Time4Christmas
Make a difference this Christmas by joining your local
Time4Warwickshire timebank
Warwickshire County Council is calling on individuals and community groups to give some Time4Christmas by joining the growing number of volunteers in the county’s timebanks which bring together volunteers to help, and receive help from, their neighbours in their communities.
Time4Warwickshire is Warwickshire County Council’s timebanking initiative. It links you with your local timebank. Timebanks are a way for people to help others in their community and be rewarded for it – in time. For every hour you give helping someone, you receive one hour – a time credit - back. Everyone’s time is valued equally so one hour of sharing skills or helping others is recognised by giving that person one hour as a time credit – a community loyalty point.
Warwickshire County Council is calling on communities to create timebanks, and for individuals to join their local timebanks where they already exist. All volunteers will be given guidance to ensure you have the support and skills you need by your local Time4Warwickshire timebank.
Cllr Heather Timms, Portfolio Holder for Environment and Heritage & Culture said: “Since the outbreak of COVID-19, Warwickshire residents who have found themselves vulnerable and isolated without access to support from family, friends or neighbours as a result of the pandemic have been offered an incredible amount of help through the county’s voluntary groups and growing number of volunteers, in addition to direct help from Warwickshire County Council.
“Christmas is the time of the year that we need each other more than ever, this Christmas more so than ever. By offering skills and support to neighbours and supporting our communities better and stronger, volunteers make a huge contribution to our county. With a focus on the different ways in which we can support our friends, families, colleagues and communities, timebanking is a fantastic way of using your skills to help others, getting help for things you need and, most wonderfully of all, continuing to make a difference in your community.”
Timebanks rely on the goodwill of people, organisations and communities to work. With six timebanks already, Warwickshire’s timebanking offer is set to make a difference but there will be great community benefits when there were more schemes across the county.
Anybody thinking of joining or setting up a timebank in their local area, please contact the Time4Warwickshire team on:
Cheryl Jones (North) on 07443 345610 &
Mick Spicer (South) on 07825 938396
or via email: t4wtimebanks@warwickshire.gov.uk
or on their Facebook page: Time4Warwickshire
For more information and link with your local timebank please visit Time4warwickshire website: https://tol2.timebanking.org/time4warwickshire
Make a difference this Christmas by joining your local
Time4Warwickshire timebank
Warwickshire County Council is calling on individuals and community groups to give some Time4Christmas by joining the growing number of volunteers in the county’s timebanks which bring together volunteers to help, and receive help from, their neighbours in their communities.
Time4Warwickshire is Warwickshire County Council’s timebanking initiative. It links you with your local timebank. Timebanks are a way for people to help others in their community and be rewarded for it – in time. For every hour you give helping someone, you receive one hour – a time credit - back. Everyone’s time is valued equally so one hour of sharing skills or helping others is recognised by giving that person one hour as a time credit – a community loyalty point.
Warwickshire County Council is calling on communities to create timebanks, and for individuals to join their local timebanks where they already exist. All volunteers will be given guidance to ensure you have the support and skills you need by your local Time4Warwickshire timebank.
Cllr Heather Timms, Portfolio Holder for Environment and Heritage & Culture said: “Since the outbreak of COVID-19, Warwickshire residents who have found themselves vulnerable and isolated without access to support from family, friends or neighbours as a result of the pandemic have been offered an incredible amount of help through the county’s voluntary groups and growing number of volunteers, in addition to direct help from Warwickshire County Council.
“Christmas is the time of the year that we need each other more than ever, this Christmas more so than ever. By offering skills and support to neighbours and supporting our communities better and stronger, volunteers make a huge contribution to our county. With a focus on the different ways in which we can support our friends, families, colleagues and communities, timebanking is a fantastic way of using your skills to help others, getting help for things you need and, most wonderfully of all, continuing to make a difference in your community.”
Timebanks rely on the goodwill of people, organisations and communities to work. With six timebanks already, Warwickshire’s timebanking offer is set to make a difference but there will be great community benefits when there were more schemes across the county.
Anybody thinking of joining or setting up a timebank in their local area, please contact the Time4Warwickshire team on:
Cheryl Jones (North) on 07443 345610 &
Mick Spicer (South) on 07825 938396
or via email: t4wtimebanks@warwickshire.gov.uk
or on their Facebook page: Time4Warwickshire
For more information and link with your local timebank please visit Time4warwickshire website: https://tol2.timebanking.org/time4warwickshire
Become a Covid-19 Community Champion and help people do the right thing for Warwickshire
This free online course from Warwickshire County Council offers training for Warwickshire residents who want to gain valuable skills in active citizenship.
Following a short welcome meeting on Monday, 16 November, the course runs on Wednesday evenings for four weeks from 18 November through to 9 December. Each session is 1.5 hours or 2 hours long and all sessions start at 7pm.
What is the course about? The course will help you understand more about the impact of the pandemic and what you can do to help others in your community. You will hear from professionals and community groups on a number of topics such as: the test and trace programme, risk factors and measures to control the spread of the virus, local support services, supporting vulnerable people, ideas about engagement activity and stories from others who are active in their communities.
How will the course be delivered? Due to restrictions of the pandemic, the course will be delivered virtually in an online meeting room. To participate, you will need internet access and be able to follow the joining instructions provided when you sign-up.
What do I get at the end of it? You will be awarded a certificate at the end of the course. More importantly, you will become more aware of the effect of the pandemic and the role you can play to help others to get through it. You will also have so much more knowledge about becoming an active citizen in your community and the services that surround you. You will have the opportunity to connect with new people and develop local networks.
Who can take part? To attend the course, you just need to meet the following criteria:
This free online course from Warwickshire County Council offers training for Warwickshire residents who want to gain valuable skills in active citizenship.
Following a short welcome meeting on Monday, 16 November, the course runs on Wednesday evenings for four weeks from 18 November through to 9 December. Each session is 1.5 hours or 2 hours long and all sessions start at 7pm.
What is the course about? The course will help you understand more about the impact of the pandemic and what you can do to help others in your community. You will hear from professionals and community groups on a number of topics such as: the test and trace programme, risk factors and measures to control the spread of the virus, local support services, supporting vulnerable people, ideas about engagement activity and stories from others who are active in their communities.
How will the course be delivered? Due to restrictions of the pandemic, the course will be delivered virtually in an online meeting room. To participate, you will need internet access and be able to follow the joining instructions provided when you sign-up.
What do I get at the end of it? You will be awarded a certificate at the end of the course. More importantly, you will become more aware of the effect of the pandemic and the role you can play to help others to get through it. You will also have so much more knowledge about becoming an active citizen in your community and the services that surround you. You will have the opportunity to connect with new people and develop local networks.
Who can take part? To attend the course, you just need to meet the following criteria:
- Live or work in Warwickshire
- Be over 18 years of age
- Have a passion for learning in an informal and fun environment
The Warwickshire Local Welfare Scheme continues to support children and families who rely on free school meals.
WCC Council Leader Izzi Seccombe has announced that the Warwickshire Local Welfare Scheme which has already provided over £450,000 of support to families through the Covid period, will continue to support our most vulnerable residents. The Local Welfare Scheme has been in place in Warwickshire for many years and it is through this Scheme that children who rely on free school meals will continue to receive financial support through the school holidays.
The Warwickshire Local Welfare Scheme helps the most vulnerable residents at times of unavoidable crisis by providing basic and essential help. It is recognised within the Scheme that some families who are struggling financially, and are eligible for free school meals, have difficulty covering the period when their children are at home during the school holidays. This Scheme is therefore an opportunity to reach and help those most in need by supporting eligible families with the cost of food for their children over the school holiday periods.
The Scheme will benefit those children eligible for free school meals as well as their younger non-school age siblings aged 2 or above. This support will be available not just over this October half-term, but over all other school holidays.
Council Leader Seccombe said:
"We do not want people in Warwickshire feeling anxious and we do not want children going hungry over school holidays. Our Local Welfare Scheme is there to support families and children, so this is what we will do. Our Warwickshire communities are really important to us and we are committed to supporting them.”
The only eligibility criterion for this offer is that parents are registered for free school meals.
Families wanting to apply for support through the Scheme should call 0800
4081448 or 01926 359182.
WCC Council Leader Izzi Seccombe has announced that the Warwickshire Local Welfare Scheme which has already provided over £450,000 of support to families through the Covid period, will continue to support our most vulnerable residents. The Local Welfare Scheme has been in place in Warwickshire for many years and it is through this Scheme that children who rely on free school meals will continue to receive financial support through the school holidays.
The Warwickshire Local Welfare Scheme helps the most vulnerable residents at times of unavoidable crisis by providing basic and essential help. It is recognised within the Scheme that some families who are struggling financially, and are eligible for free school meals, have difficulty covering the period when their children are at home during the school holidays. This Scheme is therefore an opportunity to reach and help those most in need by supporting eligible families with the cost of food for their children over the school holiday periods.
The Scheme will benefit those children eligible for free school meals as well as their younger non-school age siblings aged 2 or above. This support will be available not just over this October half-term, but over all other school holidays.
Council Leader Seccombe said:
"We do not want people in Warwickshire feeling anxious and we do not want children going hungry over school holidays. Our Local Welfare Scheme is there to support families and children, so this is what we will do. Our Warwickshire communities are really important to us and we are committed to supporting them.”
The only eligibility criterion for this offer is that parents are registered for free school meals.
Families wanting to apply for support through the Scheme should call 0800
4081448 or 01926 359182.
Guidance update for clinically extremely vulnerable ‘shielded’ individuals
24 June 2020
There are around 22,000 people in Warwickshire (2.2m nationally) identified as clinically extremely vulnerable who have been advised to stay at home and avoid non-essential face to face contact (shielding).
These are people of all ages – with specific medical conditions identified by senior UK Clinicians – who are at greater risk of severe illness from coronavirus.
In an announcement on Monday 22 June, the Health Secretary advised that, from Monday 6 July, people in this group will be able to spend more time outside their homes with relaxing of the guidance expected to take place on 1 August.
From Monday 6th July people classed as clinically extremely vulnerable to COVID-19 will be able to spend time outdoors in a group of up to six people including those outside of their household, while maintaining social distancing. Those who live alone or are single parents with children will also be able to create a 'support bubble' with one other household of any size, following the same rules already in place for the wider population.
From Saturday 1st August, the guidance will be relaxed so these people will no longer be advised to shield and can participate in more activities such as visiting shops and places of worship - whilst following strict social distancing measures and undertaking frequent handwashing.
Also from 1st August, those who need to work, and cannot do so from home, will be able to return to work as long as their workplace is COVID secure, adhering to the Government guidance.
Following relaxation of the shielding guidance, support will remain available from NHS volunteers and local councils although parcels of food and household items will no longer be provided. People will retain their priority for supermarket delivery slots, and still be able to access help with shopping, medication, phone calls and transport to medical appointments.
There are a number of ways that those who are identified as clinically extremely vulnerable can access food and other essentials:
24 June 2020
There are around 22,000 people in Warwickshire (2.2m nationally) identified as clinically extremely vulnerable who have been advised to stay at home and avoid non-essential face to face contact (shielding).
These are people of all ages – with specific medical conditions identified by senior UK Clinicians – who are at greater risk of severe illness from coronavirus.
In an announcement on Monday 22 June, the Health Secretary advised that, from Monday 6 July, people in this group will be able to spend more time outside their homes with relaxing of the guidance expected to take place on 1 August.
From Monday 6th July people classed as clinically extremely vulnerable to COVID-19 will be able to spend time outdoors in a group of up to six people including those outside of their household, while maintaining social distancing. Those who live alone or are single parents with children will also be able to create a 'support bubble' with one other household of any size, following the same rules already in place for the wider population.
From Saturday 1st August, the guidance will be relaxed so these people will no longer be advised to shield and can participate in more activities such as visiting shops and places of worship - whilst following strict social distancing measures and undertaking frequent handwashing.
Also from 1st August, those who need to work, and cannot do so from home, will be able to return to work as long as their workplace is COVID secure, adhering to the Government guidance.
Following relaxation of the shielding guidance, support will remain available from NHS volunteers and local councils although parcels of food and household items will no longer be provided. People will retain their priority for supermarket delivery slots, and still be able to access help with shopping, medication, phone calls and transport to medical appointments.
There are a number of ways that those who are identified as clinically extremely vulnerable can access food and other essentials:
- Make use of the supermarket priority delivery slots with seven supermarkets that are available for this group. People will need to register at www.gov.uk/coronavirus-extremely-vulnerable by 17 July for access to this. Assistance to do this is available via the Warwickshire County Council hotline 0800 408 1447.
- Support may be available from the NHS Volunteer Responders programme and people can call 0808 196 3646 to be linked with a volunteer who can do a food shop for them. A carer or family member can also do this on their behalf.
- If they need urgent help and have no other means of support, they can contact the Warwickshire County Council hotline on 0800 408 1447 to find out what support services are available in their area.
- Use the many options now available for accessing food, including telephone ordering, food box delivery, prepared meal delivery and other non-supermarket food delivery providers. In Warwickshire information on this and other ways to access food is online at www.warwickshire.gov.uk/information-coronavirus/coronavirus-food-supply-advice/1
SHUTTINGTON PARISH COUNCIL
"The Parish Council would like all parishioners to be made aware of the support currently in place for all those that need it. On the front line, local villagers have pooled resources to offer any transport/shopping/medical collections that are needed. All villagers should have received a note through their door with the contact number of Penny Scambler by now who has very kindly organised a team of volunteers throughout the village to assist with these needs. That contact information is on the village notice board and at the bus shelter also. I am sure all would like to extend their gratitude for all those involved in this local support initiative.
Should anyone wish to have those details again, please email NigelPC@outlook.com
May we also remind/advise you that our local village shop has many supplies which we may need and also the Four Shires Farm Shop in Seckington has an abundance of food, for which they are offering a pre-order facility and free local delivery to those that may need it. Their contact number is 01827 839171.
In addition, we are in very close and continuous contact with the Borough Council and County Council, being alerted to any developments, guidance and assistance which can be utilised as and when necessary.
It is clear that the current challenges are going to be with us for a while and will change regularly. Please be assured that the Parish Council will be constantly monitoring any developments and where possible, shall act accordingly to safeguard our local residents."
"The Parish Council would like all parishioners to be made aware of the support currently in place for all those that need it. On the front line, local villagers have pooled resources to offer any transport/shopping/medical collections that are needed. All villagers should have received a note through their door with the contact number of Penny Scambler by now who has very kindly organised a team of volunteers throughout the village to assist with these needs. That contact information is on the village notice board and at the bus shelter also. I am sure all would like to extend their gratitude for all those involved in this local support initiative.
Should anyone wish to have those details again, please email NigelPC@outlook.com
May we also remind/advise you that our local village shop has many supplies which we may need and also the Four Shires Farm Shop in Seckington has an abundance of food, for which they are offering a pre-order facility and free local delivery to those that may need it. Their contact number is 01827 839171.
In addition, we are in very close and continuous contact with the Borough Council and County Council, being alerted to any developments, guidance and assistance which can be utilised as and when necessary.
It is clear that the current challenges are going to be with us for a while and will change regularly. Please be assured that the Parish Council will be constantly monitoring any developments and where possible, shall act accordingly to safeguard our local residents."
SELF ISOLATION – PARISH ASSISTANCE - UPDATED
Hello, if you are self Isolating we can help.
SHUTTINGTON
My Name is Penny and I live at 3 East View, School Lane, Shuttington and I have set up a village support group to help those residents in Shuttington who are isolating.
ALVECOTE
My Name is Mandy and I live at 27 Alvecote Cottages and I am happy to be a point of contact and support for those in Alvecote who need support during this difficult time.
The Parish has come together to form a group of more than 20 volunteers (mainly in Shuttington) to help with shopping, prescription collections or a friendly phone call or video call to keep us all connected and well.
If you are in a high risk group or need support please contact Penny for Shuttington on 07855 764892 or Mandy for Alvecote 07854 812059 and I will alert the village helpers to your needs and someone will contact you within 4 hours of your call or text.
We will leave supplies on the door step and we should all make sure we are washing our hands, disinfecting door handles and surfaces and stay 2metres away from vulnerable people. Let's spread more kindness and keep the virus under control.
If you use social media join Shuttington Informed for community updates
Hello, if you are self Isolating we can help.
SHUTTINGTON
My Name is Penny and I live at 3 East View, School Lane, Shuttington and I have set up a village support group to help those residents in Shuttington who are isolating.
ALVECOTE
My Name is Mandy and I live at 27 Alvecote Cottages and I am happy to be a point of contact and support for those in Alvecote who need support during this difficult time.
The Parish has come together to form a group of more than 20 volunteers (mainly in Shuttington) to help with shopping, prescription collections or a friendly phone call or video call to keep us all connected and well.
If you are in a high risk group or need support please contact Penny for Shuttington on 07855 764892 or Mandy for Alvecote 07854 812059 and I will alert the village helpers to your needs and someone will contact you within 4 hours of your call or text.
We will leave supplies on the door step and we should all make sure we are washing our hands, disinfecting door handles and surfaces and stay 2metres away from vulnerable people. Let's spread more kindness and keep the virus under control.
If you use social media join Shuttington Informed for community updates
Changes to Flexi-bus service and new operator from 6.1.2020.
IndieGo is a new minibus Dial-a-Ride scheme that operates to and from Atherstone from the surrounding villages.
Users will be required to book their journeys by phoning 0345 263 8139
Service A2 starts from Shuttington at about 10.10am and travels via Seckington, Newton Regis, Austrey and Warton arriving at Atherstone at 10.45am and the return journey leaves Atherstone at 1.20pm
IndieGo is a new minibus Dial-a-Ride scheme that operates to and from Atherstone from the surrounding villages.
Users will be required to book their journeys by phoning 0345 263 8139
Service A2 starts from Shuttington at about 10.10am and travels via Seckington, Newton Regis, Austrey and Warton arriving at Atherstone at 10.45am and the return journey leaves Atherstone at 1.20pm
AskSARA
The AskSARA website has been launched in the county by Warwickshire County Council as part of our commitment, through the Warwickshire Cares Better Together programme, to give people better access to Assistive Technology.
From cooking and bathing to taking medication, or doing hobbies and daily tasks, AskSARA provides information, advice and guidance on smart gadgets and solutions that can enable people to help themselves.
The website signposts people to a whole range of gadgets and solutions based on their own personal needs and produces an individual report with suggested ideas, based on the answers to some simple, multiple-choice questions.
Visit the AskSARA Warwickshire website at www.warwickshire.gov.uk/asksara.
The AskSARA website has been launched in the county by Warwickshire County Council as part of our commitment, through the Warwickshire Cares Better Together programme, to give people better access to Assistive Technology.
From cooking and bathing to taking medication, or doing hobbies and daily tasks, AskSARA provides information, advice and guidance on smart gadgets and solutions that can enable people to help themselves.
The website signposts people to a whole range of gadgets and solutions based on their own personal needs and produces an individual report with suggested ideas, based on the answers to some simple, multiple-choice questions.
Visit the AskSARA Warwickshire website at www.warwickshire.gov.uk/asksara.
Red-lidded Bin Recycling Service
You may have already heard that the red-lidded bin recycling service is changing. From Monday 4th November 2019 residents will be able to put paper and card straight into their red-lidded bin with the rest of their recycling. No insert needed.
Tags will be left on red-lidded bins which ask people to remove their insert from the red-lidded bin and reuse for something else if possible. It also explains how the Borough Council will collect unwanted inserts back in.
There is more information on the website at www.northwarks.gov.uk/red and the Contact Centre can help on 01827 715 341 or customerservices@northwarks.gov.uk.
You may have already heard that the red-lidded bin recycling service is changing. From Monday 4th November 2019 residents will be able to put paper and card straight into their red-lidded bin with the rest of their recycling. No insert needed.
Tags will be left on red-lidded bins which ask people to remove their insert from the red-lidded bin and reuse for something else if possible. It also explains how the Borough Council will collect unwanted inserts back in.
There is more information on the website at www.northwarks.gov.uk/red and the Contact Centre can help on 01827 715 341 or customerservices@northwarks.gov.uk.
Neighbourhood Watch - Holiday Box
Shuttington and Alvecote have been given a Holiday Box by Neighbourhood Watch, which is available to borrow.. It contains timers alarmed padlocks and other items which will help secure your property while you are away from home. To reserve this box please ring Kurt Kovach, PC Chairman on 01827 898963. We are keeping a diary of availability and some bookings have already been made.
Shuttington and Alvecote have been given a Holiday Box by Neighbourhood Watch, which is available to borrow.. It contains timers alarmed padlocks and other items which will help secure your property while you are away from home. To reserve this box please ring Kurt Kovach, PC Chairman on 01827 898963. We are keeping a diary of availability and some bookings have already been made.
Neighbourhood Watch - Home Security Packs
In January this year every household in the parish received a Home Security Pack, containing a property marking pen and other useful information about home security. At the parish council meeting in July, the police reminded people that stolen property that is marked with the postcode can be easily returned to its rightful owners if retrieved by the police. Marking your property doesn't take long. The police also requested that householders display the "My property is security marked" stickers to discourage theft.
In January this year every household in the parish received a Home Security Pack, containing a property marking pen and other useful information about home security. At the parish council meeting in July, the police reminded people that stolen property that is marked with the postcode can be easily returned to its rightful owners if retrieved by the police. Marking your property doesn't take long. The police also requested that householders display the "My property is security marked" stickers to discourage theft.
Opening of Alvecote Play Area
The play area was formally opened by Craig Tracey M.P. on Saturday 29th June 2019. The Parish Council are delighted with the new play area and would like to thank everyone who worked so hard to make this possible. We would particularly like to thank former Councillor Jayne Cooper and clerk Anita Allsop and the many residents of Alvecote who gave up their time as volunteers on the site. The opening ceremony on Saturday 29 June was well attended by both residents of Alvecote and the travellers site and our special thanks go to Craig Tracey MP who opened the site and the many people who attended and set out the stalls etc. It will be a great benefit to the Alvecote community and surrounding area
The play area was formally opened by Craig Tracey M.P. on Saturday 29th June 2019. The Parish Council are delighted with the new play area and would like to thank everyone who worked so hard to make this possible. We would particularly like to thank former Councillor Jayne Cooper and clerk Anita Allsop and the many residents of Alvecote who gave up their time as volunteers on the site. The opening ceremony on Saturday 29 June was well attended by both residents of Alvecote and the travellers site and our special thanks go to Craig Tracey MP who opened the site and the many people who attended and set out the stalls etc. It will be a great benefit to the Alvecote community and surrounding area
"It's a long process" - The story of the application
It has taken a lot of effort and the support of many organizations to get this far. A refurbished Play Area has been the desire of the Parish Council for many years, even before we were permitted to purchase the land from the Coal Board in 2011.
We were generously supported by the then Borough Councillor Tilly May and North Warwickshire Borough Council. When the company they were using unexpectedly went into liquidation, it seemed like we would never get the Play Area refurbished.
County Councillor Dave Parsons then came to our aid and the layout was agreed upon. Now we had to find funding, and after several failed attempts we enlisted the help of Lisa Turner and formed Friends of Alvecote to take the project forward. Over several years the Friends of Alvecote raised over £2,500 towards the project.
We successfully procured a bid made to Awards for All from National Lottery funding to purchase the kickwall and some fencing, and with further funding from County Councillor Dave Parsons we were able to purchase a baby swing. At about the same time we acquired a donation from Western Power to purchase benches.
At last we seemed to be getting somewhere, but a lot more money was still required. With Lisa’s help and the support of NWBC, we applied for LEADER funding of almost £40,000, which we were awarded, and which has enabled us to reclaim a large part of the play area from scrub and acquire a zip wire, which the children were telling us they wanted, even as the kickwall was being installed several years ago. In addition we have been able to remove all of the old equipment, replace it with a range of play equipment to suit all ages, and make the Play Area an inviting place for families to enjoy.
We hope you will use it and enjoy it.
Shuttington & Alvecote Parish Council
It has taken a lot of effort and the support of many organizations to get this far. A refurbished Play Area has been the desire of the Parish Council for many years, even before we were permitted to purchase the land from the Coal Board in 2011.
We were generously supported by the then Borough Councillor Tilly May and North Warwickshire Borough Council. When the company they were using unexpectedly went into liquidation, it seemed like we would never get the Play Area refurbished.
County Councillor Dave Parsons then came to our aid and the layout was agreed upon. Now we had to find funding, and after several failed attempts we enlisted the help of Lisa Turner and formed Friends of Alvecote to take the project forward. Over several years the Friends of Alvecote raised over £2,500 towards the project.
We successfully procured a bid made to Awards for All from National Lottery funding to purchase the kickwall and some fencing, and with further funding from County Councillor Dave Parsons we were able to purchase a baby swing. At about the same time we acquired a donation from Western Power to purchase benches.
At last we seemed to be getting somewhere, but a lot more money was still required. With Lisa’s help and the support of NWBC, we applied for LEADER funding of almost £40,000, which we were awarded, and which has enabled us to reclaim a large part of the play area from scrub and acquire a zip wire, which the children were telling us they wanted, even as the kickwall was being installed several years ago. In addition we have been able to remove all of the old equipment, replace it with a range of play equipment to suit all ages, and make the Play Area an inviting place for families to enjoy.
We hope you will use it and enjoy it.
Shuttington & Alvecote Parish Council
Community Speedwatch - July Update
We have 7 trained and insured volunteers who have already started regular Speedwatch monitoring in Shuttington. We have reported several vehicles travelling through the village at excessive speeds and the drivers will be receiving a letter from the police about this infringement. Repeated offenders will be visited by the police. We are very pleased with the support we are receiving from the village and from the vast majority of motorists who use this route. Despite this many vehicles still travel at excessive speed when we are not monitoring.
We are hoping to partially address this by installing pinch points and village gateways at all entrances to Shuttington and Alvecote.which we hope will further slow traffic down.
We hope to run another training session in the future (3 hours in the Village Hall). If interested, please contact a local councillor.
We have 7 trained and insured volunteers who have already started regular Speedwatch monitoring in Shuttington. We have reported several vehicles travelling through the village at excessive speeds and the drivers will be receiving a letter from the police about this infringement. Repeated offenders will be visited by the police. We are very pleased with the support we are receiving from the village and from the vast majority of motorists who use this route. Despite this many vehicles still travel at excessive speed when we are not monitoring.
We are hoping to partially address this by installing pinch points and village gateways at all entrances to Shuttington and Alvecote.which we hope will further slow traffic down.
We hope to run another training session in the future (3 hours in the Village Hall). If interested, please contact a local councillor.
HS2 - June 2019 Update
The Department for Transport launched a consultation on design refinements for HS2 Phase 2b. There are two proposals affecting our area:
- realignment of the route at Junction 10 of the M42 to include a 2km twin-bored deep tunnel. From Freasley to the B5000. This means they no longer need to divert the M42/A5, demolish the service station.
- permanent 24/7 train maintenance facility at Austrey (formerly planned to be at Toton).
These changes raise a lot of questions. The changes are being consulted on and it's really important to send in letters making your views known before September 6.
HS2 can also be contacted directly - Helpdesk on 08081 434 434 or emailHS2enquiries@hs2.org.uk at any time.
You can read the documents here and there's also a link for online comments :
https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/hs2-phase-2b-design-refinement-consultation
There are changes to the Safeguarded areas see:
www.gov.uk/government/collections/safeguarding-information-and-maps-for-hs2
Letters can be sent by email or post as well as online:
The Department for Transport launched a consultation on design refinements for HS2 Phase 2b. There are two proposals affecting our area:
- realignment of the route at Junction 10 of the M42 to include a 2km twin-bored deep tunnel. From Freasley to the B5000. This means they no longer need to divert the M42/A5, demolish the service station.
- permanent 24/7 train maintenance facility at Austrey (formerly planned to be at Toton).
These changes raise a lot of questions. The changes are being consulted on and it's really important to send in letters making your views known before September 6.
HS2 can also be contacted directly - Helpdesk on 08081 434 434 or emailHS2enquiries@hs2.org.uk at any time.
You can read the documents here and there's also a link for online comments :
https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/hs2-phase-2b-design-refinement-consultation
There are changes to the Safeguarded areas see:
www.gov.uk/government/collections/safeguarding-information-and-maps-for-hs2
Letters can be sent by email or post as well as online:
- By email designrefinement2b@ipsos-mori.com
- By post FREEPOST HS2 PHASE 2B DESIGN REFINEMENT
NWBC Litterpick and village cleanup
A great turn out for this desperately needed clean up! Thanks to everyone who came along to help on Saturday 30th March and the morning of Sunday too..
We collected 31 bags of rubbish in total, mainly from down the hill to the traffic lights and along New Road. We also cleaned several of the road signs and rewarded the volunteers with soup and rolls afterwards. Their efforts were much appreciated by the villagers, but sadly, more rubbish has already started to accumulate - mainly takeaway food containers.
Any fly tipping on the other side of the bridge is on land which is the responsibility of Tamworth Borough Council.
A great turn out for this desperately needed clean up! Thanks to everyone who came along to help on Saturday 30th March and the morning of Sunday too..
We collected 31 bags of rubbish in total, mainly from down the hill to the traffic lights and along New Road. We also cleaned several of the road signs and rewarded the volunteers with soup and rolls afterwards. Their efforts were much appreciated by the villagers, but sadly, more rubbish has already started to accumulate - mainly takeaway food containers.
Any fly tipping on the other side of the bridge is on land which is the responsibility of Tamworth Borough Council.
Community Speedwatch - update May 2019
Training for volunteers who have registered their interest will take place on Monday 3rd June from 1.00 to 4.00 pm in the village hall.
The parish council is aware of concerns over the slowness in organising community speedwatch training. We are pleased to report that the Parish Council now owns its own approved speed camera, at no cost to the village, thanks to grants totalling £1000..
Police representative Adnan Ali visited Shuttington in the morning of Tuesday 8th January and with local councillors agreed possible locations for the speed watch. He is now contacting the volunteers to arrange dates for training through Warwickshire Police.
The scheme operates in 30mph and 40mph speed limits and is run by the volunteers who come forward to make up the groups. The teams monitor the speeds of vehicles as they pass and Warwickshire Police send the owners advisory letters as a result of the team's efforts. They require a minimum of six to form a group as they operate with three people on the road side for each session.
The groups are provided with high vis jackets and advanced warning signs so the cost of those is secured through Warwickshire Police. In terms of the laser device to monitor the speeds, there are a few options such as, sharing with nearby groups if it is an option, sharing with the local policing team or purchase of your own.
Training for volunteers who have registered their interest will take place on Monday 3rd June from 1.00 to 4.00 pm in the village hall.
The parish council is aware of concerns over the slowness in organising community speedwatch training. We are pleased to report that the Parish Council now owns its own approved speed camera, at no cost to the village, thanks to grants totalling £1000..
Police representative Adnan Ali visited Shuttington in the morning of Tuesday 8th January and with local councillors agreed possible locations for the speed watch. He is now contacting the volunteers to arrange dates for training through Warwickshire Police.
The scheme operates in 30mph and 40mph speed limits and is run by the volunteers who come forward to make up the groups. The teams monitor the speeds of vehicles as they pass and Warwickshire Police send the owners advisory letters as a result of the team's efforts. They require a minimum of six to form a group as they operate with three people on the road side for each session.
The groups are provided with high vis jackets and advanced warning signs so the cost of those is secured through Warwickshire Police. In terms of the laser device to monitor the speeds, there are a few options such as, sharing with nearby groups if it is an option, sharing with the local policing team or purchase of your own.
Problem Dogs
We are sorry to report that the Borough no longer employs a dog warden. Below is the text of the email sent to the parish council by the Borough:
"We no longer have a dog warden post here at NWBC. If a member of the public phones in with a ‘secured stray’ and it is between the hours of 9 am and 15:30pm during the week then our pest officer James will collect it and take it to the Birmingham dogs home (who now look after NWBC stray dogs). It has to be before 15:30 because the dogs home do not accept strays after 16:00 in the week. Any member of the public can take a stray to the Birmingham Dogs Home but are advised to phone (0121 643 5211) first to check they are open."
We are sorry to report that the Borough no longer employs a dog warden. Below is the text of the email sent to the parish council by the Borough:
"We no longer have a dog warden post here at NWBC. If a member of the public phones in with a ‘secured stray’ and it is between the hours of 9 am and 15:30pm during the week then our pest officer James will collect it and take it to the Birmingham dogs home (who now look after NWBC stray dogs). It has to be before 15:30 because the dogs home do not accept strays after 16:00 in the week. Any member of the public can take a stray to the Birmingham Dogs Home but are advised to phone (0121 643 5211) first to check they are open."
Superfast Broadband
Did you know that superfast broadband might already be available to you?
The CSW Broadband Project has already completed the following upgrades to these communities within your parish:
Cabinet / Structure Area served by upgrade
Polesworth 23 Alvecote - Robeys Lane / Alvecote Lane areas
Polesworth 6 Parts of Shuttington
To find out if you can get superfast broadband:
1. Check whether fibre broadband is available to you by entering your landline number or address into the BT Broadband Availability Checker.
If fibre is available, either 'VDSL Range A & B' or 'WBC FTTP' will be listed in the 'Featured Products' column on the left hand side of the results table along with the maximum and minimum speeds you are likely to achieve.
Our How to use the BT Broadband Availability Checker web page includes clear and concise information on how to make sense of the Availability Checker results.
2. Remember, that if fibre is available, you will need to order a fibre broadband package. You will not receive the upgraded service automatically. To find an Internet Service Provider and a fibre broadband package that suits your needs, you can use a broadband comparison site such as:
MoneySavingExpert.com
Broadbandchoices
Broadband Genie
Cable.co.uk
What are the benefits?
Having access to faster broadband allows individuals, families, businesses and communities to:
· Browse the web faster
· Stream HD films, TV shows, games and videos without buffering slowing you down
· Talk face-to-face with friends and family using Skype, FaceTime or similar software
· Compete with other businesses in the increasingly competitive global marketplace
· Reduce workplace costs through remote working / working from home
· Make use of a whole host of other online opportunities that wouldn’t otherwise be possible
Please Note: Even though your FTTC cabinet may have been upgraded, not every property connected to it is guaranteed to benefit due to some properties’ distances from the cabinet and/or quality of copper connections. For more information see our FAQs
Superfast broadband not available yet?
Register here to receive updates about future developments that may affect you.
Did you know that superfast broadband might already be available to you?
The CSW Broadband Project has already completed the following upgrades to these communities within your parish:
Cabinet / Structure Area served by upgrade
Polesworth 23 Alvecote - Robeys Lane / Alvecote Lane areas
Polesworth 6 Parts of Shuttington
To find out if you can get superfast broadband:
1. Check whether fibre broadband is available to you by entering your landline number or address into the BT Broadband Availability Checker.
If fibre is available, either 'VDSL Range A & B' or 'WBC FTTP' will be listed in the 'Featured Products' column on the left hand side of the results table along with the maximum and minimum speeds you are likely to achieve.
Our How to use the BT Broadband Availability Checker web page includes clear and concise information on how to make sense of the Availability Checker results.
2. Remember, that if fibre is available, you will need to order a fibre broadband package. You will not receive the upgraded service automatically. To find an Internet Service Provider and a fibre broadband package that suits your needs, you can use a broadband comparison site such as:
MoneySavingExpert.com
Broadbandchoices
Broadband Genie
Cable.co.uk
What are the benefits?
Having access to faster broadband allows individuals, families, businesses and communities to:
· Browse the web faster
· Stream HD films, TV shows, games and videos without buffering slowing you down
· Talk face-to-face with friends and family using Skype, FaceTime or similar software
· Compete with other businesses in the increasingly competitive global marketplace
· Reduce workplace costs through remote working / working from home
· Make use of a whole host of other online opportunities that wouldn’t otherwise be possible
Please Note: Even though your FTTC cabinet may have been upgraded, not every property connected to it is guaranteed to benefit due to some properties’ distances from the cabinet and/or quality of copper connections. For more information see our FAQs
Superfast broadband not available yet?
Register here to receive updates about future developments that may affect you.
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Hospital to Home Settling Service
Attached some presentation slides covering a new service provided by Warwickshire Fire and Rescue. The service is for anyone in Warwickshire but it is limited to those being treated at the George Elliott Hospital and Warwick Hospital. |
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AccessAble
North Warwickshire Borough Council are supporting and encouraging residents of North Warwickshire to use a new website/app.
The app/website is called AccessAble, and allows users to research the accessibility of various locations, shops and attractions prior to attending/visiting them. As a borough we have over 70 businesses/locations signed up to the website, and we are looking to promote the website to our residents. The businesses on the website were required to complete a walk around and checklist, and the website is constantly updating, so if there is a discrepancy between the website and the actual location, these changes can be made.
The information on the app/website is beneficial for anyone who has accessibility issues, is not confident going to new places, or who is concerned about what they may be faced with once they are there. The app can be downloaded onto any smart device (e.g. phones, iPad’s, tablets etc) or residents can visit the website www.AccessAble.co.uk to find all the information that need.
Emma Bracey, Community Development Officer (Health Improvement) is happy to answer any questions about accessibility in North Warwickshire on 01827 719232 Int: 2232 or by emailing emmabracey@northwarks.gov.uk.
North Warwickshire Borough Council are supporting and encouraging residents of North Warwickshire to use a new website/app.
The app/website is called AccessAble, and allows users to research the accessibility of various locations, shops and attractions prior to attending/visiting them. As a borough we have over 70 businesses/locations signed up to the website, and we are looking to promote the website to our residents. The businesses on the website were required to complete a walk around and checklist, and the website is constantly updating, so if there is a discrepancy between the website and the actual location, these changes can be made.
The information on the app/website is beneficial for anyone who has accessibility issues, is not confident going to new places, or who is concerned about what they may be faced with once they are there. The app can be downloaded onto any smart device (e.g. phones, iPad’s, tablets etc) or residents can visit the website www.AccessAble.co.uk to find all the information that need.
Emma Bracey, Community Development Officer (Health Improvement) is happy to answer any questions about accessibility in North Warwickshire on 01827 719232 Int: 2232 or by emailing emmabracey@northwarks.gov.uk.
Alvecote Broadband
We are delighted to advise you that all the hard work has paid off and that superfast broadband is now available in parts of Alvecote. Cabinet Polesworth 23 has been upgraded, meaning that properties connected to the upgraded cabinet may now be able to order the improved service.
For residents to check which cabinet they are connected to and what speeds they might achieve, they should visit the BT Broadband Availability Checker. For the best results, they will need to be able to enter a BT landline number for the property. If they do not have this then they can use their address, but it may be less accurate. It should be noted that customers are not restricted to buying a service from BT and that can go to any Internet Service Provider (ISP).
There are a number of different Internet Service Providers (ISPs), and it is best to check carefully as there are a wide range of packages available, with some including telephone calls and even TV options. Websites like MoneySavingExpert.com and Broadband Genie can give free, impartial advice on cheap broadband deals and provide information on which packages might be best for specific needs.
The ‘About Broadband’ section on the CSW Broadband website has lots of information about Internet Service Providers, a very useful jargon buster to help people to get through the sometimes baffling terms surrounding broadband, and lots of self-help guides so that users can get the most from the new, improved service.
We are delighted to advise you that all the hard work has paid off and that superfast broadband is now available in parts of Alvecote. Cabinet Polesworth 23 has been upgraded, meaning that properties connected to the upgraded cabinet may now be able to order the improved service.
For residents to check which cabinet they are connected to and what speeds they might achieve, they should visit the BT Broadband Availability Checker. For the best results, they will need to be able to enter a BT landline number for the property. If they do not have this then they can use their address, but it may be less accurate. It should be noted that customers are not restricted to buying a service from BT and that can go to any Internet Service Provider (ISP).
There are a number of different Internet Service Providers (ISPs), and it is best to check carefully as there are a wide range of packages available, with some including telephone calls and even TV options. Websites like MoneySavingExpert.com and Broadband Genie can give free, impartial advice on cheap broadband deals and provide information on which packages might be best for specific needs.
The ‘About Broadband’ section on the CSW Broadband website has lots of information about Internet Service Providers, a very useful jargon buster to help people to get through the sometimes baffling terms surrounding broadband, and lots of self-help guides so that users can get the most from the new, improved service.
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Meals on Wheels
A commercial service available in Warwickshire at £4.25 a day for a hot 2 course meal. This is the only meals on wheels service that is commissioned by Warwickshire County Council. See attached leaflet. |
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CCTV
CCTV covering the Alvecote Play Area is now operating as promised and the council would like feed-back. There is also CCTV at the entrance to the Travellers' Site and also on Laundry Lane. Please pass on your comments to any parish councillor.
CCTV covering the Alvecote Play Area is now operating as promised and the council would like feed-back. There is also CCTV at the entrance to the Travellers' Site and also on Laundry Lane. Please pass on your comments to any parish councillor.
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Shuttington Village Supermarket under new management!
Villagers are delighted to see that our village shop is now open again. Not only is it very well-stocked but it also opens at regular hours: 6 am to 9 pm every day, except for Friday and Saturday when it stays open till 10 pm.. Sundays 8.30 am to 8.30 pm. It is run by Adrise and his brother-in-law Madassar and.shows every indication of becoming a thriving local business. In addition to the off-licence, National Lottery tickets, tinned and dried food, biscuits, crisps, sweets and the usual household goods, they also have a regular supply of fresh bread, milk, yoghourt, sandwiches etc. A limited selection of newspapers is available at the moment, but this will be extended over the next few weeks. Adrise and Madassar are working hard to make the shop a success, so please give them your support.. |
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Amendments to Arriva Bus Service 785/786 from 27th October 2018
We have been advised by Arriva that they're introducing an amendment to their commercially operated 785/786 Bus Service from Saturday 27th October 2018 in a bid to make the route more financially viable.
Linden Lane, Polesworth will no longer be served and instead the service will operate directly between Amington and Shuttington, serving the village of Alvecote via the stops on Shuttington Road. The service will still retain an hourly frequency and a copy of the new timetable will be sent as soon as it's available. Alternatively, a copy of the Service Registration showing the timetable is available upon request.
A rough diagram of the change is shown below.
We have been advised by Arriva that they're introducing an amendment to their commercially operated 785/786 Bus Service from Saturday 27th October 2018 in a bid to make the route more financially viable.
Linden Lane, Polesworth will no longer be served and instead the service will operate directly between Amington and Shuttington, serving the village of Alvecote via the stops on Shuttington Road. The service will still retain an hourly frequency and a copy of the new timetable will be sent as soon as it's available. Alternatively, a copy of the Service Registration showing the timetable is available upon request.
A rough diagram of the change is shown below.
Alvecote Defibrillator
A defibrillator is now in place outside the Sam Barlow pub.
Warwickshire Switch and Save
There has never been a better time for Warwickshire Residents to save money on their gas and electricity bills with Warwickshire County Council's new collective energy switching scheme: Warwickshire Switch and Save.
Following a successful reverse auction between competing gas and electricity providers on the 22nd of May 2018, it has been revealed that residents signed up to the scheme are set to save an average of £177 on their utility bills.
In Warwickshire, about 300 households have registered so far with the scheme and the county’s Switch and Savers have been combined with 37 other similar initiatives from all around the UK to create a consumer collective of over 25,000 registered households.
Residents across Warwickshire have started receiving their personal offer letters or emails letting them know if they will be able to make savings against their current energy deal and, if so, exactly how much money will be going back into their pockets. In total, 75% of people who registered for the scheme in Warwickshire could save on their energy bills if they choose to switch, meaning lots of happy residents in the county.
One Leamington Spa resident contacted Warwickshire County Council to let them know how overjoyed he was when he recently received his personal offer highlighting a £401 saving on his electricity bill!
The message is clear: Don't delay, sign up here today to receive your free, no obligation, offer from Warwickshire Switch and Save.
More information about the scheme can be found here: https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/switchandsave or by clicking on the title of this article.
There has never been a better time for Warwickshire Residents to save money on their gas and electricity bills with Warwickshire County Council's new collective energy switching scheme: Warwickshire Switch and Save.
Following a successful reverse auction between competing gas and electricity providers on the 22nd of May 2018, it has been revealed that residents signed up to the scheme are set to save an average of £177 on their utility bills.
In Warwickshire, about 300 households have registered so far with the scheme and the county’s Switch and Savers have been combined with 37 other similar initiatives from all around the UK to create a consumer collective of over 25,000 registered households.
Residents across Warwickshire have started receiving their personal offer letters or emails letting them know if they will be able to make savings against their current energy deal and, if so, exactly how much money will be going back into their pockets. In total, 75% of people who registered for the scheme in Warwickshire could save on their energy bills if they choose to switch, meaning lots of happy residents in the county.
One Leamington Spa resident contacted Warwickshire County Council to let them know how overjoyed he was when he recently received his personal offer highlighting a £401 saving on his electricity bill!
The message is clear: Don't delay, sign up here today to receive your free, no obligation, offer from Warwickshire Switch and Save.
More information about the scheme can be found here: https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/switchandsave or by clicking on the title of this article.
GDPR - General Data Protection Regulation
After four years of preparation and debate the GDPR was finally approved by the EU Parliament on 14 April 2016.
Enforcement date: 25 May 2018.
The EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) replaces the Data Protection Directive 95/46/EC and was designed to harmonize data privacy laws across Europe, to protect and empower all EU citizens data privacy and to reshape the way organizations across the region approach data privacy. you can find further information by clicking on the title of this article which will take you to its website.
You can find a downloadable copy of the Shuttington & Alvecote Parish Council Privacy Notice on its webpage
and by clicking here.
After four years of preparation and debate the GDPR was finally approved by the EU Parliament on 14 April 2016.
Enforcement date: 25 May 2018.
The EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) replaces the Data Protection Directive 95/46/EC and was designed to harmonize data privacy laws across Europe, to protect and empower all EU citizens data privacy and to reshape the way organizations across the region approach data privacy. you can find further information by clicking on the title of this article which will take you to its website.
You can find a downloadable copy of the Shuttington & Alvecote Parish Council Privacy Notice on its webpage
and by clicking here.
Mental Health and Wellbeing services and support in Warwickshire.
Warwickshire County Council, Public Health, is encouraging Warwickshire residents and workforce to think about their own mental health and wellbeing and to seek support if they are struggling to cope.
Mental health problems affect 1 in 4 people every year, yet too often people are afraid to talk about their experiences or to seek help. There are a range of services available across Warwickshire to support people who may be experiencing difficulties with their mental health. This may include those who are struggling to cope, feeling anxious, low or stressed.
Services can support in a variety of ways, including:
Warwickshire County Council, Public Health, is encouraging Warwickshire residents and workforce to think about their own mental health and wellbeing and to seek support if they are struggling to cope.
Mental health problems affect 1 in 4 people every year, yet too often people are afraid to talk about their experiences or to seek help. There are a range of services available across Warwickshire to support people who may be experiencing difficulties with their mental health. This may include those who are struggling to cope, feeling anxious, low or stressed.
Services can support in a variety of ways, including:
- face to face support
- online community support network
- self-help books
- telephone support
CPR and Defibrillator training event
On Saturday 13th January Keith Dawson of Tame Community First Responders and West Midlands Ambulance Service, assisted by his wife and son, gave an excellent talk to a very attentive and appreciative audience. Keith demonstrated how to help someone who is choking, explained how to tell the difference between a cardiac arrest, heart attack and stroke and demonstrated use of a defibrillator on a training dummy. He showed several very useful videos and then encouraged those present to try out their CPR technique and use a defibrillator on the training dummies he had brought along.
On Saturday 13th January Keith Dawson of Tame Community First Responders and West Midlands Ambulance Service, assisted by his wife and son, gave an excellent talk to a very attentive and appreciative audience. Keith demonstrated how to help someone who is choking, explained how to tell the difference between a cardiac arrest, heart attack and stroke and demonstrated use of a defibrillator on a training dummy. He showed several very useful videos and then encouraged those present to try out their CPR technique and use a defibrillator on the training dummies he had brought along.
Shuttington & Alvecote Parish Hall wins £42,000 grant from Biffa Award. Refurbishment has now finished
The memorial bench is now in place on top of the mound by the Parish Hall. It's a restful spot to sit and contemplate the lovely view over the playing field towards Seckington and Newton.
More details and photos can be found by clicking on the link above.
More details and photos can be found by clicking on the link above.
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