NOVEMBER 2018 - The community magazine of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council Big plans, bright future - Stockton Council

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NOVEMBER 2018 - The community magazine of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council Big plans, bright future - Stockton Council
NOVEMBER 2018
www.stockton.gov.uk/stocktononteesnews

                                         The community magazine of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council
                                                                              Big plans, bright future
NOVEMBER 2018 - The community magazine of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council Big plans, bright future - Stockton Council
CONTENTS
                      Christmas & New Year
                          opening times
        For full details of Christmas & New Year opening times for Council buildings visit
      www.stockton.gov.uk/festivehours and for leisure venues visit www.teesactive.co.uk

Customer Services telephone                                            Registration and Bereavement
contact details                                                        Services
Main switchboard............................... 01642 393939           Monday 24 December......................... 8.30am-5pm
Care for Your Area.............................. 01642 391959          Christmas Day &
                                                                       Wednesday 26 December................... closed
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       6                                               35                                                  36
Taxation............................................... 01642 397108
                                                                                                                                           The Globe                                                                                                                             Royal recognition                                     Do your bit!
Housing Benefits................................ 01642 393829          Thursday 27 December...................... 8.30am-5pm

                                                                                                                                     CONTENTS
Monday 24 December......................... 8.30am-1pm                 Friday 28 December .......................... 8.30am-4.30pm
Tuesday 25 & Wednesday 26 December.closed                              Saturday 29 December (Registration) 8.30am-5pm
Thursday 27 December...................... 8.30am-5pm                  Monday 31 December ........................ 8.30am-5pm
Friday 28 December........................... 8.30am-4.30pm            Tuesday 1 January.............................. closed
Saturday 29 & Sunday 30 December.closed                                To make an appointment for the registration of a
Monday 31 December......................... 8.30am-1pm                 death, call 01642 527720.
Tuesday 1 January.............................. closed                 For emergency out of hours enquiries for all days
                                                                       except Christmas Day, contact the Security Centre on
                                                                       01642 618946.
Customer Service centres in Stockton
Central Library, Thornaby Central                                      Christmas waste and
                                                                                                                                      News Round Up
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        4        Economic Regeneration
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 and Transport                               6        Health and
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Wellbeing                             14
Library and Billingham Library                                         recycling collections
Monday 24 December......................... 8.30am-1pm                 Normal                       Revised
Tuesday 25 & Wednesday 26 December.closed                              Tuesday 25 December          Thursday 27 December
Thursday 27 December...................... 10am-5pm
Friday 28 December........................... 10am-4.30pm
                                                                       Wednesday 26 December Friday 28 December
                                                                       Thursday 27 December         Saturday 29 December
                                                                                                                                      Arts, Culture
                                                                                                                                      and Leisure                                                                                                                  18            Children and
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 Young People                           24            Adults
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Services                              29
Saturday 29 & Sunday 30 December.closed                                Friday 28 December           Sunday 30 December
Monday 31 December......................... 10am-1pm                   Tuesday 1 January            Wednesday 2 January
Tuesday 1 January.............................. closed                 Wednesday 2 January          Thursday 3 January
                                                                       Thursday 3 January
                                                                       Friday 4 January
                                                                                                    Friday 4 January
                                                                                                    Saturday 5 January
                                                                                                                                      Community
                                                                                                                                      Safety                                                                                                                       30            Strong
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 Communities                            31            Environment
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      and Housing                           36
Emergency Services always open                                         Collections will return to normal from
Adults Helpline................................... 01642 527764        Monday 7 January 2019.
Children’s Helpline............................. 01642 130080
Out of hours duty team....................... 0870 2402994
Tristar Homes emergency repairs..... 0300 111 1000                     Christmas cards
                                                                                                                                      Your Council
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   38            Ward Surgeries
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        41            What’s On
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            45
                                                                       Christmas cards, including cards with glitter,
                                                                       can be recycled using your white recycling bag.
Real Christmas tree collections
Christmas trees will be collected on your normal                                                                                                                                                                                                        Stockton-on-Tees News is published by      its partner organisations and local         Communications Team and designed by
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and       community groups and businesses. Every      Twentyseven Design. Pictures courtesy
collection day commencing Monday 7 January and
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        distributed to households across the       effort is made to ensure all information    of Dave Charnley, Peter Mernagh, Gary
ending Friday 1 February 2019.                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Borough free of charge. If you have not    is accurate and up-to-date at the time of   Walsh, Gilbert Johnston, Doug Moody,
Please leave your tree next to your wheeled bin on your                                                                                JUNE
                                                                                                                                     NOVE
                                                                                                                                            20172018 nonteesn
                                                                                                                                          MBER
                                                                                                                                            kton.gov.u
                                                                                                                                             ckton.go
                                                                                                                                        www.stoc
                                                                                                                                     www.sto
                                                                                                                                                                      ews s
                                                                                                                                                           cktononteesnew
                                                                                                                                                       k/stockto
                                                                                                                                                 v.uk/sto                                                                                               received a copy please call 01642 526098   publication. Your views and comments        Dawn McNamara, Ben Andrew, Andy
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        or email snews@stockton.gov.uk             are welcome.                                Berriman, DMC Images, Gazette and
normal collection day and it will be collected as refuse.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               others.
If you want to recycle your tree please take it to the                                                                                                                                                                                                  Stockton-on-Tees News aims to provide      Stockton-on-Tees News is produced
Household Waste and Recycling Centre at Haverton Hill                                                                                                                                                                                                   news and information about the Council,    by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council
in Billingham. For details of opening times visit
www.stockton.gov.uk/recycling                                                                                                                                                                   nity magaz
                                                                                                                                                                                                          ine of Stockt
                                                                                                                                                                                                                       on-on-   Tees Boroug
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 plans,gh
                                                                                                                                                                                                                              Borou
                                                                                                                                                                                                                            sBig
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           h Council

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Counc
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        bright     il
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               future   There is an audio version of Stockton-on-Tees News. Call 01642 526098 to order a copy or email snews@stockton.gov.uk
                                                                                                                                                                                       The commu
                                                                                                                                                                                                               ton-on-Tee
                                                                                                                                                                                                 zine of Stock                      bright future
                                                                                                                                                                                      unity maga                        Big plans,
                                                                                                                                                                              The comm

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              PAGE 3
NOVEMBER 2018 - The community magazine of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council Big plans, bright future - Stockton Council
NEWS ROUND UP                                                                                                                                                                                                 NEWS ROUND UP

WELCOME TO THIS
NOVEMBER EDITION                                                                                                                                                                             Volunteer
OF STOCKTON-ON-
TEES NEWS                                                     Ofsted praise
                                                                                                                                                                                             of the Year
                                                                                                                                                                                             A selfless Thornaby volunteer
Stockton-on-Tees continues to be a great place to do
business. You’ll find lots of news on new and growing
                                                              Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s Learning                                                                                    has been recognised with
                                                              and Skills service has been recognised as a
businesses in this edition. We’re also seeing healthy         ‘good’ provider of education in a new report                                                                                   a special award for her
progress in a range of major investments in the Borough,
including Stockton’s Hampton by Hilton hotel, the new
                                                              by Ofsted.                                                                                                                     dedicated work in the
leisure facility in Ingleby Barwick, our Borough’s own
crematorium and the restoration of the Globe.
                                                              Inspectors praised how the service gives individuals the
                                                              opportunity to learn new skills and enhance their prospects                                                                    community.
                                                              of employment. Staff were credited in the report as being                                                                      Mary Frankland scooped the Volunteer of the Year gong
We welcomed renowned retail analyst Bill Grimsey to           “ambitious for their learners and their community.”                                                                            at this year’s North East Charity Awards which celebrate
Stockton earlier this year. He gave his opinion on the        The service offers a wide range of courses designed to help                                                                    inspirational people and charities making a big difference
future of town centres and you’ll find both his feedback      people increase their confidence as well as gain new skills                                                                    to people’s lives.
and our plans for continued regeneration on pages 10          and qualifications. It also provides employability programmes                                                                  The retired St Patrick’s Catholic College teacher has been
and 11.                                                       and apprenticeship opportunities.                                                                                              commended for her decades of work as a volunteer helping
In recent months we have been celebrating everything          Turn to page 29 to read about the courses that will be                                                                         at Christ the King Mixed Ability Club in Thornaby, at Lorne
that is beautiful about the towns that make up our            available in 2019.                                                                                                             House in Stockton which provides residential care for
Borough. Residents have entered some amazing photos                                                                                                                                          people with learning disabilities and supporting refugees
                                                              For more information call 01642 527904, email                                                                                  and asylum seekers in need across the Tees Valley. Many
but there could only be one winner! Turn to page 31           learning.skills@stockton.gov.uk or visit the Learning and                                                                      other generous uses of her time include a role as chair of a
to learn all about “Our Beautiful Borough”.                   Skills team at Billingham Community Centre, TS23 2DA.                                                                          multinational football team, JFC United, which competes in
There has been some national focus recently on health                                                                                                                                        the Stockton Sunday League.

                                                              HERITAGE AWARD
issues and life expectancy and a lot of work is going on in                                                                                                                                  Mary said: “I’m very honoured to have been recognised for
Stockton-on-Tees to improve things. You can find out all                                                                                                                                     this award however there are many other people involved
about how the Council is working had to bridge the gap in
our area on our Health and Wellbeing pages starting on
page 14.
                                                              FOR PRESTON PARK                                                                                                               in these activities who should also be thanked.”

                                                              Preston Park Museum and
Despite the upcoming festivities, we shouldn’t forget how
this is a difficult time of year for many people and we
                                                              Grounds has joined other
                                                              prestigious heritage education                                    Norton teacher is the ‘Brain of Britain’!
are doing what we can to look out for those who are less      providers including the likes of
fortunate. Council services will continue to run across       Hampton Court Palace, Brunel’s                                    A teacher from Norton completed a famous double this summer by
Christmas and the New Year. For a list of contact details,    SS Great Britain and Edinburgh
                                                              Castle, in securing the Sandford
                                                                                                                                claiming victory in two prestigious BBC competitions – TV’s Mastermind
see page 2.
                                                              Award for Heritage Education.                                     and Radio 4’s Brain of Britain.
Finally, on behalf of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council,
very best wishes for Christmas and 2019.                      The award recognises the                                          Clive Dunning, 59, conquered the Mastermind challenge
                                                              “exemplary learning experience”                                   in 2014 by answering questions on his specialist
                                                              on offer to schools and families                                  subjects: TV comedy Blackadder, the life and work of
                                                              visiting the attraction, which                                    John Lennon, and the poetry of Philip Larkin.
                                                              covers a range of subjects and
                                                                                                                                His quest for the double was satisfied this summer when
                                                              periods across Stockton-on-Tees’
                                                                                                                                he came out on top in the Brain of Britain quiz, where he
                                                              maritime, industrial and social
                                                                                                                                gave correct answers to a whole host of tough questions
                                                              history - including the story of the Anglo-Saxons and what life
                                                                                                                                on history, geography and language among others.
                                                              was really like in Victorian schools.
                                                                                                                                Clive said of his victory: “I am delighted with my
                                                              The judges were keen to acknowledge that the museum’s
                                                                                                                                achievements given that I am the only person from the
                                                              galleries are “excellently designed” and cover topics in a way
                                                                                                                                North East and probably even further afield to have done
                                                              that is “very accessible for all ages” thanks to the “dedicated
                                                                                                                                the double.
                                                              and enthusiastic learning team.”
                                                                                                                                “It means a great deal to me as I’m really proud of our
Neil Schneider                                                You can learn more about the award at
                                                                                                                                area and it is a privilege to be able to represent it on a
                                                              www.sandfordaward.org
Chief Executive,                                                                                                                national stage. There has been a fantastic reaction to my
Stockton-on-Tees                                              Visit www.prestonparkmuseum.co.uk for information on the          victory from local residents. I’ve had people stopping me
Borough Council                                               latest events and experiences on offer.                           on the street to congratulate me!”

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NOVEMBER 2018 - The community magazine of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council Big plans, bright future - Stockton Council
ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT                                                                                                                                            ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT
                                                                                                                                 Naomi George, Catherine Dowson and Victoria Di Gregorio at the deli

 New opening date for the Globe                                                                                                  Hartburn deli success
                                                                                                                                 The Village Deli in Hartburn has been recognised nationally           Owner Victoria Di Gregorio says: “Unfortunately we didn’t win
 In our July edition we brought you news of how we’d            “So, we’re not messing about here. Everything we’re doing        after satisfied customers voted the venue into the final of           but we’re just so proud to have got to the final as it was our
 stripped the Globe “back to the bare bones” and in doing       is about making sure we deliver a top-class facility that can    the ‘Best Aperitivo’ gong at the English Italian Awards.              customers who voted for us to be there and they are the ones
 so, gained a full understanding of how the building is         host the biggest and best entertainment and really hit the                                                                             who count.
                                                                                                                                 The Darlington Road deli first opened in 2013 but its
 constructed.                                                   ground running.”
                                                                                                                                 recent success has seen it become “the centre of a vibrant            “I believe our success is down to the quality and range of the
 Unsupported walls, rotting timbers, a badly-corroded           ATG’s Business Strategy Director, Liz Smith, added: “This        community” with loyal customers enjoying the increasing               food and drink we offer, as well as the dedication of our staff
 underground drainage system and weaknesses in the roof         is a really exciting time for us as we start the process of      range of food and drinks on offer.                                    who have helped us build a reputation for customer care and
 structure were among the findings and it’s fair to say they    engaging with representatives of big acts with major box                                                                               attention to detail.”
                                                                                                                                 The star attraction is the venue’s Aperitivo Evenings,
 were much worse than we expected.                              office pull.
                                                                                                                                 available Thursday to Saturday, which features a platter of           For more information visit www.thevillagedeli.co.uk
 Unfortunately, the complex nature of the structural works      “And in the not too distant future we’ll be launching a          high quality meats, cheeses and drinks.                               or call 01642 941857.
 needed means the venue will open in Spring 2020 – a year       mailing list for the venue and creating a presence for it on
 later than planned.                                            our website so watch this space as there’ll be opportunities
 But that has not deterred the Globe’s operators, The
 Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG), who have started the
                                                                to sign-up and ensure you keep informed of what we’ve got
                                                                lined-up.”                                                       BILLINGHAM’S BUTTER
 process of approaching acts to play the live music and
 comedy venue.
                                                                To keep up to date with the progress of the Globe’s
                                                                restoration follow the journey on Facebook at
                                                                                                                                 BUSINESS
                                                                www.facebook.com/TheGlobeStockton                               Billingham is now home to an artisan butter manufacturer
 Project Director, Paul Dobson, said: “We know this is a once
 in a generation project and we know how much it means to                                                                       after two local residents swapped their jobs in the probation
 people – every tour of the building we’ve put on has been                                                                      service for a new career this year.
 fully booked within days.                                                                                                      Vicky Catton and Debbie McKay set up their business,
                                                                                                                                The Butter Girls, which is going from strength to strength.
                                                                                                                                The duo now supply their products to a range of impressive
                                                                                                                                gourmet restaurants and shops across the North East including
                                                                                                                                Wynyard Hall, The Tontine and Lewis and Cooper.
                                                                                                                                They make a range of handcrafted butters which they sell
                                                                                                                                at farmers’ markets and have also recently diversified into
                                                                                                                                producing a ‘posh pud’ range which is proving very popular.
                                                                                                                                Debbie says: “We take the quality of our handmade product
                                                                                                                                seriously and work closely with our Environmental Health Officer
                                                                                                                                to get the best products for our customers. We are delighted
                                                                                                                                with our success so far but we are not resting on our laurels and
                                                                                                                                we’re always looking for new opportunities and ways to develop
                                                                                                                                our business further.”
                                                                                                                                For more information about The Butter Girls and their products
                                                                                                                                visit www.facebook.com and search ‘The Butter Girls’ or contact
                                                                                                                                them at thebuttergirlsbillingham@gmail.com

PAGE 6                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           PAGE 7
NOVEMBER 2018 - The community magazine of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council Big plans, bright future - Stockton Council
ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT                                                                                                                                                  ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT

                                                                       Full steam ahead!
 The Council’s Director of Economic Growth and Development Services,                                                                                                                                                                  Richard Pratt, the Council’s Capital Programme
 Richard McGuckin (right), is pictured on site with Wilmott Dixon’s                                                                                                                                                                   and Projects Manager, with Paul Redman,
 Jason Barnes                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Divisional Director at Esh Construction

                                                                       Work to bring a new integrated
                                                                       library and leisure centre to
                                                                       Ingleby Barwick is progressing
                                                                       at a pace.
                                                                       The facility, on the All Saints Academy site, will include
                                                                       swimming pools, a health and fitness suite, a gym, library and
                                                                       customer service point.
                                                                       Work to create a new on site car park is ongoing, paving the
                                                                       way for the construction of the leisure centre itself to start on
                                                                       the existing car park in the new year.
                                                                       Richard McGuckin, the Council’s Director of Economic Growth
                                                                       and Development Services, said: “The centre is one of a
                                                                       number of investments the Council is making across the
                                                                       Borough and will house top-class leisure facilities alongside
                                                                       a new library.
                                                                       “It’s a much-needed facility for local people and we can’t wait
                                                                                                                                            CREMATORIUM TAKES SHAPE
                                                                       to see it taking shape.”
                                                                                                                                             Work to build a new crematorium in            Valley. Over the last six years, nearly        feature of the site along with other
                                                                       The building, scheduled to open in summer 2020, will be               Stockton-on-Tees is now under way.            80 percent of bereaved families in the         choices for memorialisation including
                                                                       operated by Tees Active, which already operates five centres                                                        Borough opted for cremation rather             a book of remembrance, a scattering
                                                                       in the area on behalf of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council.            Located on the former Blakeston School        than burial for their loved ones.              garden and a memorial wall.
                                                                                                                                             playing fields on Junction Road, the
                                                                                                                                             facility is being built by Esh Construction   Once complete it will be a modern              The crematorium will be open by
                                                                                                                                             on behalf of Stockton-on-Tees Borough         single-storey, state-of-the-art building       summer 2019.
 Hello Hampton by Hilton                                                                                                                     Council.                                      with two chapels as well as ample
                                                                                                                                                                                           on-site car parking.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          For further information visit
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          www.stockton.gov.uk/crematorium
                                                                                                                                             The new crematorium is being built
 It’s hard to miss Stockton’s new Hampton                              Hilton had to be fully satisfied with it before the rest of the
                                                                                                                                             to meet the needs of local people due         Tranquil and attractive landscaped
 by Hilton hotel as it makes its mark on the                           rooms can be fitted out and furnished.                                                                              gardens of remembrance will be a main
                                                                                                                                             to the shortage of facilities in the Tees
 Borough’s skyline ahead of its opening early                          It certainly looks very comfortable!
 next year.                                                            For booking enquiries, contact Sales Manager Lorna Hobson
 But here’s a sneak peek inside – this is a sample room put
 together during the construction.
                                                                       on 07956 285346 or email lorna.hobson@hilton.com
                                                                       The hotel’s social media accounts are now active too –
                                                                                                                                           Stobart Energy sets up                                                 Port Clarence Pr
                                                                                                                                                                                                                  got on board on
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   imary School pu
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  e of the famous
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    pils
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  lorries
 And you may be interested to know that an inspector from              check them out below.
                                                                                                                                           in Stockton-on-Tees
                                                                                                                                           Forty new jobs have been created at a new 16-acre
                                                                                                                                           biomass facility in Port Clarence operated by Stobart
                                                                                                                                           Energy.
                                                                                                                                           Based within Wilton Engineering’s site, the plant will use wood
                                                                                                                                           as a renewable fuel source to generate energy for the Stobart
                                                                                                                                           Group’s long-term projects. When it’s up and running, the site
                                                                                                                                           will receive up to two shipments per week of renewable fuel
                                                                                                                                           sources – weighing up to 5,000 tonnes!
                                                                                                                                           To celebrate the plant’s opening, dozens of pupils from the
                                                                                                                                           nearby Port Clarence Primary School visited the facility and got
                                                                                                                                           the chance to climb inside a famous Stobart’s lorry.
                                                                                                                                           Richard McGuckin, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s Director
                                                                                                                                           of Economic Growth and Development, said: “We are delighted
                                                                                                                                           to welcome such a huge brand to the Borough, and Stobart
                                                                                                                                           Energy join the other major international businesses who are
                                                                                                                          /hbhstockton     proud to call the area home.
                                                                                                                                           “It is a big vote of confidence from those involved which shows
                                                                                                                          /hbhstockton
                                                                                                                                           that the Tees Valley and Stockton-on-Tees are very much open
                                                                                                                                           for business.”
                                                                                                                          /hbhstockton
                                                                                                                                           For more information about Stobart Energy, visit
                                                                                                                                           www.stobartgroup.co.uk/stobart-group/stobart-energy                                                fuels to generate energy
                                                                                                                                                                                                                   The plant uses renewable
PAGE 8                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           PAGE 9
NOVEMBER 2018 - The community magazine of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council Big plans, bright future - Stockton Council
ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT                                                                                                                           ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT
                                                                                                                           “Local authorities should establish
                                                                                                                           events teams to manage a comprehensive
                                                                                                                           programme of activities driving footfall to
                                                                                                                           local high streets,” says the report.
                                                                                                                           The Council already has such a team and they help to
                                                                                                                           organise around 90 town centre events a year.
                                                                                                                           The likes of SIRF and Supercar Saturday pull in the

                                                                     THE GRIMS EY
                                                                                                        T HE
                                                                                             G R IM S E Y R E              crowds. Then there’s the specialist markets, with their

                                                                                  REVIEW 2
                                                                                                                V IE W 2   Daleks and dinosaurs!
                                                                                                                           And next year we’ll have hurdles on the High Street as
                                                                                                                           the Great North CityGames comes to Stockton.

                                                                                                                           “Town centres need to be re-fashioned as
                                                                                                                           community hubs,” says the report.
                                                                                                                           Stockton town centre is well ahead of the game in that
                                                                                                                           respect, having been transformed into a kind of outdoor
                                                                     “It’s time to re                                      community centre.
                                                                                     shape our tow
                                                                                                   n centres”
                                                                                                                           It has played host to community carnivals, Diwali-
                                                                                                                           inspired festivals and giant tea parties attended by
                                                                                                                           dozens of community groups.
                                                                                                                           The Council has supported venues like ARC and the

National spotlight shines on Stockton
                                                                                                                           Georgian Theatre, and looking further back, made a
                                                                                                                           conscious decision to invest in keeping library and
                                                                                                                           leisure facilities in the heart of town too.

A hard-hitting report by straight-talking retail expert Bill Grimsey thrust
Stockton High Street into the spotlight of the national media this summer.                                                 “Heritage is an important asset,”
The morning of the report’s release saw BBC Breakfast broadcast live from the High Street,                                 says the report.
while the Daily Mirror featured the High Street on its front page that same week.                                          Nobody wants identikit town centres.
But what did the report, ‘The Grimsey Review 2’, have to say? Well, it praised the Council’s                               That’s why the regeneration of Stockton town centre
‘proactive’ efforts to make Stockton town centre ‘a community hub’.                                                        has drawn so heavily on the area’s heritage – to give it a
And some of its findings might surprise you…                                                                               distinct identity.
                                                                                                                           For a prime example of that, look no further than the
                                                                                                                           Stockton Flyer automaton, which rises from a plinth
                                                                                                                           every day to pay loud tribute to our proud railway history.
“Town centres and high streets can no
longer rely on retail as the anchor for
why you go there,” says Bill.                                                                                              But what about empty shops?
Big name brands are disappearing from the High                                                                             Having relied on ‘bricks and mortar’ shops for more
Street. And they’re not coming back.                                                                                       than 200 years, town centres now find they have got far
                                                                                                                           too many shop units and not enough retailers to
Yes, shops are still a key part of town centres, and
                                                                                                                           fill them.
thanks in no small part to Fountain Shopping Mall,
Stockton has some great little independents.                                                                               Stockton is no different.The report points to an
                                                                                                                           ‘oversupply’ of shops, and a nationwide growth in the
But it won praise for offering events and high quality
                                                                                                                           number of shops standing empty for more than three
public spaces too – in other words, things that might
                                                                                                                           years.
encourage people to visit for reasons other than just
shopping.                                                                                                                  All of which has led Bill Grimsey to say: “I would shrink
                                                                                                                           the high street because with places like M&S closing,
                                                                                                                           it just means you don’t need as many shops.”

PAGE 10                                                                                                                                                                                                       PAGE 11
NOVEMBER 2018 - The community magazine of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council Big plans, bright future - Stockton Council
ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT                                                                                                                                    ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT

TALKING UP
TEES VALLEY
 ONE VOICE. ONE GOAL.

 For too long Tees Valley has suffered from negative              An adventure lover’s paradise, you can enjoy the
 perceptions from those both within and outside the               spectacular countryside by foot or bike, enjoy a river boat
 region. We think it’s time to change that.                       ride, canoe, kayak, paddle-board or try out our Olympic
                                                                  standard white-water rafting course. We’ve also secured
 We know that Tees Valley is a great place to invest, work,       major sports in the region, with the 2019 City Games set to
 live and visit and we want everyone here to speak with           take place on Stockton High Street.
 one voice, promoting optimism and opportunity across
 the region.                                                      Stockton is home to world-leading businesses and key
                                                                  assets, such as Teesdale Business Park, and major new
 People are the lifeblood of Tees Valley. Our infectious          developments, like the Hilton Hotel, will attract more big
 blend of humour and a can-do attitude makes our                  names. Add to this our highly skilled workforce and we will
 communities as unique as the stunning landscape                  ensure that businesses here prosper, creating new jobs
 we live in.                                                      for our people.
 We are proud of the impact our region has had across             We would like you to get involved in changing the story
 the globe including the first passenger train which              of Tees Valley by sharing these positive messages. You
 travelled to Stockton nearly two hundred years ago.              can visit www.teesvalley-ca.gov.uk/TalkingUpTeesValley
 The area is rich in culture and history with an array of arts    to find out more about what makes our area such a great
                                                                  place to invest, work, live and visit and start promoting
 offering and a packed programme of exciting events and
                                                                  pride, confidence and lasting growth across our area.
                                                                                                                                Stockton-on-Tees has a long-                                    John Fraser, Managing Director of Biochemica
 festivals, including the spectacular international festival of
 outdoor art – the Stockton International Riverside Festival.                                                                   standing tradition in manufacturing
                                                                                                                                that is still very much in evidence                            John Fraser, Managing Director, says: “Our base in
                                                                                                                                                                                               Stockton-on-Tees and the wider Tees Valley has helped
                                                                                                                                today. Through our regular Made in                             to provide us with top quality suppliers, a huge customer
                                                                                                                                Stockton-on-Tees feature we take                               base with further potential and a workforce to match – we
                                                                                                                                                                                               wouldn’t swap it for the world.”
                                                                                                                                a look at some of the Borough’s                                Biochemica celebrated a vintage year in 2017 as their tenth
                                                                                                                                manufacturing success stories.                                 anniversary in business saw them win the ‘Small Business of
                                                                                                                                                                                               the Year’ gong at the North East of England Process Industry
                                                                                                                                Based at their head office at Cowpen Lane Industrial Estate    Cluster (NEPIC) Awards, where they were recognised for
                                                                                                                                in Billingham, Biochemica Water is the largest independently   their recruitment, sales growth and product development.
                                                                                                                                owned water treatment company in the United Kingdom.
                                                                                                                                                                                               But the growth of the business is showing no signs of
                                                                                                                                Biochemica Water specialises in legionella control, boiler     stopping there.
                                                                                                                                and cooling water treatment as well as offering a full range
                                                                                                                                of chemical supply services used in the treatment of water     John says: “With the purchase of a business in Scotland,
                                                                                                                                and wastewater which are fully supported by the company’s      the setting up of our Northern Ireland office and potential
                                                                                                                                engineering and equipment solutions.                           expansion to Bangladesh, we are exploring new avenues to
                                                                                                                                                                                               export our expertise, knowledge and experience.”
 www.teesvalley-ca.gov.uk      info@teesvalley-ca.gov.uk                                                                        With a workforce of over 70 people they have a strong track
                                                                                                                                record in taking on apprentices from the local area, helping   To find out more about Biochemica Water visit
              @TeesValleyCA                                                                                                     them to progress into full-time work with qualifications.      www.biochemica.co.uk

PAGE 12                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                PAGE 13
NOVEMBER 2018 - The community magazine of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council Big plans, bright future - Stockton Council
HEALTH AND WELLBEING                                                                                                                                                                                           HEALTH AND WELLBEING

                                                                                                                                         Keep warm, keep well this winter
                                                                                                                                         Now that winter is here there are a couple of
                                                                                                                                         steps you can take to stay well including staying
                                                                                                                                         warm, and getting the flu jab.
                                                                                                                                         People most at risk from flu are being urged to get their
                                                                                                                                         vaccination free from the NHS.
                                                                                                                                         This includes pregnant women, children aged between two
                                                                                                                                         and 10, over 65s and those with long term health conditions.
                                                                                                                                         Primary school children from reception to Year 5 are able to
                                                                                                                                         access the nasal spray vaccine through school with consent
                                                                                                                                         from their parent/carer.
                                                                                                                                         The flu vaccine changes to fight the latest strains of flu, so
                                                                                                                                         even if you had a vaccination last winter you need another one
                                                                                                                                         this year.
                                                                                                                                         For more details contact your GP, health visitor
                                                                                                                                         or local pharmacy.

                                                                                                                                         When the temperature drops the risk of                            You could get help with:
                                                                                                                                         illnesses like flu, pneumonia, hypothermia,
                                                                                                                                         stroke and heart attack increases, so it is                       • Emergency heating
                                                                                                                                         important to keep your home heated.                               • Energy debt advice and welfare
                                                                                                                                         The Council’s Warm Homes, Heathy People scheme provides             benefits advice and assistance
                                                                                                                                         practical support to help vulnerable residents stay warm in       • Home handyman service
                                                                                                                                         winter, maximise their income and reduce heating bills.
                                                                                                                                                                                                           • Installation of smoke alarms
                                                                                                                                         In 2017/18 over £531,000 of previously unclaimed                  • Cold weather advice and support

The best start in life
                                                                                                                                         entitlement was secured for the Borough’s most
                                                                                                                                         at-risk households.                                               • If you are over 75 or you or a child you live with has a long
                                                                                                                                                                                                             term illness or disability, you may also be eligible for
                                                                                                                                         To find out more about the scheme please visit                      boiler servicing and repairs.
                                                                                                                                         www.stockton.gov.uk/warmhomes or call 01642 528215.

                                                                                                                                          Did you know Cleveland Fire Brigade also supports people who struggle to stay warm at home?
We continue to bring you news of how                              pregnant women receive antenatal contact since April 2018 –
                                                                  rising from only 34 per cent before the service began.                  You can borrow a heater, get help with a boiler breakdown, or other heating issues.
Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, NHS                                                                                                     Call 01429 874063 for further information.
                                                                  Every mother-to-be is provided with a named Health Visitor
health partners and other organisations                           and will be offered a home visit to get to know families, answer
are working together to tackle health                             questions and share information on this important time in life.

inequalities through the Borough’s Joint
Health and Wellbeing Strategy.
                                                                  They can discuss the benefits of attachment, how to prepare for
                                                                  parenthood, having realistic expectations and responsibilities,
                                                                                                                                          LIFELINE FOR STROKE SURVIVORS
                                                                  how it may affect relationships, feeding choices, healthy lifestyles
                                                                  and development. This gives every parent and caregiver a                                                                                A volunteer-led community group is providing vital
In the last edition we told you about a                           first point of contact with a Health Visitor which is intended to                                                                       support for people recovering from a stroke.
new 0-19 programme called Growing                                 continue until your child goes to school.                                                                                               Happy Talk Stroke Group            Happy Talk Stroke Group is
Healthy, commissioned by the Council                               New mums can also access free support at the new Baby
                                                                                                                                                                                                          meets every Wednesday from
                                                                                                                                                                                                          11am to 3.30pm at Sundell
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             led by local resident, Ron
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             Harbron. He says: “Anyone
and delivered by Harrogate and District                            Café at the Family Hub on Yarm Road, Stockton. Dedicated
                                                                                                                                                                                                          Court, Oxbridge and offers         recovering from a stroke can
                                                                   counsellors and volunteers are on hand to support                                                                                      a range of emotional and           join Happy Talk but we also
Foundation Trust (HDFT) to help families                           breastfeeding mothers and those who want more information                                                                              practical support to stroke        welcome people who are
give their children the best start in life.                        about baby feeding as well as providing opportunities for                                                                              survivors of all ages.             facing loneliness and just
                                                                   mothers to socialise.                                                                                                                                                     want some friendly company.
As part of its wider service for children, young people and                                                                                                                                               As well as providing advice
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             We offer sympathetic
families HDFT has launched the Health Visiting Service in                                                                                                                                                 and information, the group,
                                                                   For more information about the 0-19 service call                                                                                                                          understanding, advice, and we
Stockton-on-Tees. One of its main priorities is to focus on and                                                                                                                                           which celebrates its 25 year
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             always have lots of fun and
improve the services offered by health visitors to all pregnant    0333 3202 302 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday or visit                                                                                       anniversary in 2019, play
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             laughter together.”
women.                                                                                                                                                                                                    quizzes, puzzles and games to
                                                                   www.facebook.com/GWGHStocktonOnTees                                                                                                    aid speech and memory.             For further information about
Health Visitors work closely with midwifery colleagues from        To find out more about the Baby Café,                                                                                                                                     Happy Talk Stroke Group
North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Trust to ensure all pregnant                                                                                                                                                They also enjoy regular
                                                                                                                                         Ron Harbron (centre) with                                                                           contact Ron Harbron on
women in the Borough receive the very best antenatal care          contact Allison Thambyrajah on 07896 230084 or                        members of Happy Talk
                                                                                                                                                                                                          days out, meals and
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             dunelm2@hotmail.com
                                                                   atdesignsforliving@yahoo.co.uk                                                                                                         fundraising events.
and support. Their drive and passion has seen 87 per cent of                                                                             Stroke Group                                                                                        or call 0777 533 5359.

PAGE 14                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 PAGE 15
NOVEMBER 2018 - The community magazine of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council Big plans, bright future - Stockton Council
HEALTH AND WELLBEING                                                                                                                                                               HEALTH AND WELLBEING

 1             Free health checks                                                                                                      Lung Health Checks and smoking cessation
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                3
  The Council                 The checks are available at
                              every medical practice for                                                                                                                        Smoking is the                 or asthma. This helps to
  commissions local                                                                                                                                                                                            identify early signs of COPD
                              people who:                                                                                                                                       leading cause of long
  GPs to provide free                                                                                                                                                                                          and ensure smokers are
                              • Are aged 40-74                                                                                                                                  term irreversible              given support to help quit.
  NHS Health Checks
                              • H ave not had a heart                                                                                                                          damage to the lungs            Stopping smoking is the
  which help to prevent
                                attack or stroke                                                                                                                                known as COPD                  single most effective
  heart disease, stroke,
                              • D o not have diabetes or                                                                                                                       (chronic obstructive           way to reduce the risk of
  Type 2 diabetes,                                                                                                                                                                                             developing COPD and slow
                                kidney disease                                                                                                                                  pulmonary disease),            down the progression of the
  kidney disease, and
                              • H ave not had an NHS                                                                                                                           as well as a key cause         disease. It is never too late
  raise awareness               Health Check in the last                                                                                                                        of cancer, heart and           to stop smoking and the
  of dementia. Every            five years                                                                                                                                                                     benefits begin as quickly as
                                                                                                                                                                                circulatory disease.
  year more than 5,000        • A re not on medication for                                                                                                                                                    20 minutes after your last
                                                                                                                                                                                The Council supports           cigarette.
  people in the Borough         high blood pressure or
                                                                                                                                                                                smoking cessation
  receive a free health         cholesterol                                                                                                                                                                    If you would like support to
                                                                                                                                                                                campaigns like Stoptober,
                                                                                                                                                                                                               stop smoking please contact
  check.                      Contact your local GP to                                                                                                                          and commissions GPs to
                                                                                                                                                                                                               Stockton Stop Smoking
                              book yours.                                                                                                                                       provide a Lung Health Check
                                                                                                                                                                                for patients who are over 35   service on 01642 383819
                                                                                                                                                                                                               or visit www.nth.nhs.uk/

  Bridging the health gap
                                                                                                                                                                                years and who smoke, or
                                                                                                                                                                                have smoked, but haven’t       services/stop-smoking-
                                                                                                                                                                                been diagnosed with COPD       service

                                                                                                                          4
  Did you know that in the UK, males born in one of the most affluent areas of England will live on
  average 8.4 years longer than those born in one of the poorest areas, and females will live around
  5.8 years longer. Some of the main causes of death are heart disease, lung disease and obesity.
  Here in our Borough, the life expectancy in the poorest wards is 15.3 years lower for men and 11.3 years
  lower for women than those living in the most affluent wards, and that’s why the Council is working hard
                                                                                                                                    Staying healthy and active
  to close the gap. Here are some of the ways we’re tackling the divide.

                                                                                                                          We support children   The Council also funds a
                                                              Around 17,000 people          The NHS Diabetes                                    programme of free Borough-
                                                                                                                          and families to
                                                                                            Prevention Programme, a                             wide activities for children
                                                              in the Borough are at                                       become more           and families to enjoy holiday
                                                                                            partnership between NHS
                                                              risk of diabetes.             England, Public Health        active and eat        activities and healthy food.
                                                                                            England and Diabetes          healthier through     These sessions include
                                                              Being overweight is
                                                                                            UK, is being introduced in                          breakfast clubs, nature
                                                              the main risk factor for                                    the Change4Life
                                                                                            Stockton-on-Tees to help                            walks, cooking classes,
                                                              developing type 2 diabetes.
                                                              Thanks to the NHS             residents reduce their risk   campaign, school      sports and family fun days.
                                                                                            of developing diabetes        programmes, school    This year more than 1,300
                                                              Health Checks and the
                                                                                            through a structured                                people have benefited from
                                                              NHS Diabetes Prevention                                     holiday activities    the programme and enjoyed
                                                              Programme, residents          programme of support.
                                                                                            Patients at risk can be       and family weight     healthy, nutritious meals
                                                              can check their risk of
                                                              developing diabetes and       referred to the programme     management            and snacks.

 2
                                                              are offered help.             through their GP.             services.             For further information
                                                                                                                                                on health and wellbeing
                                                                                                                                                services in Stockton-on-

                Preventing type 2 diabetes                                                                                                      Tees visit www.stockton.
                                                                                                                                                gov.uk/health-and-
                                                                                                                                                wellbeing/

PAGE 16                                                                                                                                                                                                                                PAGE 17
NOVEMBER 2018 - The community magazine of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council Big plans, bright future - Stockton Council
ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE                                                                                                                                                                             ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE

                                                                                                                                        Commemorating the railways
                                                                                                                                        The region’s rich railway
                                                                                                                                        heritage has been recognised
                                                                                                                                        with a beautiful restored plaque
                                                      Billingham Synthonia Bowling Club members win the Coronation Cup
                                                                                                                                        commemorating the first
                                                                                                                                        passenger railway journey.
                                                      Just bowled over!                                                                 The original plaque was unveiled at 48 Bridge Road, near
                                                                                                                                        Victoria Bridge, to mark the centenary of the journey in
                                                      Billingham Synthonia Bowling Club has done the                                    1925, by the then Duke and Duchess of York, who went on to
                                                                                                                                        become King George VI and the Queen Mother.
                                                      double and won two coveted titles this season.
                                                                                                                                        Vandals attempted to steal the plaque and broke it in half,
                                                      For the first time in a decade the small friendly club, on Belasis Avenue, has
 Welcome to the Stockton Business                                                                                                       leaving it beyond repair. The original bronze frame has been
                                                      secured Cleveland and Teesside Bowls League’s prestigious Coronation Cup.         restored, and the central plaque re-cast by William Lane
 Improvement District (BID) column of
                                                      The club also scored a Perfect 8 – a feat which gives them entry into Bowls       Foundry in Middlesbrough.
 Stockton-on-Tees News. Vice Chair of the             International’s exclusive Hot Shots Club and certificates signed by 15-time       The restored plaque was unveiled on 27 September – the         The restored railway her
 BID is Derek Moore, and in this edition he           World Champion, Tony Allcock.                                                     same date as the first journey made in 1825.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                               itage plaque at 48 Bridge
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           Road
 will use this part of the magazine to keep           And if that wasn’t impressive enough, the club’s Synthonia Wasps team won         Victoria Northway, Operations Manager at Bridge House          Barry Thompson, Trustee of Friends of Stockton and
 you up to date with all sorts of interesting         their final match of the season to finish top of the league’s Saturday Section    Mission, which owns the building, said: “We are delighted
                                                      for the first time in the club’s history.                                                                                                        Darlington Railway, added: “The Friends exist to preserve
 events and promotions.                                                                                                                 that an important piece of the heritage of these historic      and promote the legacy and heritage of the Stockton and
                                                      Team Captain, Mally Stirling, says: “I never thought in my wildest dreams that    buildings has been returned to its rightful place.”            Darlington Railway, and we are proud to be involved with this
 “So much has been happening in Stockton
 since the last edition. The town centre has been     we would finish as league champions, but to also win the cup is incredible. I     The restoration and reinstatement of the plaque has been       project.”
 bustling with activity including the return of our   would like to thank all of the team for their efforts, but also say a big thank   funded by donations secured by the Friends of Stockton and
                                                      you to those wonderful club members who turned up to support us.”                                                                                The damaged plaque will be donated to the Council’s
 popular Stockton-by-the-Sea event this summer.                                                                                         Darlington Railway, and grants from the Railway Trust and      heritage collection at Preston Park Museum and Grounds.
 The giant pop-up beach – complete with sand          For further information on Billingham Synthonia Bowling Club including            Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council.
 and deckchairs - was again a massive success         membership details visit www.synthoniabowlingclub.wordpress.com
 with families enjoying the warm weather right

                                                         A career forged at                                                             Preston Park
 here on the High Street! Events like these are a
 huge boost to our wonderful independent traders                                                                                                                                                       If you have ever taken a look in the
 and high street names.
                                                                                                                                                                                                       forge during a visit to Preston Park
 “And with Christmas just around the corner,
 visitors to the town centre will spot a number of                                                                                                                                                     Museum and Grounds you will have
 exciting new businesses which are perfect for
 buying seasonal gifts and crafts.                                                                                                                                                                     seen the resident blacksmith,
 “Louise Lowes has opened Lu Lu’s Personalised                                                                                                                                                         Peat Oberon, busy at work.
 Gifts on West Row and stocks her own quirky                                                                                                                                                           Not many people know that Peat has been creating
 trademarked designs called The Buttonhead                                                                                                                                                             architectural, sculptural and decorative handmade metalwork
 Family, suitable for any age and occasion. Craft                                                                                                                                                      on the popular Victorian Street for more than 40 years.
 business Chic and Crafty Design has graduated
 from Fountains Shopping Mall into its own shop                                                                                                                                                        In 2008, Peat was awarded the Silver Medal and Fellowship
 on Finkle Street, and Panico’s haberdashery has                                                                                                                                                       of the Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths, in recognition of
 just moved to Bishopton Lane where it also has                                                                                                                                                        consistently high standards of work. He was also called upon
 an in-house café.                                                                                                                                                                                     to be a judge at the World Forging Championships 2009 in
                                                                                                                                                                                                       Tuscany.
 “If you’re doing some Christmas shopping why
 not stop there or one of the town centre’s many                                                                                                                                                       He runs regular blacksmithing courses to teach people the
 other eateries, bars and cafés for a drink and                                                                                                                                                        basics and shares his love of the craft through public talks and
 bite to eat?                                                                                                                                                                                          demonstrations.
 “You can find all the latest news, events listings                                                                                                                                                    Peat says: “I constantly see disbelief on the faces of students
 and information on our redesigned website                                                                                                                                                             when shown an example of what they are about to make.
 www.rediscoverstockton.co.uk”                                                                                                                                                                         That disbelief inevitably changes to pride and joy when they
                                                                                                                                                                                                       complete the piece. Expressions of satisfaction, fulfilment and
                                                                                                                                                                                                       happiness are what I receive at the end of every course.”
          RediscoverStockton
                                                                                                                                                                                                       To celebrate his four decades at Preston Park a special plaque
          @StocktonBID                                                                                                                                                                                 has been unveiled to mark his continued contribution to the
                                                                                                                                                                                                       museum and to the historic craft.

PAGE 18                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           PAGE 19
ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE                                                                                               ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE

The Danger Tree Exhibition                   Stockton Stages                        SIRF18

A stellar year in                                                                   2018 has been another year of fun-filled events across the Borough.
                                                                                    We hope you enjoyed them! Here are just a few favourites. To see more

Stockton-on-Tees
                                                                                    photos check out Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s Flickr page and
                                                                                    YouTube channel for videos.
                                                                                    For details of our future events visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events

                                             Fire Engine and Vintage Vehicle Show   Festival of Light and Colour              Fireworks

                                                                                                                              Great Tees 10K

                                                                                                   Billingham International
                 Stockton Cycling Festival
                                                                                                   Folklore Festival
PAGE 20                                                                                                                                                       PAGE 21
ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE                                                                                                                                ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE

                                                                                                               2 December, 2pm-5 pm
                                                                                                                   Yarm Christmas lights switch                       7 December,
                                                                                                                                                  on
                                                                                                                                                                        6.30pm
                                                                                                                                                                    Carols around the Lamps

 1 Dece
            mber
  Love N            - 5 Ja                           1 December
        o  rton A
                 dvent
                         Calen
                                 nuary                                 , 11am-5 pm
                              dar Tr                   Annual Bil
                                     ail                          lingham Ch
                                                                             ris tmas event

                                                                                                                                                                                            c e m ber
                                                                                                                                                                                       9 Dae m-1pm
                                                                                                                                                                                         11 ends of
                                                                                                                                                                                            Fri Park
                                                                                                                                                                                                  er
              2 December, 3-5                                                                                                                                                              Ropn as Fayre
                   Christmas carols
                                           pm                                                                                                                                              Chris
                                                                                                                                                                                                 tm
                                    at
                 John Whitehea
                                d Park

                                                                                                                                                            c e m b e r, 6pm
                                                8 - 9 December, 10am                                v e m b e r , 5 .3 0pm                             1D e         carols an
                                                                                                                                                                              d
                                                                                              29 No                       ht                                       ity
                                                                                                                                                         Commun tto at the
                                                 Preston Park Christmas Bazaar                             a s Launch Nig
                                                                                                            rkle                                                      ro
                                                                                               Stockton Sp                                                Santa’s G               ub
                                                                                                                                                            t o n H o u se Farm P
                                                                                                                                                         My

These are just a selection of the fantastic festive events happening 			                         across the Borough, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events for a full list.
PAGE 22                                                                                                                                                                                                    PAGE 23
CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE                                                                                                                                 CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE

                                                                                          TALKING
                                                                                          TO LEARN
                                                                                          A project to support the
                                                                                          development of early
                                                                                          years speech, language
                                                                                          and communication
                                                                                          skills for 0-5 year olds

                      STUDENTS’
                                                                                          is bringing benefits to
                                                                                          children and their families
                                                                                          in Stockton-on-Tees.

                      SUCCESS
                                                                                                                                                                                                Foundation Stage Lead and
                                                                                                                                                                      with Sam Lee, Early Years
                                                                                          The Council was successful in securing          Pupils at Mill Lane Primary                           Skillcorn
                                                                                                                                                                     and Head Teacher Mrs Sue
                                                                                          funding for the ‘Talking to Learn’              Communication Champion
                                                                                          project which sees specialist training
                                                                                          given to staff enabling them to become                                                         Sam Lee, Communication Champion at
                      Young people across Stockton-on-Tees are                            communication champions.                     Research has shown that fostering                 Mill Lane Primary School, said: “Thanks
                      celebrating after another record-breaking                                                                        good communication skills in young                to ‘Talking to Learn’ the Early Years
                                                                                          The champions are currently working                                                            team at Mill Lane have been able to take
                      year of academic achievement!                                       in seven schools across the Borough
                                                                                                                                       children helps boost reading, writing and
                                                                                                                                       language skills as they progress to Key           part in bespoke, professional training
                      This was the first year that GCSE students worked towards           to improve and raise awareness of                                                              which has developed our skills and
                                                                                                                                       Stage 1 and beyond.
                      numbered grades - nine (the highest grade) to one (the lowest)      children’s language and communication                                                          helped us create a shared vision for Early
                      in the majority of subjects. Despite these more demanding           skills. They look for ways to create         The project also aims to help parents             Years. The project has ensured a focus on
                      GCSEs, provisional results show pupils improved overall in key      communication friendly spaces where          support and develop their child’s                 communication, language and early talk
                      measures - putting the Borough’s schools among the top in the       children are encouraged to be curious,       communication skills at home.                     to support parents, the community and
                      North East!                                                         chat, explore and use their language.                                                          most importantly our pupils.”
                      66.7 per cent of students across the Borough achieved 9 – 4

                                                                                                                                                                 Helping with the
                      grades in English and Maths, broadly equivalent to the former
                      A*-C grades – that’s an increase from 63.6 per cent in 2017.
                      The percentage of students attaining grades 5 and above in
                      English and Maths also increased from 41.6 per cent to 47.6 per
                      cent – this is above the 2017 national average. And 136 students
                      gained impressive top grade 9s in English Language, English
                                                                                                                                                                 cost of childcare
                      Literature and Maths alone.
                                                                                                                                                                 Working parents of children aged three and
                      A Level students from Conyers, Egglescliffe, Stockton Sixth                                                                                four years old could be entitled to 30 hours
                      Form and Stockton Riverside College are now looking to the
                      future after another set of brilliant results with an increase in                                                                          free childcare a week.
                      the percentage of students gaining top A* to B grades rising
                      from 47.3 per cent in 2017 to 52.66 per cent.                        Time to apply for                                                     Foster carers are also now eligible for 30
                                                                                                                                                                 hours free childcare a week.

                                                                                           primary school
                      Martin Gray, the Council’s Director of Children’s Services, says:
                      “Once again our young people have done so well. These results                                                                              Did you know if your child is two they may also be entitled
                      are a testament to the hard work and efforts of our pupils                                                                                 to a free childcare place for 15 hours a week during school
                      as well as the unwavering ambition and commitment of the                                                                                   term time. Make sure you don’t miss out!
                      governors, teachers, school and council support staff and of         If your child was born between 1 September 2014
                                                                                                                                                                 To check if your child is eligible for a free place you can:
                      course, parents and carers to improve attainment across our          and 31 August 2015, they will start primary school
                      Borough.”                                                            in September 2019.                                                    • check online at www.stockton.gov.uk/freechildcare
                                                                                           Parents of children set to start school next year should have
                                                                                                                                                                 • call the Families Information Service on 01642 527225
                                                                                           received a letter explaining the admissions process from the          • or call into your local Family Hub
                                                                                           Council’s School Admissions Team.
                                                                                           If you did not receive your letter contact School Admissions on
                                                                                           01642 526605 or email school.admissions@stockton.gov.uk
                                                                                           Applications can be completed online at
                                                                                           www.stockton.gov.uk/schooladmissions
                                                                                           The online facility opens on 5 November 2018 and is available
                                                                                           24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The deadline for applications is
                                                                                                                                                                 Children at Smiles Nursery, Frederick Nattrass Children’s Centre
                                                                                           15 January 2019.

PAGE 24                                                                                                                                                                                                                         PAGE 25
CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE                                                                                                                                                                                      CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE

 ARTISTIC LAUNCH FOR ADOPTION AGENCY
                                                                                                                                                                                      Street’s DRAKE – The Bookshop
                                                                                                                                             Stockton’s new arrivals outside Silver

 To celebrate the launch of Adoption
 Tees Valley, a selection of paintings by
 adopted children has been unveiled at its
 headquarters on Oxbridge Avenue
 in Stockton.
 The regional adoption agency is a partnership between
 Middlesbrough Council, Redcar and Cleveland,
 Darlington, Hartlepool and Stockton-on-Tees borough
 councils.
 It aims to deliver the best possible outcomes
 for adopters, children and birth families across
 the Tees Valley.
 Adoption Tees Valley regularly host information

                                                                                                                                            Stockton’s international intake
 events where you can learn more about the adoption
 process. To find out more visit
 www.adoptionteesvalley.org.uk                  Louise Addison and Vicky Davidson-Boyd from Adoption Tees Valley with some of the artwork

                                                                                                                                            International students have again received a
                                                                       Supporting young people in need                                      warm welcome to Stockton-on-Tees to help
                                                                       Supported Lodgings is an accommodation scheme for                    them get acquainted with the area ahead
                                                                       vulnerable young people aged 16 years and over.                      of term beginning at Durham University’s
                                                                       The Council is looking for people who can give practical             International Study Centre (ISC).
                                                                       and emotional support to young people as they prepare for            Proud Stocktonian Mike McGrother and Apollo Arts led the
                                                                       independence.                                                        welcome party with live music on Stockton high street before
                                                                       You will need a spare room and be able to provide a                  the students visited the Mayor at the town hall.
                                                                       safe, secure environment. You will receive training from             The group then toured Billingham town centre to take in a
                                                                       professionals and have access to advice and support every            spot of shopping for student essentials before visiting the
                                                                       step of the way. Supported lodgings providers receive a weekly       Forum and checking out the ice rink, pool, gym and GoClimb
                                                                       allowance of £271.                                                   facilities.
                                                                       If you think you have the skills necessary to provide this           Based at Queen’s Campus on the banks of the River Tees,
                                                                       important stepping stone visit                                       the ISC prepares non-EU students for entry onto Durham
                                                                       www.stockton.gov.uk/supportedlodgings,                               University undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
                                                                       email supportedlodgingsteam@stockton.gov.uk
                                                                       or call 01642 527858.                                                For more information visit www.iscwelcometostockton.co.uk

Future sporting stars
Three promising star athletes from Stockton-on-Tees have
                                                                                                                                                                                                                      YOUNG PEOPLE UNITED
                                                                                                                                                                                                                      A hub run by the voluntary, community
                                                                                                                                                                                                                      and social enterprise (VCSE) sector to
been making sporting waves after being selected for the                                                                                                                                                               provide free youth sessions across Stockton-
2018 School Games.                                                                                                                                                                                                    on-Tees is celebrating after a successful
The national event sees the country’s most talented                    Emma Grant and Francesca                                                                                                                       first year.
able-bodied and disabled schoolchildren compete at                     Kardasz, both 14, from                                                                                                                         Since April 2017, Youth United Stockton has delivered over
Loughborough University across a range of sports including             Egglescliffe and Red House                                                                                                                     866 hours of great activities to more than 1,700 young people
netball, canoeing and athletics.                                       schools respectively were                                                                                                                      aged between ten and 19. They offer an opportunity for young
                                                                       also picked for the games                                                                                                                      people to meet new friends, build their confidence and take
Harrison Butler, 16, a pupil at Egglescliffe School, competed for
                                                                       and represented Team                                                                                                                           part in a range of activities including music, sport, cooking
the U16 North England squad in the new ‘Laser Run’ event which
                                                                       Northumbria in netball,                                                                                                                        and life skills.
requires athletes to alternate between shooting a laser pistol
                                                                       finishing in eighth.
and running in an action-packed race to the finish.                                                                                                                                                                   Supported by the Council, the sessions are run in partnership
                                                                       For more information visit                                                                                                                     with Five Lamps, The Corner House Youth Project, Hardwick
Harrison and his teammates placed in fourth and he says:
                                                                       www.schoolgamesfinals.org                                                                                                                      in Partnership, BCT Aspire and Eastern Ravens Trust.
“The games were a huge opportunity for me and to be selected
to represent the north of England was amazing. The atmosphere                                                                                                                                                         For more information and to find the session closest to you,
                                                                                                         Harrison Butler competing with
was incredible and I got to meet a lot of new people, it’s not                                                                               YUS member enjoying the climbing wall at Thornaby’s Youthy               visit the online hub at www.yus.org.uk
                                                                                                         Billingham Marsh House Harriers
something I’ll forget for a long time.”
PAGE 26                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       PAGE 27
CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE                                                                                                                                                                                         ADULTS SERVICES

                                                                                                                                  Trio up for top awards
                                                                Lucy-Kate with Pauline Quirke

                                                                                                                                  The Council has scooped a hat-trick of nominations at
                                                                                                                                  the national Social Worker of the Year Awards 2018.

                                                                DRAMA                                                             The prestigious awards are open to all qualified social
                                                                                                                                  workers in England who have made a difference through their

                                                                SCHOOL
                                                                                                                                  outstanding work with adults.
   My name is Elisha and I am a young person                                                                                      Peter Smith, Service Manager, made the final shortlist for
   who has grown up in Stockton-on-Tees.                                                                                          the Lifetime Achievement category. Peter has worked in
   Recently, I moved to Manchester to attain a
                                                                SUCCESS
                                                                                                                                  social care for more than 40 years and has been instrumental
   degree in Law - a dream of mine achieved                                                                                       in creating the Council’s award-winning Reablement Services
   with the opportunities provided to me through                                                                                  and LiveWell Dementia Hub.
                                                                                                                                                                                                 The team at the LiveWell Dementia Hub
   Bright Minds Big Futures (BMBF).
                                                                A former Ian Ramsey Academy                                       Staff at the hub have been shortlisted in the Team of the
                                                                                                                                  Year category. The team provide information and support
   From becoming a correspondent to then an advisor/
   mentor, the scheme has finessed my skills which I can        pupil has secured a place at a                                    to those affected by dementia and their families and work
                                                                                                                                  in collaboration with a range of health and voluntary
   now use within a workplace. I was then able to include
   these skills in my personal statement when applying for      prestigious drama school                                          agencies to help people live well.
   my degree.                                                                                                                     And Caroline McCormack, Adult Safeguarding Social Worker,
   I was a correspondent during SIRF 2017, but I found a        in London.                                                        has been shortlisted for the Newly Qualified Adult Social
                                                                                                                                  Worker category. Caroline works hard to protect some of the
   passion for the role so decided to carry on further. I’ve    Lucy-Kate Watson won a place to study a two-year Diploma
                                                                                                                                  Borough’s most vulnerable residents. She has made a real
   been lucky enough to attend consultations where I am         in Performing Arts at the Pauline Quirke Academy at PQA
                                                                                                                                  difference to people’s lives by helping them to feel safe in
   able to give a young person’s outlook on life in Stockton-   Studios, after wowing judges at an audition.
                                                                                                                                  their homes.
   on-Tees. I felt like my opinion was taken into account
   and people were listening to what I had to say. The          She is one of only 20 students nationally to win a place at the
                                                                                                                                  The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on
   scheme has allowed young people to have some input in        brand new academy in London.
                                                                                                                                  30 November.
   decisions which affect their daily lives.                    “So far my experience at the Pauline Quirke Academy has
                                                                                                                                  For more information about adult social care services in the
   This summer I was fortunate enough to work as a              been amazing,” said Lucy-Kate who started at the academy                                                                         Adult Social Worker,               Reablement Service Manager,
                                                                                                                                  Borough visit www.stockton.gov.uk/adult-services
   National Citizen Service (NCS) mentor which wouldn’t         in September. “The journey has been really rewarding and I                                                                       Caroline McCormack                 Peter Smith
   have been possible without my experience as a                count myself as extremely lucky to be here living my dream.
   volunteer through BMBF. We also partnered with NCS to
   provide social action in our local area which is fantastic
   since I was able to develop my interest in volunteering in
                                                                “This course will give me the opportunity to learn
                                                                about dance, acting for stage, singing technique, audition
                                                                technique among many other things. I am also extremely
                                                                                                                                  We’ve been caring for 70 years
   the local community.                                         excited for all the experiences this opportunity will offer me                                                                    You might have seen the 70th anniversary
   Working with young people was never something I              and am excited to learn from experienced professionals.”                                                                          celebrations for the NHS earlier this year, but did
   intended to do but becoming an advisor for BMBF is one                                                                                                                                         you know it’s also the 70th anniversary of the social
   of my greatest accomplishments. The initiative has a                                                                                                                                           care system?

                                                                Interested in
   positive impact on young people and helps guide them to                                                                                                                                        The Council spends around £58million on Adults Services
   a future which once may have seemed impossible.                                                                                                                                                each year – more than a third of the overall budget –

                                                                fostering?
   Although I’ve moved away for university, I hope to                                                                                                                                             providing care for the elderly, those with disabilities and
   continue with Bright Minds Big Futures as an advisor. My                                                                                                                                       mental health problems, as well as their carers.
   hopes for the future are to pass my degree and hopefully                                                                                                                                       Services range from help in the home, such as OneCall with
   push BMBF to be an initiative which is accepted by all                                                                                                                                         its pendant alarms and fall detectors, to ‘Outstanding’ rated
   young people in the Borough. Even though I’m studying
                                                                Do you think you have what it takes to become a                                                                                   facilities like Lanark Short Breaks Service (pictured).
   elsewhere, my heart will always be in
   Stockton-on-Tees!                                            foster carer and want to find out more? Then come                                                                                 For more information visit
                                                                                                                                                                                                  www.stockton.gov.uk/adult-services
                                                                along to one of the Council’s information sessions -
                                                                they’re informal and there’s no obligation.
                                                                They are being held at Stockton Central Library on Church
                                                                Road on Tuesday 27 November 2018 and Thursday 17
                                                                January 2019 between 5.30pm and 7.30pm.
                                                                                                                                   New Year, New Opportunities
                                                                If you are unable to attend but believe you could provide a       Could picking up a new qualification, skill or hobby be your New Year’s resolution?
                                                                child with time, commitment and a loving home - do get            Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s Learning and Skills          The Learning and Skills service boasts over 50 years’
                                                                in touch.                                                         Service is looking to help new learners achieve their career    experience in teaching, training and delivering qualifications
                                                                                                                                  and pastime aspirations in 2019.                                in a friendly and inclusive environment.
  Visit www.stockton.gov.uk/bmbf for information on how
  you or a young person you know can join the campaign,         Visit www.stockton.gov.uk/fostering,                              From languages to maths, from digital skills to crafts and      For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/
  how you can help us understand what young people need                                                                           from apprenticeships to courses to help you get into work –
                                                                telephone 01642 526218 or email                                                                                                   learningandskills, call 01642 527904 or email
  and want in the Borough, and how to access a whole host of                                                                      the service offers something for everyone.
  opportunities and events.                                     child.placement@stockton.gov.uk                                                                                                   learning.skills@stockton.gov.uk

PAGE 28                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     PAGE 29
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