SEPTEMBER 2020 - KEEPING YOURSELF SAFE AND WELL INVESTING IN EDUCATION FOR ALL SUPPORTING BUSINESSES WHERE TO GO FOR HELP www.northumberland.gov.uk
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
SEPTEMBER 2020
KEEPING YOURSELF SAFE AND WELL
INVESTING IN EDUCATION FOR ALL
SUPPORTING BUSINESSES
WHERE TO GO FOR HELP
www.northumberland.gov.uk
Protect yourself
Protect others
Protect Northumberland
Thank you for helping us prevent
the spread of COVID-19 by...
Washing your hands
Keeping your
distance
Wearing a
face covering
Getting tested if
you feel unwell
#DoYourBit
FOREWORD
INSIDE
4-5 Public health
messages
6-7 Communities Together
Public information
8 On call firefighting
EARLIER THIS
Be scam aware
YEAR WE SET
OUT OUR PLANS
9-12 Northumberland FOR RECOVERY,
Learning and Skills TO REBOOT
OUR ECONOMY
13 Our local environment AND GET OUR
COMMUNITIES
MOVING AGAIN.
14-15 Education in
Northumberland
16-17 Active Northumberland
FOREWORD BY KELLY ANGUS
18-19 Supporting business
in Northumberland A MESSAGE FROM THE
ACTING CHIEF EXECUTIVE
20 Useful contact
information OF NORTHUMBERLAND
COUNTY COUNCIL
Eight months ago attitude of everyone I’ve come from investments in roads,
no-one could have across continues to amaze me. schools, housing and leisure
KEEP IN TOUCH... imagined the events This is not just evident in all our
and our town regeneration
that were to engulf the programmes.
To keep up to date with the communities but also within
latest information on coronavirus, county, the country and the Council where staff have Our economy, which before
and stay informed on all the whole world in 2020. continued to prioritise key the crisis was in a good
our service developments, services such as children’s and place with real strengths
The coronavirus pandemic
please follow us on our social adult social care, and keep in tourism, manufacturing,
media channels. continues to be a global issue,
essential facilities running. pharmaceuticals, and energy,
affecting people’s lives and
The County Council website livelihoods and creating an The restrictions we’ve all faced has taken a hit but we’ve
www.northumberland.gov.uk unprecedented impact on have led us to develop some provided a raft of financial and
is being updated each day to new and innovative ways of bespoke support to businesses
the economy.
reflect the changing situation both big and small and
working. Our committees and
and is also a really good source And when events have such continue to support all sectors
council meetings are currently
of helpful information. huge implications it can be on their road to recovery.
all virtual, meaning we’re
difficult to step back and focus
getting business done without Please be assured there is
facebook.com/ on what’s happening on our
the need for travel, while also hope for the future. Earlier
northumberlandCC own doorstep.
giving people the opportunity this year we set out our
But since March we have to see democracy in action plans for recovery, to reboot
twitter.com/ has focused not just on the from the comfort of their home our economy and get our
N_LandCouncil wellbeing of all our residents as well as contributing towards communities moving again.
but also on the recovery of climate change - something we We remain committed to that
instagram.com/ our county. will continue to embrace in our and I’m confident we will
NLandCC new ways of working. come out of this stronger -
While it remains a very difficult
and worrying time for all of Staff have been pushing ahead stronger together.
youtube.com/ us, the spirit, help and can-do with a huge range of work,
NorthumberlandTV
www.northumberland.gov.uk 3
COVID UPDATE
STAYING SAFE
OUTSIDE YOUR HOME
Social distancing and keeping safe Quarantine
There are simple steps you can take to minimise the risk of catching We are seeing increasing numbers of people who
coronavirus by washing your hands regularly for 20 seconds, have come back from holiday and tested positive
complying with social distancing, being alert to symptoms and then for COVID-19. If you have visited a country that
self isolating and getting a test if symptomatic - and responding to does require you and your family to quarantine
NHS Test and Trace if positive or if contact traced. on return to the UK, please do not leave your
home to go back to work or allow children back
We all need to do our bit in the battle against
into education - stay at home, keep visitors away and
COVID-19. Protect yourself, protect others, and
ask someone else to do your shopping. You may be
protect Northumberland.
tempted to get a test to shorten the quarantine period.
The main symptoms of COVID-19 are a Please don’t. Having a negative test if you don’t have
high temperature, a new, continuous symptoms during your 14 day quarantine does not mean
cough and a loss or change to your you can stop self-isolating.
sense of smell or taste.
The government is frequently updating the list of countries that
this applies to.
Stay safe when For the latest advice on travel corridors
travelling www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-travel-corridors
Wearing a face covering
Restrictions are in place in other parts of
the country where there are particularly
high numbers of cases of COVID-19 and we New legislation came into effect on Friday 24 July, making wearing a
should think carefully before visiting those areas. face covering compulsory in shops and supermarkets. Children under
As lockdown has eased, many of us have started the age of 11, as well as people with certain disabilities and medical
to travel outside of the county to enjoy a break, as well as travelling conditions may be exempt.
abroad. This includes areas where there are much higher A face covering is something which safely covers your nose and
numbers of COVID-19 cases than Northumberland. mouth. You can buy reusable or single-use face coverings, or
Checking what restrictions are in place before you can use a scarf, bandana, or hand-made cloth covering,
travelling and paying extra care to follow which securely fits round the side of your face.
guidance is essential in preventing an
increase in COVID-19 cases and outbreaks Test and trace to stop
in Northumberland.
spread of virus
When to get tested The easing of lockdown measures is being
supported by NHS Test and Trace.
It’s important to know when to get tested. The NHS Test and Trace service ensures that
You should request a test if you are anyone who develops symptoms of COVID-19 can
experiencing symptoms, no matter how quickly be tested to find out if they have the virus.
mild, as this can help to prevent the virus
spreading. But please don’t request a test if The service helps to trace close recent contacts of
you’re just worried and don’t have symptoms. anyone who tests positive for the coronavirus and, if
4 www.northumberland.gov.uk
COVID-19 UPDATE
necessary, notifies them that they must self-isolate at home to help stop the
spread of the virus. BETTER HEALTH
To assist with the Test and Trace system, organisations such as pubs Why not seize the moment
and restaurants should collect and keep customer details for 21 and reset your health?
days. By maintaining records of staff, customers and visitors,
and sharing these with NHS Test and Trace where requested, In support of the new PHE ‘Better Health - Let’s do
businesses can help to identify people who may have been this’ campaign, we are highlighting the importance
exposed to the virus. This means any potential outbreaks can be of staying fit and healthy. It is important we all do
stopped early. everything we can to help our fitness and taking
control of our weight is a key part of this.
If you’re identified as a close contact of a case, you’ll be asked to
self-isolate for 14 days. This is because it may take up to 14 days The new national PHE campaign encourages people
for symptoms to develop. Please don’t be tempted to have a test who are overweight to get their health back on track
before the 14 days is up if you don’t have symptoms; if it comes back with the introduction of a new 12-week weight loss
negative, you’ll still have to continue your 14 day self-isolation period plan app which includes a healthy weight calculator,
because the test is only valid on the day it was taken and you may weekly plan and progress diary.
develop symptoms after that.
For more information on the ‘Better Health - Let’s do
Northumberland’s outbreak this’ campaign go to: www.nhs.uk/better-health
and control plan
At the start of July we published our
Local Outbreak Prevention and Control
Plan outlining actions that will be taken THE
FIRST IS A
where confirmed or suspected cases of
COVID-19 are identified within priority
settings in the county.
STEP FEW
Developed to support the national NHS
Test and Trace programme, our plan
sets out how possible outbreaks in settings
STEPS.
such as schools, care homes or businesses
will be identified, allowing us to quickly take action,
preventing the spread of any infection and ultimately saving lives.
Five priority areas have been identified as part of
the Northumberland plan:
• Care homes and residential settings;
• Educational settings; New moves. New foods.
• Complex individuals and communities such as homeless, New habits. We’ve got ideas
drug and alcohol service users; to get you started today.
• Complex settings such as hostels, refuges, HMP Northumberland, Get help and support at
and secure units; nhs.uk/BetterHealth
• Workplaces and businesses.
We are working closely with partners and our plan ensures we are ready
to take action where required, to contain the situation in specific settings,
locations or communities and to enable national lockdown easing, helping
us return to a new normal.
www.northumberland.gov.uk 5
COMMUNITIES TOGETHER
SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY
Northumberland Communities Together (NCT) has been
Northumberland Communities
working alongside Together
fantastic (NCT)community
volunteers, has been working
communities
alongside fantastic
groups volunteers,
and other community
partners groups and other
across Northumberland.
partnersHere
across Northumberland. Here is, how together, we’ve
is how together, we've supported communities together
supported communities
through through this crisis.
this crisis...
0
1
2
3
4
Out of those calls approximately...
40% Food & Shopping
1,100+
volunteers 30% Prescriptions
signed up
in the first 17,000+ Wellbeing &
12% Finance
3 weeks Calls made
& received (eg. Domestic abuse,
18% Other mental health)
2,227 Government 3,751 bridging food
food provisions provisions by our team
delivered and volunteers
53 key partners 2,196 home 3,145 people
connected with wellbeing directed to
eg. community checks support by the
groups NCT team
17,604 shielded or 940 people connected to
vulnerable residents GoodSam- the NHS volunteer
with 9,323 accessing network to help with things
Government support like prescriptions
£ £14K+ in small
£5K+ in individual
grants distributed to
hardship grants
31 community
given to residents
organisations
208 residents connected to financial support 25+ partners
and advice worked
alongside us at
our events
100+ 3,000+
pop-up attendees Contact us:
enrichment at our (01670) 620015
events events 9am-6pm,
7 days a week
6 www.northumberland.gov.uk
PUBLIC INFORMATION
Northumberland Communities STAY SAFE
Together was launched in
response to the Covid-19 AND ENSURE
pandemic to ensure our YOU’RE ON THE
residents were kept safe and ELECTORAL LIST
well through the crisis.
Working alongside volunteers, community Safeguard everyone’s health and your
groups and partners, the initiative helped vote by sparing just a few minutes
co-ordinate and connect residents with the to make sure your name is on the
support they needed. electoral register.
In July, all householders in If there is someone who is not on your
Northumberland Communities Together will Northumberland were sent an annual canvass form who needs to register, they
continue into the future connecting residents to canvass letter or canvass form, listing can do this at www.gov.uk/registertovote
amazing local organisations, volunteers, charities everyone who is currently registered to However, we still require a response to
and council services to improve health and vote at that property. the canvass form.
wellbeing and build strong resilient communities. Households who have not yet responded Please remember the canvass is taking
to the initial canvass form will this month place during a global pandemic where
If you need support, you’re not alone, get a reminder form or an email. social distancing is a priority. If we don’t
please pick up the phone, we’ll listen. If you receive a form, please use the get a response, we are legally obliged
available automated response options to send a canvasser to call at your home
Perhaps your financial circumstances have changed if you can. If you can’t, please return the to collect your details, so for everyone’s
with reduced hours, redundancy or benefit changes; form in the envelope provided. health and safety please reply as soon
you may have concerns around shopping, getting If you get an email, please follow the as possible.
out and about again, or making sure prescriptions instructions in it. Alternatively, if you DID YOU KNOW: Being on the
are delivered on time. Or, you may be really worried have your original form, please use the register could also improve your credit
about someone experiencing domestic abuse or automated responses. score ratings which companies look at
concerned about a neighbour. You may simply want Please respond to the reminder before when you apply for a mobile phone
to call and ask us a question about how we are the deadline on 29 September. contract, a mortgage or a loan.
connecting to communities and our residents.
You can call Northumberland Communities Please ring Northumberland County Council’s Elections Office on
Together on 01670 620 015 between 01670 624 811 if you have a query around your electoral registration
9am to 6pm, seven days a week, and we’ll
be here to listen, here to connect.
PHASED REOPENING OF LIBRARIES
W: northumberland.gov.uk/communitiestogether
Libraries across request books to be Those books will then be
E: communitiestogether@northumberland.gov.uk Northumberland collected at a specified quarantined for 72 hours.
have started a phased date and time from the Some libraries are now
@nlandtogether
reopening programme entrance. Books can also offering time limited
@NlandTogether by offering a Select and be returned, without browsing. Customers will
Collect service. an appointment, to a be offered appointments
Members are able to returns box located at the to make their selections.
Language translator: If English is not your preferred
contact their library and entrance of each library. At our smaller libraries,
language you can ask the advisor to use a translator
where space is restricted,
while on the call. members are advised to
contact their local library
Type talk: 01800 10845 600 6400 prior to their appointment
if they have concerns.
If you are deaf or can’t speak on the phone, Family groups will be
contact us using Relay UK. Download the admitted as one unit but
Relay UK app or using your existing text phone please bear in mind the
prefix our dedicated text Relay number: size of your local library and
to avoid disappointment,
018001 01670 623 515 ring ahead to discuss your
visit with staff. Children
British Sign Language users can now contact must be accompanied by
the Northumberland Communities Together Response an adult.
Hub using SignVideo Web Access, an online sign
language interpreting service. To contact us using
To check if your library is open and how it is operating please
this service use:
go to mylibrary.co.uk or contact your local branch.
northumberlandcc-covid.signvideo.net
www.northumberland.gov.uk 7
PUBLIC INFORMATION
BE SOMEONE
SPECIAL...BECOME AN
ON CALL FIREFIGHTER
What does it involve? Why should I join? Pay Belford,
Bellingham,
On call firefighters combine their You will: On call firefighters Berwick, Haltwhistle,
day jobs or duties while being receive an annual Hexham, Pegswood,
• Work shift patterns with the retaining fee as well as
‘on call’ for the fire service, ready Ponteland, Prudhoe, Rothbury,
flexibility to maintain your additional payments for any
to respond to emergencies when Seahouses and Wooler.
primary employment. training, incidents or community
they are needed.
• Develop new skills such as safety events they attend. What next?
They provide the same level first aid, LGV driving and fire
of emergency service as their safety awareness. Who can apply? If you are interested then you will
full time colleagues, but on a need to complete an entry form,
• Develop confidence and skills Anyone over the age of 18, living
part-time basis. which you can find online at
in team working, management or working within eight minutes
www.northumberland.gov.uk/
They attend fires, road traffic and leadership. of their nearest fire station.
Fire/Recruitment
collisions, rescues and a • Get paid. Where is my local
range of other emergencies.
They also play an important • Get trained. on call fire station?
role in community engagement • Performing an essential service Fire stations are located at:
activities. for your community. Allendale, Alnwick, Amble,
Tel: 01670 621123 for an informal chat Email: fire.recruitment@northumberland.gov.uk
BE SCAM AWARE...
KEEP HOLD OF YOUR CASH!
Some of these scams are very convincing so to your
Unfortunately, please be vigilant and remember the following computer and
over recent months advice to keep one step ahead of the criminals. personal details.
we’ve seen an Look out for vulnerable family
• Remember criminals come in all shapes
increase in the and sizes and can contact you at your door, members, friends and neighbours who
frequency and by phone, post or online. may become a target for fraudsters.
sophistication of • Don’t assume everyone is genuine.
scams being run by • Don’t be rushed into making any quick If you think you have been scammed
•
criminals who are decisions. If it sounds too good to be true,
taking advantage it probably is. Only criminals will try and • Contact your bank first
of the coronavirus rush or panic you into making a decision. • Report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040
situation to try and • Never ever provide bank details by email • If you need advice, call the Citizens Advice
separate residents or over the phone unless you are absolutely Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133
certain who you are giving them to.
from their money. • If you are in immediate danger, contact
• Never click on a link from an unknown email the Police on 999
source as this can give the crooks access
8 www.northumberland.gov.uk
WH ETH ER YOU ’R E LE AV IN G
SCH OOL AND LOOK IN G FOR A
FULL-TIME COURSE , OR AGE D 1 9 +
AND LOOKING TO E M BA R K ON
A PART-TIME COU R SE - E N R OL
NOW WITH NOR T HU M BE R LA N D
LEARNING & SK ILLS.
#LiveAndLearnLocal
i l ls & E m p
Sk l
,
oy
ng
ab
WHY GO ANYWHERE ELSE WHEN YOU CAN
Learni
i l ity
#LIVEANDLEARNLOCAL
E N RO L NOW WWW.N O R T H UMB ER L A N D.G OV.UK /LEARN
O R C ALL OUR C A MP US E N R O L MEN T TEAM
FULL & PA RT-T I M E COU R SES FOR A D U LTS AC R OSS N O RTH U MB E R L A N D 2 02 0- 2 1
Cath McEvoy-Carr
Executive Director of Adult
Social Care and Children’s Services
Live and learn local
There are lots of reasons
Welcome to a new academic year. why staying local has its
advantages.
Last year we saw thousands of learners • We have 10 campuses across the
come through our doors and we look county
forward to meeting many more of you • Lower transport costs and lots of
parking at many of our campuses
from across the county in 2020-21. • Free wireless WiFi networks in
our classrooms and social areas
We’re in a different world now, Our team has worked hard • Managed class sizes to ensure
safe learning environments
which will mean there won’t be to create an exciting range
as many face-to-face classes of courses bringing you the • Support when you need it, either
in person or online
and you’ll see a new blended flexibility of learning online,
learning approach using digital where possible. We have also • Curriculum experts to help you
every step of the way
technologies to connect ensured that when you do
• A blend of hands-on learning and
and inspire throughout your visit our campuses, measures digital competencies to help you
learning journey. are in place to make you feel succeed
completely safe. • 24/7 online access to a wide
Our ambition, however, range of learning resources
remains stronger than ever With a clear focus on your including full access to the
– we want every resident of personal and professional Northumberland Library Service
offering :
Northumberland to have the growth, make Northumberland
opportunity to develop skills the place that works for you. • Pressreader: over 600 free
online magazines subjects from
that can help you kick start or french language, to fashion, to
advance your career, re-train, horticulture
find employment or try out • Thousands of online
something new. audiobooks and e-books
• Access to the Northern Poetry
Library: one of only 4 poetry
libraries in England, where you
can view first editions, rare
book and signed copies
• Family genealogy: online
resources including the libraries
edition of Ancestry.com
• Online driving theory test
Why go anywhere else when you can
#LiveAndLearnLocal
ENROL NOW | WWW.NORTHUMBERLAND.GOV.UK/LEARNYour learning
journey starts here
Whether you’re a school leaver or a life-long
learner our Learning and Skills Service has
some great opportunities for you.
Northumberland County Council’s Learning and For 16-18 year olds there is a range of career-focused
Skills Service is opening opportunities for both learning from construction to digital skills, as well as
young people, with access to full-time courses at hairdressing and health and social care to name just
seven of their 10 campuses across the county, and a few; young people can gain skills for life and work,
adults (19+) with over 600 part time courses for as well as the confidence to succeed.
those wanting to advance their career, re-train, find
employment or explore new skills.
Find out why OFSTED rated us GOOD with OUTSTANDING features
Take your pick
Our full-time study programmes • Business & Digital Skills
allow school leavers to dive straight • Childcare
• Construction
into a vocational area of choice. • Hair & Beauty
Gain the skills and confidence to • Health & Social Care
stand out when looking for a job or • Professional Cookery
progressing to further study with • Students with additional needs and/or
disabilities (SEND)
a full-time course starting from
• Supported Internships
September 2020.
Whether you want to try • Business Studies & IT
something new, re-visit a past • Catering
• Construction
passion or take your skills to the • Creative & Wellbeing
next level; we have a huge range • Education, Health & Social Care
of part-time courses for adults • Employability
starting from September 2020. • English, maths, ESOL & BSL
• Hairdressing & Barbering
• Horticulture
• Languages
DOWNLOAD YOUR MINI GUIDE AT WWW.NORTHUMBERLAND.GOV.UK/LEARN
If you’re aged 16-18 years, our courses are free. If you’re a young adult aged 19+,
speak to our team as courses may be free (eligibility criteria apply).
ENROL NOW | WWW.NORTHUMBERLAND.GOV.UK/LEARN#LiveAndLearnLocal
Where learning works for you
Call your local campus – lines open Mon-Fri 9am to 5pm.
learn@northumberland.gov.uk
www.northumberland.gov.uk/learn
ALNWICK CAMPUS BERWICK CAMPUS CRAMLINGTON CAMPUS WENTWORTH HEXHAM FUSE PRUDHOE
Lindisfarne Road, Alnwick, Walkergate Building, Northumbria House, Wentworth Leisure Centre, Moor Road,
NE66 1AX. Walkergate Manor Walks, Cramlington, Hexham, NE46 3PD. Prudhoe, NE42 5LJ.
Tel: 01670 623 691 Berwick upon Tweed, NE23 6UR. Tel: 01670 623 701 Tel: 01670 623 689 or
TD15 1DB. Tel: 01670 622 104 01670 623 688
BEDLINGTON CAMPUS Tel: 01670 626 107 MORPETH CAMPUS
Jubilee Terrace, HAYDON BRIDGE CAMPUS Cottingwood Lane, WANSBECK WORKSPACE
Bedlington, NE22 5HB. BLYTH CAMPUS Haydon Bridge High School, Morpeth, Rotary Parkway,
Tel: 01670 623 687 Brunel Building, NE47 6LR. NE61 1DN. Ashington, NE63 8QZ.
(Closed on Fridays) Blyth, NE24 1LT, Tel: 01670 622 258 Tel: 01670 622 257 Tel: 01670 623 894
Tel: 01670 622 099
OTHER FORMATS
If you need this information in large print, Braille, Audio, or in another format or language please contact us: 01670 622 099.
If you are Deaf or can’t speak on the phone, contact us using Relay UK. Download the Relay UK app or using your existing text phone
prefix our dedicated text Relay number: 018001 01670 623 515. British Sign Language users can contact us using an online sign language
interpreting service: northumberlandcc-cs.signvideo.net
@NorthumberlandCC @nlandcc @N_landCouncil
The photography used in this publication was taken pre-Covid-19. All learners will be required to follow health and safety procedures
aligned to government guidelines, including appropriate use of PPE and social distancing.LOCAL ENVIRONMENT
COUNCIL TACKLING CLIMATE
CHANGE TOGETHER
SUPPORTING
NATIONWIDE
We are facing a climate emergency
and Northumberland County
COMMUNITY
Council has pledged to play its
part in helping to tackle climate
change by:
CLEAN-UP
• Cutting the Council’s carbon
emissions in half by 2025.
• Making Northumberland
carbon neutral by 2030.
Join the We’ve pledged our support • Working on a number of
projects to reduce carbon
Great British for this year’s Great British emissions, from investing in
September Clean
Be part of the pick September Clean, run by renewable energy to improving
environmental charity Keep greener transport routes, but we need
everyone to do their bit.
Britain Tidy.
The campaign, which was postponed To reduce Northumberland’s carbon footprint,
in early spring due to Covid-19, will we have introduced:
run from 11-27 September. It will
11 – 27
SEPTEMBER 2020 encourage the great British public to A Free Trees Scheme: We recently ran a scheme offering
Register your support keepbritaintidy.org
#GBSeptemberClean Keep Britain Tidy is a registered Charity No. 1071737 take part in small, socially distanced 15,000 free trees to residents, community groups and schools
Brought to you by In partnership with Headline partners
clean-ups to remove litter from streets, to plant this winter, which received a phenomenal uptake! The
scheme has ended for 2020, but keep your eyes peeled for the
Supporting partners
parks and beaches across the country.
Free Trees Scheme running next summer.
The Great British Spring Clean brings together individuals,
community organisations, businesses and councils to show they love Electric vehicles: We’re in the process of replacing our small
where they live. We’re once again backing the scheme, encouraging van fleet with 100% electric vehicles, which will emit zero
people to do their bit but making sure they stay safe. carbon once on the roads. It is estimated that each electric
Keep Britain Tidy Deputy Chief Executive, Richard McIlwain said: van saves around three tonnes of CO2 per year, that’s the
“We are delighted that Northumberland County Council is supporting equivalent of 136 mature trees!
this year’s campaign.”
Electric handheld equipment: We’re introducing electric
strimmers and hedge trimmers to our neighbourhood services
To find out how you can get teams. These battery-operated tools are quieter to run, safer
involved, whether that’s for our staff and greener for the county.
in the course of your daily
routine or with up to five Keep up to date with the latest climate
friends or family, visit: change initiatives, news and information visit:
www.keepbritaintidy.org/ www.northumberland.gov.uk/climatechange
GBSpringClean and subscribe to our e-newsletter.
Work continues on the Northumberland Local Plan, a
detailed document which sets out how the county will
LOCAL PLAN PROGRESS
develop in the future and will form the basis of how
planning applications are decided.
There are a number of stages A consultation on new arising from the first phase, proceed towards full adoption
in developing a local plan, and evidence behind the plan, including from the recent and use in the county.
Northumberland’s is currently which was presented during consultation, and examine
undergoing an ‘examination’ the first phase of hearings, other parts of the plan not
You can find full details at:
by an independent planning has just closed after running considered in phase one.
www.northumberland.gov.uk/
inspector appointed by from 13 July to 7 September.
A further consultation on localplan
the Government.
The second phase of hearings all of the proposed main
The inspector holds public is scheduled to start on modifications to the plan will
hearings, and the first phase of Tuesday 20 October, subject to take place after the completion
these took place late in 2019 COVID-19 restrictions, and will of phase two hearings, after
and earlier this year. cover any outstanding issues which time the plan will
www.northumberland.gov.uk 13EDUCATION IN NORTHUMBERLAND
• Hexham • Ponteland
INVESTING IN Multi-million pound investments in new schools
and school improvements across Northumberland
EDUCATION FOR ALL are part of the council’s largest ever capital
programme, improving education prospects for all.
IN THE NORTH: IN THE SOUTH EAST: IN WEST NORTHUMBERLAND:
Berwick: At least £15m has been allocated Seaton Sluice First School: A refurbishment Hexham: A £36.1m development will see a
for a new school to replace the ageing and remodelling programme is underway new high school and a new middle school
Berwick Academy buildings. Many of the to create extra space so the school can built on the current Queen Elizabeth High
buildings date back to the 1950s and have better meet the needs of pupils with special School site. Work is on track to have the new
been the subject of concern due to the educational needs in a mainstream buildings, together with the refurbishment of
progressing dilapidation of the site as well as school setting. the Grade II listed Hydro building, completed
the layout of the buildings, which are spread in time for the start of the new academic
across a large area. Seaton Delaval: A modular specialist year 2021.
teaching provision has been installed at
Amble: Investment is planned at James Astley High School to expand the special Haydon Bridge: Haydon Bridge High School
Calvert Spence College in Amble, where the educational needs provision for pupils has just undergone a fantastic multi-million
council will be developing plans to improve attending the school. pound makeover. The council committed
the school facilities to meet the demand of a over £4m to the project which has seen vast
21st century curriculum. Blyth: The council has run a competitive improvements across the main buildings,
process for bids for a trust to run a new free its vocational centre, sports centre and the
special school in Blyth. We are now working addition of a multi-use games area.
IN CENTRAL together with the Department for Education
NORTHUMBERLAND: and the Prosper Learning Trust to develop Haltwhistle: A new home for the primary
Ponteland: Work is nearing completion on designs for the new school, which is targeted school will be developed in a £2.65m
the landmark £46m state-of-the-art combined to open in September 2022. refurbishment of the former middle school
schools and leisure campus in Ponteland. buildings. The work is due for completion by
The facilities are scheduled to open in Bedlington: St Benet Biscop Academy has early 2021.
November 2020. seen a £2.5m expansion with the installation
of modular classrooms to create additional Improvements have been completed at
Stannington: To support a growth in places and the extension of the school’s primary schools in the Haydon Bridge
pupil numbers in the area a new modular main hall. Partnership including at Otterburn,
classroom has been installed. Greenhaugh and Wark.
West End Primary School: To support the
transition from a first school to primary, work
has commenced to replace the existing
dilapidated canteen and kitchen building
with a state-of-the-art two storey block
comprising classrooms, hall and kitchen
facilities. The work is due for completion by
November 2020.
Cramlington: new modular classrooms
have been installed at Hillcrest Special
School in Cramlington to create additional
places for pupils starting at the school in
September 2020.
14 www.northumberland.gov.ukEDUCATION IN NORTHUMBERLAND
WELCOMING PUPILS
BACK TO SCHOOL
Children have been welcomed back to schools over
the last couple of weeks in what we know has been an
anxious time for them and their families.
Schools have been taking every still be unable to attend in line
measure possible to ensure the with public health advice. If your
safe return of children in line child is unable to attend for this
with government guidance. reason, you should talk to your
It is important for children and school or college about what
young people to return to school, support is in place in terms of
not only for a remote education.
routine, but for If you still have concerns
their own health about your child returning
and wellbeing. to school or college, because you
It will be good consider they may have other
for them to see risk factors, you should discuss
friends, teachers with your school or college the
and school staff, and to learn measures they are putting in
and play. place to reduce risks in line with
A small number of pupils will government guidance.
CONGRATULATIONS TO
A LEVEL AND GCSE STUDENTS
Students across the county received their A Levels
or GCSE results this summer in a year like no other.
Receiving exam results is worrying at the best of times
but for those students, this year has been particularly
difficult with much uncertainty around grades, but they
have done themselves proud in what has been another
good year for schools in Northumberland. LIVE AND LEARN
Whilst this year’s experience has been very different LOCALLY WITH
to previous years the Council has applauded their
,
NORTHUMBERLAND’S
e (right) ollege
commitment. Charlott alvert Spence C
James C vels
LEARNING AND SKILLS
her A le
Many students have now begun their courses at passing Opportunities for young people
university, or their studies in further education through and adults are still available through
schools or colleges and they should feel extremely Northumberland’s Learning and
proud of themselves after their hard work and dedication Skills offer.
paid off.
You don’t have to travel far to access
full and part-time career-focused
For those who are still uncertain about what they want courses which are available at a number
to do to further their education, or what their grades of campuses across the county.
mean for them - there is still help and advice out there.
Speak with your school, they will be able to best advise
you. Alternatively, you can reach out to the Council’s You can find out more on pages 9-12,
Careers Advice service on 01670 622 799 or via Erin, A or download the latest course guides:
email careersteam@northumberland.gov.uk with h stley High Sc www.northumberland.gov.uk/learn
er grea h
t GCSE ool,
grades
www.northumberland.gov.uk 15WELCOME BACK
With months of no action in leisure centres
across the county, it was great to be back in
July to welcome residents once again to the
gym, pool, classes and activities.
Safety has been placed as top priority, for
both customers and colleagues, which
includes a range of measures to ensure we
EXERCISE AT HOME can all exercise safely, including:
You might not be able to come to us right now, Restricted numbers in facilities
but we can still help you get in those active A new pre booking system
minutes; Regular cleaning throughout facilities
Every movement counts, try some Installation of customer sanitiser stations
yourself at home
Find out more online at;
Try our free online home
www.activenorthumberland.org.uk/Welcome-Back
workouts
Just search Active
5
Wall Press Ups
Northumberland
High Knees of each
Alternate lifting knees whilst
pulling in tummy
repeat
5
Sit to Stand Squat
times
With your hands in front of your
chest, slowly bend arms before
returning to upright position.
Calf Raises
Heel Curls
Feet wider than hips, toes turned
slightly outwards. When standing
Alternate lifting heels back whilst push through feet trying not to rock Use wall for balance, raise your
pulling in tummy heel(s) and squeeze calf musclesFOUR PILLARS TO
YOUR WELLNESS
"In our wellness there are four pillars to leading a healthy
Andrew
lifestyle. Each pillar is as important as the other" Advanced Fitness Instructor
MOVEMENT
There are many ways we move throughout our day, it all adds up enabling
us to stay functional and have better mobility.
When it comes to exercise, do something you enjoy and feel the benefits
from. That way you're more likely to keep to it!
NUTRITION
We need to give our body whatever it requires in order to function as
best as possible through balanced, healthy eating.
It's not about taking on the next "fad" diet but instead building in
healthy habits which you can stick to long term.
RECOVERY
Our muscles need to rebuild, our body and mind to rest, focus and reset.
This doesn't necessarily mean it's all about sleep! Sometimes it's just
taking a break and reviewing your progress so that you can then
continue on your wellness journey.
MINDSET
"Thoughts become things"
Let’s apply this same mindset even with something small, such as
exercise, we can evolve that thought into something even greater and
make it happen. The body achieves what the mind believes!
Looking for extra support? Why not join our Momenta Weight Management
programme which encourages buidling achievable behaviours into your lifestyle.
Find out more at www.activenorthumberland.org.uk/momentaSUPPORTING BUSINESS IN NORTHUMBERLAND
HELP IF YOU
OR YOUR JOB
IS AFFECTED
BY COVID-19
If you’ve lost your job or are worried about it,
you can talk to an employment coach for
advice and guidance. This is tailored to your
circumstances and they will discuss options
and refer you to the right support for you.
Call 0808 196 3936 or email
employmentandtraining@northumberland.gov.uk
SUPPORT FOR
MEET OUR
EMPLOYMENT BUSINESS IN
NORTHUMBERLAND
COACHES
1 1 Gillian Campbell
2 Claire Wickens
The Northumberland Business Hub was established by the
3 Hollie Furness
County Council to support businesses through COVID-19,
and is at the heart of our plans for recovery.
2 3 Through the Hub, we work with partners
at Advance Northumberland and other
can see here more about the work
that this is enabling to support
agencies, to provide advice, support businesses and individuals.
and signposting to available funding for
businesses from across the county. • We provide a wide range of
information and guidance to
If worries about job security, going back to work • We have paid out over £89.415m to businesses, with particular support
or finances are affecting your mental health you 7,858 local businesses through small for the tourism and hospitality
can phone a free helpline to gain confidential business and retail, hospitality and sector - to help them to reopen safely
advice, online self-help, one-to-one counselling, leisure schemes, and a further £4.6m as lockdown has eased - and to
or other services. Simply call 0808 196 3933 is currently being allocated through benefit from the influx of staycation
the discretionary grants fund. visitors to Northumberland.
The COVID-19 Capacity Fund
• We secured £1.5m from the North is also allowing work with the
of Tyne Combined Authority’s tourism sector to help the industry
COVID-19 Capacity Fund, and you recover and grow.
Both of these services
are funded by the North Please visit www.northumberland.gov.uk/businesshub for full details.
of Tyne Combined
Authority COVID-19
Capacity Fund.
If you have a business enquiry which isn’t answered on the website you
can also email businesshub@northumberland.gov.uk
18 www.northumberland.gov.ukSUPPORTING BUSINESS IN NORTHUMBERLAND
Part of the Northumberland Business Hub
GROWING WITH STYLE,
THANKS TO COVID
RESPONSE PROGRAMME
Advance Northumberland is Debbie Waddle established her A friend told her
delivering a new Northumberland business at the beginning of March about Business
Covid Business Response 2020. When Covid-19 hit she was still Northumberland,
Programme (NCBRP) on behalf determined to follow her dream but and she registered
of the council, Northumberland knew that she would need to adapt the for six free virtual
Business Hub and the North of way that her new business would run. digital workshops
Tyne Combined Authority. - giving her skills
The business provides style consultancy,
including in Excel,
One of the first businesses to benefit from personal styling, wardrobe decluttering
SEO, social media
the programme was Blyth-based start-up and outfit sourcing for special
and Pinterest.
DW Styling, which has flourished despite occasions, and Debbie knew that she
being established at the beginning of a was going to have to maximise her She was then introduced to NCBRP.
global pandemic! digital skills during these times. It has two elements - Business Advantage
and Digital Advantage - and Debbie
signed up to the Business Advantage
programme which provided her with
12 hours of one-to-one support with a
dedicated coach.
She says: “The sessions focused on business
planning and helping me to understand
which direction DW Styling should take
to ensure maximum engagement with
potential customers, while adhering to
social distancing rules.
I also created a business plan - something
I can use to help to grow my business. The
support has been really valuable, without
it, I wouldn’t be as far as I am now. I would
recommend any business to apply to the
Covid Response Programme,” said Debbie.
The support has been
really valuable, without
it, I wouldn’t be as far
as I am now. I would
recommend any business
to apply to the Covid
Response Programme.
For more information please email business@advancenorthumberland.co.uk
or visit www.businessnorthumberland.co.uk or www.northumberlandbusinessresponse.co.uk
www.northumberland.gov.uk 19USEFUL CONTACTS
It’s really important you know where to go for the help and
advice you need, to support you and your family.
ONECALL
If you are worried about a child or adult’s immediate welfare please call:
01670 536 400
COMMUNITY RESPONSE HUB
For anyone struggling to access basic support needs, such as food, and who is unable to
get help from family, friends or a local support group due to the coronavirus outbreak.
Email: northumberlandcommunitiestogether@northumberland.gov.uk
or call 01670 620 015 between 9am-6pm, seven days a week.
NORTHUMBERLAND COMMUNITIES TOGETHER
If you want to volunteer and offer support, register your interest at:
www.northumberland.gov.uk/communitiestogether
NORTHUMBERLAND BUSINESS HUB
If you have a business, employer, or are self employed in Northumberland visit:
www.northumberland.gov.uk/businesshub
CONTACTING THE COUNCIL
If you need to contact the council in relation to council tax, bin collections, housing queries, or
report, apply, or pay for something. In the first instance, please use the council’s website:
www.northumberland.gov.uk
CITIZENS ADVICE
For consumer service advice, freephone 03444 111 444. Helplines are open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm.
DEBT
Don’t ignore a debt problem - doing nothing could make things worse.
You can find lots of helpful advice at: www.northumberland.gov.uk/debt
BENEFITS
If your income has been reduced you may be entitled to additional income through the benefits system.
Information about what is available and your eligibility can be found at: gov.uk/browse/benefits
DOMESTIC ABUSE
Sadly, the Coronavirus crisis has led to some people living in fear - fear of abuse. If you feel at risk
of domestic abuse, please remember, you are not alone and help is available for you.
If you are in danger but unable to talk on the phone, please call:
999 followed by 55 and you will receive police assistance without having to speak.
Advice and support is available by calling: 01670 820 199 or visiting:
www.placesforpeople.co.uk/supported-living/domestic-abuse
Freephone 24h National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 247 2000
Further support around domestic abuse and COVID-19 can be found at:
www.safelives.org.uk/news-views/domestic-abuse-and-covid-19 AT HOME
SHOULDN’T
Women’s Aid offers a confidential online chat service, available here: MEAN AT RISK
www.chatwomensaid.org.uk #YOUARENOTALONE
NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY COUNCIL • COUNTY HALL • MORPETH • NORTHUMBERLAND • NE61 2EFYou can also read
