Turning rubbish into a resource – West Sussex County Council seals its greenest deal

WEST Sussex County Council has sealed its greenest ever deal – a 25-year contract with Biffa Waste Services for the long-term management of household waste that cannot be recycled.

Under the contract, Biffa will build and operate a Mechanical Biological Treatment (MBT) plant at its landfill site near Warnham, north of Horsham.

The state-of-the-art facility will be able to turn rubbish that cannot be recycled into resources, such as compost and electricity. It will begin operating in 2013.

The plant will fulfil the final part of the promise made to residents of West Sussex: by working in partnership, West Sussex local authorities will reduce landfill by being leaders in waste prevention and recycling and will turn the remaining rubbish into a resource.

The plant will join the other flagship waste management facilities within West Sussex, which, together with improved waste collection methods, have seen household waste recycling levels reach 42 per cent in 2009/10.

These sites are further supported by an ongoing waste reduction plan that in 2009/10 saw 33,300 tonnes of waste prevented from entering our bins through schemes such as home composting and the real nappies campaign.

Deborah Urquhart, County Council Cabinet Member for Environment and Economy, said: “Reaching this milestone is the result of many years of extensive consultation with residents and stakeholders.

“We are continuing to work with the community and Biffa to ensure that as much non recyclable waste as possible is turned into a valuable resource and that outputs from the facility are utilised in the most financial and resource efficient way.

“Approximately 400,000 tonnes of household waste was produced in West Sussex last year. Current estimates forecast this to be more than 500,000 tonnes by 2030.

“However, by 2020 the County Council will only be able to landfill 130,000 tonnes a year. If the County Council exceeds this allowance, it could be fined £150 per tonne, in addition to the rising disposal costs. This would put increased pressure on existing services.

“That means the plant will be both environmentally more sustainable and cheaper than the projected costs of continuing to send waste to landfill.”

Mike Thair, General Manager for Biffa, said: “Biffa is pleased to continue working in partnership with West Sussex County Council. We look forward to providing West Sussex with a flagship facility and a first class service that will use residents’ rubbish as a resource, significantly reducing the amount sent to landfill.”

Committee hears plans on developing day services

The proposals to develop day activities for older people were heard at the latest West Sussex County Council’s Adults’ Services Select Committee on Tuesday June 22.

The plans – developed by the County Council’s Adults’ Services Developing Day Activities Project – set out how future social care needs can be met through a mixture of community based day activities and centre based services. The plans focus on older people and working age adults with a physical or sensory impairment or an acquired brain injury.

The Select Committee considered proposals to redesign day services across the county through a number of changes to day centres, including The Grange, in Midhurst, The Brooks, in Pulborough, and Harwood House in Horsham.

The proposals also include ensuring transport is available to help to access a range of day activities.

Committee Chairman, Irene Richards, said: “Adults’ Services Select Committee had concerns about the proposals including making sure those adults with low level needs still get the service they require.

“However, the Committee was happy to recommend that the proposals go out for consultation, on the understanding that the final options would be brought back to the Committee prior to a decision being made.”

The review would generate £1 million of savings, of which £250,000 would be invested in developing alternative day services.

West Sussex wildlife sites are important

Thirteen new Sites of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCIs) have been designated in West Sussex and six existing ones have been extended.

The sites cover different habitats in the county, ranging in size from restored areas of heathland to large diverse wetlands and rivers.

They are recognised as being among the best for wildlife in the county and contain species and habitats that are locally rare or exceptional.

These sites are selected by a panel of local specialists, in line with guidance from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).

Many of the sites are under private ownership, but some are owned by public bodies, and are accessible via Public Rights of Way. Existing SNCIs include Buchan Country Park, Crawley, an important heathland site, Chichester Canal, which is rich in wildlife, and Ferring Rife, a site important for birds and wildflowers.

The new sites, are an important biodiversity resource, and take the number of SNCIs to 292. This adds up to 10,000 hectares, which is more than five per cent of West Sussex.

The Sites of Nature Conservation Importance Initiative protects, conserves and enhances SNCIs by promoting management and educational use and providing support and advice.

In West Sussex it is led by the County Council in conjunction with the district and borough councils, the Sussex Wildlife Trust and with support from organisations including The Sussex Botanical Recording Society and the Sussex Ornithological Society.

Deborah Urquhart, County Council Cabinet Member for Environment and Economy, said: “The designation of the new sites shows the great effort many conservation organisations and landowners are playing in restoring our West Sussex countryside.

“These sites are important for wildlife locally and help to provide us with a healthy environment in which to live.”

More information about the sites can be found at www.westsussex.gov.uk

Soar into space this summer

It’s all things cosmic at our Libraries this month, when the FREE Summer Reading Challenge kicks off on Saturday July 17.

This year’s theme is ‘Space Hop’. Children aged four to 12 are challenged to read up to six books from their local Library and collect different awards at each stage, including a hologram membership card, a pull-out poster and ‘scratch and sniff’ stickers.

Those who complete the challenge by the closing date of Saturday September 11 will get a certificate and medal.

The story followed throughout the challenge is of three children attempting to set up the first lunar library on the moon.

There’s a variety of fun, space-themed events taking place in libraries throughout the summer. Visit our website or contact your local library for more details.

And babies and toddlers won’t feel left out, with a Space Hop Book Crawl. Parents receive a collector’s card earning stickers for each visit with their tot over the summer. After four visits they can have a special Space Hop Book Crawl certificate.

Young volunteers are needed to help run the challenge, to register competitors, hand out stickers and other rewards, and encourage the children to read more and complete the challenge.

Visit www.westsussex.gov.uk/libraries

We don’t want to be invited to your barbecue, say Firefighters

MAKE sure we’re not unwelcome guests at your barbecue, say firefighters from West Sussex County Council Fire and Rescue Service.

Jackie Boyle, Community Fire and Road Safety Officer, said: “We want people to enjoy themselves this summer. But there hasn’t been a significant amount of rainfall for quite some time now and the conditions are dry.

“So we’re urging people to take care when barbecuing and think about what they’re doing.

“A barbecue should be a pleasant experience – but it’s easy to be distracted when you have friends and family around you while cooking.”

The Fire and Rescue Service’s advice is:

• Put the barbecue on a flat site, well away from sheds, trees and fences.

• Keep children and pets well away from the cooking area.

• Never leave the barbecue, matches or other lighting materials unattended.

• Never use petrol to light the barbecue.

• Keep a bucket of water or sand nearby for emergencies.

• If using a disposable barbecue be especially careful how you ignite it and how you dispose of it. Remember they retain their heat for a significant time.

The Fire and Rescue Service is also urging people to take extra care when lighting bonfires.

“As with barbecues, never ever use petrol because it can ignite and get out of control very quickly,” said Jackie.

If you must have a fire:

• It should be downwind, at least 10m away from any buildings or structures.

• Clear dry vegetation, such as leaves, to form a circle of earth around the fire.

• Do not leave fires unattended.

• Only use approved lighting fuels – never petrol.

• Make sure fires are fully extinguished after use.

Peter Evans, County Council Cabinet Member for Public Protection, said: “By following this advice from our Fire and Rescue Service experts, you’ll make sure it’s only the food that sizzles at your barbecue.”

Have your say on transport in West Sussex

Would you like to see more buses and fewer cars on the road? Could more be done to promote walking and cycling? How can traffic pollution levels be reduced in West Sussex?

All these questions and many more are being considered in the new Local Transport Plan, which is being prepared by West Sussex County Council.

People are being asked for their views on the plan, which will set out a blueprint for transport in West Sussex from 2011- 2026.

The plan will set out the County Council’s transport policy, what improvements are planned and how they will be funded.

The County Council has worked with many organisations and established the views and priorities for transport across the County in order to draw up a draft plan.

A series of road shows are being held across the county for people to find out more and give their views on transport in West Sussex. People can also view the plan online as part of a 12-week consultation.

Lionel Barnard, Deputy Leader of the County Council who has responsibility for Highway and Transport issues, said: “Transport is fundamental to everyone’s lives and something that we all experience in one form or another everyday. We need good transport links to access employment, goods, services and leisure opportunities.”

The road shows will be an opportunity for people to talk to County Council Highways experts about transport issues and fill in a questionnaire with their views and opinions. They are being held in the following areas:

• Thursday July 1 – 9.30am – 3pm – Wickbourne Children and Family Centre in Clun Road, Littlehampton.

• Thursday July 8 – 9.30am – 3pm – Shoreham Centre, Pond Road, Shoreham.

• Friday July 16 – 9.30am – 3pm – The Grange Centre in Bepton Road, Midhurst.

• Thursday July 22 – 9.30am – 3.30pm – Sainsbury’s in Bannister Way, Haywards Heath.

Further dates are being planned for other areas of the county in September.

Lionel added: “The consultation is not just for West Sussex residents, it’s for anyone who travels into or through the county. We want to hear from as many people as possible so we can plan ahead for services which meet people’s needs.”

To find out more and view the plan online visit: www.westsussex.gov.uk/haveyoursay

Comments can also be made by emailing ltp@westsussex.gov.uk

West Sussex Unveils Five Point Plan To Deliver Savings

West Sussex County Council has unveiled a five-point plan designed to deliver savings over the next three years as the detailed implications of the coalition government’s emergency budget are studied.

However, at this stage the County Council believes it will need to save at least £75 million over the next three years because of the Government drive to reduce the national deficit.

That will be on top of the £12.8 million that has to be found in the current financial year following national cuts to local government grants announced earlier this month.

Council Leader Louise Goldsmith said: “I believe we have an approach that will not only deliver savings in a planned and controlled way, but also develop new and different ways of delivering services working with local communities and the private sector.

“There will still be tough decisions ahead, and I can’t pretend anything else, but there is a growing public acceptance that we really are all in this together.”

The County Council’s Cabinet meets next Tuesday (June 29) to take the first decisions about how to cope with the £12.8 million grant reduction in the current financial year.

However, councillors will not have the full picture of the impact of national policies on the West Sussex finances for the next three years until the coalition announces details of its spending review in the autumn.

Louise said: “Our best estimate so far is that we will need to make savings of at least £75 million over the next three years, and it could be more.

“However, we are not going to make knee-jerk sweeping reductions in services and our approach is to look at reducing our spending in a controlled and sustainable way.

“The County Council’s Cabinet is totally in tune with the ‘Big Society’ direction of the coalition Government. We want to support individuals and communities to take on more responsibility for getting things done, and will be trying to help local groups willing or wanting to run services themselves.”

The five-point plan starts with completing the review of all Council services that has already led to annual efficiency savings of more than £60 million over the last four years.

The Council’s Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources Michael Brown explained:

“This means driving through more efficient ways of working such as making it easier for customers to access our services on-line or via the contact centre. The reason that’s important is because it is cheaper for customers to ‘self-serve’ via the phone or web.

“We will also be completing the introduction of internal systems that are making the Council much more efficient in the way, for example, that we buy the goods and services we need.”

Other features of the plan are:

• To fully implement service re-designs such as new ways of delivering day care, providing youth services, running libraries and organising the fire service.

• Reduce the cost of bureaucracy by around a third over the next three years. This could be achieved by pooling budgets with partner organisations, and taking out layers of administration. Some savings will automatically result by shifting the balance from the Council delivering services to more community self-help.

• Stop spending in discretionary areas where there is limited or questionable return on investment.

• Working with the private sector to develop new and different ways of delivering services such as commercial alliances to share costs and profits. Creating renewable energy from waste is one example.

The County Council has made it clear it is too early to say what the impact on jobs will be, but, although posts may disappear in some areas, there will be other opportunities for re-training and re-deployment.

Crawley Homes moves forward

THE COUNCIL is providing a ‘much better’ service to Crawley Borough Council tenants according to the latest Audit Commission inspection.

The inspectors carried out their audit in March rating the council’s housing management department, Crawley Homes, as ‘fair’ with promising prospects (one out of a possible three stars) – a huge improvement on the previous inspection.

Two years ago the council received a ‘poor’ zero star rating with uncertain prospects for improvement and the latest inspection reflects Crawley Council’s efforts to turn the once struggling service around.

Councillor Jennifer Millar-Smith, portfolio holder for Housing, said: “This is a major achievement for involved tenants, council staff and councillors who have helped Crawley Homes achieve its first one star rating; they’ve shown huge dedication and professionalism in putting this important service on the right track.

“Major investment has been made to improve the service and there has been an awful lot of work to ensure our tenants are well-informed and involved in the decision-making process.

“There is still work to be done to improve certain areas but the results will show our tenants how committed we are in working towards a first-class service for them.”

She added: “I really want to reiterate how grateful I am to the involved tenants who worked so hard to help make sure all our tenants got a better service; we couldn’t have done it without them.”

With a focus on repairs and maintenance, tenancy and estate management, and resident involvement, the report highlights the council’s strong points as repairs, improvements to homes through the £30 million Decent Homes programme, easy access to services and information for tenants, well maintained neighbourhoods and good rent collection.

Decent Homes work, carried out by council contractors Apollo and Wates, will see the 8,289 strong housing stock brought up to a high standard by the end of March 2011.

A number of tenant groups and forums, coupled with Tenant Involvement Officers, mean tenants are heavily involved with shaping the service.

Neighbourhood inspections and regular contact with Neighbourhood Housing Managers also gives tenants the chance to have their say and make a difference.

Further improvements are also on the way, addressing some weaker areas highlighted by the Audit Commission. These include working on some health and safety issues and better handling of anti-social behaviour.

Crawley Homes is currently developing a link from responsive repairs to the council’s asbestos database so we can keep tenants informed about where asbestos may be found in their homes.

Forty per cent of council housing stock has had electrical checks through the Decent Homes programme and a programme of inspections will be carried out following Decent Homes work next year.

The Audit Commission also highlighted the council’s handling of anti-social behaviour issues but were pleased with the service’s prospects following the appointment of a dedicated Family Intervention Project Officer. A tenant panel for anti-social behaviour also provides the council with important feedback and review of its policies

Barbados stay in Crawley for hockey warm-up

Crawley’s relationship with the Barbados Olympic Association has paid early dividends, with the country’s hockey teams staying at the Arora International Hotel this week.

K2 Crawley, Crawley Borough Council’s state-of-the-art leisure centre, will host a pre-Games training camp for the Barbados Olympic Association in the summer of 2012, as well as smaller sporting delegations before the London Games.

The relationship between the council and the Caribbean island has seen the men’s and ladies teams of the Barbados Hockey Federation staying in Crawley while playing three matches each over the weekend at the East Grinstead Sports Club. The council has led on the logistical arrangements for the visit.

The squads will arrive in Crawley tomorrow (Thursday) and will use the facilities at East Grinstead Sports Club for training and matches. The matches are warm-up games against local teams before a major tournament next month. The 40-strong team will leave Crawley next Tuesday.

The partnership with the Barbados Olympic Association forms part of the activities of West Sussex-Ahead of the Game, the countywide initiative ensuring West Sussex residents, businesses and communities get the most out of the 2012 Games.

Councillor Lenny Walker, Cabinet member for Leisure and Culture, said: “We are all very excited about the Barbados Olympic team using K2 Crawley in

2012 and delighted that they are coming over this week.

“We were keen to foster a good relationship with the Barbados Olympic Association, one that goes beyond a few weeks in 2012. This is the first of what I hope will be many visits and events. I wish the hockey teams well in their forthcoming tournament.”

Jackie Huggett, Sales and Marketing Executive for Arora International Hotel,

said: “We’ve been working closely with West Sussex – Ahead of the Game for some time. The relationship runs smoothly thanks to everyone’s commitment to make the most of the town and the opportunities the London 2012 Games will bring.

“I think it’s great news the Barbados Olympic Association has confirmed its hockey team will be staying at the Arora Hotel and we look forward to welcoming them and building a relationship leading up to 2012.

“We hope the training camp success will open up other tourism opportunities from the Games.”

Deborah Urquhart, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Environment and Economy, said: “This is the first opportunity to come out of the partnership, and we are absolutely delighted to be working closely with another country during the preparation for the 2012 Games.

“This event is what West Sussex – Ahead of the Game is about, ensuring West Sussex residents, businesses and communities get the most out of the 2012 Games.”

Notes for editors

The six matches are as follows and all take place at East Grinstead Sports Club

Friday June 25

7.30pm Horsham Ladies 1st XI

8.45pm Surrey Men’s XI

Saturday June 26

6.30pm Crawley Men’s 1st XI

8.30pm East Grinstead Ladies 1st XI

Sunday June 27

10.30am Eastbourne Ladies 1st XI

12.30pm Canterbury Men’s 1st XI

Allan Hambly

01293 438781

allan.hambly@crawley.gov.uk

YOUTH AWARDS 2010

THE YOUTH Awards 2010 is underway and anyone can nominate an inspirational young person from the town.

Now in its sixth year, the awards aim to celebrate and recognise young people who have made a real difference to Crawley and its community.

Organised by Crawley Borough Council, in partnership with, members of the community, West Sussex County Council Youth Service, Sussex Police, Crawley School Sports Partnership, West Sussex Council for Voluntary Youth Services, Crawley Wellbeing and Crawley Young Persons Council, the young people will be awarded for their achievements in November.

The sell-out event last year saw around 500 young people recognised for their impressive achievements across the town.

Anyone can nominate a young person and the only criteria for nominees are that they are under 25 years old and they reside in Crawley, or the reason for their nomination occurred within the town.

Those nominating young people under 16 must also get permission from the nominee’s parents or guardians first.

There are 12 awards in four categories, these are:

Community Awards:

Let’s FACE It! – Environment Award

Crawley Lions Club – Carer Recognition Award Crawley Young Persons Council – Volunteer Award

Sports Awards:

EEZEHAUL – Young Sports Person of the Year Award Freedom Leisure – Sports Team Award Crawley School Sports Partnership – Sports Volunteer Award

Arts Awards:

Safer Crawley Partnership – Music Award

Topsy Turvy – Dance and Drama Award

Crawley Metal Supplies – Visual Arts Award

Personal Achievement Awards:

Apollo Group – Inspiration Award

Sussex Police – Courage Award

West Sussex County Council – Educational Achievement Award

If you would like to see an inspirational young person recognised then log onto www.crawley.gov.uk/yaa Or you can pick up a nomination form from schools, youth centres, the Town Hall, County Mall, K2 Crawley, The Hawth, Crawley Library, Arora Hotel on Southgate Avenue, Topsy Turvy (town centre

hairdresser) and Connexions. The deadline for nominations is October 2, 2010.

CRAWLEY ENCOURAGED TO RECYCLE AND REUSE DURING RECYCLE WEEK

The people of Crawley are being encouraged to recycle and reuse during Recycle Week which takes place between 21 and 27 June 2010.

Recycle Week aims to raise awareness of recycling and reuse(insert link to recycle now home page) and encourage people to waste less in order to reduce the amount of waste which goes to landfill.

This year, Recycle Week is focusing on small electrical and electronic equipment such as kettles, irons, hairdryers, electronic games, CD players and drills which people do not always realise can be recycled or reused.

Recycle Week’s official website – www.recyclenow.com – has tied up with the British Heart Foundation to encourage people to bring electrical and electronic equipment which is still in good working order to their Crawley store where it can be resold in order to raise funds for this worthwhile cause.

Commenting on this initiative, Jane Hall from Recycle Now said: ‘The focus for this year’s Recycle Week are the benefits of reuse as well as recycling. The British Heart Foundation offer a home for unwanted electrical and electronic equipment that is in good working order and it would be great if the people of Crawley could donate items to their local shop.’

To find out more about Recycle Week, please visit: www.recyclenow.com and become a fan of Recycle Week on Facebook

Recognition for extraordinary volunteers

Dedicated St John Ambulance members from across Sussex will have their extraordinary dedication and service to their local communities recognised at a special awards evening this week.

Various awards and trophies will be presented to dozens of deserving volunteers at a ceremony at the University of Sussex on Friday (25 June).

They include 40 members who jointly notched up nearly 31,500 hours of voluntary service last year and 10 who have given more than 300 years worth of combined service to the nation’s leading first aid charity. Two members will be given special recognition for each having served St John Ambulance for 62 years.

Among the award winners will be eight youngsters who will be officially recognised as Super Badgers* and three Cadets who will receive their Grand Prior** awards.

The Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex Mr Peter Field will present 20 members with special awards for the part they played in providing vital support to the emergency services during last winter’s snow chaos.

Senior volunteer and event organiser Darren Brand said: ‘Our members play a vital role in their local communities, from providing first aid cover at hundreds of public events each year to teaching first aid to members of the public and equipping young people with invaluable life skills.’

‘They are trained to deal with emergency situations where their skills can quite literally mean the difference between a life lost and a life saved. But despite all this, I think many people take St John Ambulance volunteers for granted and they don’t always get the recognition they so justly deserve.’

‘That’s why I feel the awards evening is so important – it’s our one big chance to give our unsung heroes a big, public pat on the back!’

St John Ambulance has more than 1,000 adult volunteers and more than 700 youth members in Sussex. To find out more about volunteering or fundraising please call 01273 371 500 or visit www.sja.org.uk

Introduction & Housekeeping

Mr Darren Brand                                 -                       Deputy Commissioner Youth

Welcome

Mr Patrick Burgess                             -                       Chair of Council

PRESENTATION OF AWARDS

Super Badgers Mr Peter Field

Catherine Boffee                                -                       Littlehampton

Roisin Cast                                          -                       Crawley

Harriet Frimley                                    -                       Crawley

Joseph Greenaway                            -                       Bognor Regis

Jodie-Marie Hutchinson-Purcell         -                       Crawley

Matthew Stevens                                -                       Hastings

Megan Tombs                                     -                       Goring

Natasha Willis                                     -                       Rye

Grand Priors Mrs Hannah Tombs

Kyra Dinnage                                      -                       Willingdon & Polegate

Channelle Longhurst                           -                       Eastbourne

Hannah Markwick                              -                       Portslade & Shoreham

Other Youth Awards Mr Mark Scrase-Dickins

Sam Parsons (Amalfi Award)             -                       Lewes

Timothy Strange (Diana Award)         -                       Horsham Cadets

Service Medals & Bars Mr Paul Roots

Ricky Bennett (Medal)                        -                       Southwick

Elizabeth Burchell (1^st Bar)                 -                       Western Area

Daniel May (1^st Bar)                           -                       County (Senior Volunteer)

Stephen Payne (2^nd Bar)                    -                       County (Ops)

Kate Dean (3^rd Bar)                            -                       Bognor Regis

Ian Porritt (3^rd Bar)                              -                       Eastern Area

Peter Cheung (4^th Bar)                       -                       Hove & Hangleton

Christine McIntyre                              -                       Bognor Regis

Stuart Matthews (25 yr service)         -                       County (Youth)

John Wright (25 yr service)                -                       Southwick

Mr Peter Field

Margaret Skinner (62 yr service)       -                       Hailsham Cadets

John Wright (62 yr service)                -                       Western Area

500 Hour Certificates (2009) Mrs Hannah Tombs

Karen Bennett                                     -                       Southwick Badgers

Carl Bennett                                        -                       Southwick Badgers

Mark Bilsby                                         -                       Hastings

Elizabeth Burchell                               -                       Western Area

Keith Dale                                           -                       Horsham

Kate Dean                                           -                       Bognor Regis

Paul Dedman                                      -                       County (Senior Volunteer)

Siobhan Farrell                                    -                       Hove & Hangleton

Diane Gold                                          -                       Portslade & Shoreham Cadets

Christine McIntyre                              -                       Bognor Regis

Sam Parsons                                      -                       Lewes

Alan Plastine                                       -                       County (Youth)

Hannah Pool                                       -                       Sussex LINKS

Ian Porritt                                            -                       Eastern Area

Cynthia White                                     -                       Horsham

John Wright                                         -                       Western Area

750 Hour Certificates (2009) Mr Mark Scrase-Dickins

Peter Bennett                                      -                       Southwick

Carolyn Burt                                        -                       Southwick

Kim Godwin                                        -                       County (Youth)

John Matthews                                   -                       Eastbourne

Daniel May                                          -                       County (Senior Volunteer)

1000 Hour Certificates (2009) Mr Paul Roots

Darren Brand                                      -                       County (Senior Volunteer)

Matthew Codling                                 -                       County (Ops)

Elizabeth Elliott                                    -                       Portslade & Shoreham

Kevin Folkes                                       -                       Brighton

Sarah Holmes                                     -                       Steyning

Stuart Matthews                                  -                       County (Youth)

Andy Ollman                                       -                       County (Ops)

Laura Radcliffe                                   -                       Uckfield

John Rhodes                                       -                       Mid-Sussex Area

Nigel Stevens                                      -                       Horsham

Hannah Tombs                                   -                       County (Senior Volunteer)

Andrew Tombs                                   -                       County (Ops)

Winter Pressures (2009-10) Mr Peter Field

Lee Banks                                           -                       Brighton

Julie Beynon                                       -                       Worthing

John Beynon                                       -                       Worthing

Mark Bilsby                                         -                       Hastings

Matthew Codling                                 -                       County (Ops)

Jonathan Cooke                                 -                       Seahaven

Kim Godwin                                        -                       County (Youth)

Simon Hepworth                                 -                       Seahaven

Zoe Lambert                                       -                       CHQ

Duncan Lambert                                 -                       Seahaven

John Matthews                                   -                       Eastbourne

Daniel May                                          -                       County (Senior Volunteer)

Andy Ollman                                       -                       County (Ops)

Caroline Olney                                    -                       County (Youth)

Laura Radcliffe                                   -                       Uckfield

Neil Rogers                                         -                       CHQ

Nigel Stevens                                      -                       Horsham

Julie Underhill                                     -                       Worthing

Graham Underhill                               -                       Worthing

Special Contribution to the Winter Pressures (2009-10)

Stuart Matthews                                  -                       County (Youth)

CLOSING REMARKS

Mr Peter Field                         -                       Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex

Mr Paul Roots                         -                       County Commissioner Operations

Mrs Hannah Tombs                -                       County Commissioner Youth

Mr Mark Scrase-Dickins        -                       County President

REFRESHMENT & CLOSE

Flowers for Mrs Field

Parents urged to learn first aid for children’s sake

Parents in Sussex are being urged to learn first aid so they know exactly what to do if their child is injured in an accident.

At the launch of national Child Safety Week, St John Ambulance in Sussex is inviting parents, carers and anyone else who looks after children to equip themselves with the skills which could be the difference between a child’s life being lost or saved.

Research commissioned by the nation’s leading first aid charity shows two out of three people in the UK lack the skills needed to save a life in an emergency. And a quarter would stand by and wait for an ambulance while someone dies.

Pam Riddall, Training Delivery Co-ordinator for St John Ambulance in Sussex, said: ‘Unfortunately some well meaning parents do more harm than good when they’re in a state of panic and they try to administer first aid without any knowledge or training.’

The charity is urging parents to think about whether they’d know what to in the following scenarios:

• The family is out in the garden enjoying a summer barbecue when your child suddenly chokes on their food – you need to act fast but what should you do?

• You’ve just sat down for a cup of coffee when your child knocks the cup out of your hands, spilling the scalding liquid all over themself – again, a quick response is needed to reduce pain and long-term damage but what’s the right one?

• Your child is playing on a climbing frame in the park and falls to the ground. You suspect a bone is broken – but what’s the best way to help them?

Anyone who is not immediately sure of the answers to these questions is strongly advised to sign up for a first aid course so they can feel confident that they have the skills needed to cope with these and other common accidents involving children.

Pam, who regularly gives first aid talks to local parents of young children, said: ‘The emphasis of Child Safety Week is on preventing accidents happening in the first place. But inevitably they can and do happen no matter how hard we try to protect our children.’

‘With first aid training, parents can be sure they have the skills needed to act quickly and effectively to minimise the consequences of an accident. No child should ever suffer serious injury or lose their lives simply because the adults around them lacked any knowledge of first aid. We’re urging people to sign up for a course today.’

To find out more about taking a first aid course covering serious conditions and incidents involving babies and young children please call 01273 371 500 or visit www.sja.org.uk/sussex.

County Council to consult on proposed changes to Fire and Rescue Service

WEST Sussex County Council will be consulting throughout the summer on a proposed improvement plan drawn up by its Fire and Rescue Service following extensive research.

The plan is designed to update the Fire and Rescue Service and ensure it has the right resources in place to make sure West Sussex is a safer place in the 21st century.

Currently West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service operates on a largely historic model that has seen little change over the years.

Max Hood, County Fire Officer, said: “Much of what we do has changed to reflect the changing risks in West Sussex, but the locations we operate from are largely historic. Changes need to be made to the Fire and Rescue Service if it is to meet the demands of 21st century West Sussex.

“We must concentrate on the areas of greatest risk, and always seek more efficient and effective ways of working in order to achieve good value for money for the local community.”

The plan proposes:

• Changes to some fire stations, personnel, and appliances.

• Significant investment in training and facilities for firefighters.

• Faster response in parts of the county pinpointed by sophisticated ‘risk mapping’.

• Strengthening the Service’s wide-ranging work in the community to prevent fires in the first place.

• Making efficiency savings while protecting essential frontline services.

Under the proposals, Burgess Hill and Littlehampton Fire Stations will have full time firefighters on duty at the station for immediate response during peak hours.

“Both these areas have a high number of emergency calls for a Retained Fire Station. This measure will increase speed and reliability over a wider area during critical times and enable us to step up prevention and protection activity,” said Max.

The plan recommends closing three Retained Fire Stations, which are staffed by part-time firefighters: Bosham, Findon and Keymer.

“All have a very low number of emergency calls in their area. In 2009-10, Bosham answered 107 calls, Findon 45 and Keymer 81,” said Max. “This means they make little contribution to our overall performance and attendance times.

“But I must stress here the proposals are not a reflection of the part-time firefighters at these stations. They have done an excellent job and shown first class commitment to their communities.”

Bosham would be covered from Chichester Fire Station, Findon by Worthing and Keymer by Burgess Hill.

“These are all staffed by full-time firefighters and back up will also be available from neighbouring stations,” said Max.

There would also be improved crewing arrangements at Petworth and Selsey Retained Fire Stations to increase availability and resilience.

Second fire engines will be removed from East Preston, Horley and Lancing Fire Stations.

“They all have a relatively low number of emergency calls and this will free up resources to be used more effectively in higher risk areas in West Sussex,” said Max.

A new Fire Station is planned for Broadbridge Heath, Horsham, which will also include a new Fire and Rescue Service training centre.

“Our firefighters are trained to the highest standards. Indeed, some of our training methods have been recognised nationally as examples of ‘good practice’.

“However, our training facilities need significantly updating to improve firefighter safety and make them even more effective. The new training centre will play a major role and we will also be investing in more trainers and specialist facilities,” said Max.

He added: “The Fire and Rescue Service of today is not just about answering 999 calls. Nowadays we have a much wider community role. Other proposals include increasing community safety capacity, better targeting of fire safety enforcement and the development of a volunteer scheme.

“But I can assure you we will never compromise safety and there will always be firefighters available to respond to emergencies.”

Peter Evans, County Council Cabinet Member for Public Protection, said: “The proposals drawn up by our Fire and Rescue Service are designed to make it even more effective in the long term.

“At this stage no decisions have been made. They are just proposals and our consultation will be widespread. Your views are important to us and I would urge as many people as possible to take part.”

The consultation will run for 12 weeks, from Monday July 19 to Friday October 8.

The proposals are contained in the draft Service Plan for 2011-12 and copies are available in all libraries, District and Borough Council offices, and on request from Fire Service HQ on 01243 753706.

The plan and all its supporting documents can also be viewed on the County Council website www.westsussex.gov.uk/fire and residents can take part in the consultation via public meetings. They can also submit their views by:

• email: fire.redesign@westsussex.gov.uk

• By telephone: Fire Redesign Team 01243 753706.

• In writing: Ian Coleman, Fire Redesign Team, West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service HQ, Northgate, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1BD.

http://82.196.227.114/RemoteStorage/West%20Sussex/Releases/3827/FRS%20Action%20Plan%202011-12%20Draft5.pdf

Get the learning bug – new brochure out now!

Take up a new challenge this year and get the learning bug – there’s more than 2,000 courses on offer across West Sussex to suit all ages and abilities.

The West Sussex Adult and Community Learning Service 2010/2011 programme is out now.

There’s courses for everyone from qualifications and computer skills to art and fitness.

West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Education and Schools Peter Griffiths said: “Due to the last government reducing funding for adult education, we’ve had to increase course fees for the first time in two years.

“By doing this we’ve managed to protect the number of courses on offer – there are more than 2,000 across West Sussex at various venues.

“Adult learning still provides terrific value for money. If you’re wanting to improve your employability skills and qualifications, or pursue a new hobby, there are plenty of courses on offer.”

Fees have increased, on average, by 11 per cent. There are a number of discounts available on many courses for people who are aged 65 and over, for people on means-tested benefits and those aged 16 to 18-years-old on a priority funded course.

The 2010/2011 programme has details of all the courses available, from Chinese brush painting to bicycle maintenance, from ballroom dancing local geology.

The brochure also features interviews with current adult learners and how the courses have helped them, their lifestyle and their career.

Copies of the brochure are available from Libraries and Help Points. It can also be viewed at www.westsussex.gov.uk/adulteducation, or contact the Adult and Community Learning Service on 0845 6 01 01 61.