THE QUEEN’S PLATINUM JUBILEE BEACONS 2ND JUNE 2022

To Parish and Town Councils,

Please find attached a letter from  Bruno Peek, Pageant Master, The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Beacons and a poster giving information on how to take part in the Platinum Jubilee celebrations this summer.

Please circulate to your networks and communities, thank you.

Kind regards,

Deborah Dale

Member Engagement Officer

Legal & Governance

Worcestershire County Council, County Hall, Spetchley Road, Worcester, WR5 2NP

Office: 01905 846282

Email:    

Attachments

Total Attachments: 2

Download: Calling all Commonwealth Choirs (Poster) (4 MB) Download: Councils letter (491 KB)

M40/M42 Interchange Scheme: Transport Select Committee Recommendations

Dear Sir/ Madam,

I work for the contractors bmJV carrying out the above scheme on behalf of National Highways. Please see an update attached.

If there is someone else who would benefit from this information please have them contact me to be added to the distribution list.

Please let me know if you do not want to receive future updates.

Thanks

Veron 

 

Veron Graham PGDip MCIPR
Customer & Stakeholder Manager – M40-M42 Interchange

SMP Alliance

Mobile: 07881 847 401

cid:image001.png@01D7A0DE.D0FE4E70

Working in partnership with National Highways
National Highways customer service contact centre
0300 123 5000

www.nationalhighways.co.uk

Attachments

Total Attachments: 1

Download: 2021.01.28 Stakeholder Letter - Pausing of M40-M42 Interchange Scheme (129 KB)

Call for School Appeal Panel Members

Could you become a member of our Schools’ Appeal Panel?

Can you see both sides of every argument?  Do you have some time to spare?  Worcestershire County Council is seeking new members to serve on the schools’ appeal panels.

The panels make decisions on pupils refused places at Worcestershire schools or excluded from them.

The Council is keen to ensure the panel is reflective of as many sections of the school community as possible; governors, parents and ex teachers as well as people with an interest in education but no direct experience in a school.

The closing date for applications is Monday 14 February.

Panel members are contacted in advance to confirm their availability to serve on a panel.

Admission appeal panels sit for periods ranging from a couple of hours to several days. Although appeals are heard throughout the year, the peak period is April to  September each year.

Appeals relating to permanent exclusion are fewer in number and are arranged as needed. All appeal hearings take place during the working day.

Admission appeal panels are made up of members with or without direct experience of education.

For permanent exclusions, membership is more restricted and comprises a lay member (who has not worked in any school in a paid capacity) who must act as Chair, and a headteacher and governor, either currently serving or having done so in the last 5 years.

Panel members need to be able to communicate effectively with a wide range of people and assess information and identify the key points of a case.

They will also need to be comfortable asking probing questions, as well as ensuring they are impartial and sensitive at all times, whilst respecting the need for appropriate confidentiality.

Full training will be provided. No fee or retainer is paid but travel and subsistence expenses are reimbursed.

Panels are completely independent of the Admissions Authority and any decisions they make are binding. The panels are supported and advised by a clerk.

Anyone interested in serving on these panels should either contact the Appeals Team on 01905 843579, email   or write to Legal and Governance, Worcestershire County Council, County Hall, Spetchley Road, Worcester WR5 2NP.

Attachments

Total Attachments: 1

Download: ADVERT - LAY MEMBERS 2022 (21 KB)

West Mercia Police – Economic Crime Unit – Monthly Fraud and Scam bulletin

The Fraud & Scam Bulletin

January 2022

Your monthly update direct from West Mercia Police on the latest scams and frauds

 

Welcome to our first monthly Bulletin  highlighting current fraud trends in our area.

Please circulate to your members and contacts, as well as using it for your own information.

 

This month we are focusing on two types of Fraud about which we have had multiple reports from the public in recent weeks and how you can keep safe.

 

Romance fraud – What is it?

 

You are convinced to make a payment to a person  you may have met through social media platforms, dating websites and Apps, or Gaming sites.

  • Fake profiles are used by criminals in an attempt to build a relationship with you – this is often known as “Catfishing”.
  • Criminals  use information found on social media to create fake identities to target you with the scam, often looking for profiles saying you are single, widowed or divorced
  • They will go to great lengths to gain your trust and convince you that you have found a genuine relationship before appealing to your compassionate side to ask for money
  • Criminals use language to manipulate, persuade and exploit so that requests for money do not raise any alarm bells
  • These requests might be highly emotive, such as criminals claiming they need money for emergency medical care, or to pay for transport costs to visit you from overseas

What to do:

·      If you are speaking to someone online that you have not met in person, stop and think. It could protect your heart and your money

·      Never give your bank details to someone online that you have never met, and if you are in any doubt about the person’s honesty, speak to a friend or family member. If they have tried to take money from you, report it to  Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via the website https://www.actionfraud.police.uk

 

 

 

NEW WhatsApp FRAUD

 

A rising number of similar Frauds using WhatsApp have been seen in recent weeks in our area which residents need to be aware of.

  • The suspect will send the victim a message via WhatsApp claiming to be their son/daughter/friend and that they have had to change their phone number
  • The suspect then asks for money for debt repayment / to buy a new phone/asking to pay outstanding bills
  • The victim then ends up sending money to the fraudster believing this is going to an actual relative or friend
  • This type of Scam is becoming more frequent

Always remember:

  • STOP: Taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe.
  • CHALLENGE: Could it be fake? It’s ok to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.
  • PROTECT: Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve fallen for a scam and report it to Action Fraud.

For further information visit:

https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/

https://takefive-stopfraud.org.uk/

cid:image001.png@01D80C5D.6A7F7760

Do you know someone who is struggling with their gas and electricity bills?

Dear all,

If you know anyone struggling to meet the costs of their energy bills, please refer them to Act on Energy.  We know there are households in Redditch and Bromsgrove NOT accessing the support that they need so we are asking for partners to help raise awareness locally so we can ensure those who most need this, receive the support.

 

As you hopefully will have all picked up recently, in addition to the free and confidential energy advice that Act on Energy provides, using the Household Support Funding, Act on Energy is able to give additional support to qualifying residents with their energy costs, fuel debt and where required, assistance to replace broken boilers and heating systems.  The support available through this scheme includes:

·       Winter Fuel Payment

·       Pre-Payment Fuel Vouchers

·       Debt Relief – help with paying off fuel debt

·       Help with broken heating systems (all fuel types) – includes replacement or repair; installation of first-time heating systems; and servicing.

Further information, including the eligibility criteria, can be found online at: WORCESTERSHIRE HOUSEHOLD SUPPORT FUND – Act On Energy.  Residents can apply online or by calling the freephone number 0800 988 2881.  Act on Energy will accept referrals from a recognised source such as a foodbank, schools etc. Please see attached poster for more information.  Funding is available until end of March 2022.

Please be aware that, as stated on Act on Energy’s website, there is a slight wait due to the volume of applications but they are being handled as quickly as possible.

May I also highlight that Citizens Advice Bromsgrove and Redditch can provide assistance to support anyone with immediate needs such as food and other wider essentials.  So again, if you are working with anyone who may be struggling and may benefit from a fund for food and essentials, please ensure they contact Citizens Advice Bromsgrove and Redditch.

Many thanks,

Della.

 

 

Della McCarthy

Bromsgrove Partnership Manager

 

Tel: 01527 881618

Email: 

Bromsgrove District Council

Parkside

Market Street

Bromsgrove

Worcestershire

B61 8DA

www.bromsgrove.gov.uk

BDC%20Logo%20Colour%20RGB

www.bromsgrovepartnership.org.uk

 

LSP - Bromsgrove Partnership Logo - small

Attachments

Total Attachments: 1

Download: WORC HOUSEHOLD SUPPORT FUND FLYER (848 KB)

First Notice of Order – Road Closure – Beoley – Bromsgrove District – 1153961

First Notice of Order – Road Closure – Beoley  – Bromsgrove District – 1153961
​Please see the attached public notice of a temporary traffic restrictions.

WORCESTERSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL
PUBLIC NOTICE
Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984
(C2044 Icknield Street, Beoley) (Temporary Closure) Order 2022
Proposed Order: to close that part of C2044 Icknield Street from its junction with B4101 Church Hill to its junction with C2035 Storrage Lane.
Reason: New water connection by Severn Trent Water.
Exemptions: to permit access to any land or premises fronting the highway affected where there is no other form of access; and to allow the works to be undertaken.
Alternative route: B4101 Church Hill, B4101 Beoley Lane, A435 Alcester Road, C2042 Watery Lane, C2044 Lilley Green Road and vice versa.
Maximum duration: 18 months. Anticipated duration:3 days Commencing:14 February 2022
Thomas Pollock Head of Commercial Law (Legal & Governance) County Hall Spetchley Road Worcester
19 January 2022

 

 

 

 

 

1153961 -1-C2044 Icknield Street, Beoley
Streetworks Admin – WCPO00042626

Attachments

Total Attachments: 1

Download: _DJACKS809 (3 MB)

M42 Junction 6 update

M42 Junction 6 update

National Highways
National Highways National Highways UPDATES
M42 Junction 6

Here is the latest information on the M42 Junction 6

We’ve updated this scheme regarding information on the closure of Shadowbrook Lane that will take place from 8am on Monday 17 January to 6pm on Friday 21 January.

For more information, go to the scheme web page.

Latest updates

SMARTWATER

Beoley Residents – Do you have a SMARTWATER kit? If so, please make sure you have registered it at:

If you do not have a kit and would like one, please contact the Parish Clerk by email: or phone: 07763 463819

For more information about Smartwater see below

Attachments

Total Attachments: 1

Download: SmartWater (129 KB)

Second Notice of Order – Road Closure – Beoley – Bromsgrove District – 1136653

Second Notice of Order – Road Closure – Beoley  – Bromsgrove District – 1136653
​Please see the attached public notice of a temporary traffic restrictions.
WORCESTERSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL
PUBLIC NOTICE
Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984
(C2044 Icknield Street, Beoley) (Temporary Closure) Order 2021
Order made: to close that part of Icknield Street from its junction with C2044 Lilley Green Road to its junction with B4101 Church Hill.
Reason: Pole testing by Openreach.
Exemptions: to permit access to any land or premises fronting the highway affected where there is no other form of access; and to allow the works to be undertaken.
Alternative route: B4101 Dagnell End Road, A441 Birmingham Road, C2291 Redditch Road,
C2291 Swan Street, C2001 Radford Road, C2001 Weatheroak Hill, C2042 Watery Lane, C2044 Lilley Green Road, C2044 Icknield Street and vice versa.
Maximum duration: 18 months. Anticipated duration: 1 day Commencing: 17 January 2022
Thomas Pollock Head of Commercial Law (Legal & Governance) County Hall Spetchley Road Worcester
12 January 2022

Attachments

Total Attachments: 1

Download: 254-S008127 CAD (1) (2 MB)

Wellbeing in Partnership E-Bulletin – Bromsgrove & Redditch – Update 56

 

Dear all,

Please find the latest information bulletin below.  This is the final bulletin of the year and, as usual, includes Covid related information at the top.

*UPDATED* – COVID Vaccinations  

 

16 and over?  They too can get a 1st dose and 2nd dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and can book using the national system too: Book or manage a booster dose of the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine – NHS (www.nhs.uk)  Some aged 16 and over may be eligible for a booster too.  For further information go to: Who can get the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine – NHS (www.nhs.uk)

 

Want to know if the Walk-In Clinic at the Artrix is available before you visit?  You can use the traffic light system online to find out when and where walk-ins are available: Walk-In Clinics Worcestershire – SW Healthcare.  Remember, you do not need to be registered with a GP to attend a walk in vaccination site.  Please be aware of the recent announcement about the changes to the Artrix opening times and that it will no longer be open 24 hours.

  • You do need to be registered with a GP to book a dose of COVID vaccine but you do NOT need to be registered with a GP to visit a walk-in vaccination site.

*IMPORTANT REMINDER* – COVID Testing – Rapid Lateral Flow Tests & PCR Tests

 

Everyone can access FREE regular rapid lateral flow tests.  They are for people who DO NOT have any symptoms.  Regular rapid testing, such as twice a week or more, is encouraged, even if you have been vaccinated as you could still catch the virus or pass it on without knowing it.  It is advised that you do rapid tests on days you’re more likely to catch or spread the virus.  For instance, do a test before you mix with people in crowded indoor places..

You can book a test, order online or simply pick up home testing at a range of local venues.  The tests give you a result in just 30 minutes.  Further information, including FAQs, can be found here.

Not sure where to get your Rapid Lateral Flow Tests?  You can simple enter your postcode and collection points and test sites closest to you will be listed.  Go to: Find where to get rapid lateral flow tests – NHS (test-and-trace.nhs.uk)

Have symptoms and need a free PCR test?   Go to: Get a free PCR test to check if you have coronavirus (COVID-19) – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

In some circumstances, you can also have a PCR test without symptoms, such as you have had a positive rapid lateral flow test or you are aware you have come into contact with someone who has COVID‑19, for instance.  Further information and advice can be found using the same ‘Get a free PCR test’ link above

Further information on both types of tests can be found here.

COVID Test and Trace Support Payment Scheme (includes eligible parents/guardians)

 

Test and Trace Support Payment scheme has supported people on low incomes who are unable to work from home and will lose income if they are required to self-isolate because of COVID-19 and since August 2021, this includes eligible parents / guardians.  Redditch and Bromsgrove residents can find out more on eligibility and how to apply at:

https://www.bromsgrove.gov.uk/money,-education-skills/benefits-help/nhs-covid-19-test-and-trace-self-isolation-support-payment.aspx

https://www.redditchbc.gov.uk/money-education-and-skills/benefits-and-help/nhs-covid-19-test-and-trace-self-isolation-support-payment.aspx

Public Health Worcestershire – latest Vaccination / COVID data and messages

 

  • Real Time Worcestershire Coronavirus Data – is publicly available.  The live dashboard shows the numbers of new cases Worcestershire wide and also by District.  Further information about COVID-19 cases in Worcestershire can be found through the LG inform data website.  There are also interactive maps covering all of the UK can be found on the gov.uk website.

REMINDER – The Local Community Responses aimed at supporting residents through the Covid-19 pandemic  

Further details on the local community responses aimed at supporting residents through the Covid-19 pandemic is attached but basic contact details are listed below.  Please help ensure all local residents are aware so everyone is directed to and receives the support they need during this time:

·      Support Bromsgrove – www.supportbromsgrove.com – Tel: (24 hr answerphone) 01527 306490 or Email:  (poster attached)

·      Redditch East Stronger Together (REST) – Tel: 01527 919869

·      Support Redditch Emergency Network (SREN) – Tel: 01527 359008 or Email: 

·      Here2Help Worcestershire – www.worcestershire.gov.uk/here2help – Tel: 01905 768053

Service / Support – Information Updates

  • *REMINDER* Act on Energy – Worcestershire Household Support Fund – Many of you will be aware that Act on Energy provides free and confidential energy advice, but did you know that as part of the Worcestershire Winter 2021/22 Housing Support Fund, Act on Energy will be able to provide additional support to qualifying residents with their energy costs, fuel debt and where required, assistance to replace broken boilers and heating systems?  This support available through this scheme, includes:

·       Winter Fuel Payment

·       Pre-Payment Fuel Vouchers

·       Debt Relief – help with paying off fuel debt

·       Help with broken heating systems (all fuel types) – includes replacement or repair; installation of first-time heating systems; and servicing.

Further information, including the eligibility criteria, can be found online at: WORCESTERSHIRE HOUSEHOLD SUPPORT FUND – Act On Energy.  Residents can apply online or by calling the freephone number 0800 988 2881.  Act on Energy will accept referrals from a recognised source such as a foodbank, schools etc. Please see attached poster for more information.

  • Household Support – do you work with individuals / families who need help with essentials? – In addition to the support above relating to fuel payments / energy costs, there is other support available locally too, for those who are struggling with the cost of household essentials such as food.  Bromsgrove and Redditch residents can find out more using the links below:

Household Support Fund – bromsgrove.gov.uk    /    Household Support Fund – redditchbc.gov.uk

  • Citizens Advice Bromsgrove and Redditch (CABR) – Updates – Please find attached, a message from Citizens Advice Bromsgrove and Redditch new Chief Executive, Chris Roberts, who provides further details on the Household Support available (see above) as well as support available to Redditch residents in need of housing advice.  In addition, CABR Christmas opening hours are attached for information.

  • Need a Foodbank over the Festive period? – Please find attached opening times of the Redditch Foodbank and three foodbanks in Bromsgrove – Basement Project, Catshill Baptist Foodbank and NewStarts – over the Christmas holiday period.

  • West Mercia Police – Helping to keep everyone safe during the festive party period – More police officers will be on patrol, some of which will be specifically dedicated to identifying individuals displaying predatory behaviour. Further information is attached.

  • Worcestershire Winters Well – Public Health have helpfully pulled together a web page with resources and information on how to keep well this winter.  The page has links to everything from keeping warm, vaccinations, mental health, money issues and more. See this link for more information – Worcestershire Winters Well | Worcestershire County Council

  • Ensuring good ventilation doesn’t mean being cold! – Letting fresh air in for just 10 minutes regularly (e.g. every hour) can help remove small coronavirus particles lingering in the air and the risk of COVID-19 infection can be reduced by 70%.  The easiest way to do this is to open a window.  Where it is not comfortable to open a window fully, opening it slightly can still provide ventilation whilst reducing cold drafts.

  • Covid Recovery Programmes – Further to the success of the Councils two Covid Recovery programmes in Redditch and Bromsgrove, we now have two more programmes ready to start in January 2021.  The success of the projects was measured by using the “30 second sit to stand assessment”, which saw an average increase of 68% in Bromsgrove and 31% in Redditch.  In addition to that participants self-reported…

·       Sleeping better

·       Feeling more positive

·       Improved confidence

·       Improved management of symptoms

·       Understanding the benefits of exercise and a healthy diet

You can see more information about the sessions here….Covid Recovery – redditchbc.gov.uk and Covid Recovery – bromsgrove.gov.uk

  • Barnardo’s BOLOH Helpline – Service Update – This service has been expanded to support the mental health and wellbeing of adult asylum seekers across the UK.  This project is funding by the Home Office and is in addition to the existing services that offers support to children, young people and their parents.  Further information is attached, including details of the free helpline.

  • Be part of our Movement in Redditch! – The Borough Council’s Communications Team hosted a social media training session for charities in the run up to World Mental Health Day in October in a bid to highlight their services to those most in need.  As part of the session, the Communications Team gave out a “top tips” for social media usage.  Please find attached to this bulletin.

Out of the session came the idea of a ‘shared’ hashtag amongst organisations (VCS, Statutory or any organisations who wants to be part of this) which was used in the run up to World Mental Health Day.  A shared hashtag is a great tool to use to raise awareness as it results in greater traction and visibility of posts.  We want to roll out the hashtag #youarenotaloneRedditch across all of our partners so we all have a similar post on a regular basis which promotes links to help and support, under this hashtag. This will mean more people see the information.  To ensure your organisation is included in the movement and part of the work around this hashtag, would you please email Anne-Marie Harley and Kelly-Louise Mitchell at  – please let them know who is the best contact in your organisation to help promote messages and undertake communications around the hashtag.  They will then email out when there is planned social media communications on certain awareness raising day for mental health and other issues.

  • How Are You Doing Worcestershire? – Worcestershire County Council would like to find out how people across the districts are feeling as we manage life in a pandemic. The Public Health team at Worcestershire County Council recognises the uncertain times everyone is living through and that this has affected us all in different ways and the ‘How are you doing Worcestershire? campaign aims to start the conversation to find out how the people of Worcestershire are faring. The conversation launched on social media via the council’s main platforms and with its own Facebook group.  It’s an opportunity for residents, workers, parents, everyone in the county to share their stories of how the pandemic has personally affected them, what they have done to cope and how they are feeling now. The campaign invites everyone to be a part of the discussion and join a new Facebook group, https://www.facebook.com/groups/how.are.you.doing.worcestershire/  a place to share ideas, chat and get support. This platform will also provide an array of advice, hints and tips for how you can feel better and direction to guidance for those who may be struggling.  Insights gathered as part of this conversation will help Public Health at Worcestershire County Council to prepare for the forthcoming Health and Well Being Board Strategy Consultation launching early next year.

Funding

Job Opportunity! *Please Share*

  • Engagement Officer – Covid-19 – The COVID Engagement Officer is an exciting new post within the Policy Team, a shared service across Redditch and Bromsgrove.   Closing date for applications is 14 January 2022.  Further details are attached.

Surveys

·       How do you feel about Covid-19 Vaccinations? – Bromsgrove District Council and Redditch Borough Council are working with partners to try to better understand how local people feel about Covid-19 and the vaccination programme.  Partners including Public Health, the NHS, Worcestershire County Council and Bromsgrove District Council are working together to determine how residents in the local community feel about covid-19 vaccination and their thoughts and views on having or not having the vaccine.  To gather this information, a survey has been created. An online version is available for Bromsgrove residents at: Covid 19 Vaccination 2021 – bromsgrove.gov.uk. or for Redditch residents  – Covid 19 Vaccination 2021 – Redditch.  In addition to being attached, several hard copy surveys will be available at Parkside in the Customer Services area and at the Town Hall and some community venues including Sandycroft, BARN offices and The Basement Project offices.

·       Young People’s Health and Emotional Well-being Survey – Healthwatch Worcestershire finds out what people think about health and social care services. They use this information to tell those who run the services how they can be improved. They are running a survey to hear the views and experiences of young people (age 13 to 19) in Worcestershire. In particular, about their health and wellbeing, the impact of Covid-19 and what young people think about online information and support for emotional wellbeing. The survey can be completed online here

Training / Courses

 

  • Making Every Contact Count (MECC) Skills Training – MECC is about having brief opportunistic conversations, as part of our day to day lives with the people we meet, and to motivate them into making small lifestyle changes.  This week and in January, Worcestershire County Council will be delivering free, skills training workshops, online, particularly aimed at volunteers and frontline workers.  Further details are attached or you can book by visiting:  

  • Family Learning Courses – January 2022 – Further information on what courses are on offer is attached.  Courses are free, subject to eligibility.  Courses can be booked by searching for the course title at www.worcestershire.gov.uk/courses or by phoning 01905 728537 for support.  Please see attached for details.

Other Newsletters

  • NHS Integrated Care System (ICS) – Covid-19 Vaccination Programme – latest update attached for information.
  • DWP Touchbase and DWP Weekly updates – both attached for information.
  • NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire Clinical Commissioning Group (HW CCG) – Communications Update  – please see latest two attached.
  • NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire Clinical Commissioning Group (HW CCG) – Involvement Network Update  – please see latest one attached.

Finally….All the very best to Helen Broughton!

 

For those of you who haven’t heard, the brilliant Helen Broughton is moving on to pastures new and will be starting a new role at Warwickshire County Council.  She is certainly going to be missed by all in Redditch.  Helen’s last working day is 30 December 2021 so if you would like to message her before she leaves, you better be quick!  On behalf of all who know Helen, may I thank her for all her hard work and wish her the very best of luck for the future!  (Not that you will need it Helen – you’ll be amazing 😊)

Merry Christmas to you all and we hope you have a safe but very happy New Year.

Kind Regards,

Della McCarthy & Helen Broughton

Bromsgrove Partnership / Redditch Partnership

Email: 

       

On our email distribution lists?

If you receive emails from us via the following email address  and you no longer wish to receive them, please contact us and we will remove your details.

View our Privacy and fair processing notices here:

http://www.redditchbc.gov.uk/council/corporate/your-access-to-information/privacy-notice.aspx

http://www.bromsgrove.gov.uk/council/corporate/your-access-to-information/privacy-notice.aspx