wbc news - summer 2011

In this issue...

Serving up good hygiene

page 9

Enterprising students

page 16

Borough builds up to 2012

page 6

Tasty treatsWin lunch at the Rainbow Café

www.wokingham.gov.uk

Wokingham Borough Summer 2011

Your magazine from Wokingham Borough Council

2 www.wokingham.gov.uk

Welcome

We’d like to hear what you think of Wokingham Borough News, and in particular if you would like to contribute to future editions. Please also give your views on our social networking sites and what else you would like to use them for – send us a message on Facebook or an email to: [email protected]

Editorial Communications Team at Wokingham Borough Council.Design and print Whatever Design LtdPrinted on Ability Offset 80gsm FSC.Cost 9p per person/23p per copy.

Keeping in touch with usPhone: (0118) 974 6000Fax: (0118) 978 9078 Email: [email protected]/SMS message: 07786 200 974Website including webchat: www.wokingham.gov.uk

Visit us Monday to Friday between 8.30am and 5pm at the Civic Offices, Shute End, Wokingham RG40 IBN.

Social networking sites www.facebook.com/wokinghamboroughcouncil

www.twitter.com/wokinghambc

Looking Local iPhone and android app – Not only can you report abandoned vehicles, fly-tipping and vandalism, you can also check out events, job vacancies and the latest travel information.

Email and text updates – Register at: www.wokingham.gov.uk/services

Information kiosks – available at Woodley and Lower Earley libraries and the Civic Offices.

Looking Local – Access local information and services using your digital television remote control.

£4.3million savings and we are on track to achieve our target of £4.86million in 2011/12 as we find better ways of doing things. Whilst we’ve saved money, we are maintaining our services - those that meet your needs and that you rely on.

Last month (June) saw us launch our new adult social care company, and you can read more about this on page 12.

As we continue to improve the efficiency of the organisation and develop a better understanding of your needs, we know there is more we can do. I am keen to hear your thoughts and ideas, so please contact me by email: [email protected]

Cllr David LeeLeader

We saw over 30 street parties celebrating the Royal Wedding, whilst hundreds took part in our local litter picks. We all take great pride in our communities and this is shown in the latest issue of Wokingham Borough News.

In this issue we celebrate the achievements of our adult learners as well as our young people at Wokingham youth café who were nominated for a prestigious national award.

Preparations are in full swing around the country for next year’s Olympic Games in London and Wokingham Borough is no different. We are offering a range of sporting activities, so if you feel like getting fit and taking part, now’s the time to join in.

Our Transformation Programme continues and since April we have made

It’s been great to see community spirit alive in the Wokingham Borough over the past few months.

3Summer 2011

Busy second term in offi ce

Primary school investment

Busy second term in offi ce

Pupils at The Colleton celebrate their new extension

“I am extremely pleased to have been re-elected to serve the people of Wokingham Borough for a second term alongside my Deputy Cllr Bob Wyatt. Being Mayor is a special honour and over the last year I was lucky enough to meet many residents from all around the Borough, from all walks of life. Once again, this year, I hope to be able to continue to support the many hard working groups and individuals that make this Borough the wonderful place it is.

I have again chosen Give a Child a Chance, administered by the Berkshire Community Foundation, as the Mayor’s charity. The charity helps tackle diverse and often hidden issues within our area and last year we raised over £10,500. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who helped me fundraise.

The money will be used to award grants to individuals and groups who work with disadvantaged children in the Wokingham Borough.

Cllr Dianne KingWokingham Borough Mayort. (0118) 974 6004e. [email protected]/mayorwww.berkshirecommunityfoundation.org.uk

St Nicholas School is being rebuilt around the historic village school buildings and will include new classrooms and a new hall. Improvement works at Hillside are helping it cope better with the current number of pupils. The Colleton School in Twyford has also been improved with a new extension. Hawthorns and Lambs Lane Primary schools have received investment to support temporary increases in pupil numbers. Although the national Primary Capital Programme has ended, the Council has agreed signifi cant funding (approximately £18 million for all schools) for additional places and repair schemes.

Three primary schools in the Wokingham Borough will be transformed this autumn thanks to an £8.4 million investment from the national Primary Capital Programme. We’ll be working over the summer to complete schemes at Hillside in Lower Earley, All Saints C of E School in Wokingham, The Coombes C of E School in Arborfi eld and St Nicholas C of E School in Hurst. Under these proposals, All Saints and the Coombes Schools will both have new reception areas and improved teaching accommodation. The Coombes School will benefi t from a new teaching block with classrooms, facilities for disabled pupils and a new library.

Register Office on the moveThe Register Offi ce is moving this month (July) from The Old School House, Reading Road, Wokingham. Its new home will be at the Civic Offi ces, Shute End, Wokingham, conveniently located for the Paddocks car park and will provide better facilities including a new and improved wedding room.

t. (0118) 974 2514e. [email protected]

In this edition

Celebrating adult learning .......... 4

Borough builds up to 2012 ......... 6

Out and about in local parishes ............................................. 8

Serving up good hygiene ............. 9

Transforming our services ......... 12

The future of libraries ................ 13

Stopping the rogues ................... 15

Enterprising students .................16

Welcoming Wokingham’s new citizens ................................... 18

Be inspired .....................................20

Support with confi dence ...........21

What’s on ..............................22/23

Celebrating adult learner achievements

Outstanding personal achievement category winner Chris Esling of Earley gave an account of his journey – see his story below.

www.wokingham.gov.uk/adult-learner

Wokingham Borough learners recently celebrated their achievements at the Council’s annual Adult Community Learner Awards which honour those who have overcome obstacles to excel on adult learning courses.

“Adult learning is so much more than just academic achievement. It’s about helping people to build confi dence and develop skills that can lead to better

job prospects and quality of life. The many stories highlighted at the awards ceremony are vivid illustrations of how our learners overcame diffi cult challenges and barriers to learning.”

Executive Member for Education Services Cllr Rob Stanton

Executive view

“After completing the course, I continued with the Further Skills in Word 2007 and Publisher packages.

“And I have now had great success in fi nding employment in the arts, an area I have wanted to enter since graduating. This has enabled me to evolve my own painting skills in portraiture and I am exhibiting my work.”

“Not being very confi dent with computers had been the main obstacle preventing me achieving a career in my fi eld. So I signed up for a PowerPoint and Excel course. During my time studying, I was introduced to a weekly job club, which covered areas such as writing CVs and interview techniques. It also gave the group the chance to discuss experiences job hunting and I gathered a lot of extremely useful information.

“The computer courses were held by an exceptional teacher, Jane Hay. Her teaching methods were extremely absorbing as she made it easy and concise to understand. Within a week of starting the Excel course,I had an interview which involved a practical Excel test; I must have passed this as I was asked back for a second interview. Unfortunately, I didn’t get the job but I knew I was heading in the right direction.

“After being unemployed for nearly two years, I came across an advert for Computer Courses: Updating Skills and Learning New Packages from Scratch at the Earley CResCent Centre.

Chris’ story

www.wokingham.gov.uk4

5Summer 2011

Happy snapper’s competition!Why not send us your photos of Wokingham Borough? You could win a great photo prize kindly donated by Snappy Snaps in Wokingham.

We’re looking for photographs of the landscape and architecture of Wokingham Borough. To enter, upload up to 20 photographs to our Flickr group by 12 noon on Friday September 23, 2011.

There are two age categories: 13 to 17-year-olds and 18 and over. Up for grabs is a family photo shoot along with merchandising for the best photograph in each category!

www.wokingham.gov.uk/photocompetition

WIN LUNCH Tell us what you think about this edition of Wokingham Borough News and you could win lunch at the Rainbow Café. Email: [email protected] and the first 10 out of the hat will have lunch on us.

This autumn sees the return of the hugely popular celebrating age event at Loddon Valley Leisure Centre, Rushey Way, Lower Earley. A keenly awaited date on the calendar, it will see the leisure centre given over to a programme of exercise and activities for the over 50s including swimming, line dancing, Tai Chi, Pilates, seated exercises, arts and crafts and a free lunch!

People can just turn up on October 19 between 10am and 3.30pm. If you need help with transport, please contact Amanda Gordon.


Save the date – celebrating age

Kevin and Helen Power“We’ve just returned from holiday and we came straight here as we knew we could rely on a good Panini and a refreshing drink before going home to unpack! The clients from the Acorn Centre do a fine job and they help in every way they can.”

Hayley Cornwell“What’s nice is that you never feel rushed and there is always lots going on. There’s a great variety of sandwiches on offer at a great price.”

Sue Chapman“It’s very friendly and you’re always made to feel very welcome. It’s great to see the clients from the Acorn Centre helping to run the café - seeing them working in the community and meeting people is fantastic.”

Anna Adams “We come here once a week and it’s good value for money. You can sit outside if the weather’s nice and I would recommend the café.”

Why not head to the Rainbow Café, at the Acorn Community Centre, Fernlea Drive in Woosehill, for a tasty treat? It’s open Monday to Friday, 10am to 3pm and Saturday between 9am and 2pm. Clients from the centre and Wokingham Borough Employment Services are on hand to serve a range of Paninis, sandwiches, salads, baked potatoes, all day breakfast and a wide selection of cakes.

Fancy a cuppa and a slice of cake?

Borough builds up to 2012


From balls to bats and water to wheels, there’s something for everyone thanks to Inspire Wokingham – Living the Legacy.

Inspire Wokingham – Living the Legacy

Return to sport – all adultsIf the last time you netted a ball you were in a gym slip, or you last hit a six when knee-high to a grasshopper, why not give sport another go? Whatever your fitness level, shape, size or age, Return to Sport is for you, offering netball, badminton, tennis, cricket, softball and rounders for £3 a session.

Sportsfest – 14+Friday evenings are now full of fun, excitement and competition. Sportsfest evenings are jam-packed with new sports as well as old favourites, such as dodgeball, invasion games, uni-hoc and 5-a-side football. Sign up with family members, school friends, work colleagues or neighbours. Based at Loddon Valley Leisure in Lower Earley on the second and fourth Friday in every month and the FBC Centre in Finchampstead on the first and third Friday in every month. £1 per person.

All play together – familiesA chance to enjoy sports activities as a family in a relaxed atmosphere, these sessions give families an opportunity to try games to improve children’s basic development such as climbing, throwing, jumping and balancing. Based at Bulmershe Leisure Centre in Woodley on the fourth Saturday in every month and the FBC Centre in Finchampstead on the second Saturday in every month. Sessions are free but booking is essential.

FBC Allstars – children and adults with disabilitiesAllstars will specifically cater for children and adults with visual, auditory or physical disabilities and friends and family. Sports include kurling, archery, Boccia and goalball. Every Thursday from 6.30pm to 8pm at the FBC Centre in Finchampstead. £2 per session.

Community Cycle Rides – every ageVarious local routes for all the family, led by a trained cycle leader.

Open doors week – July 16 to 24Clubs and leisure centres across the Borough will be opening their doors. Try a range of sports and activities for FREE, leading to a weekend of fun to celebrate one year to go until the 2012 London Olympics and Paralympics.

Mark one year to go – Saturday July 23This special day at Dinton Pastures is for all ages with water sports, kayaking, canoeing, golf and a climbing wall as well as other exciting activities.

t: Sports and Leisure on (0118) 974 6000e: [email protected]/sports

7Summer 2011

Lighting the way to 2012

Wokingham Borough is home to a wealth of talented athletes competing at all levels.

Bulmershe School pupil Chloe Farrance, the longest serving member of the British Aerobic Gymnastic Squad, is currently fourth in the world, the highest ever ranking for a senior GB gymnast.

She started competing at the age of eight and joined the national squad in 2003. Her successes include a silver medal at the World Championships in France last year.

Chloe has also experienced the lows of competitive sport, breaking her fi bula at the Welsh Championships last year; she completed her routine despite the injury and became British Champion just a few weeks later.

Chloe has been supported with a grant from Wokingham Sports Partnership and trains fi ve days a week at Bulmershe Gymnastics Club.

Chloe said: “It’s always hard to juggle school, training and social life. The most important thing that I found was to communicate with my coach. At the age of 16 I wanted to quit, my friends were all going out and I had to train, but with the support and constant compromise between my coach and myself, I managed to balance my gym with friends and studies.

“Through gym I have had some amazing opportunities to travel to places such as China, Lithuania and Los Angeles and I now have friends across the globe, who I love catching up with at International competitions.”

See Chole in training at: www.wokingham.gov.uk/wbc-news

A sculptured tree with LED lights powered by rowers and cyclists will be at the centre of the build up to 2012 in the Wokingham Borough, with schools and community groups making it grow.

The Tree of Light project will see ten community groups from South Oxfordshire and Wokingham Borough join environmental scientists, visual artists, musicians and dancers to work on events in their area. The project will culminate in July 2012 in a celebration event in London and the whole programme will run until the conclusion of the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The sculptured tree will be the focus of performances along with saplings created by community groups, each telling their own story with music and dance. The Tree of Light was devised by Henley Festival and is one of only four large-scale community celebrations in the UK to be funded by the Legacy Trust and featured in the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad. We’ll keep you updated on how the chosen groups are progressing, along with events planned for the year ahead.

e: [email protected]: (0118) 974 6016

“The build-up to the Olympics is really gathering pace and I would urge you to get involved in one of the many opportunities to get active. Whether you are a serious competitor, or just looking to have some fun, there’s something for you on offer. You need look no further than our own home-grown talent for inspiration.”

Executive Member for Internal Services Cllr UllaKarin Clark

Executive view

Home grown world class athletes


If you go down to the woods today

Club, boasts a clubroom and bar, with a raised patio area giving a great view of the cricket square. The new changing rooms and areas can be hired by sports clubs from the Parish Council. In phase two, the 100-year-old pavilion, will be refurbished as parish council offi ces and community meeting rooms.

t. (0118) 940 6084e. offi [email protected]

A cry of ‘howzat’ came from Wargrave Parish Council recently as it opened its new £450,000 community sports pavilion at Recreation Road. A £63,000 grant from the England and Wales Cricket Board and two very large private

donations helped fund a much needed update.

The new sports facility, which is home to Wargrave Cricket

New sports pavilion opens in Wargrave

Located in a woodland setting, Pinewood Centre on Old Wokingham Road is home to over 20 clubs and societies and has a large children’s adventure playground, toddlers play area, community orchard, pond, picnic areas and a new ‘trim trail’. Leased from the Borough Council, it’s run by Wokingham Without Parish Council.

Local resident Amanda Mono sums it up perfectly: “My family think it’s just fabulous. We’re members of Pinewood Gymnastic Club, and my four-year-old son also loves the children’s park facilities - especially the new adventure playground. The café is a convenient place for the mums to meet for a cuppa too - with good, clean toilet facilities.

“And of course the Pinewood Miniature Railway is a real gem! All facilities are very reasonably priced (if not free) and parking is a dream. It’s a really great place which isn’t too ‘commercially overloaded’ for the kids; it’s about sport, community or just getting a bit grubby in the park - just really good fun!”

The Parish Council is continuously looking for ways to improve Pinewood and has recently installed stand-alone hybrid lighting, which uses solar and wind energy. More projects are in the pipeline – so why not pay it a visit soon – there’s even free parking!

t. (01344) 771425e. admin@wokinghamwithoutparishcouncil.gov.ukwww.wokinghamwithoutparishcouncil.gov.uk

9Summer 2011

Serving up good hygieneIf you’re planning to eat out, why not check out the kitchen hygiene at your favourite Wokingham Borough restaurants?

Businesses that deal with food preparation, including restaurants, cafés, supermarkets and takeaways, are all checked by the Council. These inspections are turned into a star rating, giving your favourite food shops a ‘Score on the Door’.

Rosalynd Hale, Principal Environmental Health Officer, said: “It’s not so much a case of the writing’s on the wall for bad hygiene as the score’s on the door. We launched the scheme three years ago and have worked intensively with any businesses needing major improvement. A business with zero stars does not normally stay that way, as they are encouraged to improve, which is great news for everyone in the Borough.

“Some businesses consistently achieve five-star ratings and should be praised for their excellent management of food hygiene. We also have a number of success stories where businesses have gone from zero to five stars – which is exactly what Scores on the Doors is all about.”

Some 93 per cent of the Borough’s eateries and food outlets are now rated as good, very good, excellent or better. This is an increase of 25 per cent from when the scheme was launched in 2008.

Check out restaurant ratings at: www.wokingham.gov.uk/scores or see the star rating sticker in its window.

The Swan The Waggon and Horses

The Swan Inn Public House in Three Mile Cross has consistently achieved five stars since the launch of the scheme. Owner Jenny Harrison said: “I think it’s a brilliant scheme. Some customers have even come in and said that they are going round the Borough and eating in all the five star premises, so it has made a difference to where people eat and has helped our business - and it’s keeping us on our toes!”

The Waggon and Horses, Twyford has gone from zero to hero, being awarded five stars after its last inspection. Owners Margaret and Murdo said: “It is nice to get rewarded for all the work we have put in; it was an old kitchen and we had to close it for a while to refit it to the right standards. Scores on the Doors is good for keeping ahead with customers – it’s good for business all round.”

www.wokingham.gov.uk10

Pushing the weekly waste message

We’re working hard to let residents know about the new waste collection service, which comes into effect from April 2012.

We have met with hundreds of residents at roadshows and talked to parish councils, tenant and community groups - to name just a few - to let them know weekly waste collections will remain and the recycling collections will take place every week as well.

Residents will have to opt in to the green waste chargeable service unless they either compost at home or take garden rubbish to a household waste collection centre in Bracknell or Reading.

The contract to deliver the services is currently out to tender and we will appoint the successful contractor in October. More details in the next edition of Wokingham Borough News.

t. (0118) 974 6000e. wokinghamdirect@ wokingham.gov.ukwww.wokingham.gov.uk/recycling

Thank you to everyone who commented on the new-look Spring Wokingham Borough News

Keeping you in the loop

We changed the magazine in response to your comments. Last summer you told us that you liked a hard copy magazine coming through your front door. However, you wanted to see more news about your local area and wanted to hear about real people.

In the last issue we responded, changing the look and getting people to write about new and changing services in their own words.

The results of our latest poll tell us we’re heading in the right direction. People were generally positive about the new-look of the magazine with the majority of respondents (75% and above) ranking all aspects of design as good or excellent. Most respondents found it readable (93.8%) and said that Wokingham Borough News kept them well-informed at least some of the time (91.9%).Making the magazine relevant to local areas remains a priority. We hope we’ve tackled that in this magazine, and there’s something of interest whether you live in

Wokingham, Wargrave, Woodley, Twyford or any other of our 17 towns and parishes.

Many of you wanted to know about value for money. At just 23p per copy or 9p per person, we think this is the most efficient way to keep you informed about the vital services we deliver on your behalf – as well as how we’re changing.

We’re working on our online version as well – why not look at some of our videos which give more detail on some of the printed articles?

www.wokingham.gov.uk/wbc-news

Residents who signed up for the kerbside recycling scheme after reading the Spring edition of Wokingham Borough News were entered into a draw for a compost bin. Lower Earley resident Dana Allen and her daughter Bonnie were among the 40 lucky winners! Congratulations!

Get composting!

Since June 1, we’ve been hosting a new shared legal service, called Shared Legal Solutions, with the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead.

How does this affect you? Well, hopefully not a lot. The main impact will be a more efficient service through reduced overheads, greater economies

of scale and a reduced reliance on external suppliers. For our staff it will mean greater opportunity to develop their skills. All in all, we hope it’ll mean more for less.

And we may be joined by Reading Borough Council from November 1, bringing even greater opportunities.

More for less with shared legal service

Summer 2011 11

As Wokingham Borough News went to press, the Council and developers Wilson Bowden were preparing to discuss the Wokingham town centre regeneration proposals in more detail with local residents. Feedback from the exhibition will be incorporated into the design process. It’s not too late for you to send us your views, visit the website for more details.


Hearing your views

“We’ve been busy working on plans for the long-awaited regeneration of Wokingham town centre. This investment will increase the attractiveness of the town centre, boost the confi dence of the existing businesses and create hundreds of new jobs. Exciting times lie ahead for Wokingham.”

Cllr Matt Deegan, Executive Member for Community Development

Executive view

“This is the fi rst step in improving traffi c around the station with further improvements expected as part of Wokingham town centre regeneration project. Having the link road in place along with the new junction improvements at Wellington Road, Shute End and Reading Road should help to reduce delays throughout the town centre.”

Cllr Keith Baker, Executive Member for Transport

Executive view

We are working with Network Rail and South West Trains to bring major improvements to Wokingham railway station.

The replacement of the existing station building and the construction of the access road form part of the National Station Improvement Programme, and are subject to planning permission. With a modern design and a range of improved facilities, passengers will benefi t from an enhanced ticket offi ce with accessible ticket windows, improved waiting facilities, passenger information screens and toilets. Retail facilities will also be improved.

The Council will be building a new road to link Wellington Road and the A329 Reading Road. Junction improvements on Station Road will also improve the operation of the existing level crossing.

For the fi rst time, bus and rail facilities in the town will be joined up to encourage greater use of public transport to the station. Improved pedestrian and cycling facilities will also help to encourage people to leave their cars at home.

We will be contributing £1.5million to the station improvement with Network Rail making further contributions.

A public exhibition of the station building proposals will happen during the summer – watch local press and our website for more details. And, later this year, we will be consulting on the link road proposals.

www.wokingham.gov.uk

Major improvements coming to Wokingham railway station

12 www.wokingham.gov.uk12 www.wokingham.gov.uk

More choice for vulnerable adultsMany of the Council’s adult social care services transferred to Optalis for its launch in June, including day centres, employment services, home care, residential care, supported housing services and sensory needs services.

People will now have more choice and control about how they spend their budget. While this is without doubt a positive step for people, it does present challenges to the Council’s long-established care services, which will become more open to competition.Moving to a separate company, which is owned by the Council, allows those services to continue to operate if people want them. Optalis will be able to operate competitively in the social care market, allowing those vulnerable adults, who want to use one of the Council’s services

In addition, some of the social work and occupational therapy team has transferred to Optalis to support people to make their own care arrangements using personal budgets. The Council has retained a small specialist team to make care assessments.

The move towards forming a separate company was prompted partly by the national policy of Putting People First. This allows adults who are entitled to personal budgets to choose who provides their social care, rather than social services deciding on their behalf.

but are not currently eligible to receive help from the Council, to buy services directly from the new company, offering more choice than is currently available.

The transition period will be smooth and customers already receiving a social care service should not notice much difference day-to-day, other than the change of organisation name and image. Importantly, the people providing those services will be the same, as they move across to Optalis from the Council.

Stuart Rowbotham, Strategic Director for Commissioning, said: “In time, Optalis expects to be able to grow and develop new and improved services for vulnerable adults, including those that are currently missing from the social care market and are in demand, particularly with regard to services for people with dementia. I am confident that Optalis will be able to further improve on what are already highly regarded care services.”

There have been some changes to how you contact adult social care. General enquiries: t. (0118) 974 6772e. [email protected]/socialcare

Wokingham Information Network offers information and advice about local servicest. (0118) 974 6772e. [email protected]://info.wokingham.gov.uk

Getting in touch with adult social care

March 2011 13Summer 2011

Domiciliary Care Manager Sue Kelly runs a team of 80 staff looking after the Borough’s home care services including START, long term support for people with dementia, Cockayne Court and Pinehaven Day Centre. She tells us what the move to Optalis means: “Having ‘gone live’ in June, very little has actually changed, at least in terms of our customers. Hopefully the transfer has been seamless.

“In the future, however, Optalis offers us far more opportunity to deliver a whole package of care to the customer. Previously, we were only able to offer the critical part of the care package. As a team, we want to be able to offer more than just personal care, for instance, help with the more practical sides of daily living and getting out and about.

“We’ve had a name change and a new uniform but the needs of our customers continue to be supported. There were some anxieties in the beginning, but we realised that this was the best option for our customers and the future of our service.

“We see a future where we can provide a complete lifestyle package. For instance, where families don’t live close to their parents, they could ring us to book a carer to take their mum out for the day. At the moment we couldn’t respond to that; in the future we hope to be able to.”

Staff viewpoint

Modernising the library serviceTransforming libraries across the Wokingham Borough is a high priority and we’ve put plans in place to ensure they meet the needs of the local community whilst being fit for the 21st century.

We’re considering working in partnership with a suitably experienced organisation to run libraries on our behalf. We need to secure the long-term future of our library service and invest for the 21st century. We have to work differently so that we can improve the high quality service we offer to our communities and make us fit for the future.

Against the national trend, we’ve opened a new library as part of a broader community centre in Finchampstead. As well as offering books, we also provide free access to the internet, help with family history, art displays and a Learndirect centre. For those who are homebound, there is also a home library service.

Residents have told us they would welcome even more services being offered through their local library and we are exploring how we can expand what’s on offer. These improvements will ensure libraries remain vibrant hubs within the community and serve as many local residents as possible. So what’s next? Last month (June) we published a notice in the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU) to invite expressions of interest to work jointly with us.

t. (0118) 974 6278e. [email protected]/libraries

“I’m confident Optalis will deliver a wider range of services to a wider range of people, while securing those of our services that so many people value and rely on.”

Executive Member for Finance Cllr Anthony Pollock

“The launch of Optalis is a new way of working and represents a major step forward in our Transformation journey. We’re using shared services, new organisations and working with partners to deliver value-for-money, quality services.”

Executive view

Executive viewExecutive Member for Health and Wellbeing Cllr Julian McGhee Sumner


Improving performance in council tax and benefits

Artwork by Holly Gare

Innovation, young people, business:

Big Society in ActionArtwork from local school children is now taking pride of place in office spaces in a new community initiative.

Schools including St Crispin’s, Waingels College, Maiden Erlegh, Addington, Holt and Emmbrook are part of the Local Arts Loan Programme, which rents artwork from secondary schools to transform business spaces.

All artwork is created by young people, presented to gallery standards and is selected from an online collection of paintings, printmaking, photography, textiles and mixed media. Artwork is delivered ready to install and is available to hire from six to 18 months.

Nick Croxford of Newbury Building Society said: “It’s a brilliant local initiative benefiting schools and businesses alike. We are able to support a local school and promote the good work of the Cultural Partnership, whilst at the same time improving the attractiveness of the branch for our members - a real winner all round!”

e: [email protected]

Quite rightly, people are always interested in front line services and how they perform. But the efficiency of our revenue collection is just as important, making sure we have the money we need to provide those vital services.

The last financial year was a record year for our Council Tax Team, with 99.28% collected in year - the highest collection rate of all unitary authorities. This is better than the 2009/10 figure of 99.20% and beats our previous best of 99.27% in 2007/08.

Equally, performance in benefits has improved. We have significantly improved the time it takes to process new claims, taking an average of just 4.52 days in March - a new record. Overall performance for the year is 13.62 days. This is a significant improvement on the previous year’s

processing time of 30.18 days. We’re now aiming for an average of 13 days, the current ‘All England’ average figure published by the Department for Work and Pensions. Also, the Welfare Benefit Team accessed over £596,600 in new weekly welfare benefits for our most vulnerable customers. Home visits offered advice and help with completing application forms for things such as Attendance Allowance and Disabled Living Allowance. The team also generated almost £80,000 in one-off backdated payments through the year.

t: (0118) 974 6000e: [email protected] or [email protected]/counciltax

15Summer 2011

Dodgy satellite repairs

Cowboy builders

Plumbing scamsRip off repairs

Credit card fraud

Fake parts

Stories of rogue trading abound in the media, even to the extent of the subject having its own TV programme. Trading Standards Manager Sean Murphy answers some common questions about the problem

Phone (0118) 974 6400 in confidence

Stop the Rogues

What is rogue trading?Rogue trading describes a variety of scams and frauds carried out on innocent, and often vulnerable, members of the community in their own homes. They range from mail and internet-based scams through to illegal charity bag collections and the now infamous cowboy builders – a phrase which does no justice to the harm these people cause.

How widespread is it?Virtually everyone is invited to become the victim of some scam or other over the space of a year. Most don’t become victims, but some do, often without realising it. Cowboy builders are always in circulation and we regularly receive reports of people turning up at your home to tell you that emergency repairs are needed. They often deny consumers their cancellation rights and then the escalating bills start. Before you know it, what started as a loose tile has cost £10,000. This is serious criminal activity.

What does the average victim look like?Although most victims are older and vulnerable people, anyone can become a victim. We believe this type of crime often goes unreported and need people to report concerns. For this reason, we’ve carried out work with Neighbourhood Watch and others to raise the profile of rogue trading.

What are you doing about it?We are taking the fight to the rogues. We now carry out routine patrols to look at who is operating in the Wokingham and West Berkshire area. We also work with banks and building societies to raise awareness amongst their staff, so they know what to look for. Our approved trader scheme ‘Buy with Confidence’ gives access to a list of vetted and approved traders and shortly we will be introducing ‘No Cold Calling Zones’ if communities request them.

Watch Sean’s team in action at: www.wokingham.gov.uk/wbc-news

t: (0118) 974 6400e: [email protected]/trading-standards

We aim to turn up on site within an hour when we receive a report that someone is the victim of rogue trading. Ring on (0118) 974 6400.

Rapid response


Doug Boyall (14) and Angus Lane (13) with Head of Design and Technology Dean Ralph

Enterprising studentsThe recently launched Wokingham Business Academy is helping pave the way for young people thinking about setting up a business.

The Academy, set up by The Forest School in Winnersh, Wokingham Chamber of Commerce and the Council, is aimed at those aged 16 to 25 who live, work or are educated in the Borough. With the help of local businesses, the Academy has provided free workshops on issues involved in starting a business.

There is no doubt that young people already have the capacity to start up in business. Take the experiences of young people at The Forest School.

Forest Young Chamber, a group of students aged 13 to 15 years, get together at lunchtimes. They meet with businesses in the area to learn the ropes and have been selling various items to fellow students and parents. The group has been promoting the Academy, and even filmed an advert for it.

Another enterprising group is Forest Laser Studio. In less than 12 months they’ve extended their product range from making signs for doors and walls, to printing mugs and t-shirts to order. Clients have included

a sports company and riding stables, and the profits have been re-invested in equipment and materials.

Angus Lane, aged 13, said: “Students develop ideas, learn to use specialist equipment, keep accounts and negotiate prices with clients. We’ve all learnt a lot.”

t. Carol Ryall, The Forest School (0118) 978 1626e. [email protected]

Election round upMay 5 saw elections for a third of Borough Council seats and a number of town and parish council seats, as well as the national referendum.

To find out how to contact your local councillor, check out our websitewww.wokingham.gov.uk/cllr-database www.wokingham.gov.uk/elections

“The Business Academy is providing invaluable support across the Wokingham Borough. Young people are learning from the Borough’s business leaders who have already walked down the business path. You only have to look at what’s happening at The Forest

School to see how impressive our young people are and the ambition they have to succeed in business.”

Cllr Liz Siggery, Executive Member for External Services

Executive view

17Summer 2011

Beeches Manor gets underwayConstruction of Beeches Manor in Wokingham, an exciting dementia care and supported living housing development for people with learning disabilities, has started.

Due for completion in March 2012, it will provide 18 specialist extra care apartments for people with dementia. Along with communal facilities including lounge, kitchens and activity rooms as well as 24-hour care and support, residents will enjoy spacious and comfortable apartments. A further eight apartments for people with learning disabilities will provide much needed independent living. The new housing will be built and managed by Housing 21, who will also provide round the clock care and support for those with dementia.

t: (0118) 974 6082e: [email protected]/beeches-manor

Supporting the voluntary sectorFundraising advice, communication and training services will be offered to the voluntary sector by the Ark Trust as part of a new contract with the Borough Council and NHS Berkshire West, called FACT project.

The Ark Trust, a local charity, successfully bid to provide voluntary sector support services for one year and is developing a new website to help reach as many community and voluntary groups as possible.

The Ark Trust will provide training coordination to help voluntary and community organisations find appropriate training for staff and volunteers and has employed a fundraising advice worker to offer support with funding applications and sourcing new funds.

Andrea McCombie-Parker, from the Ark Trust, said: “Over the coming year we will provide an innovative approach to supporting the

community and voluntary sector to ensure that local organisations have the skills and are best placed to take advantage of funding opportunities in these challenging times.”

Josie Wragg, from the Council, said: “We consulted with the voluntary and community sector to find out what sort of support they most value and help with training, fundraising and communications were the areas that came out strongly. We are delighted to have The Ark Trust onboard to provide these highly-valued services.”

t: (0118) 380 0103www.factwokingham.org.uk


Have a say on plans for the futurePeople are once again being asked for their views on future development in the Borough.

We’re consulting on a number of major documents that will significantly affect the look and feel of the Borough in years to come – so get involved!

Tell us what you think about the following set of five supplementary planning documents (SPDs): Arborfield Garrison, South of the M4, North Wokingham and South Wokingham strategic development locations and Infrastructure Delivery and Contributions (how developers should contribute to infrastructure required to support new development).

We also want your views on options for another planning document containing further planning policies to ensure the best possible development in the Borough. The Managing Development Delivery document contains options for deciding settlement boundaries and for sites outside our strategic

locations, as well as strategic Environmental Assessments which set out the likely environmental impact of all these documents.

See document online at http://tiny.cc/cfsr6 or in Shute End offices during office hours 8.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.Copies have also been sent to town and parish councils, local libraries and major supermarkets. Comments need to be received by July 27, 2011.

Citizenship ceremonies are formal occasions when new UK citizens affirm their allegiance to the Queen in front of the Borough Mayor and the Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire.

Earley resident and new citizen Bidisha came to the UK from Malaysia with her husband’s job in 2005 and, following the birth of their children, applied to become UK citizens. She tells us how the Wokingham Borough offered the best opportunities for her family’s future:

“I found that even an average performing school in Wokingham Borough is well above the national standard and we were elated when both our children got a place in one of the most desired primary schools. To add icing on the cake, one of the best secondary schools in Wokingham Borough is

a stone’s throw away from where we live. What more can a parent wish for?

“It’s such a safe and lovely place to live and enjoy. Well-resourced libraries, parks and much more within walking distance keeps the community well-knitted. It was a pleasure and great honour to take part in the Citizenship Ceremony, enabling us to be a part of the local community forever.”

“These plans are fundamental in setting the future direction of our Borough. While we have already undertaken our largest ever consultation exercise, I want to make sure people have opportunity to comment.

“There is a daunting amount of material here but the core elements are ensuring we get the best designed developments, protect the character of our Borough and obtain significant contributions to our infrastructure to cope with the development to 2026.”

Welcoming Wokingham’s new citizensCllr Angus Ross, Executive Member for Strategic Highways and Planning

Executive view

19Summer 2011

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On the Borough’s roadsThe wheels on the new mobile children’s centre will soon be going round and round.

It’s been designed especially for young families and, to capture children’s imaginations, the outside of the vehicle is beautifully decorated with animals, woodland creatures, rolling fields and water banks.

Inside, families can use the activity room and there is also a small counselling room

and kitchen. The mobile will be valuable to young families as it’s full of advice, support and information.

Covering the whole Borough, the mobile centre will be taken to areas where families find it more difficult to get to one of our other children’s centres. So keep a look out – it’s coming to a place near you very soon!

t. 07786 320468e. [email protected]/childrenscentres/

Happy 25th Birthday Woodley LibraryChanges to school designated areasBack in March, we agreed a major change to our admission arrangements to our community secondary schools for September 2012. The changes address long standing issues and we believe they are fair and provide the best achievable balance between competing interests. We can’t satisfy everyone, but we think these arrangements are better for most people in our community. New designated areas were agreed for Maiden Erlegh and Bulmershe schools along with a new tie-break condition for Maiden Erlegh. These changes ensure the local community and those families that would otherwise have the longest distances to travel to Bulmershe (the alternative designated area school) have priority for Maiden Erlegh. For full details of the changes, visit our website.www.wokingham.gov.uk/school-admissions

They say things get even better with age, so the future’s bright for Woodley Library which recently celebrated its 25th birthday. After cracking open the champagne and cutting the cake, a bumper packed week of activities saw the local community enjoying a quiz night, a talk on the history of flight, a session on days gone by, story times, face painting, a circus skills workshop and much more.

Best selling author Jane Fallon also dropped in for a book signing and a question and answer session about her career. Here’s to the next 25 years!

t. (0118) 969 0304e. [email protected]/libraries


Be inspired Get involved this autumnNearly two years ago, a dream came true for Wokingham’s young people as their very own youth café opened its doors.

shown to our seats and we were lucky to get a table right next to the stage – fantastic. Throughout the night there were a number of celebrities showing their support by presenting awards or performing including: Kimberly Wyatt, Keith Lemon, Michelle De Swarte, Eddie Kadi, Natasha Beddingfield and many more.

“Each team’s achievements were presented through a video which we’d recorded earlier this year and it was shown on a big screen. There were some excellent achievements and we should be proud of all youth achievement shown on the night. Unfortunately we didn’t win but we all had a great time and we hope to be invited to attend again next year!”

The youth café is taking a break over the summer but will reopen at Wokingham Youth Centre, Reading Road, Wokingham, in September. We are looking for volunteers aged between 13 and 19 to help run it. If you are interested, please contact Area Youth Manager Richard Ferguson on (0118) 978 3610 or email: [email protected]. Be inspired and get involved today!

Young people are firmly in the driving seat for this project. It’s been so successful that it was recently nominated for a national award.

Chelsea Crosson-Smith (pictured above) tells us more about the Awards night. “The young people from Wokingham Youth Café who won the Regional Award for the ‘team category’ recently attended the national V-inspired awards.

“The café’s founding committee ventured up to London by train to attend the ceremony. It was held at London’s IndigO2 arena and it was a fabulous event. We were offered drinks and food before being

21Summer 2011

West Berkshire and Wokingham Trading Standards has teamed up with adult social care to launch Support with Confidence, a new scheme aiming to give those receiving personal budgets and those wishing to buy in care services the freedom to choose who they want to support them in their homes. It also gives peace of mind, as they can use the scheme’s members with confidence knowing that they have been vetted and are trained to do their job.

It’s open to anyone providing personal care or other support and domestic services and it’s aimed at those service providers who are not liable for registration with the Care Quality Commission. However, certain criteria must be met, and applicants must pass a strict vetting process, including an enhanced Criminal Records Bureau check. They must also sign up to a code of conduct and undertake certain training essential to their role before they become an accredited member of the scheme.

t. (01635) 519930 e. [email protected]

Following the launch of the micro-enterprise grants in 2009, we are once again inviting applications from people wishing to become a social care provider to apply for up to £1,500 to help get them started.

This year we are interested in applications from new providers offering services to help people access leisure, sports, educational, social or cultural activities.

New Micro-enterprise Grants up for grabs

Help and support for vulnerable people

Debbie Stone tells us more about micro-enterprise Flair

“Flair is a traditional home help service and it’s been running for three years. We operate in Wokingham and the surrounding area, offering help with housework, shopping, laundry and ironing, as well as companionship. Some people are very isolated and the fact that we go and help them and offer some companionship is a real reassurance for their families, who often live far away. We also take clients on outings to the garden centre or cinema.

“Our services are varied but we try to make sure we offer continuity. It’s very important we build a bond between staff and clients and we often become friends. I think the grant scheme is marvellous and it really gave Flair a boost.”

If you would like to find out more about Flair or any of the other micro-enterprises in the Borough, please get in touch!

t. Wokingham Information Network on (0118) 974 6772e. [email protected]://info.wokingham.gov.uk

In addition to these grants, we are also offering small providers help from a local business support service – The Real Business Club – and will be organising networking and information events.

t. James Burgess on (0118) 974 6235 or Steve George 07786 534 922

Support with Confidence


What’s on?

New outdoor centre opens its doorsA new multi-activity centre - MAC - at Dinton Pastures Country Park is going from strength to strength. Minutes from Winnersh railway station, facilities for rowing, sailing, windsurfi ng and rock climbing are right on the doorstep. You can even try out a Segway!

Whether you’re looking for a family day out, a teenager’s trip or a professional qualifi cation, the MAC’s got it covered. It’s also a great place for corporate team building days at competitive prices.

The MAC is fully affi liated with the Royal Yachting Association and the Adventure Licensing Authority. With a clubhouse

selling refreshments and great views over Black Swan Lake, it’s also a place to relax and take in the surroundings.

You can try one-off sessions, or become a member to enjoy 50% off craft hire, 25% off courses and 10% off personal tuition and renting out rooms and facilities. You’ll also be invited to the centre’s

regular social events. Individual and family membership is available – why not fi nd out what the MAC could do for you?

t: (0118) 934 4424www.wokingham.gov.uk/macSee the group on Facebook – Wokingham Borough Council Multi-Activity Centre

July 29 to 31Junior Climbing ExperienceThree-day course on the outdoor climbing wall. £31.

August 1 to 26Wild Days @ DintonSee above

August 4Pond dippingSee above

August 10Night paddleSee Black Swan Lake by glow stick in a canoe or katakanue. 9pm to 11pm. Children must be aged 8 or over. £12/£6.

August 27 to 28Summer Orchid ShowThousands of orchids in fl ower. 9am to 5pm (Sat) and 9am to 4pm (Sun). Small entry charge. (01295) 712 159.

There’s loads to do at Dinton Pastures this summer. Full listings at: www.wokingham.gov.uk/countryside. Contact the MAC on (0118) 934 4424 unless otherwise stated.

Regular eventsAdult climbing eveningEvery Thursday and Friday until October. Try our new climbing wall with instructors on hand. 6pm to 8.30pm. £25.

Sunset Segway tours every Friday until August 26Enjoy an evening tour of the park on a Segway. £25 per person or £45 for two. (0118) 954 0278.

July 23Countdown to the Olympics 2012 – one year to go. Join the party. (0118) 934 2016.

July 25 to 29Wild Days @ Dinton. Activities for children 8 to 16 years including sailing, rock climbing, bushcraft and raft building. £20 per day, per child. (0118) 974 6264.

July 29Pond dipping – Find crazy swimmers and crawlers. Over 5s accompanied by an adult. 11am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 3.30pm. £5 per child. (0118) 934 2016.

Cllr Gary Cowan, Executive Member for Environment

Executive view

“There’s more to do in our countryside than ever before! With the addition of the multi-activity centre at Dinton Pastures, there’s something to cater for everyone’s taste, whether it’s a stroll around the lake or an action-packed afternoon.”

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For details of these events and more, see:www.wokingham.gov.ukwww.facebook.com/wokinghamboroughcouncilwww.facebook.com/wokinghamboroughlibrarieswww.twitter.com/wokinghambc

Sports coursesSchool your skills at one of our sports courses. Football, tennis, cricket, netball, rugby and golf for beginners are all on offer for young people at various dates and locations. Get in touch for availability and prices.e: [email protected]: (0118) 974 6000

Ten o’clock stories Every Saturday 10amFor 5 to 8-year-olds. Drop in to hear some new stories in the coffee shop at Wokingham Library.

Trampolining for children with additional needsSessions specifically for children with additional needs aged five to 15 years at St Crispin’s Leisure Centre in Wokingham. Cost £3 a session.e: [email protected]: (0118) 974 6264

Nordic Walking at Country ParksThe fastest growing fitness activity in the world comes to our country parks.Monday 10am to 11am at Dinton Pastures and Thursday 10.30am to 11.30am at California (over 50s) and Wednesdays 11am to 12pm at Dinton Pastures (open to all). Cost £1.80. t: (0118) 974 3726.

Circus TalesWednesday August 10, 10am.Grab yourself a ringside seat to hear Tusitala’s fantastic stories. Wokingham Library.

Creative writing group10am to 11.30am Saturday August 6.Wokingham Library.

Poetry writing group10am to 11.30am Saturday August 13. Wokingham Library.

Circus Stars Reading Challenge – July 16 to September 17Roll up to read six books to win a medal and certificate. Suitable for five to 12-year-olds. All borough libraries.

Circus workshops Contact the relevant library to book. Costs £3

Spencers Wood Thursday August 11 10.30am

Lower Earley Thursday August 11 1pm

Twyford Friday August 12 10.30am

Wokingham Monday August 15 10.30am

Finchampstead Monday August 15 2pm

Woodley Tuesday August 16 10.30am

Maiden Erlegh Tuesday August 16 2pm

Wargrave Wednesday August 17 10am

Winnersh Wednesday August 17 1.30pm

Adult Holiday ReadJust read nine library books during July and August and get your special bookmark stamped to win a prize. Closes August 31. Over 18s only. All Borough libraries.

Icing Fun Saturday August 27 10am to 11.30am.Drop in to Wokingham Library and ice a biscuit to celebrate the Wokingham Food and Drink Festival. £1.

Bat walk and talk at Dinton Wednesday September 14, 7.30pmExplore the word of bats with Dave Endacott from the Oxfordshire Bat Group. Meet rescued bats up close and look out for wild bats with a bat detector. £5/£2.50. Booking essential. t: (0118) 934 2016.

The Borough is bursting with events this summer

What’s on?Summer 2011

www.wokingham.gov.uk/short-breaks-scheme

Give a little time…make a big differenceWhy not become a short break carer and make a real difference to the lives of disabled children and their families?

We need volunteers who can provide regular short breaks for

children with learning and/or physical disabilities. This can be

anything from a few hours a week to a weekend a month.

We need all kinds of people! You could be working, retired or

unemployed, with or without children, single or with a partner.

You do not need any particular experience or qualifications.

Training, support and an allowance are provided.

What’s stopping you making a difference?

t. (0118) 974 6890 / 6881e. [email protected]

wbc news - summer 2011

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