Barons Quay to open doors this winter p4 - Cheshire West and Chester
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Delivered FREE to every home in West Cheshire Autumn 2016 talking together In this issue Firefighters tune up for charity p3 Cheshire CARES for victims of crime p6 Bright future for Chester Market p7 Barons Quay to open doors this winter p4 Produced by Cheshire West and Chester Council
Page 2 | Talking Together | Autumn 2016 What you have been saying online – messages sent to Tweet @Go_CheshireWest @Go_CheshireWest, @CWACLibraries and @CWACmuseums Heritage Lottery @heritagelottery Leigh-anne P @luvlee_2104 Noniepops @noniepops2007 Big congrats from us to Erik loved the @cwaclibraries thanks Liam at Blacon @cwacmuseums for winning #SummerReadingChallenge. So library for coding club. My son used #NLAwards heritage category. Proud excited about his certificate & medal what he learnt to teach others at evening! @cwaclibraries @Hartfordmanor1 school. #lovemylibrary Emma Stringfellow Cheshire Dance @cheshiredance Grace Ashworth DMYP @EmmaStringfell1 @cwaclibraries thank you for inviting @grace_ashworth_ Very much enjoyed Roman finds at us to deliver dance in Chester and Very exciting things are happening Grosvenor @cwacmuseums makes Wharton libraries this week with the youth service in such a difference to hold objects and #summerhols2016 @Go_CheshireWest young people have a chat @heritageopenday FamiliesChesterEP are being central to decisions affecting Mumsnet Cheshire @FamiliesChester us!! @MumsnetCheshire My boys are whizzing through books letsrecycle @letsrecycle Tony was a brilliant tour guide, he thanks to the #BigFriendlyRead this Eunomia names @Go_CheshireWest knows everything! Lion Salt Works summer top recycling carbon-saving council Leader’s welcome worth a trip, fascinating stuff Alfred Dewsbury @alfdewsbury Chester Pride @ChesterPride @cwacmuseums @Go_CheshireWest Well done to the Big thank you to @Go_cheshirewest At this time of year our thoughts turn to Geoff Pearson @HikingHistorian Street Scene crew. Reported fly tipping who are supporting us again this year family and togetherness as we prepare to Stretton Watermill @cwacmuseums by phone today and got instant action. and helping us keep Chester Pride a celebrate Christmas. But what if you were a was worth a visit. Well informed Excellent!#FamilyFunUK free event! #pride child or young person without a safe and guided tour around working mill Neil MacInnes @macinnes_neil HWCheshireWest stable home? In this issue we cover the which has been on site since Middle Fabulous site visit to an exciting new @HealthwatchCW stories of two men who were fostered in Ages cultural and community venue with Looking forward to hearing about the completely different circumstances – 70 Sarah Griffiths @sarahgriff117 libraries right at the heart of it @Brenproject at this morning's years apart. The similarity between them is Great to see the new Roman @StoryhouseLive @cwaclibraries Learning Disability Partnership Board the positive impact of foster carers on the Medicine exhibition tonight meeting @Go_CheshireWest course of their lives. We hope that this heart- See the back page for links to @cwacmuseums @Big_Heritage warming story, which you can find on page our website and social media #chester #history five, will inspire our readers to consider if channels. they can make that kind of difference and give a child or young person the best possible start in life. As colder weather sets in we are also Meeting dates offering advice on winter driving and an insight into the work of the Council’s 16- are online strong fleet of gritting trucks. I hope you find this article, on page 15, useful and stay safe A list of dates and times of full Council on the roads this winter. meetings and committee meetings can Our cover story is about the excitement be found at: mounting in Northwich as the first www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk attractions in the Council’s £80m Barons in the Your Council section. If you would Quay shopping and leisure quarter prepare to like this publication in an alternative open. There is also an update on plans for Go direct format or in another language please Chester Market and the Chester Northgate www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk email: scheme on page seven. Wherever you live in equalities@cheshirewestandchester. It’s quick and easy to access Council news, information the borough, I hope that you take the time to gov.uk or tel: 0300 123 8 123. and services. You can find it, report it and pay it – all visit our town centres during your Christmas online. Give us your feedback on this issue of shopping expeditions and make the most of Talking Together by emailing: west Cheshire’s many and varied local retailers. Go local talkingtogether@cheshirewestand www.yourwestcheshire.co.uk chester.gov.uk or writing to Finally, I would like to draw your attention to Marketing and Communication team, Visit and click on where you live for local news, links the What’s On guide in the centre pages of Cheshire West and Chester Council, to services, events and public notices - plus the latest this paper. I am certainly looking forward to 4 Civic Way, Ellesmere Port, CH65 0BE. job opportunities from the Council, Cheshire Police, visiting some of the parades, festivals and Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service and the Police & Crime Talking Together is published in celebrations throughout the festive season. Commissioner for Cheshire. partnership by Cheshire West and Visitors to the site can sign up to receive news updates. Chester Council, Cheshire Fire and Cllr Samantha Dixon Rescue Service, Police & Crime Leader, Cheshire West and Chester Council Commissioner for Cheshire and NHS General Council enquiries West Cheshire Clinical Commissioning 0300 123 8 123 Group. Front cover: Codilia Gapare and her sons Takunda, nine, and Panashe, 16, are excited about the Barons See page 15 for direct phone numbers for specific Quay development, in Northwich, particularly the services. new riverside cinema
Autumn 2016 | Talking Together | Page 3 Children’s centres offer help at the heart of communities Each week Elizabeth Oliver and her son Finley look forward to Friday morning Stay and Play sessions at Frodsham children’s centre. Elizabeth said: “The room is fab. It’s a safe environment for Finley to explore and play with children his own age. I work in the evenings and at weekends and so it’s nice to have things to do with Finley during the day. He always wants to be out so being able to walk to the children’s centre is perfect. It’s also good to know if I had any problems, with Finley’s speech or walking for example, that the centre can offer advice and support.” Elizabeth first came to the centre 20 months ago when her friend encouraged her to join the pre-natal breastfeeding support group. Once Finley was born Elizabeth brought him along to Baby Weigh and Baby Matters. Aisling Culshaw, Early Years Worker at Frodsham, Children’s centres in west Cheshire are part of the Council’s Elizabeth finds the centre invaluable: “In the said: “The groups are great for bringing young drive to give children the best start in life by offering a wide early days the groups gave my week structure children’s carers together. Mums, dads, range of services. They bring education, childcare, health and helped me not feel so isolated. On the days I grandparents and foster carers all visit with their and family support services, training, employment and had a group to attend I used to get up and children. They share their experiences and advice for parents all together in the heart of the community. dressed rather than stay in my pyjamas. It could support each other. They develop good social Find out about services on offer near you by searching be your baby won’t latch, you’ve both had no networks and make lasting friendships. Elizabeth children’s centres at: sleep or you’re just generally feeling like you’ve still comes to the breastfeeding support group to www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk. just had a baby! Knowing there is someone help new mums but now views it as more of a waiting at the children’s centre is a huge help.” social event.” Photo: Elizabeth Oliver and her son Finlay at Frodsham children’s centre Firefighters release song for Photo: Firefighters record their charity song charity To mark the 15th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on the Twin Towers in New York, Cheshire Fire Choir has released Bruce Springsteen’s song, The Rising. The Rising by Cheshire Fire Choir is available to download from iTunes, Amazon Music and Google Play. Performing the song is the Fire Choir’s way of never forgetting colleagues and a means of raising money for The Fire Fighters Charity. The song holds a special meaning for every single member of the choir, comprising firefighters, control and support staff from Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, as it was written in reaction to the attack in which 343 firefighters, 60 police officers and 10 paramedics lost their lives. It is also a tribute to UK emergency services personnel in the UK who have given their lives in the line of duty.
Page 4 | Talking Together | Autumn 2016 Families look forward to a bright future Two of the key anchor tenants at riverside redevelopment Barons Quay “It’s a town of the future now.” Codilia, who set up the business C-lash in Northwich are set to open this winter, officially launching the town’s new retail and to offer natural-looking false eyelashes for people who have lost their own leisure quarter. through cancer treatment, lives near Anticipation is building for the opening of a multi-million pound An Asda supermarket will welcome the town centre with husband Mike regeneration scheme that will transform Northwich into a town of Christmas shoppers from Monday, 28 Haworth and sons Panashe, 16, and the future. November, with a state-of-the-art five- Takunda, nine. screen Odeon cinema opening in She said: “It will make Northwich into a December. really family-oriented town and will be Mum-of-two Codilia Gapare says she great for us because we live in walking and her family cannot wait for the first distance. phase of the new development. “The boys are most excited about the “We’re just really excited to see what’s cinema – they like action movies and it going to happen,” she said. will be nice for them to watch them on “My kids have seen the old Northwich the big screen.” and are gradually seeing the new The 744-seat Odeon will boast a Northwich coming through and they’re cutting-edge ISENSE screen (ultra high really excited. definition), a full range of refreshments and its own on-site café. The first phase of Barons Quay will include new restaurants, bars, cafés and shops, 900 parking spaces, three new public spaces for shoppers to meet and relax and links back to the historic high street of Witton Street. Cheshire West and Chester Council’s investment in the £80m scheme helps to put Northwich on the map and ensure that west Cheshire is a great place to live and visit. For more information about Barons Quay visit: www.baronsquay.co.uk. Photo: Codilia Gapare and her sons Takunda, nine, and Panashe, 16, look forward to the opening of Barons Quay Thanks to Prince’s Trust team for family centre garden makeover A team of young people on a Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service Prince's Trust programme have unveiled a community project in Winsford to benefit families. As part of the 12-week programme Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service has been the team had to complete a running Prince’s Trust programmes for more than community project and chose Small 20 years. They give young people between the Oaks Family Centre, in Cheviot ages of 16 and 25 the opportunity to learn new Square, for a garden makeover. skills, complete qualifications and gain greater self-confidence, with the primary focus being The team of young people got stuck in team work within the community. Over the 12- with the outside space at the centre. week course the young people look to push They built a fence, tidied a garden themselves physically and mentally and the and built a bug house at the facility community project is part of the programme. which families can use and have easy access to. Jason McTigue is a Prince's Trust Team Leader for Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, and co- This is the second project to be ordinated the project. He said: “The Prince’s Trust unveiled by the Prince’s Trust at Small team programme aims to move young people Oaks. The previous team refurbished into full time employment. By doing this the inside of the building as part of community project it helped them to gain not their project, so the outside now looks only practical experience but also skills in how to as good as the inside for any families project manage and budget." who visit. For more information about the Prince’s Trust team programmes visit: www.cheshirefire.gov.uk or telephone: 01606 868700.
Autumn 2016 | Talking Together | Page 5 Foster and be the difference to a child’s life Local residents tell the truth about poverty in west Cheshire People who have experienced poverty first-hand can play a vital role in making decisions on how to tackle it. The newly established West Cheshire Poverty Truth Commission is working with a group of local residents called community inspirers, who may have lived with poverty, to share their stories and help identify and tackle the barriers people face. The Commission will bring together community inspirers with influential businesses, civic leaders and professionals to build relationships, encourage change and ensure that their experiences and views are placed at the heart of all work to tackle poverty. Donald Pilley (pictured) was two A childless, elderly couple one that provided routines The Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire, David Briggs, Chairman of West Cheshire Poverty Truth when his mother and siblings were provided Donald with a loving and boundaries helping him to Commission, said: “When people think of the and safe home and, after eight overcome his struggles. evacuated to Exeter from London years, adopted him. Donald word poverty they often consider how much Moving from a privately owned money a person has but the reality for many to escape the war. recalls growing up knowing he house to a local council estate, is that it is much deeper than just financial was different, particularly as he was surprised how he hardship. Increasingly we are seeing wider he had a different name to benefited from the tightknit concerns around health and wellbeing, lack His mother, with four children under three and them, but this was never community, making new of aspiration, debt, housing, food and fuel another baby on the way, was taken into hospital discussed. From an early age friends along the way. Josh poverty and employment struggles. and the Women’s Voluntary Service placed Donald he was estranged from his birth and his older sister with two separate foster families. maintained contact with his family, meeting them again birth family and rebuilt his “West Cheshire Poverty Truth Commission Josh* was fostered 70 years later, after being in the almost thirty years later. relationships with them. recognises that people experiencing poverty care of the Council. He was placed in foster care Now aged 80 and living in are the experts. We want to put them at the with a family friend when his own family struggled When asked what makes a heart of the decision-making process to Neston, with a successful good foster carer he said: to cope with his drug use. career as an opera singer behind ensure that, when our leaders decide how “Having the freedom to make best to deliver services, their impact will be as Decades apart, what their stories show is that, him, Donald believes that mistakes but also being given although the circumstances surrounding every compassion for the child and far-reaching and effective as possible.” support and guidance to learn child and young person can vary enormously, the the birth parents is important from them. Trust in my social difference a safe and stable home can make is and to let the child know that The group of community inspirers will take worker was important. I found centre stage at a special launch event of the unchanged. you’ve chosen them and why our sessions really helpful.” they are in care. Commission at Chester Racecourse in Josh was encouraged to do his February next year. Josh stayed with a single-parent best and recently achieved a mum and describes his 2:1 university degree. If you are interested in getting involved please experience as “enlightening” – contact Clare Roberts on: 07775 547752 or email: clare.roberts@cheshirewestand chester.gov.uk. Cheshire West and Chester Council currently looks after 493 children and young people and has 171 approved fostering households. One of 23 local authorities backing the You Can Foster campaign, the Council aims to recruit more foster carers. There are a lot of preconceived ideas about why you might be ruled out as a foster carer, but the only thing that matters is the support you can offer a child for them to have the best possible start in life. Find out more about fostering at: www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/fostering. *name of the individual has been changed to protect their identity
Page 6 | Talking Together | Autumn 2016 Cheshire CARES As a result of this approach, nearly twice as many victims now receive support than under the previous model and often more quickly. The team has also uncovered other more serious crimes, such as domestic abuse, which might hide behind reports of criminal damage, for instance. To contact CARES, call: 01606 366336 or email: cheshire.cares@cheshire. pnn.police.uk. Looking forward to a warmer winter Meanwhile, Police and Crime Commissioner David Keane has welcomed Remedi to Cheshire as it takes up its role Costly fuel bills will be a thing of the past as provider of Cheshire’s restorative justice and mediation for park home residents in Elton, who have service. often struggled to heat their homes. Restorative justice gives victims chance to tell offenders Older, uninsulated park homes properties at the real impact of their crime, get answers to their Orchard Park don’t have access to a mains gas questions and get an apology. Remedi will be working supply and residents rely on costly bottled gas. across Cheshire with a clear focus on positive outcomes Alan Davies and Alan Brown (pictured), who for victims, as well as working with communities, families have lived in their home for 16 years, are and individuals to support mediation where there is risk of among residents offered external wall, crime or victimisation. underfloor and loft insulation, part-funded by Mr Keane said: "Having Remedi UK on board is a great national charity National Energy Action. result for the people of Cheshire. Not only do they have a Due to the technical challenges of insulating solid track record in delivering services for victims but they park homes this is the first significant will also provide renewed focus on partnership working, energy efficiency scheme in the borough for Cheshire CARES (Cope and Recovery multi-agency training and crucially, engaging the park homes. Enhanced Services) is a dedicated service community through volunteering. Cheshire West and Chester Council, working providing tailored support to all victims of Hub manager Lisa Gill commented: “Building capacity, with Cornerstone Ltd, a national installer of energy efficiency measures, has introduced an crime in Cheshire, whether reported to the expertise and resilience across Cheshire will be a core emphasis for the service that Remedi will be providing. innovative scheme to install energy efficiency police or not. We’ve all been really excited to get going and look measures at Orchard Park, helping to lift forward to delivering a top class service for the coming residents out of fuel poverty. Since November 2015, the teams have been supporting months and years.” Alan Davies said: “We’ve noticed a real victims and raising the profile of the service at a number difference over the summer months as our For more information or to discuss potential of community events. home has been more comfortable to live in. referrals, you can call the team on: 0800 6406466, Now the cooler evenings are here we still Manager Julie Blaylock said: “Our aim is to make sure email: rjhub@remediuk.org or don’t have to put the heating on. We are everyone knows we are there for them, whenever they email: rj.hub@remediuk.cjsm.net. hoping our winter fuel bills will be less from decide they need support. We contact all victims of now on.” crime who report to the police and importantly we will Photo: Nicola Bancroft, Remedi UK’s Assistant Director, David Keane, Ann Raywood, the park’s Site Manager, added: support all victims of crime regardless of whether they Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire, and Lisa Gill, Remedi report the incident.” hub manager “The insulation has made such a difference. Many of our residents are elderly and on fixed incomes and heating an older park home can be costly. I hope more residents are able to benefit from schemes like this in the future.” Lion Salt Works wins National Lottery Heritage Award The Council was awarded funding from Northwich’s multi award-winning Lion Salt Works National Energy Action’s Technical Innovation Fund to add to the already committed budget has received a National Lottery Heritage award enabling the insulation of 52 homes. In fromTV chef Ainsley Harriott (pictured) at a star- addition, 15 homes were offered heat studded televised event. recovery units. National Energy Action is monitoring the Millions of television viewers saw the museum, not just the thermal performance of the park homes to UK’s last open-pan salt making site but one of the last in inform best practice on a national basis. the world, recognised for its inspirational work following a Addressing energy efficiency and affordable four-year restoration project and a 30-year campaign to save warmth is one of the Council’s key priorities the works. and it will now be looking to apply for further The Lion Salt Works beat off six other challengers in a public funding to insulate more park homes. vote to win the Best Heritage Project. It has received a For more information search for home £3,000 cash prize to spend on the project as well as a coveted energy at: National Lottery Awards trophy. For information about www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk. Cheshire museums visit: www.westcheshiremuseums.co.uk.
Autumn 2016 | Talking Together | Page 7 Designing a market for the future A historic west Cheshire market is setting out its stall for a long and prosperous future. Chester Market, managed by Cheshire West and Chester Council, is preparing to move to a new purpose-built venue at the heart of the £300m Chester Northgate development. Plans for the development have been approved, giving the go-ahead for an exciting scheme that includes a hotel, department store, restaurants, cinema and market. Fishmonger Steve Cartridge (pictured) is looking forward to the move, which is scheduled for 2019. He said: “Markets welcome people of all ages. We are passionate about the products we sell and I’m looking forward to seeing my existing customers and welcoming the many new visitors when the market is complete. “The products in the market are diverse, with many you will be pushed to find on the high street. If you can’t find an item you want, we will direct you to a trader that does have it or we’ll try and source it for you, there really is something for everyone.” Market traders are working with the There has been a regular market in Chester since at least developer to design the new the year 1139. The original site was the current Town building around their needs and the Hall Square but the new development is set to bring back needs of a market for the future. a Market Square that will also include a new cinema operated by Picturehouse. Naq Vu (pictured), originally from Vietnam, has run the nail bar in the Plans for the market are part of the Council’s work to market for three years but has been invest in leisure and culture and bring vibrancy to in the nail business for 16 years. communities. “I originally had a shop in Wigan Chester’s Indoor Market is open from Monday to but after visiting Chester decided Saturday between 8am and 5pm (except Bank Holidays). this was where I wanted to be,” It offers a wide range of goods and services, including she said. award-winning butchers, Cheshire cheese, fancy dress and freshly prepared food. The market also has a loyalty “There are so many businesses card offering discounts at participating stalls. For details under one roof and so many friendly about markets in west Cheshire visit: faces.” www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/markets. Green light for Northgate scheme The cultural landscape of Chester is set to be transformed in an ambitious £300m development. Cheshire West and Chester Council has The first phase will include restaurants in the approved plans for the city’s Northgate existing Chester Library building on Northgate project, which will provide a new Street, providing pre-theatre dining for the city’s department store, shops, restaurants and new cultural centre. leisure facilities in two phases of The wait is nearly over for Storyhouse, which construction starting in autumn 2017. opens next year bringing two state-of-the-art Picturehouse will run a new six-screen theatre spaces to Chester plus a library, boutique cinema with more than 700 seats. The cinema, café and bars. cinema will include a ground-level The existing hotel, together with the Forum foyer and café bar opening on to a new shopping centre and several other buildings, will Market Square. be demolished in 2019, allowing work to start on Chester Market will move into a new the second phase of construction that includes purpose built market hall and a 167- shops and department store. bedroom, four-star hotel and conference The scheme is part of the Council’s investment in centre will replace the existing Crowne the leisure and culture that makes the borough a To follow the project, which is expected to be complete in 2021, Plaza hotel. great place to live and visit. visit: www.chesternorthgate.com.
Page 8 | Talking Together | Autumn 2016 What’s on in west Cheshire Visit: www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/events or www.visitchester.com Cold Places: Pictures from the Poles by Sue Flood Winsford Christmas Street Festival Grosvenor Museum, Chester Old High Street 19 November - 22 February 25 November, 4pm - 7pm The international award-winning photographer Sue Enjoy a lantern parade, local primary schools’ Flood has travelled all over the world, but is drawn nativity play, the Christmas lights switch-on and back time and time again to the epic beauty of the fabulous fireworks. Polar Regions. The exhibition showcases www.winsford.gov.uk photographs from her visits to the Arctic and Antarctic Circles. Northwich Christmas Extravaganza www.westcheshiremuseums.co.uk Northwich town centre 26 November, 10am - 6.30pm Fun for all the family, including street performance, activities for children, lantern parade, Christmas lights Chester Christmas Light Switch-On Parade switch-on and firework finale. Chester city centre www.northwichtowncouncil.gov.uk 17 November, 7pm Find Santa as you watch the fantastic 12 Days of Christmas Tree Festival Christmas parade travel through the streets starting Chester Cathedral from Chester Town Hall square. 26 November - 8 January www.christmasinchester.com Chester Cathedral cloisters will be filled with more than 40 majestic Christmas trees. Escape from the hustle and bustle of the festive period and lose yourself in the tree-lined winter walkways. www.chestercathedral.com Police Cops Lion Salt Works Museum, Northwich 24 November, 7.30pm, suitable for ages 12+ The Pretend Men's critically acclaimed, award- winning comedy blockbuster returns for an action- packed hour of adrenaline-fuelled physical theatre, cinematic style and uncompromising facial hair. Tickets available via the website. www.cheshireruraltouringarts.co.uk Chester Christmas Market Town Hall Square, Chester Christmas Tree Festival 18 November - 18 December Christ Church, Neston Road, Willaston Shoppers are in for a magical time with over 70 25 - 27 November traditional wooden chalets situated in the heart of Approximately 13 trees decorated by local Chester, all wrapped around a sparkling Christmas community groups and businesses will be on tree. display. Some trees will be available for auction www.christmasinchester.com Frodsham Christmas Festival during the event. High Street and Church Street www.willastonvillagefestival.org 26 November, 12pm - 8pm Enjoy the parade, Santa’s grotto, festive market and The Lanterns at Chester Zoo fun for all the family. 25 November - 23 December on selected dates www.frodsham.gov.uk Stroll around the zoo after dark to enjoy all of the night time sounds, the beautiful lantern-lit gardens Ellesmere Port Christmas Light Switch-On and and the larger than life animal lanterns. Lantern Parade www.chesterzoo.org Civic Square 30 November, 5pm Ellesmere Port’s Christmas Village opening and lantern parade through the town including the impressive Queen of Lights and countdown the tree lights being switched on. Cheshire Pop-up Artisan Fair www.yourwestcheshire.co.uk Carriage Shed, City Place, Chester 19 November and 17 December, 10am - 4pm Willaston Village Christmas Lights Switch-On Cheshire Pop-up brings a diverse selection of Village Green independent market traders with a selection of 1 December, 6pm handmade giftware, gourmet delicacies, art, Plenty of Christmas cheer with Hadlow Rd Carol jewellery and homewares. Singers, mulled wine and mince pies. www.carriageshed.co.uk www.willastoninwirralresidents.org
Autumn 2016 | Talking Together | Page 9 What’s on in west Cheshire Visit: www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/events or www.visitchester.com Dickensian Christmas Lion Salt Works, Northwich 10 - 11 December 10.30am - 4pm Father Christmas swaps his reindeer for a steam engine. Celebrate Christmas in Salt Works style with music, side shows, crafts and historical characters. Suggested donation £2. www.westcheshiremuseums.co.uk Lantern Parade From Chester Town Hall Square 1 December, 7pm Chester city centre will be lit up by hundreds of children carrying handmade lanterns for the annual Santa Dash festive event. Chester city centre 4 December, 10am The Snowman and Cinderella Fun run around the city with participants dressed up Chester Cathedral as Santa in aid of the Countess of Chester Babygrow 3 December, 12pm, 2.15pm and 7pm Appeal and the Hospice of the Good Shepherd. Carrot Productions returns to Chester Cathedral to www.chestersantadash.com share a retelling of the classic fairy tale, Cinderella, with an orchestra and narrator. Winter Watch Parade www.chestercathedral.com Chester city centre 8 December, 7pm Christmas Floral Extravaganza Starting in Town Hall Square, don’t miss the Winter Arley Hall and Gardens, Northwich Watch as it parades through the city centre led by the Pantomime - Beauty and the Beast 3 - 8 December, 11am - 5pm Lord of Misrule. The Grange Theatre, Bradburns Lane, Hartford Floristry colleges and florists decorate the hall in www.visitchester.com 10 December - 1 January stunning style, plus delicious traditional Christmas Enjoy Beauty and the Beast, featuring an all-star cast, fayre from roast dinners to mince pies and mulled beautiful scenery and costumes and plenty of audience wine available in The Gardener's Kitchen. Admission participation. See website for times and prices. charge. www.ticketsource.co.uk/thegrangetheatre www.arleyhallandgardens.com Winter Watch and Saturnalia Parade Chester city centre 15 December, 7pm The Winter Watch parade and Chester’s Roman Legion present a colourful event around the city centre. www.visitchester.com All The World’s A Stage Chester History and Heritage, Bridge Street, Chester 9 January - 30 June Look back at the performances of the past – from Jack and the Beanstalk at the Forum Blakemere's Christmas Woodland amateur dramatics to the much-loved Royalty Theatre, The Forum Studio Theatre, Chester Blakemere Village, Sandiway, Northwich from the Tatler newsreels to the evenings when we 9 December - 6 January 3 - 18 December were all bewitched by the silver screens of the local Follow the story of a poor Chester lad who sets out Fascinating characters in this theatrical outdoor cinemas including the Odeon (now the home of to defeat the wicked Fleshcreep right at the top of performance lead you on a Christmas journey for all Storyhouse), the Classic, the Gaumont and the Regal. the beanstalk. Boo and hiss the baddies, cheer the the family including a children's craft workshop, www.westcheshiremuseums.co.uk heroes, laugh along with the corny jokes. For times Snowy the owl, a ride on Santa's Express plus a and prices see website. Little Red and the Big Wolf traditional carousel ride. Discover Father Christmas www.tiptopproductions.co.uk Action Transport Theatre, Whitby Hall, in his woodland hide away. Admission charge. Stanney Lane, Ellesmere Port. www.christmaswoodland.co.uk 12 - 17 January, ages 5+ Funny and inventive show filled with music, dance Neston Victorian Christmas and song. Times and prices on website. Neston Market Square and Town Hall www.actiontransporttheatre.org 3 December, 2pm - 8pm Explore seasonal stalls in the Market Square and Town Hall, visit the free Santa grotto, and enjoy Talking Together distribution begins on Monday, Victorian re-enactors and fairground stalls. Lights 14 November and takes up to three weeks. We will be switched on by the Town Mayor of Neston have listed events after this date. Information at 6pm. correct at time of going to print. www.aboutmyarea.co.uk/ch64
Page 10 | Talking Together | Autumn 2016 Spot the 1 difference Spot the differences Sharing your in the fun illustrations and you could win family health and social care tickets to see a fantastic festive pantomime. information Local health and social care services are For the chance to win, simply working together to improve how your 2 ring the six differences between information is shared to help professionals the two cartoons – cut out the make the best decisions about your care. cartoon and send it to: Spot the The Cheshire Care Record is a collaboration Difference competition, between all GP, hospital, community care, mental Communication team, Cheshire health and social care services provided across West and Chester Council, Cheshire. 4 Civic Way, Ellesmere Port CH65 0BE, or you can scan it in Whether you are visiting your GP, attending and email it to: talkingtogether hospital or being seen in your own home or health @cheshirewestandchester. centre, all of these partners want you to get the gov.uk. best care. This can only happen if all the health and social care professionals involved in your care We have two family tickets The closing date for entries is Friday, 9 December. The editor’s decision is have access to the information they need to make for each show (details below) so final and prizes will not be exchanged for a cash equivalent. informed decisions with you. please state your preference when you enter. Don’t forget to When you send your entry please give us your views on this Talking Together Your shared health and social care information will newspaper. Please note: your views, either positive or negative, will not affect include information like test results, medications, include your name, address and daytime telephone number. your chance of winning the competition. allergies and social or mental health information. The care professionals treating you will be able to access records from other organisations in this partnership allowing them to make the best decisions about your diagnosis, treatment and care plan. Oh yes it is…a panto spectacular This means: There are three thrilling Northwich Memorial Court • you don’t have to keep repeating your health Jack and the Beanstalk or social care history pantomimes to choose from this year as Brio Leisure puts on 10 December 2016 – 2 January 2017 • care professionals have access to the right Starring TOWIE’s James Argent and X Factor magnificent musical mayhem for information when they need it finalist and Celebrity Big Brother contestant all the family. Find out more and Katie Waissel, this is the giant show you’ve • we can reduce duplicate appointments and book your tickets at: ‘bean’ waiting for… Enjoy laugh-out-loud tests www.brioleisure.org/bookings. lines, sensational song, dance and slapstick as • you will receive the right treatment and care. Jack battles to save the kidnapped Princess Jill. Anton Benson Productions Ltd. Your information will be held securely and only accessed by the professionals that are directly Ellesmere Port Civic Hall involved in your care. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs You have a choice to give consent for all relevant 17 – 24 December 2017 professionals to view the record or to just provide Follow the tale of Snow White who lives in the kingdom of The Little access for that service for that day. If you have Apple with the Wicked Queen, Morganna, played by Edele Lynch from already told your GP that you don’t want your pop sensation B*Witched. This year’s production also features pre- health data to be shared, you may wish to recorded footage of Russell Grant as Man in the Mirror, lavish costumes reconsider and ask your GP to share your data and dazzling special effects. Anton Benson Productions Ltd. locally so that a Cheshire Care Record can be Neston Civic Hall created for you. Dick Whittington The Cheshire Care Record is just one of the ways 17 December 2016 that the Council works with partners to find new Take a trip to the magical setting of old London town and cheer your ways to deliver the best services for local people. hero Dick Whittington as he comes face-to-face with the evil Captain For more information please visit: Blood. Packed with comedy, excitement and adventure this family www.cheshirepioneer.co.uk/cheshire-care- favourite is brought to life by a cast of top entertainers. record or call: 01244 362741.
Autumn 2016 | Talking Together | Page 11 “It’s time for something different for families like ours” Picture posed by model Julie Peters gives a mother’s view on “Due to these developing psychotic Integrated Personal Commissioning symptoms he was referred to the Salford (IPC) and why it can change the life of Early Intervention Team and was also her son. diagnosed with Autism. The Crisis Resolution Home Treatment Team then became involved and he was admitted and “It’s really exciting that my local health services subsequently detained under the Mental are one of only nine areas in the country selected Health Act. to take part in the programme and committed to offering something different,” she said. “Months passed while we waited for a care agency to be contracted and then for them “Like most people who don’t work in the NHS, I’m to adequately train staff. All young people not familiar with the detail of what this all means are different and even if they have the but the aim is to give people with long term same condition, or clinical needs, a ‘one conditions and disabilities more power to direct carer fits all’ scenario is no good. how the funding for their care is spent - and if that can help my son then it’s music to my ears. “Tom is now nearing discharge and is at a “Tom is 19 years old; he’s a creative young man critical stage in his life and while I don’t with a great sense of humor and a kind and loving know what lies ahead, I’m determined for nature. With a huge passion for music, Tom us to have a ‘normal’ family life. IPC will studied music practice at college before beginning give us greater control to recruit a team of a sound and video degree at University. Sadly, committed carers who would be a good after just four months, Tom’s mental health began fit for our family.” to deteriorate and he was unable to continue his studies. He struggled to attend classes, maintain For more information visit: his self-care, became isolated and began to drink www.england.nhs.uk/commissioning/ heavily in an attempt to limit his symptoms. ipc or email: IPC@cheshire.gov.uk. Libraries look for the IT crowd Modern libraries are a far cry from the traditional image of a hushed building loaded with literature. Nowadays there is a growing emphasis on Code clubs are up-and-running in technology and teaching Northwich, Blacon, Upton and residents of all ages how to Frodsham libraries and the aim is make the most of it. to roll them out to other libraries. Cheshire West and Chester Volunteers play an important role Council’s libraries have embraced in supporting staff to deliver digital the digital age and are showing activities. Ade Fagbire, an IT visitors how technology can volunteer at Ellesmere Port Library, make life easier, healthier, cheaper is helping visitors learn about new and more fun. technology, including 87-year-old Whether you need help setting Sheila Levy, who needed support up an email account, downloading with a new computer. an eBook or researching your Ade said: “A few months ago family tree, libraries have Sheila was given a laptop by her something for everyone and are son and couldn’t turn it on. She is part of the Council’s investment in now able to send and receive skills to inspire success. emails and pictures to her Code clubs teach children aged grandchildren in Australia and between nine and 11 the basics Hong Kong. Just seeing her face Photo: Ade Fagbire helps visitors at Ellesmere Port Library. of computer programming as they light up when she sees that they learn to code their own games, are happy is very rewarding.” animations and websites using The library service is looking for IT volunteers, so if you have skills in this area and would like to get fun projects. involved visit: www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk and search for libraries.
Page 12 | Talking Together | Autumn 2016 Influence historic roles Make a change. Be the difference. OwnLifeWestCheshire.co.uk #OwnLifeWestCH for the future Chester residents are being given chance to We can all do more to look after shape the duties of the city’s civic figureheads. our health and wellbeing and that of our friends, family and neighbours. Residents are being urged to share their views about what activities they would like to see the It’s time for more of us to Own Life. Lord Mayor, Deputy Lord Mayor and Sheriff of Chester carry out in future. Own Life gives each and every one of The office of the Mayor of Chester is thought to us the support, information and date back to 1237, with the status of Lord Mayor encouragement we need. Together, being granted by the Queen in 1992. more of us can take the right steps to improve our health and wellbeing I’M JULIE AND I’M IN CONTROL The first reference to a sheriff is in the 1120s and it and make a positive difference in our Julie has been diagnosed with depressive and is thought that Chester was the first English town community. anxiety disorder. But her determination to to have the role. Own Life is not about telling people return to the workplace inspired her to take Following local government reorganisation in What’s more, if more of us do more control. what to do. Quite the opposite in 2009, the roles of Lord Mayor, Deputy Lord Mayor what we can to help ourselves, fact. We want to encourage the and Sheriff were transferred to the City of Chester we’ll be helping others too - people of West Cheshire to get Charter Trustees, which was set up to preserve and including our friends and family. protect the city’s historic rights and privileges involved and help drive the campaign forward. We can all do our bit to help which would otherwise have been lost. build stronger, healthier Now Cheshire West and Chester Council, on behalf To this end, we are aiming to build communities – whether we of the City of Chester’s Charter Trustees, want your a community of local Own Life are managing a long-term views on the future activities of each role. champions to help spread the condition or not. From April 2017 it is proposed that residents of word. Get involved now by going Launched in September 2016, Chester district, stretching from Elton to Malpas online at: Own Life is a joint initiative and from Farndon to Tattenhall, will meet the costs OwnLifeWestCheshire.co.uk. involving both NHS West of the three roles, rather than the costs being Cheshire Clinical Commissioning covered by residents across west Cheshire. Based Group and Cheshire West I’M ANDY AND I’M IN CONTROL on current expenditure, it is expected that this will By highlighting the numerous benefits and Chester Council’s Public Andy was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes cost residents of a Band D property £5.50 a year. of self-care and by linking in with Health team. when he was two years old – but he doesn’t local support groups and key public For more information and to share your views let anything get in his way. health campaigns such as Stay Well The campaign was showcased about the future activities of the three roles visit: This Winter, Own Life can help more recently at Cheshire West www.cheshirewestandchester.gov/ people take control and lead happier, and Chester Council’s Mental Find out more about Julie and Andy’s stories LordMayor. healthier lives. Health Summit. online at: OwnLifeWestCheshire.co.uk. Have your say on parking Parking is something that can have a major These will be for Chester, Ellesmere Port (including Little Frodsham impact on us all. The supply, location, cost Sutton), Northwich, Winsford, Frodsham, Helsby, and Frodsham Library, Princeway, Frodsham, WA6 6RX and enforcement of parking can affect Neston (including Parkgate) and rural settlement areas Thursday 8 December 2016, 3pm-7pm traffic flow, congestion, the local economy, (Cuddington, Sandiway, Weaverham, Tarvin, Malpas, Neston, Parkgate, Willaston growth, the environment and health and Tarporley, Farndon, Willaston and Kelsall). Neston Library, Parkgate Road, CH64 6QE wellbeing linked to air quality. Tuesday 13 December 2016, 3pm-7pm The public consultation opens this month (November) and closes mid-February. It will include the following Weaverham, Cuddington and Sandiway The Council is developing a parking strategy drop-in sessions at locations across the borough. The drop-in Weaverham Community Centre, Russet Road, Weaverham, CW8 3HY for the borough and is keen to hear your views sessions will start on Tuesday 29 November and continue Tuesday 10 January 2017, 3pm-7pm on the initial recommendations. It will cover a to Tuesday 24 January 2017. You do not need to register, wide range of parking issues, including supply just come along. Helsby and demand, parking locations, on and off- Tesco, Chester Road, Helsby WA6 0DJ street parking, charging and car park quality. Chester and Farndon Thursday 12 January 2017, 3pm-7pm Chester Town Hall, 33 Northgate Street, Chester, CH1 2HQ Malpas Work carried out to date has included data Co-Op, The Cross, Malpas, SY14 8NQ Tuesday 29 November 2016, 3pm-7pm collection, site visits, occupancy surveys, and Tuesday 17 January 2017, 3pm-7pm workshops involving a cross-section of Northwich stakeholders, including residents, businesses, Northwich Memorial Court, Chester Way, Northwich, Winsford and elected representatives. CW9 5QJ Winsford Lifestyle Centre, The Drumber, Winsford, CW7 1AD Wednesday 30 November 2016, 3pm-7pm Thursday 19 January 2017, 3pm-7pm Given the diversity of locations in the borough, Tarporley, Tarvin and Kelsall Ellesmere Port there will be eight location-based strategies Tarporley Community Centre, High Street, Tarporley, CW6 0AY Ellesmere Port Library, Civic Way, Ellesmere Port, CH65 0BG forming part of the borough-wide strategy. Tuesday 24 January 2017, 3pm-7pm Monday 5 December 2016, 3pm-7pm If you cannot attend the drop-in sessions you can leave your views at: www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/parkingstrategy
Autumn 2016 | Talking Together | Page 13 Share your views on how your community is governed Having a say in what happens in your own neighbourhood and how services are delivered is really important. That is why Cheshire West and Chester Council is carrying out a Community Governance Review in Chester and Ellesmere Port, with the aim of finding out what arrangements exist to enable residents to do just that. Some communities in west Cheshire are represented locally by town or parish councils Calling all social while others, known as unparished areas, are represented by different forms of community The Council is now embarking on reviews of the unparished areas of If you live in or have a connection to any of these areas, the Council workers governance arrangements like community Chester and Ellesmere Port. would like you to take part in its Experienced social workers looking meetings, neighbourhood management, consultation. for a new challenge are being urged to In Chester this includes the wards tenant management organisations, resident discover more about giving west Blacon, Boughton, Chester City, Online questionnaires are at: and tenant associations and community Cheshire’s children and young people Garden Quarter, Handbridge Park, www.cheshirewestandchester.gov. associations. the best start in life. Hoole, Lache and Newton. uk/CommunityGovernanceChester Since April 2011, the Council has reviewed In Ellesmere Port it includes or: www.cheshirewestandchester. Cheshire West and Chester Council is areas that were already represented by town Rossmore, Ellesmere Port Town, gov.uk/CommunityGovernance holding a recruitment event to showcase and parish councils and, as a result, some Whitby, Strawberry, Sutton, EllesmerePort. the benefits of working for one of the changes to parish boundaries and parish Grange, Netherpool, St Paul’s and For a hard copy of the questionnaire country’s most successful children’s council arrangements have been made. Ledsham and Manor. email: democraticserviceswest services. @cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk. On Monday 28 November, a drop-in event will be held at The Holiday Inn Ellesmere Port to give potential applicants an Volunteer to improve the lives of disabled people opportunity to hear first-hand about a number of vacancies across Chester, Ellesmere Port and Winsford. When George Dakin first visited DIAL West More than 100 volunteers During the evening session, which takes Cheshire seven years ago he had little already help deliver many place between 6pm and 8pm, idea of how much it could change his life. services, such as hiring out refreshments will be provided and a team George, from Chester, said: “I couldn’t drive mobility scooters and of social workers, team managers and and didn’t know how to use a mobility wheelchairs to help access city senior managers, will be on hand to assist scooter.” centre shops. The DIAL House and advise - speaking about their own Since joining the charity as a service user and Disability Rights Centre offers roles and experiences and answering volunteer George is finding it easier to get on advice on enquiries including questions about what it's like to work in with day-to-day activities. welfare benefits, discrimination the borough. issues and housing and You can find out more about the Council’s He added: “I had support from the Ability employment concerns. Angels assisted shopping service, where highly competitive package, which volunteer shopping helpers accompany people George is one of the volunteers includes flexible working, multiple to do their own shopping and now I hire a that help out at the DIAL House employee benefits, professional support DIAL West Cheshire also offers a mobility scooter every fortnight. I just go to the Community Café in Chester, a and a wealth of training opportunities. reporting centre for victims and Shopmobility centre, scan my card, pay a small friendly setting where people witnesses of Hate Crime incidents and The Council wants to recruit people that fee and away I go.” can meet and clients feel works with the West Cheshire are motivated and passionate about welcome. Foodbank to issue food vouchers and making a difference to the lives of west DIAL West Cheshire is commissioned by Cheshire West and Chester Council to provide He said: “I fold napkins around help to people in crisis. Cheshire’s children and young people, shopmobility services and a community legal the cutlery ready for when For more information about helping it build on one of the most advice and information service as part of its customers come in. I’ve made volunteering or receiving support successful Ofsted inspections in the ambition to protect vulnerable people and so many friends over the years at DIAL West Cheshire, country. promote independence. As the charity and never get bored of it. It’s call: 01244 345655, To register your place contact: celebrates its 30th birthday it is looking for such an important part of my email: contactus@dialwestcheshire. anna.johnson@cheshirewestand more people across the borough that are life, I love it.” org.uk or visit: chester.gov.uk or visit: willing to make a difference in the lives of local www.dialwestcheshire.org.uk. www.cwcrecruitment.co.uk/ socialwork.
Page 14 | Talking Together | Autumn 2016 Help is at hand for people suffering domestic abuse People fleeing domestic abuse within the borough are being given a second chance in Picture posed by model life thanks to extra funding Support is now greater than ever after additional funding was secured by Cheshire West and Chester Council for Women’s Housing Action Group (WHAG). WHAG supports victims of domestic abuse on behalf of the Council and the additional funding has seen services now reaching standard and medium-risk cases, as well as the more high risk cases that require immediate support in crisis. The service supports adults and young people aged 16 and 17 and offers recovery programmes, advice and guidance. The successful bid has also seen £70,000 made available for the provision of five new properties across the borough and a new community resource centre – providing fit- for-purpose and targeted support in a safe environment for those fleeing violence. “It left me in a completely controlled situation Sarah, aged 63, who is in her final weeks in that I could not get out of. The feeling of being “I know that I will have to cross hurdles in the future but I know that a refuge before moving in to a property of trapped had overwhelmed me, causing with the courage, memories and lessons I have learned and gained in her own, said: “I blamed myself for what depression, suicidal thoughts and desperate this refuge, I can and will do it. I could never have been me again had happened over the last six years and loneliness. without the support I have been given, the refuge has given me a where I was in my life. I had lost my second chance in life.” “Finding the will and strength to move forward individuality by doing things to please, If you or anyone you know is suffering from domestic abuse then took a lot of courage. I am discovering bits of allowing the decision-making to be solely me that I had lost, I am talking of the simple support is available. Please contact the Domestic Abuse Family Safety my partner’s, relying on my partner for the things like enjoying music again, laughing, Unit on: 01606 351375 or, out-of-hours, call the 24-hour DA helpline most simplest of tasks - frightened of on: 0808 2000 247. Alternatively share your concerns with a going shopping, eating out, feeling self-worth voicing my own thoughts and feelings. again and most of all finding me again. professional that you trust or contact WHAG at: www.whag.info. 12 cribs to keep firefighters away The Christmas cribs advice: 9. Make sure cigarettes are completely out before going to bed. this Christmas 1. Check Christmas tree lights conform to the British Standard. 10. Check smoke alarm batteries every week and use Christmas as a reminder to clean it 2. Never place candles near Christmas trees or Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service wants to avoid firefighters arriving furnishings. and remove dust. at people’s homes uninvited over the festive period and has 11. Keep candles, lighters and matches out of 3. Make a fire escape plan and make sure family produced 12 Christmas cribs to keep families and loved ones safe. and visitors know what to do in an reach of children and never leave burning candles unattended. emergency. Christmas is a time for 12. Take time to check on elderly relatives and 4. Don’t attach decorations to lights or heaters, celebration and decoration neighbours to make sure they are fire safe. they can burn easily. but all increase the danger of 5. Never overload electrical sockets and always fire in the home. Nick added: “Cheshire Fire and Rescue switch off and unplug Christmas lights before Nick Evans, Head of Service would like to wish everyone a happy going to bed or going out. Prevention, explained: "It's so and safe Christmas and New Year and we 6. Take care when cooking after drinking urge everyone to follow our Christmas cribs. easy to forget amidst all the alcohol as the risk of accidents, especially in festivities that tree lights and There’s only one red vehicle we want landing the kitchen, is greater after alcohol is at people’s houses this Christmas, and that’s decorations present fire risks. consumed. We're asking people to take Santa's sleigh, not a fire engine with a fire 7. Never leave cooking unattended - most fires crew in it!” five minutes to have a look at start in the kitchen. The Service will also be using social media to our safety tips to help ensure 8. Take care with fireworks, store them in a get the messages out to the community, using that this holiday season is one metal box, read the instructions, never go #12Days. to remember for all the right back to a lit firework and keep a bucket of Photo: Father Christmas wants to be the only surprise visitor to west reasons.” water nearby. Cheshire homes this Christmas
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