial
For more information, and to apply
but the rules for people using larger waste at the HWRCs by pretending to
for a permit, please visit www.
vehicles such as pick-up trucks, vans be local residents instead of paying to
gateshead.gov.uk/recycling
or commercial vehicles have changed. dispose of it as they are required by
Permits will still be issued free but are law to do.
now limited to 12 a year.
www.gateshead.gov.uk @gateshead gatesheadcouncil 9
AT YOUR SERVICE
New quicker way to send
pests packing
A quicker, slicker way of getting help
with troublesome pests has been
Victims of Advance Push Payment launched by Gateshead Council.
Fraud (APP) may be able to get their
money back now that a voluntary The Council has created a new online
banking code of practice has come booking system which will ensure that
into force. people being pestered by pests can get
the expert help they need more quickly.
APP fraud happens when you are
deceived into transferring money The new system allows you to report
from your own bank account into a problem quickly and request a visit
one of a fraudster. For example, if a by one of our pest control experts. Our
person contacts you and falsely claims webpages have also been improved to which safe treatments we recommend
to represent an investment company make them easier to use. and outlining the cost.
and convinces you to transfer funds Making the request online also means They will then either apply the
to their account for a supposed you can report a problem at any time treatment or arrange a suitable time to
investment. If you’ve been conned in of the day or night instead of having to do so and, if necessary, agree further
this fashion, you may well be a victim wait to call within office hours when it visits to re-inspect and assess how the
of APP fraud. might be less convenient. treatment is working.
If this happens to you it’s important to Our pest control team offers a All treatments are competitively priced
contact your bank immediately. The comprehensive service which deals and in many cases can be applied with
quicker you act the better, as it could with all types of pests in your home or within 24 hours.
be possible to stop the transaction. business. Treatments usually begin with
However, even if the transaction is For more information, visit
a visit from one of our experts who will
completed you may get your money www.gateshead.gov.uk/pests
carefully assess the problem and advise
back courtesy of the new code. If a or call 0191 433 7000.
on the best way forward, explaining
bank breaks any of these obligations,
they must reimburse customers who
are victims of APP fraud:
• banks must show they are
protecting their customers from the More support for people experiencing
risk of bank transfer fraud
• banks must have systems in place
domestic abuse
that detect payments likely to be Victims experiencing domestic
linked to such fraud abuse will now receive additional
• banks must provide warnings to support from their local
customers about the risk of sending jobcentre.
money by bank transfer Around 600 jobcentre staff have
• banks have a duty to delay payment been trained by Women’s Aid to
or freeze funds they suspect might be a dedicated Domestic Abuse
have come because of a scam Point of Contact. They will be
able to identify and support the
Until the end of 2019, customers will needs of people experiencing
be reimbursed, even if the customer or domestic abuse so they can get
the bank are not at fault for allowing additional support from local
the fraud. No decision is yet made as expert services.
to what will happen after this date. do more to ensure benefit payments
In addition, Universal Credit claims are given to children’s primary carers.
At present the following banks have will also be made to the main carer’s
signed up to the scheme: Barclays, account. Currently around 60% of If you are a victim of domestic
Lloyds, HSBC, Metro Bank, RBS, Universal Credit payments go to abuse and need help or just need
Santander and Nationwide. women within joint claims but as to talk, call 0191 433 3333, we’re
If you have any questions, please many victims experiencing domestic available 24 hours a day. If you are
contact our Fair Trading Team on abuse may also be victims of financial in immediate danger always call
0191 433 3987. coercion, the Government want to 999.
10 Gateshead Council News Autumn 2019AT YOUR SERVICE
Help and advice about benefits and debt
If you are unsure what to claim, are
concerned about debt, or need general
guidance on benefits, the benefits team
can provide advice and assistance in
a way that suits you. We can provide
advice over the telephone, at the
Civic Centre or in your home in some
circumstances.
Changes to benefits for couples
The Government has made changes to
the benefits people can claim where
one member of a couple becomes
pension age but the other is still
working age. Previously if one member
of a couple reached pension age, they
could claim pension credit and remain
entitled to housing benefit. This often
of the couple is not of pensionable age, credit and housing benefit. This does
meant they received more income
Housing Benefit will end and the couple not apply if you are living in supported
through these benefits.
will have to claim Universal Credit. This or temporary accommodation.
The Government changes mean that in can mean they have less income than
most cases where the younger person if they had been able to claim pension
To find out when you or your partner will reach pension age visit: www.yourpension.gov.uk/when-will-i-get-it
To claim Universal Credit visit: www.gov.uk/universal-credit.
For more information about housing benefit visit: www.gateshead.gov.uk/housingbenefit
If you need advice or help about benefits or debt please contact us Monday to Friday, 9am to 4.30pm on 0191 433 3677 or
0191 433 3675 or email benefitswelfareadvice@gateshead.gov.uk
Stay safe in your own home Report deliberate
fires
If you or someone living in your
property has a disability, you may Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue
qualify for a Disabled Facilities Grant. Service (TWFRS) have launched
Adaptations can help keep people ‘Firestoppers’ an anonymous
safe and independent in their home. reporting phone number and
Some examples where it can assist online form which can be used to
are with access to the bathroom, provide information on deliberate
bedroom or kitchen, or to improve fires in your area.
the way that you get in and out of the With your help, TWFRS aim
property. to reduce deliberate fires, the
Gateshead residents who are owner impact in our community and the
occupiers, tenants or licensees with a demand on emergency services.
substantial and permanent disability If you have information on who
and/or anyone caring for an adult or is responsible for setting fires,
child have the potential to apply for a call 0800 169 5558 or log on to
Disabled Facilities Grant. www.firestoppersreport.co.uk
in accordance with Government
Depending on your income, you regulations. Reporting is 100% anonymous.
may need to pay towards the cost
of the work to the property. The If you feel that you need an
amount of grant awarded is decided adaptation to your home, please
by conducting a Test of Resources contact Adult Social Care Direct on
(Means Test) which is carried out 0191 433 7033.
www.gateshead.gov.uk @gateshead gatesheadcouncil 11AT YOUR SERVICE
Free school meals
Don’t let your child miss out on more than just
a free meal
Free school meals are good for your
child – but their school benefits too.
If your child is eligible for free school
meals, your child’s school can access
up to £1,320 per year, per child from
the Government. This is called the
pupil premium. This money is given
to schools to help narrow the gap
between disadvantaged children and
their classmates.
The school receives money each year
for any child whose parents have
claimed free school meals at any point
in the past six years. This could mean an
extra £7,920 of funding per pupil during
your child’s time at primary school and School meals: nutritious and beneficial
an extra £4,675 during their time at
secondary school. All children in Reception, Year 1 and Worried a free school meal will single
Year 2 receive free school meals your child out? Don’t be.
Schools can choose what to spend
automatically but you should still apply
their pupil premium money on as they In the dinner queue it’s impossible to
to guarantee the extra funding for your
are best placed to know what would tell who receives a free school meal
child’s school and so you can continue
be of most benefit to children who are and who doesn’t. That wasn’t always
to get a free school meal as they get
eligible. The kinds of things that schools the case in the past but things have
older.
spend this money on include: changed.
Even if your child takes a packed lunch
• extra tuition Whether you pay for your child’s meals
each day, it’s important to still apply so
• more teaching assistants or you register for free meals, both
the school can claim this extra money.
processes are completely private and
• music lessons If you don’t your child could be missing
confidential so when your child stands
out.
• running catch up sessions or with their friends at the servery nobody
additional help sessions will ever know how those meals have
To find out if you qualify for free
been paid for.
• educational trips and visits school meals call 0191 433 3729,
• breakfast and after-school clubs email benefitsfsm@gateshead.gov. Fussy eaters
uk or visit www.gateshead.gov.uk/
• resources that help boost children’s freeschoolmeals We know children can be fussy – that’s
learning such as laptops and tablets why we have a varied menu with a
choice of two main courses every day.
Our staff encourage children to try new
Five reasons why a school meal is better than a dishes, vegetables and fruits because
packed lunch eating a school meal is also about
learning about food.
• A freshly prepared meal provides more (and better) nutrition than a typical
But we’re fussy, too!
packed lunch
• Children who have a proper lunchtime meal concentrate better and learn You won’t find anyone fussier than
more quickly us about the food we feed to your
children. That’s why we only buy quality
• Eating together helps children to develop social and interpersonal skills
ingredients from good local suppliers.
• Our varied menu teaches children about the world’s foods You can see where they come from on
• They taste great! a food map we publish on our website.
This explains where everything comes
To see the latest tasty menus and to find out more about school meals visit
from, and the standards we
www.gateshead.gov.uk/schoolmeals
work to.
12 Gateshead Council News Autumn 2019LEARNING AND LIFESTYLE
Art Diamonds
If you’re retired and feel like you
need a new challenge why not join
our Art Diamonds? We have lots of
creative workshops and activities
in libraries around Gateshead,
they’re free, friendly and great for
meeting new people.
You don’t have to be arty or good at
drawing, it’s just about having a go.
So far our Art Diamonds have made
woodland art, bird sculptures, tried
Chinese calligraphy, made animations,
made paper tea cups while trying chai
tea and doodled with their eyes closed.
John Watts, 84, from Crawcrook heard
about Art Diamonds in his local library
and fancied trying something new.
John who used to work in sales at
Ringtons and Cadbury has always had
an interest in making things, especially
in wood, but with a busy job and three
children with his late wife Isobel, he
could only fit in the odd class in the Art Diamond John Watts shows off his handiwork
evening.
“So far I’ve tried papercutting, visited
an exhibition, made a mosaic tile and and it can be difficult to try something Birtley; drawing workshops at Blaydon
thrown pots on a wheel,” he said. “Art new. I love it as they take pity on me as Library; textiles and papercraft at
Diamonds is brilliant - it’s nice to work I’m often the only man in the room. I Central Library plus lots more.
with artists and learn some of their don’t want to be a couch potato, you’ve
skills. It helps to keep my brain active got to enjoy life so just come along, To join in with our Art Diamonds
and hands busy and it’s always good to relax and give it a go, you’ll enjoy it!” activities contact Karolynne Hart
find new interests.” or Jen Douglas at Gateshead
This autumn we’ve got a busy
Library on 0191 433 8492 or email
If you’re tempted but a bit nervous, John programme of activities including
jenniferdouglas@gateshead.gov.uk
has some great advice: “I used to be shy creative writing at Whickham and
Digital skills support
Whether you’re looking for a job, hoping to access the best
online deals or just wanting to keep in touch with friends and
family, Gateshead Libraries can help you improve your digital
skills.
Courses available include:
• Life Skills - a series of sessions to support jobseekers looking
to learn online basics with a jobseeking focus
• Coffee, Cake & Computers - learn basic internet skills
including shopping, social media and managing money
online.
• Start IT Entry Level 3 Award in Online Basics – a 10-week course, starting 25 September, 10am-noon at Gateshead
Central Library, to improve your computer skills. Available free to job seekers.
For more information email jacquithompson@gateshead.gov.uk, visit www.gateshead.gov.uk/libraries
or call 0191 433 8406.
www.gateshead.gov.uk @gateshead gatesheadcouncil 13LEARNING AND LIFESTYLE
Free childcare – don’t miss out
If your child is two or coming up to their
second birthday, don’t forget, you could
be entitled to 15 hours of free early
education and childcare with most of
Gateshead’s day nurseries and some
pre-schools and childminders.
Plus - did you know that all three or
four year olds are automatically entitled
to 15 hours free childcare? If you are a
working family, you may also qualify for
an extra 15 hours depending on your
eligibility. This is based on 38 weeks of
the year, although the hours may be
stretched so your child uses fewer hours
each week over more weeks, where
available.
It can offer you more flexibility as
you can also spread your hours over
more than one childcare provider. So
if your nursery or school playgroup is Don’t miss out, you’ll find all the information you need including eligibility
only open for 15 hours each week, for criteria and application forms at www.gateshead.gov.uk/freechildcare
example, you can use your extra hours or phone 0191 433 5118.
with other childcare providers including
some childminders. For a list of childcare providers go to www.gateshead.gov.uk/fiso
Apply online for your Community comes
together for Day of
child’s school place Peace
To celebrate Gateshead’s growing
If you live in Gateshead and your diverse population, Gateshead
child is due to start a secondary, Council learningSkills is organising
primary, infant or junior school for an International Day of Peace.
the first time in September 2020, you The open day will take place
can apply online from 9 September Friday 20 September, 10am-2pm
2019 for the schools of your choice. in the learningSkills offices in
The closing dates for submitting Gateshead Interchange (behind
applications are: bus stand D).
• 31 October 2019 - for secondary Please come along and share
school admissions the celebration with us and
get an insight into the diverse
• 15 January 2020 - for primary, communities in Gateshead.
infant and junior school admissions Representatives will be attending
You can apply online at: from a wide range of cultures,
showcasing their different cultures
www.gateshead.gov.uk/ and traditions.
schooladmissions
Refreshments will be available.
The online system is easy to use and
there’s no risk of your application
getting lost in the post. You receive Alternatively, you can request a
confirmation when we get your form paper application form from the
and we email you confirmation of school admissions team on 0191
which school your child has been 433 2757 or 0191 433 2756.
offered on allocation day.
14 Gateshead Council News Autumn 2019LEARNING AND LIFESTYLE
Learn new skills and more Volunteer opportunities
There are lots of opportunities
Providing learning opportunities is a for getting involved in your local
key part of the Council’s commitment community - here are just some
to making Gateshead a place where of them. If you are interested in
everyone thrives. any of these roles, please email
People who learn are less likely to volunteering@gateshead.gov.uk
be in debt, are more likely to find
Felling Volunteer Library is looking
employment and stay employed, have
for volunteers to help out Monday
better physical, social and mental
to Friday with opening/closing the
health; are more likely to have children
library; issuing, returning and tidying
who are successful in education and
up of books and assisting the public
have a greater income.
with queries. Volunteers must be
We offer a high-quality learning and over 18 and have basic literacy, IT and
skills service that delivers more than numeracy skills.
300 courses and activities throughout
the year both during the day and in the
evening.
We can also offer information, advice tuition, great value for money and all
and guidance to help choose the right the support and advice you need.
course for you.
Gateshead Council’s learningSkills
So why don’t you join us? You could provision is rated as ’Good’ by Ofsted.
discover skills you never knew you had,
kick-start new career opportunities with If you want to be successful in
qualifications, meet like-minded people learning talk to us. Call 0191 433
and make new friends in a warm, 8646 or check out our course
directory at www.starttolearn.uk Northumbria Police is looking for
welcoming environment with excellent volunteers to put their diverse skills
and experiences to use in roles such
as Special Constables, Cyber-Crime
Apprentice opportunities
Specialists, Community Speed Watch
Volunteers, Police Cadets and much
more. If you have any questions
or would like to find out more
please email Citizensinpolicing@
northumbria.pnn.police.uk
Gateshead Council is looking for
volunteers to provide a befriending
and support service to the victims of
non-criminal anti-social behaviour
incidents. Volunteers will provide
telephone support to the victim on
a regular basis and will be provided
with a basic mobile phone and credit
to do this. They will also complete an
evaluation form at the end of their
involvement with each victim.
Looking for an apprenticeship or know someone who is? Gateshead Council
learningSkills have businesses across the North East waiting to employ an
apprentice. Training can be done online and
Wages range from £129 - £225 per week in vocations such as admin, digital volunteers will need to be able to
marketing, retail, customer service, personal trainer plus more. To apply, drop in or contact the relevant Council
complete our online application form and one of our team will call you officers on a regular basis or when
within 24 hours www.gateshead.gov.uk/applynow required.
www.gateshead.gov.uk @gateshead gatesheadcouncil 15JOBS AND ECONOMY
New homes for Gateshead
Housing developments across
Gateshead are moving ahead providing
residents with more choice and quality
than ever.
Clasper Village is a 12-acre site to the
west of Gateshead town centre. The
Council is further developing this
brownfield site for family housing
and apartments to meet demand
and broaden the housing offer within
Gateshead.
We’ve already invested significantly
in the Clasper Village site, including
funding the demolition costs. The Beautiful new homes at Clasper Village
surrounding area has also benefited
from extensive redevelopment of Further west in Blaydon, in partnership Homes, Keepmoat Homes and the
housing along the riverside at Dunston with Keepmoat Homes, we’ve started Council that we are able to celebrate a
Staiths as well as significant economic work on 183 homes in Bleach Green. start on site.”
and cultural investment to the
The development will include 156 two, Since 2010 more than 3,400 new homes
Gateshead Quays area.
three and four-bedroom homes for have been built in Gateshead, 770 of
Council Chief Executive, Sheena private sale, five for shared ownership, which were built as affordable. Read
Ramsey, said: “Clasper Village’s £30 18 for affordable rent and four rent-to-buy. our new Housing Strategy to find out
million transformation will be a game- how we plan to ensure 60% of all new
Councillor John Adams, Cabinet
changer for the Borough’s economy in homes are suitable and attractive to
Member for Housing at Gateshead
terms of new homes, construction jobs families.
Council, said: “This is a challenging site
and growth and is part of an ambitious
and it is through continued partnership www.gateshead.gov.uk/
programme of house building we have
between Homes England, Keelman HousingStrategy
planned.”
Energy grant
helps print firm
save money
JMF Group Ltd, a print and design
company based in Swalwell, received
for employment
a grant of £7765 to make energy JML Group Ltd receive £7765 of Are you unemployed or looking
efficiency changes. funding to save on energy costs for your next job opportunity?
They used the grant to assist their If so, Gateshead Works can help.
businesses to take advantage of the
purchase of an air to heat pump, Our new job matching service
advice and funding being offered.”
a low carbon air source that can could help you secure a job,
provide four times as much energy Michael Foggin, Chairman of JFM apprenticeship or traineeship
compared to a standard electrical Group Ltd, said: “The process was with a top Gateshead employer.
heater. The new equipment will made simple and hassle free. This
produce an annual greenhouse gas heating system has allowed us to Find out more and register
saving of 7.2TC02e. move one step closer in reducing our your details at
carbon footprint and becoming a www.gateshead.gov.uk/
Cllr Malcolm Brain, cabinet member gatesheadworks
zero emissions company.”
for economy said: “Rising energy
bills are one of the biggest spends For more information about BEST
for businesses. The BEST project and an eligibility check contact
helps to cut energy costs and save business@gateshead.gov.uk We’re now on LinkedIn
money whilst making a valuable
contribution to reducing harmful
emissions. I encourage Gateshead Search ‘Business Gateshead’
16 Gateshead Council News Autumn 2019JOBS AND ECONOMY
Quays one step closer Funding available
Gateshead Goes Local is investing
EU funding to grow the local
economy in disadvantaged
neighbourhoods.
We are looking for innovative
projects that will provide job
opportunities for people and
enable businesses to grow.
We offer:
• a range of funding, for projects
Stunning new image of arena, conference and exhibition centre courtesy of HOK of different sizes starting from
£20,000
Renowned venue management East has always been an important • support during the funding
group SMG Europe has officially been region for SMG and we look forward process
announced as the operator for a new to building upon the ongoing success
arena, conference and exhibition centre of the Utilita Arena and Whitley Bay • a Local Action Group
on Gateshead Quays. Playhouse, to further develop the (representatives from Gateshead)
events landscape and strengthen the who ensure funding is spent fairly
John Sharkey, Executive Vice President and wisely
North East economy.”
of SMG Europe said: “We’re delighted
to be working with Gateshead Council Councillor Martin Gannon, Leader of Richard Talbot-Jones, Acting
on this exciting scheme, to move our Gateshead Council, said: “This is an Chair of Gateshead Goes Local
established business across to such exciting step forward for Gateshead and Action Group (LAG), said: “ I would
an iconic, central location. The North North East England.” encourage organisations to
consider applying for funding for
Working with SMG is a game changer for the project and for projects that increase employability
this landmark site. It will build on our existing iconic developments and bring people closer to the job
on Gateshead Quays creating a truly world-class cultural, events, market.”
entertainment and business destination.
clldinfo@gateshead.gov.uk
www.gatesheadgoeslocal.org.uk
1000 + 296,000 more £29 million for
jobs visitors per year regional economy
Your Gateshead – Your Future
We’re consulting on a planning There are lots of ways to get involved:
framework to inform the development
LOOK: You can view the draft development framework online at
of Gateshead Quays. This includes
www.gateshead.gov.uk/Consultations or during office hours at Gateshead Civic
proposals for several developments
Centre and Gateshead Central Library.
including an arena, regional conference
centre, hotels, bars, offices and ONLINE DROP-IN: We will be live on Twitter to answer your questions on
restaurants and improved public areas. Tuesday 17 September from 4-5.30pm. Follow us @Gateshead to join the
conversation
This is your opportunity to give
your views and influence the future EVENTS: We’re hosting a drop-in event on Thursday 26 September from 3-7pm
development of the whole quays area. at St Mary’s Heritage Centre. Come along to view the proposals and chat to
officers.
“Your views count – let us know
what you think!” www.gateshead.gov.uk/haveyoursayonplanning
www.gateshead.gov.uk @gateshead gatesheadcouncil 17HEALTH MATTERS
Give quitting a go for Stoptober
When’s the last time you tried to quit smoking? Stoptober is the nation’s
biggest mass quit attempt and it’s back this October.
Stoptober is a great time to give quitting a go and we’re encouraging families,
friends and groups of staff in workplaces to join in and support each other.
Nearly six out of 10 smokers say they would like to be able to quit. Did you know the
chances of quitting increase if you try to stop at least once a year until you manage
to stop for good?
Even if you have tried before and have not succeeded, you can come back more
determined and get the right support to help you quit.
Top tips:
• Smoking is expensive and you might • There are more ways to quit now than
be surprised at how it all adds up. ever before – from a stop smoking
On average, most people who quit medicine prescribed by a GP or
save around £250 each month. That’s pharmacist to visiting your local Stop
nearly £3,000 a year going up in Smoking Services for friendly advice,
smoke. What else could you spend support and encouragement to help
that money on? you stop for good.
To receive free help and support via
• Quitting smoking can help improve • If you’re struggling, it’s also worth emails, texts or the free app and lots
your health, as there are a huge range considering switching completely of other support visit
of health benefits including improved to an e-cigarette, a significantly less www.nhs.uk/smokefree
lung function, reducing your risk harmful option than smoking and
Alternatively speak to one of our
of a heart attack within a year and now the most popular way to quit.
Stop Smoking Advisors on
reducing your risk of cancer.
0191 433 3058.
How are you taking care of your Council stops
stocking full
mental health? sugar drinks
Having good mental A free NHS online guide,
health can help us feel M ental Healt To help you make healthier
ld h providing expert advice, choices, we have taken the
and function better, practical tips, and
r
Da
decision to no longer sell full sugar
Wo
have more positive experiences from
y
relationships with real people for those drinks like Coke in all Council
those around us, needing help or facilities including leisure centres,
and deal with and those wishing to help Civic Centre and Saltwell Towers.
manage difficult friends, family and We know that high consumption
times now and into the colleagues is available of sugary drinks can lead to
future. Over time, having 10t at www.nhs.uk/oneyou/
h October mental-health/
weight gain and related health
good mental health may problems, as well as tooth decay.
also reduce our risk of physical Just one can of Coke contains nine
health problems. cubes of sugar - two cubes more
• A free event is being held on
Every year 1 in 4 people in the UK World Mental Health Day, than an adult’s maximum daily
experience mental health problems Thursday 10 October at Shipley recommended intake.
which could include social anxiety, Art Gallery, Gateshead. You can Obesity is a key cause of
trauma, obsessions and compulsions, drop in from 11am – 3pm for free preventable death and disease
feeling low, having trouble sleeping advice and support on ways to in the UK. You can read more
or panic attacks. There are simple improve your mental health and about the challenge of obesity in
actions we can take to manage wellbeing. Includes live music, Gateshead’s Director of Health’s
these issues and prevent them from activities and taster sessions. Annual Report at www.gateshead.
becoming more serious. gov.uk/health
18 Gateshead Council News Autumn 2019HEALTH MATTERS
Look after your eyes Recovery
celebrations
to prevent falls A group of people in recovery
from substance misuse who are
now abstinent, are celebrating
Falls are preventable, not inevitable! It’s common eye diseases in older people completion of a training course
really important that we all look after are cataracts, age-related macular enabling them to help and
our eyes and have regular eye tests as degeneration and glaucoma. All can support others in Gateshead.
this can help prevent falls and improve increase the risk of falling, especially The Recovery Ambassadors have
our quality of life. if left undetected and untreated. A completed their qualification in
problem with our vision can be the Peer Mentoring, which means
It’s normal for our vision to change as
reason for poor mobility, sometimes that they can help share their
we get older, including:
without us realising that there is experiences and reduce the
• losing the ability to focus on things anything wrong. stigma and shame that can come
that are close up. Some people also
Did you know that sight tests for people from addiction.
find they start to need glasses to see
aged over 60 are free, covered by the A celebration event took place
the television clearly and for outside
NHS. An optometrist can visit your in front of family, friends and
as well
home to do the sight test if you can’t colleagues of Gateshead Recovery
• finding that it takes longer to adapt manage to visit them by yourself. Partnership. The event also
to changing lighting conditions
To find a local optometrist visit marked a milestone for those who
• finding that we need more light to www.lookafteryoureyes.org have completed three months of
see things For further information about the new rehab programme.
preventing falls visit www. Problems with substances
As we get older we are also more
ourgateshead.org/falls-prevention can happen to anyone, but it’s
likely to develop eye disease. The most
important to know that support is
available.
If you would like more
information or to access support
from Gateshead Recovery
Partnership call 0191 594 7821
or visit the centre in person at
47c Jackson Street in Gateshead.
Voluntary and
community groups!
Check out help and resources
available to you at www.
gateshead.gov.uk/volunteering
Sexual health advice
Gateshead Sexual Health Service works continuously in the
community to break down barriers in discussing sexual health issues,
safe sex, normalising condom use and encouraging regular screening.
The service campaigns throughout the year and is very active in the
community working with partners such as pharmacies, GPs, colleges
and many other services to increase the uptake of STI testing and
condom provision across Gateshead.
Gateshead Sexual Health Service has recently launched a new online
commercial to promote the many services it offers.
To watch the promotional video and find out more visit the
website www.gatesheadsexualhealth.co.uk
www.gateshead.gov.uk @gateshead gatesheadcouncil 19You can also read
