You said...we did
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:53:00 GMT
The neighbourhood consultation listens to Bracknell Forest resident’s views and concerns and highlights your priorities to the council, Thames Valley Police and Neighbourhood Action Groups (NAGs). In some neighbourhoods, litter and a lack of contact between younger and older residents were highlighted so the Birch Hill and Hanworth NAG organised a ‘Big Tidy Up’ litter pick. The event brought together volunteers from across generations to spruce up the neighbourhood. The group plans a similar event in September. Look out for details.

You said...we did
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:53:00 GMT
Bracknell Forest Council has tackled the issue of parking spaces in some areas, an issue also highlighted in the neighbourhood consultation. Three schemes have been approved in Harmans Water and Wildridings, while a further five are currently in the pipeline.   

You said...we did
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:53:00 GMT
In Sandhurst, the Nepali community welcomed the arrival of support worker, Bal Rai, whose job is to help integrate Ghurkha soldiers’ families into life in the borough. Cllr Iain McCracken, executive member for public protection, said: “Residents really do have direct influence over what happens in their local neighbourhoods. The issues they raise through the NAGs and other channels are tackled by the council and by the police to make neighbourhoods safer, cleaner and greener areas to live, work and play.”

Win a food composter!
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:53:00 GMT
Do you want to reduce your food waste too? Why not try home composting your vegetable scraps, fruit peelings, tea bags and egg shells? To win a composter answer the following question: Should you bag recyclable materials in your blue bin/ recycling box or leave them loose? Please send your answer, name, address and contact number to: Recycling Competition, Environmental Services, Central Depot, Old Bracknell Lane West, Bracknell, Berks, RG12 7AE by Friday, July 30.

Vouch for that
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:53:00 GMT
Young people aged 13 - 19 will have the opportunity to take part in positive activities again this summer thanks to the Youth Opportunity Fund. Registration, via www.xpresionz.co.uk, will allow access to many Bracknell Forest leisure facilities. The scheme, now in its third year, is planned and organised by young people from the youth council.

Value for money
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:52:00 GMT
Here are just a few examples of what you get for your council tax: • support for vulnerable residents such as older people and people with learning disabilities • support for your children’s schools • more affordable homes • the latest books and movies and free internet at your local library • support for our young people and youth clubs • birth, marriage and death services from registrars • Environmental Health ensures your favourite takeaway restaurant is hygienic and safe • your streets are cleared of litter and graffiti is removed • regular waste and recycling collections • support to reduce crime and antisocial behaviour • modern leisure and community facilities • maintenance of all of our borough’s roads • maintenance of green spaces and parks • support for foster families and carers   Your council tax bill* £1,093.95 + parish councils, fire and police * based on an average band D property in Bracknell Forest

Top of the Crops as the Borough blooms
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:52:00 GMT
Gardeners across Bracknell Forest have been busy watering, weeding and nurturing their blooms and crops in preparation for this year’s Your Gardens competition. Everything from petunias to pumpkins and parsnips have been springing up in residents’ gardens as part of the competition and this year the annual event has included a new category for proud veggie patch gardeners in the form of best allotment. Judging has already started for the coveted top spot in all the categories and winners will be announced at a glittering ceremony in October, sponsored by Syngenta. Over the summer, preparations have been going full pelt for the borough’s entry into Thames and Chilterns in Bloom. The town has been brimming with colourful flowers as part of this year’s entry into the national awards scheme. Judges have already visited many of the beautiful flower displays across Bracknell town including at Waymead Day Centre, Lily Hill Park and The Pines School - the results will be announced in the autumn. Cllr Mrs Dorothy Hayes, executive member for environment, said: “Flowers, plants, trees and shrubs are an enormous part of the visual environment and really help brighten up the borough. Thank you to everyone who has taken part in the Your Gardens competition (or helped the Bracknell in Bloom entry) – fingers crossed for some fantastic results.” Helen Barnett, marketing manager for Bracknell Regeneration Partnership, added: “We are really pleased with the effort that everyone has given this year. Here’s hoping the judges were impressed and we get a good result. It takes a lot of passion and hard work to make Bracknell in Bloom such a great success and we couldn’t do it without the help of the community and our sponsors.” Both Your Gardens and Bracknell in Bloom competitors are organised by Bracknell Forest Council, Bracknell Regeneration Partnership and Bracknell Town Council and supported by Bracknell Gardening Club, Syngenta, Bracknell Forest Standard, Bentalls, Bracknell Forest Homes, Courtney Coaches, Ringway, Homebase and Bracknell Market.

Video film with an e-safety meeting
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:52:00 GMT
Young moviemakers at Ranelagh School in Bracknell are celebrating their win in a community safety film competition.   The students from the school’s Digital Animation Club collected a digital video camera, donated by Bracknell based electronics giant Panasonic, and individual gift vouchers at a prize presentation attended by the mayor of the borough, Cllr Ian Leake (pictured bottom right). The competition, organised by Bracknell Forest Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership, asked for films on any safety subject relevant to young people such as preventing street crime, drug/alcohol misuse or cyber bullying. The Ranelagh film, which can be seen on Bracknell Forest Council’s YouTube website is called ‘Be safe in cyberspace’ and warns youngsters about taking care in internet chatrooms.

Sizzling events in Sandhurst
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:51:00 GMT
Children and families living in Sandhurst can look forward to a diverse programme of events – the Sandhurst summer of fun. From July 26 to August 27, residents can enjoy a selection of free activities ranging from cricket and belly dancing to yoga. Visit www.sandhurstpride.co.uk

Super fast Internet for Crowthorne
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:51:00 GMT
Residents in Crowthorne and the surrounding area will be some of the first in the country to benefit from superfast broadband – which is currently being installed by BT. As part of the work, residents may notice new broadband cabinets being put up – and may experience some inconvenience while cabling is installed. The work, including new cabinets, cables and power provision, is due to be completed this summer by BT and its contractors. In most instances the cabinets do not require planning permission from the council. However, regulations covering such installations do require planning permission where they could interfere with highway visibility and so the council has been working closely with BT. Vincent Haines, head of development management at Bracknell Forest Council, said: “This work is being carried out by BT and its contractors to improve the broadband facilities in Crowthorne and the surrounding area. “These boxes do not normally require planning permission, but BT is working closely with the council to make sure the location of the new cabinets and underground cables does not compromise road safety or threaten the wellbeing of important trees.” Further information is available by visiting www.bt.com/aboutbt    

Supporting residents with strokes
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:51:00 GMT
Bracknell Forest residents are invited to the launch of a new stroke strategy for the borough. In May, Bracknell Forest Council launched its strategy for stroke services and support. The stroke strategy was developed to improve stroke services and support throughout Bracknell Forest. Mira Haynes, chief officer: older people and long term conditions, said: “The new strategy has been developed by the council in partnership with people who have had a stroke and their families, people using the services, carers, Berkshire East PCT, as well as the voluntary and community sector. “In our ageing population, now is the time to ensure we have the services, support and a strategy behind it to ensure we meet the needs of our residents, now and in the future.” The stroke strategy outlined that in 2008 a total of 63 people in the borough were affected by a stroke. The strategy predicted that by 2025, this number will increase to 75 - that’s an increase on demand for services of 19 per cent. Cllr Dale Birch, executive member for adult social care, health and housing, said: “Stroke is the single largest cause of disability in the country which is why having a robust strategy for the borough is extremely important. “I urge anyone who is interested in finding out about how Bracknell Forest supports people who have had a stroke and their families and carers, to visit our website.” For more information go to www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk

Three in a row
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:51:00 GMT
Continuous improvement to a short break care unit for young people with learning disabilities has ensured an outstanding rating from Ofsted. Larchwood short break care unit recently notched its third continuous top score, and was praised for helping children to be healthy, stay safe, achieve well, make a positive contribution and protecting them from harm and neglect. The centre offers short breaks for children and young people in Bracknell Forest in a child focused environment. Healthlands Residential Home in Wildridings also received top marks after an unannounced visit from Care Quality Commission inspectors earlier this year. The home was rated as ‘excellent’ and awarded three stars, the highest possible rating. Cllr Dale Birch, executive member for adult social care, health and housing, said: “Staff at the home work hard to ensure residents’ needs, whether it’s physical, mental or social are met. A big well done to everyone at Heathlands for this great report.” The full report is available at www.cqc.org.uk    

There's no place like Zone
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:51:00 GMT
An exciting new youth centre in the heart of Great Hollands is one step closer to opening after the council’s planning team gave the application the thumbs up. The youth centre will be located in the Great Hollands’ neighbourhood centre and will offer a variety of programmes for young people throughout the day and evening. Paul Crawte, youth service manager, said: “This new space for young people will be used by a range of partners and will also be a base for a street-based youth work team.” The centre will be called The Zone.

There are 20.4 million volunteers in the UK, are you one of them?
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:51:00 GMT
Volunteering is an activity that involves people giving up their unpaid time to help others.   There are many unpaid roles which people fill and it is important to recognise and value this contribution. Volunteers save the Government £21.5 billion a year, giving their time and expertise for free. The popular volunteering opportunities which people recognise are roles such as driving, or helping at a day centre. However, in many instances, people do not see themselves as volunteers, but do give their time to sit on committees such as community associations, parent and toddlers groups and Neighbourhood Action Groups or help out at their child’s school, Neighbourhood Watch, help at sports clubs, or marshalling at events. Madeline Diver, from the Bracknell Forest Christian Network, said: “Members of faith organisations and churches enjoy helping anyone in the community, but many don’t see this activity as volunteering. However, they are giving up their unpaid time to help others.” Kalyan Gurung is president of the Bracknell Nepalese Society which helps Nepalese families in Bracknell Forest enhance their knowledge and understanding of British culture and the local area. The society had not thought of themselves as volunteers, more a neighbourly thing to do. So if you wash football kits, provide cricket teas or just do something for your neighbour or community for free, and you’re asked “do you volunteer and give up your free time”, what will you say? For information on any volunteering opportunities contact Tracey Morgan at Bracknell Forest Voluntary Action on 01344 304404 or email tracey.morgan@bfva.org

On the road with The Look Out
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:50:00 GMT
Thousands of school children will no longer need to keep a look out for fun-filled activities, as a whole host of exciting challenges and games are being brought straight to their classroom by one of the country’s top education centres. The Look Out Discovery Centre launched a new project called The Look Out on the Road in the spring to bring the centre’s fascinating challenges direct to the classroom. Staff from The Look Out have been out to schools offering a variety of exciting themed workshops including Mars Mission Madness, Bridge Builder and Solar Power. The Starlab, a mobile inflatable planetarium, is also another popular attraction available to schools through The Look Out on the Road. The Look Out On The Road also promotes environmental concerns to children through the Waste Not, Want Not! Challenge Workshop and for younger children, Smoggish - a puppet made out of rubbish – who tells stories about recycling and reusing materials.

On the fast track to improving your roads
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:50:00 GMT
An improvement scheme to reduce congestion at one of Bracknell Forest’s most well-used junctions has gone into top gear this summer.   Work to improve the Sports Centre Roundabout, which connects the Bagshot Road with South Hill Road and Opladen Way, started in June to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion bottlenecks during peak hours. The improvement scheme will see kerbs realigned and the carriageway widened to create three traffic lanes on all four approaches to the roundabout. The carriageway around the roundabout will be partially resurfaced and improved lane markings put in. A large part of the work will be carried out in the school summer holidays, to reduce disruption and, where possible, all other work will be carried out by the council’s contractors at off-peak times. Cllr Mrs Mary Ballin, executive member for transport, said: “The council is committed to improving the borough’s roads and so is investing in the Sports Centre Roundabout this summer to reduce congestion at the busy junction. “I’d like to thank residents and commuters for their patience while the work is carried out and assure them that every step has been taken to minimise disruption while the improvements are made.” Work on the improved roundabout is due to be completed in October. Significant changes will also be taking place to the A329 to improve access for Jennett’s Park residents and commuters this year. The improvements will consist of the construction of a short length of access road from an existing stub in Peacock Lane to a new roundabout on the A329. Vehicles travelling eastbound into Bracknell will however be able to use a through-lane rather than the roundabout in order to maintain traffic flow from the M4 towards Bracknell. The majority of the initial works, which started in May 2010, will be completed without any disruption to normal traffic flow – as it will take place just south of the existing A329. Towards late summer, work will move onto the existing A329 carriageway - where drivers may experience some temporary disruption and 50mph speed restrictions will be in place. The A329 roundabout and link to Peacock Lane is due to be completed in winter 2010/2011. Providing information to road users about the improvements is a priority for the Jennett’s Park Consortium – Persimmon Homes and Redrow Homes – and so a dedicated website www.a329roadworks.co.uk with detailed information about the road works as well as weekly updates is in place. In addition, a freephone information line – 0800 028 8332 – will be available.  

New crossing patrollers for Bracknell Forest
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:50:00 GMT
Geraldine Stuart and Irene Maddams are the latest additions to the expanding team of school crossing patrollers in Bracknell Forest, working hard to help pupils to cross the roads safely on their way to and from school each day. Irene works from Cranbourne Primary School and Geraldine works at a site used by children walking to Fox Hill, Wildridings and St Michael’s Easthampstead Primary Schools, as well as Brakenhale School. Their arrival means the borough now has seven school crossing patrollers. Irene, who took up the position in April, said: “I always wanted to give something back to my local community and I have found this such a rewarding job. “The welfare of the children is my top priority, and helping them to cross the road safely is reassuring for parents as well.” The council is currently looking to recruit more school crossing patrollers – call 01344 354023 for further information.

School improvements underway
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:50:00 GMT
The first wave of projects which aim to develop the borough’s primary schools has started. The developments come as part of the Primary Capital Programme – the Government’s £36m programme (boosted with £4m from Bracknell Forest Council) to support all primary, infant and junior schools. Pupils at Meadow Vale, Owlsmoor, Crown Wood and Sandy Lane Primary Schools and also Holly Spring Infant and Junior Schools will enjoy new furniture and equipment, bigger classrooms and additional facilities.

Safety tips for young people
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:50:00 GMT
• Try to walk with a friend or stay near a group of people. • Always take the route you know best and try to use well lit, busy streets. • If a vehicle pulls up suddenly alongside you, turn and walk in the other direction – you can turn much faster than a car. • If you think you’re being followed, cross the road, and turn to see who is behind you. If you’re still being followed, keep moving. Head for a busy area and tell people what is happening. If necessary, call the police. • If you’re wearing headphones or chatting on your mobile phone you can’t hear trouble approaching. • Never accept a lift with a stranger or someone you don’t know very well even if you are wet, tired or running late. • Avoid danger spots like quiet or badly lit alleyways, subways or isolated car parks. Walk down the middle of the pavement if the street is deserted. • Think about carrying a personal alarm.

Neighbourhoods give views on life in Bracknell Forest
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:50:00 GMT
The latest neighbourhood consultation across Bracknell Forest revealed that the vast majority of residents are happy to be living in the borough. The 2009 consultation, undertaken by Bracknell Forest Council and Thames Valley Police, gathered information from a postal survey of residents, through neighbourhood forum meetings and online forums. It shows 84 per cent of people are satisfied with their area as a place to live. The top three positive aspects of life in the borough were revealed to be: the parks and open spaces; access to nature; and health services. In addition, the consultation showed that more than three quarters of residents knew about their parish and town councils (78 per cent) and of those people who were aware, nearly one quarter (23 per cent) had been in touch with them during the previous year. These areas came out top in the satisfaction league. Cllr Iain McCracken, executive member for culture, corporate services and public protection, said: “The results of the consultation are encouraging and as the executive member who is also responsible for leisure provision it’s pleasing to see that residents rate the borough’s open spaces as a real plus to living here. “The survey also confirms that our town and parish councils play an important role in making life better for residents because they are at the grass roots of our communities. “People who want to raise specific issues or concerns can always approach their town or parish council direct.” A list of the borough’s town and parish councils and information about the work they do can be found on the Bracknell Forest Council website www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/yc-decision-making Residents also gave their views on improvements in their neighbourhoods through the consultation. They want to see more police on the streets; action on speeding drivers; and more action to tackle litter. Cllr McCracken added: “The consultation points to issues that need attention and we are looking with our partners at how we can address them over the coming months.” The information from the consultation will be used by Bracknell Forest Council and Thames Valley Police to: • inform the work of the Neighbourhood Action Groups (NAGs) and help set their priorities for 2010; • help the police and all council departments to plan services; and • provide police and the council with neighbourhood information. Chief Inspector Simon Bowden, head of police in Bracknell Forest, said: “The neighbourhood consultation plays an important role in planning and organising work and activities that help address local concerns, feeding information back to the police, council departments and other organisations and help influence the services provided. “They are also key in reporting back to their local communities the work that has been done.”

Offering a helping hand
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:50:00 GMT
From help with home life and housing problems, to assistance with behaviour issues and troubles, parents and their children can lean on a team of family support advisers (FSAs) for assistance if they need it. The FSAs work with all primary schools and the majority of secondary schools around the borough to offer additional advice. Your school will be able to tell you the name of its FSA.  

Need help in applying for a school place?
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:49:00 GMT
Help is at hand for parents struggling to navigate the school admissions process. The school choice advice service provides targeted support for parents and carers who need help in making an informed choice of primary or secondary school for their child. Leaflets about the service are available in schools, children’s centres, libraries and GP surgeries or see www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/learn-school-choice-advice for details.

Making you feel safer in the town centre
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:49:00 GMT
The safety of the borough’s vulnerable residents are a top priority for Bracknell Forest Council. As such the council, in partnership with Thames Valley Police, is set to launch the Safe Place scheme for Bracknell town centre on July 22. The Safe Place scheme is designed to give those who feel threatened or require assistance a place to take shelter in while appropriate help or support is arranged. The shops involved in the scheme will display a sticker in their front windows (pictured) and people requiring help can enter the premises and a shop assistant will be able to call for help. The scheme is set to be rolled out through the borough later this year. If you require help at any time, call the police on 0845 850 5505 or Bracknell Forest Council on 01344 352000.

It's party time at Jennett's Park
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:49:00 GMT
Residents of Jennett’s Park have got lots to look forward to this summer with free activities every week and a party in the park on Saturday, August 8, featuring a falconry display, face painting, arts and crafts, children’s games and displays of martial arts. From tug-of-war to cricket, and street dance to African drumming, there are plenty of two-hour sessions for residents to enjoy during the summer holidays. To find out more, and book a place, visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/extendedservices or call 01344 354034.    FREE FRIDAY SESSIONS FOR TEENS Friday afternoons equal fun time in Crowthorne. From July 23 until August 20, young people in Crowthorne can attend free sessions at the Morgan Recreation Ground and have-a-go at cage football, rounders and steel drumming to name but a few activities. To find out more, call 01344 354034 or pop in to Crowthorne Police Station.

Lifeboat boost thanks to Mayoral fundraising
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:49:00 GMT
Cllr Bob Wade, the immediate past Mayor of Bracknell Forest, has waved goodbye to his year in office with a £31,000 boost for a lifeboat station. The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) was Cllr Wade’s chosen good cause for his term as first citizen of the borough. At the annual Bracknell Forest Council meeting in May, Cllr Wade thanked everyone who had worked hard to organise fundraising events throughout the year, including the charity golf day at Downshire Golf Complex (pictured right), music shows, raffles, dinners and carol concerts. He also handed over a cheque for £31,732.46 to RNLI representatives from the Isle of Wight where the Bembridge lifeboat station is being refurbished and modernised.

It's the final countdown
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:49:00 GMT
Pupils, teachers and parents are getting excited as the final preparations are made to open a new state-of-the-art secondary school in Bracknell Forest this September. The council’s construction partners, Mace Plus, are working hard to catch up on the time lost at the start of the year due to the heavy snow fall. Garth Hill College secured £39.2 million of funding in July 2006 to demolish its existing buildings and construct a new school. The funding came in part from the Department for Education and Skills’ (now the Department for Education) Building Schools for the Future programme, and there was also a significant contribution from Bracknell Forest Council. Since the money was secured the school has worked closely with Mace Plus, as well as the local community, local authority and its pupils, staff and governors to provide a new school which will benefit not just the pupils and teachers, but also the wider community. When complete, the new school will have a capacity for 1,550 pupils and will provide a flexible, safe and stimulating environment with improved access to a wider range of education, leisure, recreation and other services. It will make use of the latest and best methods, systems, materials and finishes to ensure environmentally friendly, practical and sustainable use for many years to come. Keith Grainger, principal of the college, said: “The new facilities will help to personalise the learning experience, promoting curriculum development and more flexible, innovative approaches to learning. This will be supported by new technology - there will be network connectivity in every learning space, access to handheld devices and a new ICT network approximately three times the size of the existing network.” The building will consist of flexible space which will be available for a wide variety of activities including meetings, events and recreation as well as for classrooms. Facilities will include a theatre auditorium, flood-lit artificial sports pitch, a four-court sports hall, a fitness studio, new drama and dance studios, music centre with recording studio, hospitality and catering centre. The school will also feature a manufacturing and product design centre, a state-of-the-art media suite and a large inner link area with plenty of space for socialising, street performance, breakout for learning, assembly, games and other activities. The new college will have the potential to be open for longer hours, with the possibility of the provision of arts, after school clubs, social clubs, sports and library activities to engage younger people and the wider community. Cllr Alan Kendall, executive member for education, said: “This is an exciting time for residents of Bracknell Forest. Young people will be given the opportunity to be educated in a new school, which will have the best facilities and technology and members of the community will also be able to use the school’s leisure facilities.”

It's time for play
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:49:00 GMT
Play is more exciting for Bracknell Forest’s children and young people thanks to the opening of 12 new play areas. The innovative and creative sites have been built in various locations throughout the borough after Bracknell Forest Council secured £1.1m of funding from the Department for Children, Schools and Families through the Playbuilder programme. In addition to the 12 new play areas more will be built by the end of March 2011.

Nappy days
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:49:00 GMT
This year’s Real Nappy Week was the most successful to date and showed parents how simple it is to save cash and the environment. Other ways residents can do their bit is by recycling all tins, cans, paper, card, aerosols and plastic bottles in the blue bin or recycling box - but remember put them in loose not in plastic bags.

GP practices to support people with dementia
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:48:00 GMT
Staff at GP surgeries in Bracknell Forest are undergoing specialist training so they are better able to help patients diagnosed with dementia and the people who care for them.   Carers have been playing a key role in the training, telling their personal stories to emphasise the impact dementia has on their lives and those they care for and what family doctors, practice nurses and receptionists can do to help. The training is led by the Alzheimer’s Society. It is linked to a broader strategy to enable people with dementia to live independent lives for as long as possible by meeting their individual needs promptly. Ros Middleton, Bracknell Forest project manager for NHS Berkshire East, said: “I am delighted that our surgeries have been keen to learn more about dementia and the role they have to play in helping patients and carers.” The training is also an opportunity for GP practice staff to meet Karen White, who was appointed dementia adviser for Bracknell Forest last year as part of a two-year pilot project funded by the Department of Health. Karen said: “Giving people the right advice and information now can help to prevent a crisis later on. People rightly expect their GP surgery to be able to do this. That’s why the training programme is so important.” If you are worried about memory problems but have not been diagnosed with dementia contact your GP.   

Expansion gives more hope
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:48:00 GMT
Providing support services for vulnerable residents continues to be a top priority for Bracknell Forest Council. Earlier this year, New Hope, the council’s centre for alcohol and substance misuse, expanded and now occupies 92, 94 and 116 Broadway in the town centre. This new building allows support officers to see young people and families with children, ensuring the centre’s services support the entire family as best they can. For more information visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/livdrugs-advice-and-support

Introducing Bracknell Forest's first citizen
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:48:00 GMT
Cllr Ian Leake, ward councillor for Binfield with Warfield has taken his place as first citizen of the borough and Mayor of Bracknell Forest. In his acceptance speech at this year’s mayor-making ceremony in May, Cllr Leake said he was well aware of ‘treading in the footsteps’ of many successful mayors of Bracknell Forest. When promising to uphold the high standards and expectations of the office, he said he and the Mayoress, wife Enid, were looking forward, with enthusiasm, to an exciting time serving the borough during the next 12 months. He also said they were both looking forward to meeting many more residents, charity workers, business leaders, schoolchildren and representatives of other local authorities. Cllr Leake announced that Prostate UK would be his charity for the year. He chose the organisation because 50 per cent of men are affected by the prostate conditions during their life time. Prostate UK had undertaken to raise awareness in Bracknell Forest and run a master class seminar for local GPs to improve diagnosis and treatment. During the mayor making ceremony, Cllr Leake also welcomed his new Deputy Mayor, Cllr Chris Turrell, ward councillor for Harmans Water, and said he was pleased to be working closely with him.

Have fun in the sun
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:48:00 GMT
Bracknell Forest Council has teamed up with Bracknell Forest Homes to offer teenagers a fun day out this summer. The youth challenge is a targeted development programme which gives 13-19 year olds the opportunity to enjoy new activities at Oakwood Youth Challenge during the summer holidays. Don McLaren, head of integrated youth support at the council, said: “The events are subsidised, and help young people learn new skills and have fun during the summer holidays.” For more information log on to www.bracknellforesthomes.org.uk

Get on yer bike
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:48:00 GMT
The street development youth workers have shunned cars in favour of bikes as their favoured method of transport across the borough, in an attempt to reduce their carbon footprint and be healthier. Since April, the team – who patrol streets in Bracknell Forest during the evening – have been using the greener option to get from a-to-b, by travelling by bike rather than on foot or in the car. By ditching four wheels for two, the youth workers are cutting their CO2 emissions and reducing noise pollution. They are also encouraging cycling and providing an example of good practice. Don McLaren, head of integrated youth support, said: “The street development youth workers go out on the streets in the early evening – particularly on Fridays – and talk to young people about the provisions that are available to them through Bracknell Forest Council and other organisations within the borough. “They cover quite a large area and so the idea of travelling by bikes made sense. Not only does it allow the youth workers to cover a wider area, it also means they can use the borough’s underpasses and it makes them feel closer to the young people.” The bikes were donated to Bracknell Forest Council by Thames Valley Police, and Berkshire Cycles in Crowthorne service the bikes.

Get active in the borough
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:48:00 GMT
Young people in Bracknell Forest with moderate learning disabilities can get active from September by taking part in a Duke of Edinburgh pilot scheme. The project takes place at Priestwood Youth Centre on Thursday evenings between 7pm and 9pm, and costs £1 per session. Places in the sessions, funded by Aiming High for Disabled Children, are limited – for more information and an application pack email karen.dynan@bracknell-forest.gov.uk  or call 01344 464732.  

Forestcare is first for national recognition
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:48:00 GMT
Forestcare, the council’s emergency response service, is the first in Berkshire and the Thames Valley to be awarded accreditation by the Telecare Services Authority, recognising excellence. For further information on Forestcare and the 24-hour lifeline service it offers to residents visit www.bracknellforest.gov.uk/liv-forestcare  

Get on the ladder
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:48:00 GMT
Residents on the housing register are now able to take advantage of a council-run scheme to get them a home of their own. The scheme works by the council offering families a mortgage of up to 95 per cent of the market value of a home they’d like to buy – the other five per cent is paid as a deposit by the family. The mortgage is a 25-year capital and interest loan and is available to people on the housing register who are over 18 and first time buyers, with a good credit history and earning at least £20,000 to a maximum £60,000 for a couple. The interest rate is 3.13 per cent. For further information call 01344 351352 or visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/councilmortgages

Crime Continues On Downward Trend
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:47:00 GMT
The Bracknell Forest Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership (CDRP) which includes Bracknell Forest Council, Thames Valley Police, the fire service, health service and probation service, exists to reduce crime and make the community safer.   In the year between April 1, 2009 and March 31, 2010, the CDRP has had considerable success in making Bracknell Forest a safer place to live, work and play. The overall level of recorded crime has fallen by almost eight per cent. This includes a 24 per cent reduction in burglary of people’s homes, a 31 per cent reduction in thefts of vehicles and a 12 per cent reduction in the thefts from vehicles. Reports of criminal damage - often closely associated with anti-social behaviour - have also fallen by 15 per cent. This is significant as criminal damage, which at fewer than 1,400 reports last year, is the most often reported crime in the borough. The CDRP has a system - CADIS - which brings together all reports of anti-social behaviour (ASB) made to police, the council, parish councils, the fire service and Bracknell Forest Homes. This system shows that in 2009-2010 there was a fall of almost nine per cent in ASB incidents. This year the CDRP will continue to focus on reducing violent crime while maintaining the reductions in acquisitive crime. Last year there were 734 minor assaults reported, which represents a small reduction on the previous year. There was, however, a small increase in serious violence, bringing the total for last year to 44 incidents across the borough. The number of recorded drug offences has risen by 21 per cent but this is more the result of increased police activity rather than increased offending. Few people report drug offences to the police but offences are recorded when police catch people with drugs. It is this increased police activity against drugs which has helped reduce acquisitive crime. Cllr Iain McCracken, executive member for culture, corporate services and public protection, said: “These significant reductions in acquisitive crime like burglary and thefts of cars show the police, the council and all CDRP partners are working well together to make our borough a safe place to live. “There is always more to do and we are never complacent. Sometimes serious crimes come out of the blue which shock us all but they could happen anywhere. The general picture in Bracknell Forest is that the crime rate is falling and we are fortunate to live in an area where crime and disorder rates are already low.” Chief Inspector Simon Bowden, head of police in Bracknell Forest, said: “Over the last three years we have achieved some outstanding reductions in many areas of crime - this is due to the work of the whole partnership and working towards shared objectives.” If you want to report a crime call 999 if a crime is in progress or if someone’s safety is at risk. Otherwise you should call 0845 8 505 505. Some crimes can also be reported in confidence and anonymously on the community safety page of Bracknell Forest Council’s website www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/living/liv-safer-communities

Edgbarrow Sports Centre fully open
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:47:00 GMT
Fitness fans are jumping for joy now that Edgbarrow Sports Centre is fully open again. All sports, activities and leisure events are running as normal at the centre in Grant Road as of Monday, July 19, following a fire in the boiler room last year. Facilities include: • main sports hall - for badminton, five-a-side football, basketball, archery, trampolining and roller hockey; • small hall – for gymnastics, exercise to music, yoga, pilates, pre-school activities; • function hall – fully licensed venue available for private hire; • Time Out Café/bar – fully licensed and serving hot and cold drinks and snacks; • meeting/conference room – available for private hire for groups of up to 24; • crèche – times to suit parents wishing to access our activity programmes; • squash courts - for squash and table tennis; • Be Active fitness room; • floodlit tennis and netball courts; and • floodlit astroturf pitch - for football and hockey. Activities available include: • pre-school classes – trampolining, gymnastics, soft play; • junior classes – archery, badminton, gymnastics, short tennis, teen circuits, tennis, trampolining; • adult classes – aerobics, archery, badminton, body conditioning, boxercise, circuit training, 50+ activities, yoga, pilates; • children’s parties – a wide choice of party types to suit 1-10 year olds. Catering can be provided; and • children’s holiday scheme – available during school holiday. Sessions for under 3s, 3-6s, 7-11s and 12-16s. There will be a free open day on Sunday, August 1, where people can come along and try out the facilities. For more information call on 01344 776211. Huge discounts are also available on fitness room memberships, class enrolment fees, holiday scheme fees, birthday party packages and more. All discounts valid until Tuesday, August 31, 2010 – enquire for more information. Cllr Iain McCracken, executive member for culture, corporate services and public protection, said: “As our members will know, Edgbarrow Sports Centre suffered a major fire last year and so we had no choice but to temporarily close the centre. However, the council did its absolute best to start running services from the centre as soon as it was safely possible. “I’d like to thank everyone for their continued patience while the centre was closed and apologise to anyone who was inconvenienced by the temporary closure. The centre is now running all of its services again, so if you live nearby, why not pop in and see how you can be active today?” For full details on Edgbarrow Sports Centre visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be

Bracknell Forest Council: making a better borough to live, work and play in
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:47:00 GMT
There’s no denying that due to the hardship caused by the economic downturn, it has been a hard year for residents. And here at Bracknell Forest Council, residents have let us know what we have done right and what they would like to see us do in the future. Residents let us know that transport links were important to them and that better schools and more facilities for young people were at the top of their priorities – and we have listened. This year has been, and will continue to be, a busy time for the council as we continue to ensure these priorities are met. On the following four pages are just a small sample of what Bracknell Forest Council has done for residents this year.

Communicating with our older residents survey
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:47:00 GMT
The borough’s older residents – those aged 50+ – have been telling the council and its partners how they want to receive information about facilities and services across Bracknell Forest. The Older Persons’ Partnership, made up of Bracknell Forest Council, health care providers, the voluntary sector and older people, distributed more than 3,500 questionnaires to a wide variety of groups and organisations for older people. The communications audit followed up last year’s ‘Adding Years to Life’ strategy (www.Bracknell-forest.gov.uk/olderpersons-strategy.pdf) which sets out a vision for the future of all older people in the borough. The results of the audit show that, in general, older residents who responded to the questionnaire are satisfied with the types of information they get. People at the younger end of the age range like to receive information about leisure and activities, while the oldest residents are more interested in health care and home help. The majority of older people prefer to contact the council and its partners by phone or in person, while Town & Country newspaper is an important source of information for more than three quarters of the older residents who completed the questionnaire. Older residents also like to receive information via leaflets through the door and other forms of direct contact, such as newsletters and the local press. Cllr Cliff Thompson, older people’s champion, said: “We’re grateful to our residents who took the time to fill out the questionnaire and to the various organisations which helped distribute it. “This is useful research which will help the council and its partners provide the sort of information older people want to receive and in the right sort of way. “It will allow us to make sure older people get the things they want and need.”   

Digging in to South Hill Park renovation
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:47:00 GMT
Work to improve one of Bracknell Forest’s most loved parks will start this summer with the council awarding a contract to a specialist company to upgrade South Hill Park. The park will be transformed by Bracknell Forest Council, working in partnership with Bracknell Town Council and South Hill Park Arts Centre. This has been made possible through a £2.3 million grant by the Heritage Lottery Fund and Big Lottery Fund’s Parks for People programme. Work includes restoration of the mansion’s historic terrace, path improvements, tree planting, new flower beds, clearing silt from the southern lake, upgraded play areas, remodelling of the main car park, better seating and signage.

All aboard Thames Travel
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:46:00 GMT
Shiny new Thames Travel buses have been picking up passengers around Bracknell Forest after the council awarded the company a contract to take over some existing routes. The smart buses are designed to help people with wheelchairs, physical disabilities and those with children get on and off more easily. They were showcased in Bracknell town centre in May, when Cllr Mrs Mary Ballin, executive member for transport, went along to view one of the new fleet. More information including timetable and routes can be found at www.thames-travel.co.uk  

All aboard at Bracknell train station
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:46:00 GMT
The £600,000 improvement scheme for Bracknell train station has now been completed and was opened earlier this year. The upgrade included a new access road, parking bays, larger taxi rank, corporate bus bay, improved cycle parking facilities, new pedestrian crossing, improved lighting and new seating and landscaping. The improvements follow the recent completion of a new passenger footbridge with lifts providing a step free access to the Reading-bound platform and also new automatic sliding doors to the booking hall.  

Are you on the red route?
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:46:00 GMT
The new Red Route cycle path is tempting Bracknell Forest folk to hop on their bikes and pedal to work, fun and play. The route, which runs from The Look Out Discovery Centre to Bracknell town centre, passes leisure attractions, schools and work places. It is the first cycle route in Bracknell Forest to be launched, with several other routes due to be developed over the next few years – making cycling around the borough much easier. For further details visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/env-cyclists

Bracknell busts crime
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:46:00 GMT
Thames Valley Police and the management team at Bracknell Regeneration Partnership have been working together to combat crime in Bracknell town centre. The focus is clearly paying off as the town centre is already experiencing the lowest average crime figures for the last four years. In fact, crime has reduced by 20 per cent when compared to the same 12 month period in 2006/2007. Princess Square Car Park has also received an accolade in the form of an APCO Park Mark Scheme Award. The Safer Parking Award was presented to the Bracknell Regeneration Partnership town centre management team by the Association of Chief Police Officers last month. The award recognises efforts to prevent criminal activity and ensure car park crime is being kept to a minimum. In addition, town centre retailers scheme B:BAC (Bracknell Businesses Against Crime), has already reduced shoplifting by an amazing 60 per cent. The group has recently undergone an upgrade to a digital radio system, enabling participating retailers to contact each other, town centre staff and police if they experience any unusual or criminal activity in the town centre.

Are you doing it right?
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:46:00 GMT
Residents of Bracknell Forest, Reading and Wokingham are being asked ‘are you doing it right?’ as part of a new campaign aimed at reminding people what they can and can’t put in recycling bins and boxes. Paper and card, aerosols, food tins and drinks cans and plastic bottles are what residents can put in their household recycling containers. All other items are known in the trade as contamination. Common items of contamination include yoghurt pots, margarine tubs, meat trays, textiles, video tapes, food and glass. All contamination needs to be hand removed and is sent to landfill. The painstaking process of removing incorrect materials from kerbside recycling is both time and energy intensive. Large items of contamination can also damage the sorting machine, which can lead to expensive repairs and downtime. Cllr Mrs Dorothy Hayes, Bracknell Forest’s executive member for the environment, said: “Our residents are already recycling more than 40 per cent of household rubbish which would otherwise be going into landfill. Most residents are happy to separate their waste and feel that they are making a real contribution to the environment. “This campaign is a gentle reminder to everyone of what they can put in the their recycling boxes, what shouldn’t go in and why it’s important to get it right. There is a lot of information about waste and recycling at www.bracknellforest.gov.uk/env-waste-and-recycling and on www.re3.org.uk” Residents are also being reminded to make sure recyclable items are put in recycling bins loose, and not in plastic bags. Plastic bags can get caught up in the sorting machine and often the materials within them are discarded as they cannot be sorted out - meaning people’s recycling efforts are wasted.

Are you ready?
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:46:00 GMT
Snow, floods, infectious diseases and high winds – how ready are you for emergencies? A free handy guide has been prepared by partner agencies in the Thames Valley to advise residents on how to be prepared for emergencies. These will be distributed at key points across the borough but to grab your copy of the Are You Ready booklet call 01344 352505 or email emergency.planning@bracknellforest.gov.uk  

Benefits For You
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:46:00 GMT
Do you want to know what benefits you’re entitled to? If so, why not pop along to the Benefits For You event on August 19? The event will offer advice on the financial support people are entitled to – whether it’s housing benefit, a pension credit or help with heating bills. The NHS Stop Smoking service, Citizens’ Advice Bureau and Home Energy Efficiency service will also be offering advice. For further information, locations and times, visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk, or call 01344 352000.

A busy town centre
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:45:00 GMT
New jewellery retailer, Aura, has opened in Princess Square offering earrings, necklaces, bracelets and other accessories, which promise to make any outfit look spectacular. Aura has a variety of jewellery priced from 49p to £49 and the range changes regularly. In addition, Charles Square has been refurbished. The area has been given a fresh coat of paint and chewing gum, litter and graffiti have all been removed. Also several retailers in the town centre have undergone some changes. Bentalls has welcomed the arrival of Mango to the store and Clarks Shoes has changed its front fascia as part of a nationwide brand refresh. Thames Valley Hospice Care and The British Heart Foundation have also adopted a new look. Both are now boasting eye-catching new signage as well as internal refreshes which have been well received by shoppers in the town centre. It doesn’t just stop with the town centre though, as Princess Square car park is being ‘made new’ with redecoration and the lifts are getting a £40,000 upgrade, providing a cleaner and safer way to get from the car park to the stores. Sainsbury’s has also introduced new checkouts and the addition of self-service tills, which have further enhanced the customer experience.  

Aiming high for exciting activities
Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:45:00 GMT
Children and young people with moderate learning disabilities can look forward to a fun-filled summer thanks to an exciting timetable of events from Bracknell Forest Council. The excitement runs from July 27 until September 3 and includes raft building, fruit picking, mini golf and a fancy dress disco. Other fun activities include cinema trips, sno-tubing and karate. The activities are being organised through Aiming High For Disabled Children and aims to give children and young people with learning disabilities the opportunity to take part in activities after school, at weekends and during the school holidays. For further information, or to book, call Abigail Appleton on 07583 015714 or Suki Hayes on 07583 047645, email Joannat@childrensinfo.org, or visit www.childrensinfo.org

Your Choice
Mon, 22 Mar 2010 11:06:00 GMT
Bracknell Forest Council is giving individuals choice and control over the support they receive to help them live their lives as independently as possible. In Bracknell Forest, the council is working to ensure that everyone who is eligible for support from Adult Social Care and Health can have a personal budget - this is an amount of money to spend on the social care support people need to live their lives. People will be able to take this as a direct payment and arrange their support themselves, or they can choose to leave the money with the council and the council will arrange the support for them. Everyone who has a personal budget will need to have a financial assessment - this is to make sure people are claiming all the benefits they are entitled to and also calculates the amount of money an individual needs to contribute towards the cost of their support. In Bracknell Forest all people with a learning disability, who are eligible for support from Adult Social Care, can have a personal budget. For people in other care groups, personal budgets will be available for everyone who is eligible from summer this year. If you would like more information about the personalisation programme visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/liv-personalisation or call 01344 351500.

Have your say on Bracknell Forest Council's decision making
Mon, 01 Mar 2010 11:20:00 GMT
Residents are invited to have their say on how top level decisions are made at Bracknell Forest Council. The council currently has a Leader, elected by all councillors, and Cabinet (or Executive) of seven other councillors who are selected by the Leader. They are responsible for specific areas of business such as education, planning or social care. Although the full council makes decisions about budgets and major policies, the Executive makes other decisions. Because of changes in the law, Bracknell Forest Council must review this system. In future, the council will either have a Leader and Cabinet, or an elected Mayor and Cabinet. The Leader and Cabinet model would require only minor changes to the council’s constitution, so the Leader would be in office for four years, instead of the current one. A Deputy Executive Leader would also have to be formally appointed. A Civic Mayor would continue to carry out ceremonial and other duties as First Citizen of the Borough. The council could choose to move to the elected Mayor and Cabinet model. The directly elected Mayor would appoint up to nine councillors to the Cabinet, including a deputy mayor. Under this system, the role and title of Civic Mayor would disappear, although the council could appoint one councillor to carry out these duties. Timothy Wheadon, the council’s chief executive, said: “The current system has served us well. “Decision making is streamlined compared to the old committee system and we are recognised as one of the best performing councils in the region. “However, new legislation forces us to ask the question so it’s important residents let us know which option they prefer. We want as many people as possible to let us know their opinion.” Residents can write to the borough solicitor, Alex Jack, at Easthampstead House, Town Square, Bracknell, RG12 1AQ or can contact him by email at alex.jack@bracknell-forest.gov.uk The closing date for receipt of representations is April 30. Further information can be found on the Bracknell Forest website at www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/executive-consultation

South Hill Park restoration project news
Mon, 01 Mar 2010 11:14:00 GMT
The plan to restore and enhance Bracknell’s much-loved South Hill Park is growing with contractors due to start work early this summer. Work will be carried out over the next year to improve the park – funded by a £2.3 million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Big Lottery Fund’s Parks for People programme, which was secured in 2009. Cllr Iain McCracken, executive member for culture, said: “South Hill Park is one of Bracknell Forest’s jewels and so I’m pleased restoration work will start in earnest this June. I apologise in advance for any inconvenience this may bring to park-lovers but want to assure them it will be worth it once the improvements are complete in 2011.” Bracknell Forest Council, Bracknell Town Council and the South Hill Park Arts Centre Trust are working together on the project, which will include restoration of the historic mansion terrace and improve disabled access. Other work that contractors will carry out includes: upgrading the toddler play area; enhancing plants, signage and seating in the park; remodelling of the three lakes; conserving the park’s woodland; creating new paths; improving the car park and entrance area; and restoring the park’s woodland amphitheatre. To keep the project on track and in-line with what the local community wants, a Friends of South Hill Park group has also been established. Residents and the council’s parks and countryside service use this group to make sure services provided at the park reflect local wishes. Workshops related to the project, which are in the pipeline for residents to get involved in, include stone and metal work restoration as well as guided walks and tree trails. If you want to join the friends group or the workshops call Richard Scrivener, South Hill Park project officer, on 01344 351758 or email richard.scrivener@bracknell-forest.gov.uk  For further information on South Hill Park go to: www.bracknellforest.gov.uk/leis-south-hill-park

Getting a step up the housing ladder
Mon, 01 Mar 2010 11:11:00 GMT
Two more families have been given help to buy a home they will be able to call their own thanks to the council’s home ownership scheme. Families renting from a housing association can get a grant of up to £38,000 to purchase their own home under the scheme – but this year’s cash is running out quick, so to take advantage of this scheme residents need to sign up now. The scheme works by offering a means-tested grant of up to £38,000, which can be used as a deposit for a home on the open market. Not only does this help families get on the property ladder it also frees up housing association homes for other families. Other help available includes a £20,000 grant for families wanting to buy a shared ownership home – the loan is repayment free for five years, with interest at 3.93 per cent. Alternatively, if a new home is more to a tenant’s taste then a new property can be snapped up on a part-buy, part-rent basis for households earning up to £60,000 – this is part of the council’s alternative scheme. For more information call 01344 351351 or 01344 351352 or visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/liv-housing

Summing up
Mon, 01 Mar 2010 11:09:00 GMT
How we balanced the budget to protect services The last 12 months have been difficult for many Bracknell Forest residents as we have struggled to adjust to the worst economic downturn since the 1930s. Despite these tough conditions, the council has managed its resources carefully, and has continued, as always, to deliver high quality, good value services to the most vulnerable members of our community. In fact our residents enjoy some of the best council services in the country, according to a new government assessment which looks at local authorities across England. Forest Council is ‘performing well’ according to the Audit Commission, which gives us a three out of four rating. However, to maintain this level of service during 2010/2011 will be a challenge. The council’s budget has been hit hard as our investment income and revenues from leisure centres, parking and planning, among others, have fallen significantly.   However, our commitment to protecting frontline services is as strong as ever and this year we plan to spend £12m on older people, more than £4.5m on looked after children and a further £9m on people with learning disabilities. We have also committed more than £6m to complete the redevelopment of Garth Hill College, another £1.3m is proposed for new affordable housing and an extra £400,000 of support to vulnerable adults, helping to create a borough where people are, and feel safe. We have been mindful that residents can’t afford big increases in council tax so this year’s rise has been capped at 2.94 per cent, meaning our council tax for Band D properties will be £1,093.95 (excluding parishes and precepts) an increase of just 60 pence per week. We expect to remain one of the lowest council taxes in the country.   To safeguard spending, therefore, we have had to find savings of £3.2m across the council. We have tried to make these savings in ‘back office’ functions as far as possible but, regrettably, we have had to include staff redundancies and look at other ways of providing borough facilities. These have been hard decisions, but they have been vital to ensure we maintain the frontline services our residents expect and deserve and that we offer a good quality of life in our borough of opportunity. Paul Bettison Leader of Bracknell Forest Council Your council tax bill* £1,093.95 + parish councils + fire and police What you get for your money: Support for vulnerable residents such as older people and people with learning disabilities Support for your children’s schools More affordable homes Regular waste and recycling collections Support to reduce crime and antisocial behaviour Modern leisure and community facilities Roads maintenance Maintenance of green spaces * based on an average band D property in Bracknell Forest SAVINGS This year we are saving £3.2m: £1m in efficiencies which include reducing the number of families in B&B accommodation, getting better value from home care and modernising day care services   £1m by reducing back office costs including finance, insurance, information technology and human resources £0.6m through reduced demand or additional income - mainly from a reduction in the number of looked after children    £0.6m through reductions in some services

General election is on its way - make sure you can vote
Mon, 01 Mar 2010 11:04:00 GMT
A General Election for a new UK Parliament must be held no later than June 3 this year. To be eligible to vote residents should now: apply to be registered (if not already registered or if they have moved house in recent months and not updated their registration address); apply for a new postal or proxy vote; and change or cancel an existing postal or proxy vote facility. A list of polling stations is displayed here but is subject to confirmation when the date of the election is known. Residents should check Bracknell Forest Council’s website www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk for up-to-date information (including the location of all polling stations). Residents are urged to contact the council on 01344 352000 as soon as possible if they are uncertain about voter registration status or to ensure their preferred method of voting (at a polling station or by post or proxy) is in place. The General Election will also bring about changes to the parliamentary constituency for some residents in the borough. In the areas affected (see polling station table), residents will be represented by the MP elected for a particular constituency. But residents in these areas will continue to be served by Bracknell Forest Council and this change of parliamentary constituency will have no impact on the local services provided. This decision was made by the Boundary Commission for England following a review in 2007 of all parliamentary constituencies in Berkshire. For queries about this change, email the Boundary Commission at information@bcommengland.gsi.gov.uk or call 0203 334 0400.

Big freeze was snow joke for council services, staff and residents
Mon, 01 Mar 2010 10:59:00 GMT
For several weeks this winter Bracknell Forest was blanketed by some of the worst snow and compacted ice seen for decades – stretching services, with staff and contractors working 12 hour days and taking on different roles. While the snow made the borough look fantastically festive, it did present the council with a catalogue of testing trials for more than four weeks. Even though the council had made advanced provision for adverse weather the severity of the snowfall in December and January did test many organisations, the council included. Understandably, the council doesn’t have manpower or machines waiting for occasional extreme weather events and on this occasion the situation had the additional challenge of central government taking over the control of the salt supply chain. Roads and pavements were gritted continuously and as soon as it was possible to collect waste and recycling we made sure teams were out working long shifts to keep the borough functioning. Pulling together, taking staff and contractors out of their normal day-jobs to shovel snow and ice from pavements and ensuring vital community care services got to the most vulnerable were the top priorities alongside regularly gritting our priority road network. More than 860 tonnes of salt were spread on a total road length of over 7,000 kilometres (more than 4,300 miles) during the four week snow period. Waste colletion services had to be suspended during the heavy snow due to safety reasons, but collections were restarted and Longshot Lane was reopened as soon as practically possible. SITA waste collection contractors joined staff from the council’s landscape team to clear snow and ice from pavements. The priority was to clear routes to schools and key routes to shopping and medical centres. The council’s rangers also left the countryside behind and became community care champions delivering meals on wheels to vulnerable residents – these were prepared and cooked at Heathlands residential care home. To ensure crucial home support was available, care staff started a walking round to get to residents and the council’s adult social care team provided essential services for elderly and vulnerable members of the community including picking up prescriptions and basic food shopping. Cllr Dale Birch, executive member for adult social care, health and housing, said: “While the road network is a big consideration during the bad weather, nothing is more important than making sure our older residents and most vulnerable residents have access to the care that they rely on. “I’m grateful to everyone including staff, residents, neighbours and volunteers who all pulled together to make sure the snow didn’t impact on our vulnerable people and that they had access to home care, support, cooked meals, basic food supplies and their medicine. I’d also like to thank the Berkshire and Hampshire 4x4 group which provided essential travel for people needing to get to Heatherwood and Wexham Park Hospitals – it was wonderful to see so many people offer to help out and take the initiative to help themselves and their neighbours during the extreme weather.” More than 860 tonnes of salt and grit were used in four weeks - that’s the same weight as 86 adult elephants. More than 7,000km of road was gritted in four weeks – that’s the same distance as London to India. SITA staff worked 12 hour days to catch up with waste collections from 4,200 homes. Salt bins were re-stocked at least once a day. Around 60 meals per day were prepared at Heathlands to replace the meals on wheels service. More than £100,000 of extra funding has been released to ‘patch-up’ potholes caused by the snow.

Keeping in touch with older residents
Mon, 01 Mar 2010 10:46:00 GMT
The borough’s older residents – those aged 50+ – are to be asked how they want to receive information about facilities and services across Bracknell Forest. The Older Persons’ Partnership, made up of Bracknell Forest Council, the PCT, the voluntary sector and older people, will be sending out questionnaires shortly to find out how these residents receive information, what sort of information they currently receive and how things can be improved in future. The survey will be sent out to will also be distributed through voluntary organisations, day centres and older people’s interest groups to get as wide a range of responses as possible. It follows the publication last year of Bracknell Forest Council’s Adding Years to Life strategy which sets out a vision for the future of all older people in the borough. Glyn Jones, the council’s director of Adult Social Care and Health, said on behalf of the Older Persons’ Partnership: “If you receive one of these questionnaires or are given one by one of the organisations distributing them, complete it and send it back. It will help the partnership help you now or in the future.” If you would like to take part in the survey call the communications and marketing team at the council on 01344 352323.

Time to make your gardens grow
Mon, 01 Mar 2010 10:43:00 GMT
Green fingered Bracknell Forest residents are invited to have their watering cans and spades at the ready as it’s time to get back into Your Gardens. Residents, businesses, schools, community groups and allotment holders can make Bracknell Forest bloom again this summer by making the most of their patch and entering this year’s Your Gardens competition. There are many prizes to be won, as well as the chance to make local gardens or businesses stand out. The competition, run by Bracknell Forest Council and sponsored by Bracknell Regeneration Partnership, opens for entries on Monday, March 29, and has a range of different categories for every type of garden and gardener. This year, best kept allotment has been added to the categories which are: best front garden; best community/ neighbourhood garden; best commercial premises; best young gardener; best group of young gardeners; and tallest sunflower. Preliminary judging starts in early June, while the measurement for the tallest sunflower will take place in September. By taking part in the competition, residents will be supporting the borough’s entry in the regional Britain in Bloom competition. Bracknell in Bloom, the name given to the borough’s entry, has been a regional winner on many occasions and last year scooped the accolade as overall winner in the small city category and a silver gilt award. Cllr Mrs Dorothy Hayes, executive member for environment, said: “Gardens play a key role in our visual environment and it’s fantastic to be able to reward the efforts of the community.” Helen Barnett, marketing manager for Bracknell Regeneration Partnership said: “This is such a wonderful competition and Bracknell Regeneration Partnership is delighted to be sponsoring it once again and playing a key part in the Bracknell in Bloom 2010 campaign.” To enter the Your Gardens competition or to nominate a garden in the borough, visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/env-your-gardens and complete an online application form. Alternatively, request an application form by calling 01344 352000 or email yourgardens@bracknell-forest.gov.uk. Complete and return application forms to: ‘Your Gardens’ Competition,Environmental Services,Commercial CentreCentral DepotOld Bracknell Lane WestBracknellRG12 7AE. Entries must be received by Monday, June 14.

Council performs well
Mon, 01 Mar 2010 10:40:00 GMT
Residents of the borough enjoy some of the best council services in the country, according to a new government assessment which looks at local authorities across England. Bracknell Forest Council is performing well according to the Organisational Assessment (OA) report, which gives the authority a three out of four rating in managing performance. Residents can access the Oneplace website at www.direct.gov.uk/oneplace to find out how Bracknell Forest and its partners are tackling big local issues.

Bracknell Forest: A safe place to live and work
Mon, 01 Mar 2010 10:38:00 GMT
Residents will be cheered by the latest crime figures for Bracknell Forest. Many categories of crime are continuing to fall month on month, in particular burglaries from homes, which are down 55 per cent from a high point in March 2007. Theft from vehicles is down 33 per cent over the same period. The government measures burglary, robbery and auto crime as a group, which has seen a 34 per cent decrease since March 2007. The long term trends are also looking optimistic. In 2004, there were 1,505 auto crime offences in Bracknell Forest. In the 12 months to December 2009, there were 939. Over the same period burglary dropped from 438 incidents to 371 and the most often reported crime - damage to property - dropped from 1,756 incidents to 1,565 during the same period. All this takes place against a background of increased population and car ownership. The only area of concern is assaults with less serious injuries where, since March 2004, the numbers have risen from 569 offences to 763. Cllr Iain McCracken, Bracknell Forest Council executive member for public protection, said: “These latest crime figures for the borough are to be welcomed, but we can’t and won’t be complacent and there is always more to do to keep the figures on a downward trend. “The council has recently supported the police in two initiatives to target known and suspected offenders to help reduce their offending behaviour. “These crime figures show the hard work being done by the Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership is having a real effect on making and keeping Bracknell Forest a safe place to live and work.” Inspector Simon Bowden, Bracknell Forest police commander, said: “Reducing numbers of reported crime is always good. However, I am very aware that behind every crime figure, is a victim that has suffered in some way. I am encouraged by our sustained reduction in crime. “The key to sustaining further reduction is good targeted policing and public awareness which combine to make Bracknell Forest a safer place.”

Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme
Mon, 01 Mar 2010 10:34:00 GMT
The open award group is for anyone aged 14-24 years old who is interested in working towards completing the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. The award provides an enjoyable, challenging and rewarding programme of personal development for young people, which is of the highest quality and widest reach. There are three levels which you could work towards: bronze, silver and gold with four different sections to complete - physical, volunteering, skills and expedition. The open award evening focuses on the training for the expedition section and provides guidance and support in gaining the other sections. Taking part in the award is a fantastic way to meet new friends or spend time doing fun activities with existing ones. Where can you get involved? Mondays 3.15pm-5pm Easthampstead Park School (EP students only) Mondays 7pm-9pm NRG - Open session Wednesdays 7pm- 9pm The Spot Youth Centre Open session Thursdays 7pm-9pm Priestwood Youth Centre Open session If you would like to get involved come along one evening or for further information call Rachael Kenyon on 01344 464727 or email rachael.kenyon@bracknell-forest.gov.uk We are always looking for new Duke of Edinburgh Award leaders. If you would like to become a volunteer call Karen Dynan on 01344 464732 or email karen.dynan@bracknell-forest.gov.uk

Targeting the right benefit to the right people
Mon, 01 Mar 2010 10:28:00 GMT
In 2009, a massive clampdown on benefit entitlement resulted in more than 700 people reporting their circumstances had changed to Bracknell Forest Council. Everyone in Bracknell Forest claiming benefits for housing and/ or council tax was contacted by the council in December to make sure they were only claiming for what they were entitled to. The housing benefit team dealt with more than 700 phone calls over two days and processed all changes to personal circumstances – which dictate what level of benefit someone is entitled to. Simon Hendey, chief officer for housing, said: “The council is committed to making sure housing and council tax benefit is only paid to people entitled to them. On the flip side, we want to make sure people who are entitled to them get the right level of financial support.” Changes to personal circumstances, which may impact on benefit entitlement, includes: you or anyone you live with has started or stopped working; • you or anyone you live with has had a change in income; if there are any changes to your working tax/child tax credits; anyone has moved in or out of your household; your rent has changed; you or anyone you live with has started or stopped getting job seeker’s allowance, income support or any other benefits; and additional work. Cllr Dale Birch, executive member for adult services, health and housing, added: “To deliberately not tell the council of a change in your circumstances means you are committing benefit fraud. If your circumstances do change let us know immediately. We will take action against those who try and cheat the system. “Similarly, if you think you may be entitled to some financial help then get in touch – we are committed to ensuring that benefits are delivered to those genuinely in need.” The council has a strong anti-benefit fraud system in place to protect public funds and uses additional campaigns to strengthen that work. If you suspect that someone is cheating the benefit system, call the Bracknell Forest Council Cheatchaser hotline on 0800 590 437 or fill in the confidential Cheatchaser form at www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/liv-benefit-fraud

Recycle your cooking oil at Longshot Lane
Mon, 01 Mar 2010 10:23:00 GMT
Residents can now recycle their used cooking oil at both Longshot Lane and Smallmead Household Waste Recycling Centres. Two new collection tanks are operating so cooking oil can be recycled into clean electricity. Each of the collection tanks installed hold 1,000 litres, which will produce enough electricity to power one average household for a whole year. For details visit www.re3.org.uk

Moving Bracknell Forest's Transport Forward
Mon, 01 Mar 2010 10:17:00 GMT
Combating congestion is just one of the ways the new Local Transport Plan 3 (LTP3) will be moving the borough forward. Following a recent consultation, work has begun on LTP3 to support economic growth, reduce congestion, improve access to essential services for all, protect the environment and provide a better quality of life for residents, businesses and visitors. The plan runs from 2011 to 2026. To keep up to date with the plan’s progress visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/ltp3

Residents' satisfaction grows in Bracknell Forest
Mon, 01 Mar 2010 10:06:00 GMT
The Place Survey is a postal survey of local residents designed by central government which seeks a view on the borough as a whole and not just council services. The last survey was carried out in September 2008 with the results published in September 2009. The survey was sent to 3,500 Bracknell Forest residents chosen at random with a 47 per cent response rate, which is higher than the national average. The Place Survey allows the council to see residents’ priorities and it showed the most important things to residents are levels of crime, health services and clean streets. The things residents think need the most improvement are traffic congestion, activities for teenagers and shopping facilities. However general satisfaction in the area is high, with 83 per cent of residents fairly or very satisfied with the local area, higher than the 80 per cent national average. Key criteria for satisfaction include satisfaction with their home; clean streets, satisfaction with shopping facilities and satisfaction with the way antisocial behaviour is dealt with. Bracknell Forest is one of the best areas in the country for the percentage of people who agree that their local area is a place where people from different backgrounds get on well together, and the percentage who say that their health is good or very good. Workshops have now taken place on the key areas that the Place Survey highlighted and work is being done to tackle issues including how residents can feel more involved in council decisions and the perception from residents of the public services’ effectiveness in dealing with crime. The benefits of these actions will be seen over the coming year. Cllr Paul Bettison, leader of Bracknell Forest Council, said: “The Place Survey is an important way for us to hear more details around the priorities of our residents. This means we can ensure that we are doing all we can to meet residents’ needs through our services.”

Pace quickens for half marathon
Mon, 01 Mar 2010 9:58:00 GMT
Hundreds of runners are at the ready for the Quintiles Bracknell Half Marathon on Sunday, May 9. Up to 1,000 adults will be feeling the burn as they make their way round the 13.1 mile course which starts and finishes at South Hill Park Arts Centre. The race will take joggers on a picturesque loop from Birch Hill to Wildridings before bypassing Bracknell town centre and leading runners into Warfield then Harmans Water and Crown Wood and reaching the finishing line back at South Hill Park. Bracknell Forest Council has once again organised the race, which will see the joggers collectively run more miles than it takes to get from Bracknell Forest to Sydney. Quintiles has also agreed to sponsor the sporting event which has put thousands of people through their paces over the past 26 years. Cllr Iain McCracken, executive member for leisure, said: “It’s fantastic that yet again so many people have signed up for the Quintiles Bracknell Half Marathon – it’s testament to how popular the event is. “I wish all the runners the best of luck on the day and would like to say thank you to Quintiles for agreeing to sponsor the race again.” For more information about the race visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/leis-bracknell-half-marathon. Spectators are more than welcome to cheer on the athletes at South Hill Park when the race starts at 9am, or along the route. Motorists are advised to take extra care on Sunday, May 9, and plan their route according to the half marathon map – which can be found via the link above.

Bracknell Forest's growing places
Mon, 01 Mar 2010 9:51:00 GMT
Bracknell Forest is growing and now’s your chance to sprout ideas on its future and say where you want new communities to go. The borough needs new homes and communities for its current and future residents and to satisfy government housing targets. Therefore, a new plan, the Site Allocations Development Plan Document, is hitting the road to explore where these neighbourhoods could go. Under the plan, Bracknell Forest Council has put forward potential ideas on new neighbourhoods, but at the moment these are just ideas. Residents’ opinion, as well as information on transport, landscaping, flood risk, accessibility and land availability will shape where new communities should be built. Public discussion on these suggested areas has just started and will run until April 9. The council has put forward double the amount of land needed to satisfy government housing targets so there is a real choice for local residents. The areas being explored are: land near south-west Sandhurst; land at Broadmoor Hospital; land at north east Crowthorne (near TRL); land west of Binfield; land east of Binfield; land at Warfield (near Newell Green); land at Chavey Down; and land east of Bracknell. Cllr Mrs Mary Ballin, executive member for planning, transport and economic development, said: “We have some areas already earmarked for new neighbourhoods in our Core Strategy, but these aren’t enough to meet government targets and so we’re exploring further options. “We need residents to tell us where these new communities could go and so we’ve drawn up eight possible locations in the new plan. “The council needs to find land for around 5,000 homes and these eight areas could provide more than double that number, but we’re identifying more potential land than we need so residents can tell us what they think and have a real chance to influence the future development of Bracknell Forest.” New neighbourhoods at Amen Corner and Warfield are already identified in the council’s Core Strategy to accommodate some of the new neighbourhoods, but Bracknell Forest still needs to find sites for another 5,368 new homes by 2026 to hit government targets. Bev Hindle, chief officer for planning and transport, said: “In the plan, the council has put forward options to satisfy government housing targets, and for meeting local needs, so there is a real choice for local residents. “These are just proposals at the moment, none of the areas outlined are set in stone.” What do you think? Having your say couldn’t be easier, just log on to www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/sadpd or drop in to see an exhibition of the proposals at one of the informal sessions being held at: Bracknell Town Council, High Street, on Thursday, March 25, from 10am to noon; Crowthorne Baptist Church, High Street, Saturday, March 27, from 10am to 1pm; Binfield Parish Council, Benetfeld Road, on Wednesday, March 31, from 10am to noon; Tesco, Martins Heron, Thursday, April 1, from 10am to 1pm; or Binfield Library, Benetfeld Road on Tuesday, April 6, from 2pm to 5pm.

Hidden gems at South Hill Park
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 15:18:00 GMT
For the last 30 years, South Hill Park has proved to be one of the largest and most enterprising arts facilities in the country. It has been a popular venue for residents of the borough and further afield, but do visitors realise just how many amazing facilities this beautiful Georgian mansion has on offer? Alongside its famous Wilde Theatre, cinema and parklands there is plenty more to do at South Hill Park than first meets the eye. Courses and workshops South Hill Park is packed to the rafters with professional artists and makers wanting to teach students new skills. The in-house arts team offers a programme with an exciting range of courses and workshops in arts and crafts, music, dance and digital media. These sessions range from an afternoon class to a 10-week course, all of which take place in professionally equipped studios. South Hill Park’s courses and workshops are programmed for both adults and children and range from jewellery and silversmithing to ceramics and web design, and are perfect for people who want to learn a new skill in an intimate and friendly environment. New look menu The Atrium Café is now the setting for a variety of food and drink offers designed to make visits to South Hill Park even more worthwhile. Whether it’s for a business meeting, to catch up with friends or dining out in style before a show, South Hill Park has it covered. Exhibitions There is no need to travel to London to see fine works of art when the Bracknell Gallery is on your very doorstep. The Bracknell Gallery can be found down the corridor from the Wilde Theatre and houses the main exhibition each season. Alongside this there are a range of other spaces creatively used to exhibit. This includes the community gallery, tall hall, mirror gallery and atrium. This ensures that every visitor experiences at least one piece of artwork when they visit South Hill Park. Entrance to all exhibitions is free and further details about forthcoming events can be found at www.southhillpark.org.uk or by picking up a season brochure. Pre-theatre dining Since September you can now enjoy a two or three course meal before your evening show, film or event. On Fridays, Saturdays and when you see a knife and fork logo in the brochure the à-la-carte menu will be available from 6pm. Meals are freshly prepared to order and are served in the tranquil setting of the Atrium restaurant. Call the box office on 01344 484123 to reserve your table as pre-booking is strongly advised to avoid disappointment. If you’re eating before a show, please ensure you arrive by 6pm to allow plenty of time to enjoy your meal. To view the current menu visit www.southhillpark.org.uk Friday night Before you venture down to the cellar for your weekly fix of comedy, why not take advantage of South Hill Park’s burger and beer offer? For just £6.50 you can get a quarter pound beef burger with a beer, wine or soft drink of your choice. This deal is available from 6pm and there is a vegetarian option available. Café offers On Mondays to Saturdays, the café is now open from 9.30am which makes it perfect for people attending a class or workshop or maybe a business meeting. There are two new offers to whet your appetite: lunch meal deal – sandwich, crisps and a soft drink £3.95; and medium-sized coffee with a choice of cakes £2.95 A full bar menu is also available from 12noon until 3pm and 6pm until 9pm daily, so come in and try the food and drink at South Hill Park - you’ll see a real difference. Take one walk around South Hill Park and you will be amazed at all the activities on offer. Come in from the cold this autumn, grab a Costa coffee from the Atrium Café and explore your very own arts centre, your only regret will be that you will wish you had done it sooner.

Feel better about crime figures
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:43:00 GMT
Some people worry about becoming a victim of crime. There has been some media speculation that crime figures have risen as the economy has worsened, but in Bracknell Forest that is not necessarily the case. In 2007 the area had an 11 per cent overall fall in crime, one of the largest reductions in the Thames Valley. That reduction continued well into 2008. Since then, crime has risen slightly overall, but the reductions of 2007 have not been lost and there are signs crime is falling again. There are now fewer reports of damage to property than there was five years ago. The number of robberies is about the same as five years ago, but the numbers are very low, at about one a week. One of the biggest reductions has been in auto crime offences, both theft of and theft from motor vehicles, with about 500 fewer offences now than five years ago. The number of burglaries remains broadly the same despite significant house building in the borough over the last five years. The news on assaults is not as good, with more than 150 more offences a year being recorded now compared with five years ago. However, the majority of these offences are not serious and happen between people who know each other. The Bracknell Forest Crime & Disorder Reduction Partnership works hard to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour on behalf of residents and workers, but people can do a lot to help themselves stay safe. There is plenty of information available on the internet and on www.bracknellforest.gov.uk/liv-safer-communities or call the crime and disorder reduction team at the council on 01344 352121.

Reducing waste - How are we doing?
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:37:00 GMT
Bracknell Forest Council would like to thank residents for their hard work over the year in increasing the amount of household waste they recycle. In 1999, households in the borough recycled just nine per cent of their waste. Thanks to the introduction of kerbside recycling, the amount of domestic waste recycled rose to 24 per cent in 2005. In 2006, the council introduced alternate weekly bin collections, reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill by a total of 9,500 tonnes. This, coupled with other new measures such as the kerbside collection of mixed recyclables from blue wheelie bins, means that Bracknell Forest is now recycling more than 40 per cent of its household waste. Janet Dowlman, head of environmental services, said: “Bracknell Forest is now recycling around 40.5 per cent of its waste. This figure already exceeds the national target of recycling and composting 40 per cent of household waste by 2010.” The main campaign over the next three years is to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill, in particular food waste, garden waste, paper and textiles which make up a high proportion of waste currently landfilled. All types of paper and card can be recycled, including small items such as junk mail, envelopes, card tubes and loo rolls. Shredded paper should be placed in a paper bag or cereal box to avoid littering. There are clothing recycling banks at the majority of the 40 recycling sites throughout the borough. There are also a number of charity shops that will accept clothes and other textiles as well as jumble sales and charity collections (but please ensure these are genuine charities). There are also a number of foil recycling banks throughout the Bracknell Forest. Please make sure your foil is washed as it is sorted by hand by adults with learning disabilities. Cllr Mrs Dorothy Hayes, Bracknell Forest Council’s executive member for the environment, said: “We are delighted that the vast majority of our residents are doing their bit and recycling as much as they can. Hopefully we can increase the amount of waste recycled in the borough still further. “We have once again improved our refuse and recycling services with the opening of the remodelled Longshot Lane household waste recycling centre earlier this year. Residents are now able to recycle much more at the new site, while there are also an additional 40 recycling sites for glass, clothes, shoes and books around the borough.” Waste disposal and emptying containers from Bracknell’s recycling sites is a responsibility of re3, a partnership between Bracknell Forest, Reading and Wokingham Borough Councils and Waste Recycling Group. The partnership was set up to increase the amount of waste that is reused, recycled and composted across the three boroughs and minimise the amount of waste sent to landfill.

Love food and reduce waste this Christmas and New Year
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:33:00 GMT
This Christmas residents are asked to think wisely when stocking up on festive food. In Bracknell Forest we throw away around five per cent of food that has not even been opened and a further 11 per cent of food which could have been composted. Another 16 per cent of food is left over and discarded but some of this could be used in tasty recipes, see www.lovefoodhatewaste.com,  where there are also ideas for Christmas leftovers. Cllr Mrs Dorothy Hayes, executive member for the environment, said: “Encouraging residents to think carefully about the amount of food they throw away could not only stop unnecessary waste ending up in harmful landfill sites, but save money at the checkout as well.” In line with the Love Food Hate Waste campaign, Bracknell Forest refuse vehicles have been brightened up with a colourful new design promoting food waste reduction. Cllr Mrs Hayes said: “The vehicles are using the image of a crying pear (pictured above) with the sad fact that a third of the food we buy is thrown away. The vehicle sides are interchangeable and can be swapped with the ‘turn over a new leaf’ design promoting use of the council’s garden waste collection. To help reduce food waste, home composters can be ordered via www.greencone.co.uk, subsidised food waste digesters called green cones are also available, delivered at £19.95, and Bracknell Forest Council is investigating the viability and options for collecting food waste in the future.

Keep warm, Keep healthy
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:31:00 GMT
Here are some suggestions for keeping warm and well this winter: make sure your heating system is working effectively; when going outside wrap up warm – especially your head and feet - several layers is better than one thick layer; keep the temperature of your home above 21 degrees in living areas and 18 degrees in the bedroom; keep active; and eat sensibly – a healthy diet improves circulation whilst drinking hot drinks gives warmth and energy. If you are aged over 65 years you can get a free flu jab. This is also available to high risk health groups. Check with your GP. Help includes: The Warm Front Scheme – 0800 072 9006 Winter Fuel Payments – 08459 15 15 15 www.nhs.uk/livewell/winterhealth

Antibiotics - Not always the right treatment
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:28:00 GMT
All colds and most coughs are caused by viruses. That means antibiotics, which treat bacterial infections, do not help with viral infections such as colds. The best way to treat colds is with plenty of rest and fluids. Colds can last for anything up to two weeks. Talk to your local pharmacist about over-the-counter remedies including paracetamol that may ease any discomfort. If any additional or more extreme symptoms appear, see your doctor. The same applies to children, particularly as they are generally more susceptible to coughs and colds – ask your local pharmacist for advice and contact your doctor if the symptoms persist, get worse or you have any other concerns. Bacteria is clever at adapting to survive. This means that if we use antibiotics unnecessarily they are less likely to work when we actually need them to treat illnesses. Your GP should only prescribe antibiotics when they are right for you. Examples of this can be pneumonia or kidney infections. They should not be prescribed for a common cold or cough because they are not the right treatment. So remember: if you have a cold or a cough have plenty of fluids and rest; talk to your pharmacist for advice on medicinal relief; contact your doctor if your symptoms are extreme or last for several weeks; and only take antibiotics if they are right for you. To find out more about antibiotics visit www.nhs.uk

My Choice lettings scheme to be launched in January
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:21:00 GMT
Work on development of the new choice based lettings scheme has reached its next stage, with residents’ returned application forms now being added to the new system. The scheme, which is to be launched in January 2010, will give residents who have applied to the council for social landlords’ homes more choice of homes. Simon Hendy, chief officer: housing, said: “Applicants should have received a letter stating which band their application has been placed in. The band will determine how quickly they are likely to move when they bid for properties.” As well as a dedicated website and telephone line (available from January), My Choice will have a regularly updated newsletter available at libraries and council offices so that applicants can see the properties registered social landlords, like Bracknell Forest Homes, are advertising. Mr Hendy said: “If you see a property that you would like to be considered for and are eligible for, then you can make a bid via our website or by calling the dedicated number. The property will be allocated to the bidder with the highest priority. “Because this scheme is quite different from the old system, we will be writing to applicants to explain how it works and inviting them to some ‘show and try’ sessions before it goes live. We want people to be able to take this opportunity with My Choice – it really does give you the choice of your new home.” Cllr Dale Birch, executive member for adult services, health and housing, said: “I am delighted that My Choice will enable residents to decide which homes suit them and bid accordingly, so residents have a greater choice of the excellent homes available across the borough.” Residents who have questions about their application or the new scheme should call 01344 352000 or visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/mychoice

Where will future developments go in Bracknell Forest
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:15:00 GMT
The council needs to make important decisions on where future developments will go in Bracknell Forest. The government has already allocated 12,780 new homes to be built in Bracknell Forest from 2006 to 2026 through the South East Plan and the council needs to ensure the new housing is built in locations which will support the delivery of the shared long-term vision for the borough. The additional development needs to be accompanied by investment in a wide range of infrastructure such as schools, open spaces and social facilities, as well as transport and utilities. The borough’s future employment, shopping and leisure development also need to be planned for in order to ensure good access to jobs and other facilities is provided for residents in the borough. Achieving the vision The vision for the borough is set out in the ‘Living Together, Working Together’ Sustainable Community Strategy produced by Bracknell Forest Partnership and in the core strategy for the borough. These documents will help to identify the locations and types of development and also the infrastructure that goes with it. Locations for development will be assessed against sustainability criteria, the availability of land as well as factors that could affect its development potential, such as flood risk. Getting involved Getting views from the community will be an essential part of the process. The council is preparing a Sites Allocation document which will be consulted on widely during February and March 2010. Look out in local press and on the council website for more information and how to give your views. Cllr Mary Ballin, executive member for planning, transport and economic development, said: “We all have a stake in the shaping the future of Bracknell Forest. To ensure we get the best outcome for the community it is essential residents are involved in this process. The views of residents, business people, the voluntary sector and other stakeholders are very important.” To find out more about the Local Development Framework and the other documents mentioned in this article, call 01344 352000, email development. development.plan@bracknell-forest.gov.uk, or visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/ldf The Living Together, Working Together document can be found at www.bracknellforestpartnership.org.uk or call 01344 352108.

Residents help give a clear picture of priorities
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:11:00 GMT
Residents have responded in their thousands to this year’s Neighbourhood Survey, which was sent to every home in the borough. More than 6,400 Bracknell Forest households filled in the questionnaire during September and October. And five lucky residents were chosen from the prize draw to win tickets to the borough’s attractions. Roger Ferguson from Sandhurst, Jill Chippington from Warfield, John Wilson from Bracknell, Michelle Carrington from Bracknell and Ronald Creswell from College Town won themselves a visit to either the Look Out Discovery Centre, Coral Reef or a round of golf at Downshire Golf Complex, or tickets to the Christmas production of Peter Pan at South Hill Park Arts Centre. They were invited to receive their prizes from the council’s assistant chief executive Victor Nicholls. The results of the survey - compiled in partnership with Thames Valley Police and local community groups - are being analysed and will be available in the new year. At the same time the issues brought up at this year’s neighbourhood forums will also be made known. More than 220 residents attended the 14 open meetings held across the borough. The events, organised by neighbourhood action groups in partnership with the council and the police, give residents the chance to make their views known on improvements they would like to see in their neighbourhood. Cllr Iain McCracken, executive member for public protection, said: “We’re very pleased that so many of our residents took the time to complete the neighbourhood survey. The results will give us a clear picture of priorities in the borough and local concerns which need addressing. “The forums and the survey play an important part in feeding information back to council, the police and other organisations and this not only helps influence the services provided but also ensures we keep focused on our vision for the borough - a place where we can thrive, live, learn and work in a clean, safe and healthy environment.”

Residents jump for joy over new sports centre
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:07:00 GMT
In late November, residents celebrated the opening of the new trampoline centre at Brakenhale School. David Watkins, chief officer: performance and resources for Bracknell Forest Council, said: “The trampoline centre project is one of three elements of the development of the Brakenhale site which is being made possible by the sale of surplus land. “The other two elements are the redevelopment of the Open Learning Centre on the site and the refurbishment of The Brakenhale School and its sports facilities. “The trampoline centre has been created with a shared vision between the council and by The Brakenhale School.” The centre has a permanent trampoline hall with its own reception and dedicated storage facilities built as an extension to the existing school sports hall to provide permanent space for eight full size trampolines. Bracknell Forest already has an existing trampoline club (Edgbarrow Trampoline Club) with an international reputation for excellence. Its membership includes athletes who are part of the British Olympic Trampoline Team. The new centre provides a dedicated resource not only for the school and the community, but also the trampoline club with a permanent base to further win acclaim at both international and Olympic levels, representing Bracknell Forest. The trampoline centre will be managed by Edgbarrow Trampoline Club. During school hours the facility will be available for school use, and pupils will have the opportunity to learn trampolining as part of the school’s sports and PE curriculum.

Garth Hill College rebuild celebrated
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:04:00 GMT
Despite the grey sky above and the cold, damp concrete under foot, the 65 or so guests at Garth Hill College were in a celebratory mood. Bracknell Forest Mayor, Cllr Bob Wade, joking with the audience, ‘cast slab’ on the roof of the new building for the school. The topping out of Garth Hill College was official. A topping out ceremony is held for major construction projects when the highest point of the building (such as the roof) is completed. In keeping with tradition, an evergreen plant was present on the roof to symbolise growth and to bring luck. The mayor, also traditionally, cast a slab by completing the last few shovels of concrete into the roof – and Garth Hill College principal Keith Grainger helped to bless the building with Champagne. Alistair Kendall, Mace Plus project manager, paid tribute to the design team and the subcontractors for their hard work and commitment and thanked Mr Grainger and his staff for their valuable input to the design of the new school. Steven Henley, operations director at Mace Plus, said: “To date and to the credit of all involved, we have successfully completed 125,000 man-hours without a single reportable injury. This is a testament of the performance and attitude of the whole workforce and I’d like to thank those that are here today.” Mr Henley revealed that the next important milestones for the build are: December for water tightness; and August 2010 for completion of the new school He said: “We should also take a few moments to reflect with excitement that in under a year from now this building will be occupied by the pupils of Garth Hill College, who we hope will benefit greatly from this new facility.” The rebuild of the school is the result of a successful bid for funding by Bracknell Forest Council through the government’s Building Schools for the Future programme. The council has spent many months with Mace Plus and a team from Garth Hill College, designing and planning the new school. The façade of the building will be an acrylic render which has allowed the architects to incorporate the school’s colours into the building itself, while achieving a durable, modern appearance. Given the amount of interest generated by the hosting of the Olympics in 2012, Garth Hill College will also have extensive new sports facilities, including a synthetic turf pitch field and a multi-use games area with flood lighting so it can be used all year round. There will also be a grassed running track for summer sports and ample football and rugby facilities to make sure students can hone their sports skills. Cllr Wade said at the ceremony: “This development has certainly achieved the ‘wow’ factor. “Congratulations to everyone involved and here’s looking forward to the completion of the project in August 2010 in readiness for the new and diverse curriculum starting in September 2010 for 1,550 students.” Keith Grainger, principal of Garth Hill College, said, “I would like to thank everyone involved on the project, particularly Mace Plus and Scott Brownrigg, for their excellent work to date. We are all looking forward to the opening of our new college next September.” Keep up-to-date with the progress of the project via the Garth Hill College website at www.garthhill.bracknell-forest.sch.uk   Rebuild facts: £33m construction project. Half a million tonnes of concrete have been poured to date. The steel frame for the link and the sports hall is in excess of 400 tonnes. 630 piles for the foundations.  

Buy With Confidence reaches 50
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:00:00 GMT
Kevin Eaton, the 24-7 Computer Doctor, has become the 50th business in the Bracknell Forest to be approved on to the Buy With Confidence scheme. Kevin is the latest to be added to a list of reputable traders, who have all passed a rigorous assessment by the Bracknell Forest Trading Standards service. In November a presentation was held and Bracknell Forest Mayor, Cllr Bob Wade (pictured right), attended to join in recognising the achievements and high standards met by the approved traders. Head of Trading Standards, Rob Sexton, subsequently congratulated the members on ‘their superb business practices and influence in counteracting rogue traders in the borough’. Residents are able to access a list of the 50 approved businesses in the borough by visiting www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/BWC or calling 01344 352000.

Somebody else's child, everybody's responsibility
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:57:00 GMT
Bracknell Forest Council is urging people to help ensure the safety of children who are cared for by someone who is not a direct relative. Private fostering happens when someone who is not a close relative cares for another person’s child for an extended period. These arrangements start after family breakdown, illness, bereavement or by parents living abroad arranging for their child to live with a UK family. Although done by a private arrangement, legally the parent and the carer must notify the local authority where the child is going to live. The council is responsible for checking the child is safe and that carers receive the support they need. While many privately fostered children are well cared for, there have been a number of high profile cases nationally of children being looked after out of the family home, who have been harmed or neglected. Penny Reuter, chief officer: children’s social care at Bracknell Forest Council, said: “Everybody has a role in keeping children safe - teachers, youth workers, neighbours or parents at the school gate. If you hear about a child who is being privately fostered, let us know so that we can make sure that the child is living in a safe and secure home.” Cllr Gareth Barnard, executive member for children and young people, said: “It is extremely important to contact the council if you have, or you know of someone who has an arrangement with a family to foster a child. “Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all children in the borough is of vital importance and it is everybody’s responsibility to help us achieve this goal.”

Students welcome Muslim theatre group
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:54:00 GMT
Students at Sandhurst School were the first in Bracknell Forest to see a special drama production aimed at steering vulnerable young people away from the path of racial and religious intolerance. The Khayaal Theatre group came to the school last month (November), to perform Hearts & Minds, a play about identity and how a young person might become drawn into violence. Its central character is Asif, a Muslim teenager in the UK whose views of the world are challenged by events around him and who finds he has tough choices to make about what he believes. Sam Hunt, assistant headteacher at the school, said: “The play was excellent. It raised some important issues in a very sensitive and thought-provoking way. “It gave the Year 10 students something to think about and discuss.” The play, which was specially commissioned by Reading based Berkshire Forum against Extremism and the Muslim Education Forum in Luton, supports the Government’s PREVENT strategy which is being rolled out to schools across the UK. Ms Hunt said: “We arranged for the play to be performed at the school because we wanted the debate to be far wider than just Islamic extremism. We want to tackle Islamaphobia which appears to be growing in this country. “The play and the subsequent discussions among pupils will go a long way towards dispelling myths and misunderstandings about Islam. It offers some insight into basic tenets of the faith that counter representations of Islam as a religion that encourages violence and revenge.” Among the comments from students after they watched the performance were: “it made me think about how we unconsciously perceive other ethnicities”; “it made me realise that racism is a bigger issue than I thought it was”; “I saw more of the Muslims’ point of view”.   For more information about PREVENT go to www.dcsf.gov.uk/violentextremism

Animal welfare goes for gold
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:49:00 GMT
Stray dogs who find themselves guests of Bracknell Forest Council can be sure of a five star service. The council has struck gold in the RSPCA’s Community Animal Welfare Footprints awards scheme, which promotes best practice in animal welfare across local authorities and housing providers in England and Wales. It recognises organisations that have gone above and beyond their basic service requirements. Each Footprint has three levels - bronze, silver and gold - each level carrying progressively more demanding criteria. Andy Hill, Bracknell Forest’s dog warden, said: “We entered the awards this year for the first time and won gold. The RSPCA looks at how we deal with stray dogs and how we educate the public about the responsibilities of dog ownership. “We do a lot of visits to schools and take part in road shows around the borough where we advise people about dog health and welfare. We get a lot of feedback from the children we talk to and I think the RSPCA was impressed with that.” Andy’s van now proudly displays the golden Footprint logo. He and council colleague Sharon Clarke were invited to a reception at the House of Lords in London to celebrate the achievement. Cllr Iain McCracken, executive member for public protection, said: “Together with our town and parish partners, the borough council works hard to promote responsible dog ownership among residents. “Andy Hill and the team should be very proud that the RSPCA has recognised their efforts to help stray animals and encourage people to think about pet welfare.”

Improve you home with loan scheme
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:45:00 GMT
Are you a homeowner aged 60 or over? If so, Bracknell Forest Council is running a scheme which may allow you to improve the warmth, comfort, safety and security of your home.   The scheme aims to enable residents to keep their home well maintained during their retirement, paying back as little or as much as they like. Any improvement that will make a home safer, warmer, healthier or more comfortable will be considered. This includes: essential repairs and maintenance; installing central heating or improvements to a heating system; replacement doors or windows; improvements to insulation; roof and structural repairs; replacement bathroom suites; burglar alarms and home security; and installation of stairlifts or other adaptations. The homeowner can choose how the loan will be repaid and is also free to vary the arrangement at any time. They can make interest only payments or can choose to pay nothing until the home is sold. The loan, plus outstanding interest, must be repaid if the home is sold or the homeowners cease to occupy it. The loan will be secured by a charge on the property. Any interest on the loan will be charged at a low rate linked to the Bank of England (please contact the council for a quotation). The scheme is part of the council’s aim to ensure the homes of older people in the borough meet the highest possible standard of safety and comfort. Cllr Dale Birch, executive member for adult services, health and housing, said: “This scheme means that we can improve the homes, lives, health and wellbeing of many people across the borough. “To be able to get our older people’s homes up to as high standard of repair and comfort as possible, by offering discretionary loans, means that the council continues to ensure our older residents are living in homes which are decent, comfortable and have reasonable modern facilities.” For further information call 01344 352000 or go to www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/env-main-types-of-assistance

Helping families get on the ladder
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:42:00 GMT
Bracknell Forest Council is offering several schemes to help housing association tenants get on to the private property ladder. There are currently a number of opportunities available for residents living in family-sized houses to buy their own home on the open market. Housing association tenants who live in rented accommodation can get a grant of up to £38,000. The money, which is means tested, is partly funded by the transfer of council housing to Bracknell Forest Homes, and operates on a first come, first-served basis. This scheme has just helped Jason and Sarah Sedge, who live in Ascot, to buy their first family home on the south coast. The couple, who are former tenants of Bracknell Forest Homes, are the first applicants in the borough to take advantage of scheme. Linda Wells, Bracknell Forest Homes housing and community services director, said: “This is an excellent scheme which has helped Mr and Mrs Sedge and their children move closer to their family in another area. They have vacated a nice two-bedroom home which has been allocated to another family from the housing register. I hope both families will be very happy in their new homes.” Bracknell Forest Council offers a number of other grant options to residents, including a home loan scheme which lends up to £20,000 to householders who would like to buy a shared ownership home. The scheme has been set up to give financial help to tenants who want to own, or part own, a home but cannot afford the deposit to purchase a shared ownership property. The home loan is repayment free for five years, with interest charged at 3.93 per cent. The council also offers an alternative shared ownership scheme, which allows tenants to buy a new build home under a shared ownership agreement. The shared ownership properties are provided for households with a combined annual income of up to £60,000. Cllr Dale Birch, executive member for adult social services, health and housing, said: “It is great that Mr and Mrs Sedge are able to take advantage of the scheme and get on the housing ladder. “The council currently offers a range of initiatives which can help residents purchase a property during these tough economic times. If you think you might be eligible for some support please give our housing options team a call.” For further details call the team on 01344 351351 or 01344 351352, or go to www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/liv-housing

Meet the Councillor
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:31:00 GMT
Name: Cllr Mark Phillips – new Conservative councillor for Hanworth. How long have you lived in Bracknell Forest? I’ve been here six and a half years. Before that I was at university in Roehampton where I studied geography and history. I spent most of my childhood in a village in Wiltshire. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? I enjoy going for walks with my wife, Catherine, our little daughter, Jessica, and our King Charles Spaniel, Monty. I also like to play computer games. What are you most looking forward to in your council role? I really do want to make a difference to the people who live in my ward and across Bracknell Forest. I also want to get involved in youth provision work. I’m still quite young (36) and I remember what it’s like to be a teenager. What is your day job? I work as a project manager for a satellite installations company. The company is based in Swindon but I either work from home or on site. What brought you into politics? Through my job I really have seen ‘broken Britain’ and how some people have to live. I want to make sure that Bracknell Forest remains a great place for people to live and work. What’s the best thing about your ward? My ward is very diverse and I like the fact that so many different sorts of people live there. What’s your message to residents? My door is always open. I want to work for the people of the borough and my ward and am always ready to listen and to help.

Oneplace for issues
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:28:00 GMT
Residents can find out how Bracknell Forest Council and its partners are tackling big local issues through the Oneplace website. Oneplace shows how well the council, police, health organisations and housing bodies are improving those things that are important to residents. The website has been set up by the main local services watchdogs including thy Audit Commission, the Care Quality Commission and Ofsted. This new assessment of council performance replaces the star ratings that the Audit Commission gave councils in the past. The new approach takes a detailed look at how well the council manages its performance and whether it makes best use of council tax. For further information go to www.direct.gov.uk/oneplace or www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk

Forestcare team thank the support of Bracknell Bees
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:26:00 GMT
The Bracknell Bees’ man of the match, Jaroslay Cesky, was presented with his trophy by special guests on November 26, when Cllr Gareth Barnard, executive member for children and young people, and the council’s family placement team came to the match. The honour of presenting the trophy was bestowed on the council team because of the sponsorship that the foster team has provided for the Bees over the last year. Penny Reuter, chief officer: children’s social care at Bracknell Forest Council, said: “The foster care team’s relationship with the Bracknell Bees is something we are very proud of. “Over the last year the Bees have become more and more involved in our aim of promoting foster care across the borough. From getting promotional banners, stands and posters in the stadium, to giving looked after children free access to matches, the team has been fantastic at supporting our foster care recruitment work.” Cllr Gareth Barnard, executive member for children and young people, said: “I have been extremely honoured in presenting the man of the match trophy today. It is great to see a local business working hand in hand with the council to promote the message that foster carers are needed across Bracknell Forest.”

Residents have their say
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:24:00 GMT
Nearly 90 per cent of respondents positively rated Town & Country in a recent reader survey.   The survey, printed in the October edition, asked readers various questions such as how often they read Town & Country, what were their favourite sections and how they would rate the newspaper overall. Of the 87 respondents, 46 per cent said Town & Country was excellent, 41 per cent said it was good, five per cent said it was adequate, two per cent said poor and six per cent selected ‘other’. Seventy-four per cent of respondents revealed that they always read Town & Country. Eighty-six per cent said that it helped them to understand what Bracknell Forest Council does. The most popular sections listed were news, features, what’s on, environment focus and town centre focus. Results also showed that a vast majority do not read Town & Country online (89 per cent) but believe that it is well designed (91 per cent). Just some of the comments given by residents included: “I think it is excellent as it’s a great way to let the people of Bracknell know what is going on within the borough without having to trawl through a big paper. It’s great to see environmental news and how things are changing for the better!” “The competitions are always worth entering, always good prizes to be won. The whole paper is just one good read!” “Town & Country is well laid out, easy to read. Very clear and the photos are very colourful. It is also nice to see people young and old enjoying themselves. It tells you everything you need to know about what’s going on and I love reading the news. I like Town & Country very much.” “Far too detailed and elaborate. Its costs should be reduced, especially since there is always pressure to keep council tax down.” In response to feedback, Town & Country is changing in 2010 and is looking at how to reduce costs while still delivering the same newspaper residents enjoy reading. Check out the March edition to find out more. Congratulations to the four lucky prize winners of the reader survey competition. Mrs S Murphy, Mr N Wreglesworth, Ms D Flatt and Mr D Kettle were the lucky recipients of either a family ticket to see Peter Pan at South Hill Park Arts Centre or a £50 shopping voucher for Bentalls.

Borough's parks now feature on Google
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:22:00 GMT
Bracknell Forest parks, play areas and countryside sites have now been put on the map - the Google map. Residents and visitors wanting to find the location of a green space or play area in the borough can use a link from the council’s parks site webpage to obtain directions and link to Google Maps. Visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/parks to view your local park on the map.

Entry now open for half marathon 2010
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:14:00 GMT
Keen runners from across Berkshire can begin training as preparations for the Quintiles Bracknell Half Marathon 2010 are now well underway. Bracknell Forest Council, organiser of the race, has announced that next year’s event will take place on Sunday, May 9, once again starting and finishing in the picturesque grounds of South Hill Park Arts Centre at 9am. Entries are available at www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/leis-bracknell-half-marathon or www.runnersworld.co.uk. Entry fees for 2010 will be £14. Unfortunately due to the nature of the course, organisers regret they will not accept entries from wheelchair users. The council is also delighted to announce that Quintiles has agreed to continue its sponsorship for the 2010 Quintiles Bracknell Half Marathon. For enquiries about the Quintiles Bracknell Half Marathon email half.marathon@bracknell-forest.gov.uk or call 01344 352000.

Monitor your health in pilot
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:04:00 GMT
Forestcare is working with GPs in Bracknell on a groundbreaking Telehealth pilot project. The project was set up in the summer of 2009, by two Bracknell GPs – Dr William Tong and Dr Anant Sachdev, using efficiency savings made by the Bracknell Forest locality practices. A health hub is installed in the patient’s home and they are shown how to use it by the Forestcare team. Depending on the person’s condition, they will be given some scales to weigh themselves and also be shown: how to take their own blood pressure (using a blood pressure cuff); measure their oxygen saturation levels (using a pulse Oxymeter); and measure the electrical rhythms of their heart (take an ECG). This data, as well as the answers to a series of health questions, are inserted into the health hub by the patient twice daily. In addition, the patient can select ‘any questions’ to put information in at other times of the day. The data is transferred each night (via the internet) and is checked by the community nurses the following day. If there are any unusual readings such as higher than expected blood pressure, or increase in weight, the nurse will make contact with the patient. Mrs Game, from Binfield, was one of the first to have a health hub installed. She finds it ‘very easy to use’ and was reassured that someone was monitoring any changes in her blood pressure or blood oxygen levels and that it ‘saves her from having to go to the doctors’ if she is worried or feels unwell. She said that she quickly learnt how it works and does her readings every day, morning and night. She added that she would ‘miss having the health hub’ if she wasn’t able to keep it in the future. The Telehealth pilot is helping patients with coronary heart disease and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD). Telehealth can be used to help patients with long term conditions to live independent, healthy lives by reducing complications and sudden deteriorations in conditions. Forestcare are experts in installing their own Lifeline equipment in people’s homes and so were chosen as a local accredited installer. Cllr Dale Birch, executive member for adult services, health and housing, said: “This is an excellent scheme which enables patients to take control of their own condition and to help to reduce their anxiety. It not only helps those who might struggle to get to doctors for check-ups on a regular basis, but it also can potentially help to reduce hospital waiting times.” The Telehealth scheme is just one of a number of out-of-hours schemes run by Forestcare. While most residents will be relaxing over the festive period, Bracknell Forest Council’s Forestcare team will be staffing its call centre 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Forestcare monitors 6,000 alarms, which are not just for sheltered accommodation, but also used in private homes or to help vulnerable people both in Bracknell Forest and further afield. The monitors help Forestcare respond to residential fires, elderly people who have fallen, potential burglaries or even check up on people who are working alone to make sure they are safe.      For more information services provided by Forestcare, visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/forestcare or call 01344 786500.

A flawless display this Christmas
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT
Bracknell Forest residents flocked to the town centre on Sunday, November29, for some festive cheer, energetic dancing and fantastic fireworks. This year, enthusiastic fans welcomed dance group Flawless (famous for their success on Britain’s Got Talent) to the town as they flipped, kicked and grooved before the Christmas lights were switched on in Charles Square. Afterwards, a fantastic fireworks display lit up the sky above the town centre amidst many ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’ from the appreciative crowd. Also on hand during the weekend of festivities was Santa himself. Bracknell Forest youngsters delighted in his reindeer parade on the Saturday (November 28) where they had the opportunity to meet and pat Rudolph and his friends. Graham Mountford, Bracknell town centre manager for Bracknell Forest Council, said: “Turning on the Christmas lights is always a momentous occasion and this year was no different. There was a great, fun atmosphere in the town and Flawless and the fireworks were spectacular. “In the lead up to Christmas there is also plenty of cheer to be found in the town centre. “There are many other activities happening in the run up to the big day and to make the shopping that little bit easier, there is also free car parking for Thursday late night shoppers after 5pm and all day on Sundays.” From now until Christmas there are a host of activities to entice shoppers and to entertain youngsters. Each Thursday night, shoppers will experience a different Christmas from around the world including France, Russia and Australia. Lenny the Land Train makes a welcome return to town each Saturday, as well as children’s craft activities and free face painting. Helen Barnett, marketing manager for Bracknell Regeneration Partnership, said: “There’s something for everyone in the town centre with Christmas shopping and merriment taking place. Local school choirs will be performing regularly to help spread some Christmas cheer. “As always Santa will be spreading merriment from his grotto in Princess Square every day until Christmas Eve. Proceeds from the grotto will be donated to Sebastian’s Action Trust and Thames Valley and Chiltern Air Ambulance.” For more details on town centre events visit www.bracknell.com

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