Weekly news update from South Staffordshire Council

This week’s news from South Staffordshire Council.

 

• South Staffordshire is #openforbusiness

 

This week, shops selling non-essential goods started to reopen throughout the district following the relaxation of lockdown restrictions. For everyone the shopping experience is likely to be very different so remember to shop responsibly and observe social distancing guidelines to avoid catching or spreading coronavirus. Shops are limiting the number of people allowed into their stores so sometimes you will have to queue, with posters and markings acting as reminders for everyone to maintain appropriate social distancing and hygiene measures to protect customers and retail staff.

 

Advice for shoppers:

• Do not come to shopping centres only to meet or socialise with others.
• If you are suffering with coronavirus symptoms, please self-isolate.
• Please wear a face covering and carry hand sanitiser with you whenever you go out.
• Use contactless payment whenever possible.
• Be respectful of shop staff and other shoppers #BeKind.
• Stay at least two metres away from other people.
• Only shop in twos if you are a carer for the other person.
• Only take children with you if absolutely necessary and ensure they keep close to you at all times.
• Do not touch any items that you are not purchasing.
• When you have finished your shopping go straight home.
• Wash your hands when you get home.

 

Safety is of paramount importance and over the last few weeks the Council has been advising local retailers about how they can go about reopening safely. The work is supported by the European Regional Development Fund and the Council has visited high streets to help prepare for the reopening, run a series of online webinars and produced a number of helpful resources including a bank of posters and signs to help businesses (www.sstaffs.gov.uk/openforbusiness).

 

We’re also sharing pics of local businesses in an #openforbusiness campaign on social media. Click here to see the first one promoting Essington Farm Shop.

 

 

• Local zoo reopening

 

One local organisation gearing up for reopening is Wild Zoological Park at Halfpenny Green. During the pandemic they have relied on the donations of the public to survive and have raised over £10,000 to help with the feeding and upkeep of the animals. The good news is that they will opening their doors for a ‘soft’ opening on Saturday 20 June 2020 and a general reopening on Saturday 27 June 2020. The number of people onsite each day is restricted and you must book online. For more information, follow them on Facebook or visit www.wildzoo.co.uk.

 

• Next virtual business support session

 

Is your restaurant, pub or bar ready to re-open safely? The Council’s next virtual business support session on Microsoft Teams is all about the reopening of the hospitality sector so don’t miss this great opportunity to get answers to any of your questions about reopening your hospitality business. This free 30-minute session takes place on Wednesday 24 June 2020 from 8.30am to 9am – click here to register. Please email your questions in advance to h.cooper@sstaffs.gov.uk.

 

• New garden waste collection service starting soon

 

With just over a week to go, 24,561 permits have now been requested, a sign-up rate of 55.19% of eligible properties in the district. The Council’s new garden waste collection service is scheduled to start on Monday 29 June 2020. You can sign up now at www.sstaffs.gov.uk/gardenwaste or by calling 01902 696000. Click here to find out more.

 

• Warning over test and trace scam Click here to view an example scam message.

 

• These scam messages prompt a person to click a link, before potentially asking them for personal information, or even downloading dangerous viruses to infiltrate their device.
• NHS scams have been on the rise during the Coronavirus pandemic and a scam which seeks to exploit the NHS test and trace scheme is the latest in a long line of schemes to target unsuspecting people. The NHS test and trace service seeks to identify those who have developed symptoms of COVID-19, providing them with a test, and reaching out to anyone who may have been in contact with them. The service then aims to notify relevant people that they must self-isolate at home to stop the spread of the virus.

Click here for accurate information about the NHS test and trace service.

 

• Loneliness Awareness Week

 

This week is Loneliness Awareness Week and Every Mind Matters has put together some simple tips to help you if you’re feeling lonely during the coronavirus outbreak. Click here to find out more.

 

• Food hygiene ratings news

 

From Monday 15 June 2020, the Council is no longer using the ‘Rate My Place’ website for displaying the food hygiene ratings of local food businesses. Ratings will now be displayed on the Food Standards Agency website at www.food.gov.uk. Click here to go directly to the food hygiene ratings page to find the rating for your favourite food eatery.

 

• Drowning Prevention Week (12-19 June 2020) 

 

• Two useful videos to watch feature our Leisure Centres. In 2016, Wombourne Leisure Centre featured on the RLSS website campaign for Rookie Lifeguards (click here to view) and Penkridge Leisure Centre featured on the Swimming Teachers Association promotion for Junior Lifeguard Programme in 2015 (click here to view). If you or your child are interested in either of the programmes mentioned in the videos please email swimcoordinator@sstaffs.gov.uk and when the Council’s swimming pools are allowed to open again we can send you the full details.
• This week was Drowning Prevention Week, an annual campaign run by the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS) to raise awareness of water safety and give individuals and families the skills and knowledge they required to enjoy the water safely. Every year during the summer months there is a spike in fatal drowning accidents and this year the charity is also concerned about the impact of COVID-19, which has resulted in reduced beach lifeguard services and supervised venues. Click here to access water safety resources on their website and find out how you can recognise the risks and learn what to do to minimise the chance of an accident.

 

• Stay Alert, Control the Virus, Save Lives

 

• Click here for updated guidance on walking, cycling, and travelling in vehicles or on public transport during the coronavirus outbreak.

• Click here for updated guidance about meeting people from outside your household. Single adult households – adults living alone or single parents with children under 18 – are allowed to form a “support bubble” with one other household. All those in a support bubble will be able to act as if they live in the same household – meaning they can spend time together inside each other’s homes and do not need to stay two metres apart. If any member of the support bubble develops symptoms, all members of the bubble will need to follow the normal advice on household isolation.
• Track and trace is now underway and anyone who tests positive for coronavirus will be contacted to help trace any close recent contacts. Any of those contacts deemed at risk of catching the virus will be instructed by the NHS to go into isolation for 14 days. Click here to find out more.

 

Remember…

• Keep your distance from people outside your household and keep two metres apart from others at all times.
• Keep your hands and face as clean as possible and avoid touching your face.
• Work from home if you can.
• Avoid being face-to-face with people if they are outside your household – you can lower the risk of infection if you stay side-to-side rather than facing someone.
• Reduce the number of people you spend time with in a work setting.
• Avoid crowds.
• If you have to travel (for example, to work or school), think about how and when you travel.
• Wash your clothes regularly.
• Keep indoor places well ventilated.
• If you can, wear a face covering in enclosed public spaces where social distancing isn’t possible and where you will come into contact with people you do not normally meet. From Monday 15 June all passengers on public transport in England must wear a face covering.
• Please remember to dispose of your face coverings and disposable gloves responsibly. Worryingly, a growing number of single use PPE items are being littered in parks and dropped on pavements. Please take your rubbish home.
• You can book a test by visiting www.nhs.uk/coronavirus and those unable to access the internet can call 119 in England and Wales to book an appointment for a coronavirus test.
• While you are at home, it’s still easy to get NHS help using your smartphone, tablet or computer at https://www.nhs.uk/health-at-home/
• Domestic abuse can often get worse during times of stress and uncertainty. If you are in an abusive relationship and need help, click here for some useful telephone numbers.

 

Click here to view frequently asked questions.

 

Everyone is encouraged to submit news items, please email: comms@sstaffs.gov.uk

Latest news from South Staffordshire Council

Last week’s news from South Staffordshire Council.  

• More shops get ready to open

 

As part of the easing of the COVID-19 lockdown, this week saw the re-opening of outdoor markets including Penkridge Market on Wednesday. From Monday 15 June 2020, non-essential retailers will be able to re-open and work is underway at the Council to help re-open high streets safely. This includes introducing a range of safety measures including practical safety measures such as new signs, street markings and temporary barriers. More information will be available soon so please keep an eye on social media and the Council website.

• Stay Alert, Control the Virus, Save Lives

 

Everyone’s actions have helped to reduce the transmission of coronavirus in our communities. As the UK moves to the next phase in our fight against coronavirus, the most important thing we can do is stay alert, control the virus and in doing so, save lives.

Remember…

• Track and trace is now underway and anyone who tests positive for coronavirus will be contacted to help trace any close recent contacts. Any of those contacts deemed at risk of catching the virus will be instructed by the NHS to go into isolation for 14 days. Click here to find out more.
• Keep your distance from people outside your household and keep two metres apart from others at all times.
• Keep your hands and face as clean as possible and avoid touching your face.
• Work from home if you can.
• Avoid being face-to-face with people if they are outside your household – you can lower the risk of infection if you stay side-to-side rather than facing someone.
• Reduce the number of people you spend time with in a work setting.
• Avoid crowds.
• If you have to travel (for example, to work or school), think about how and when you travel.
• Wash your clothes regularly.
• Keep indoor places well ventilated.
• If you can, wear a face covering in enclosed public spaces where social distancing isn’t possible and where you will come into contact with people you do not normally meet.
• You can book a test by visiting www.nhs.uk/coronavirus and those unable to access the internet can call 119 in England and Wales to book an appointment for a coronavirus test.
• While you are at home, it’s still easy to get NHS help using your smartphone, tablet or computer at https://www.nhs.uk/health-at-home/

Click here to view frequently asked questions. 

• Save water to meet lockdown demand

 

Please reconsider using your hosepipes and filling paddling pools in this hot weather. Water companies such as Severn Trent and South Staffs Water are struggling to keep up with demand and this is leading to a loss of pressure or even a loss of supply for some residents. There’s plenty of water in the reservoirs at the moment but people are using it faster than the water companies can treat it.

• Work starts on new play area

 

• This week, work got underway on the new play area at Baggeridge Country Park. The Council has commissioned leading playground equipment supplier KOMPAN to create and install the new play area, which will offer an enhanced play area for all age groups from toddlers upwards and, most importantly, offer improvements in safety and access for disabled users. Click here to see some pics and follow the Baggeridge Facebook page for the latest updates.

• New garden waste collection service attracts 18,000 registrations

 

With just over three weeks to go until the start of the Council’s garden waste collection service over 18,000 permits have now been requested. The service is scheduled to start on Monday 29 June 2020 but residents need to sign up by Friday 12 June 2020 to guarantee no loss of collections. You can sign up now at www.sstaffs.gov.uk/gardenwaste or by calling 01902 696000. Click here to find out more.

• Volunteers’ Week 2020

 

• This week is national Volunteers’ Week, an annual celebration of the contribution that millions of people make across the UK through volunteering. Click here to view a short video from Support Staffordshire, praising the contribution that volunteers make across Staffordshire. 

• Helping good causes in the district

 

• Good causes in South Staffordshire need your support and the South Staffordshire Community Lottery is raising funds to help the district recover from the impact of COVID-19. One way you can help is by buying a lottery ticket in this weekly Community Lottery and 60p from every £1 ticket will support local good causes and charities. As well as supporting a good cause you might even win a cash prize ranging from £25 up to a jackpot of £25,000. To buy a lottery ticket, simply register on the website (www.southstaffslottery.co.uk) or telephone 01902 213777.

Everyone is encouraged to submit news items, please email: comms@sstaffs.gov.uk

Weekly news round up from South Staffordshire Council

This week’s news from South Staffordshire Council

• Stay Alert, Control the Virus, Save Lives

 

Everyone’s actions have helped to reduce the transmission of coronavirus in our communities. As the UK moves to the next phase in our fight against coronavirus, the most important thing we can do is stay alert, control the virus and in doing so, save lives.

Remember…

• Keep your distance from people outside your household and keep two metres apart from others at all times.
• Keep your hands and face as clean as possible and avoid touching your face.
• Work from home if you can.
• Avoid being face-to-face with people if they are outside your household – you can lower the risk of infection if you stay side-to-side rather than facing someone.
• Reduce the number of people you spend time with in a work setting.
• Avoid crowds.
• If you have to travel (for example, to work or school), think about how and when you travel.
• Wash your clothes regularly.
• Keep indoor places well ventilated.
• If you can, wear a face covering in enclosed public spaces where social distancing isn’t possible and where you will come into contact with people you do not normally meet.
• You can book a test by visiting www.nhs.uk/coronavirus and those unable to access the internet can call 119 in England and Wales to book an appointment for a coronavirus test.
• While you are at home, it’s still easy to get NHS help using your smartphone, tablet or computer at https://www.nhs.uk/health-at-home/

Click here to view frequently asked questions.

• NHS England test and trace system

 

The national NHS England test and trace system began on Thursday 28 May 2020. From now on, people who test positive for coronavirus will be contacted to help trace any close recent contacts. Any of those contacts deemed at risk of catching the virus will be instructed by the NHS to go into isolation for 14 days. Click here to find out more.

• Council’s recovery – Office reopening
• As part of the Council’s Recovery Plan for COVID-19, the Council Offices have re-opened to a limited number of staff and tenants. Days are restricted to Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursdays for staff, with the offices open from 9am to 1pm. From Tuesday, 2 June, a limited number of tenants will also have access. For tenants the offices will initially be open Tuesday through to Friday 9am to 5pm and from Monday, 8 June, the offices will be open Monday through to Friday, 9am to 5pm. As the Government continues to ease the lockdown restrictions, more staff, tenants, Members and the public will be able to gain access to the Council Offices.

Government information on safe working environments can be found at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19, including 5 overarching considerations https://www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19/5-steps-to-working-safely. This guidance forms part of the governments COVID-19 Recovery Strategy which is updated regularly to reflect the easing of lockdown restrictions https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/our-plan-to-rebuild-the-uk-governments-covid-19-recovery-strategy.

• Opening of retail establishments

 

This week, it was also announced that retail establishments and other services for the public will be allowed to open in June 2020 as part of the easing of the COVID-19 lockdown. These include:

• From Monday 1 June 2020 – outdoor markets and car showrooms.
• From Monday 15 June 2020 – all non-essential retailers.

To support this, the Reopening High Streets Safely Fund is helping councils in England introduce a range of safety measures in a move to get people back to work and customers back to the shops. This funding is to help councils introduce a range of safety measures including practical safety measures such as new signs, street markings and temporary barriers. The Fund is providing £50 million from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) to councils across England and South Staffordshire Council has been allocated £99,469. More information will be available soon.

• Over 14,000 registrations for new garden waste collection service

 

This week, more residents have signed up for the Council’s garden waste collection service, which is scheduled to start on Monday 29 June 2020. You can sign up now at www.sstaffs.gov.uk/gardenwaste or by calling 01902 696000.

Click here to find out more.

• Virtual business support

 

The Council is holding a free, 30-minute virtual business support session about finances, cashflow and survival budget on Wednesday 3 June 2020. The session will last for 30 minutes and will start at 8.30am. Places can be booked through Eventbrite and the sessions will run through Microsoft Teams. For this session, the Council has partnered with Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce and their dedicated business advisor Pete Ball, a business banker for over 25 years. Click here to reserve a place.

• £1,000 raised for the NHS

 

Well done to Tim, an instructor from Wombourne Leisure Centre, who raised £1,063 as a result of his 24-hour cycle last Friday morning. You can continue to donate until the end of this week – click here to donate and click here to see a pic of the man in action. Thank you to everyone for their support and generous donations. 

• Success story

 

• If you need some inspiration to get fit and lose some weight take a look at this video of Gary Downes, a member of staff at Penkridge Leisure Centre who has lost over seven stone. Click here to view.

• And finally… 

 

• Even the goats are making an appearance on the social distancing posters at Baggeridge Country Park – click here to view. The park is home to the Bagot Boys and they feature on the latest posters encouraging visitors to abide by the recommended social distancing guidelines and keep at least two metres (six ft) away from other people. The park is open but all amenities on site remain closed and car parking capacity is restricted to 50 cars at any one time.

Everyone is encouraged to submit news items, please email: comms@sstaffs.gov.uk

Weekly news round up from South Staffordshire Council

This week’s news from South Staffordshire Council.

Stay Alert, Control the Virus, Save Lives

As coronavirus lockdown restrictions start to ease in England, news was issued this week about the expansion of testing to anyone in the UK who is showing coronavirus symptoms and an additional symptom was added to the list of common symptoms – a loss of, or change in, your normal sense of taste or smell (anosmia). You can book a test by visiting www.nhs.uk/coronavirus and those unable to access the internet can call 119 in England and Wales to book an appointment for a coronavirus test.

Remember to maintain social distancing measures this bank holiday weekend and keep at least two metres away from other people to avoid catching or spreading coronavirus. Please follow official advice and here’s a quick summary of key guidance on the www.gov.uk website.

• The Government’s COVID-19 recovery strategy (click here).
• Guidance on social distancing and information about staying alert and staying safe (click here). This guidance applies only in England.
• Frequently asked questions: what you can and can’t do (click here).
• Guidance for employers to help them get their businesses back up and running and workplaces operating safely (click here) as well as guidance to help ensure workplaces are as safe as possible (click here).
• Additional Covid-19 symptoms (click here).
• Information on wearing face coverings (click here).

Disposal of PPE

Discarded face coverings and gloves are becoming a widespread issue so please dispose of these items safely. Please throw away any used PPE (gloves and face masks) in residual ‘black bag’ waste at home or at work, or in a litter bin. Please do not place in a recycling bin as they cannot be recycled through conventional facilities. Click here to watch a video by Defra.

 Garden waste collection service tops 10,000

Last Monday, telephone registrations started for the Council’s new garden waste collection service, which is scheduled to start on Monday 29 June 2020. So far, 10,000 residents have signed up to the service which is introducing an annual charge for collecting garden waste. Residents can sign up now at www.sstaffs.gov.uk/gardenwaste or by calling 01902 696000.

Click here to find out more.

 2,000th food parcel delivered

This week, Staffordshire County Council delivered its 2,000th food parcel. Click here to view a short video showcasing this work.

 Introduction of meadow verges

South Staffordshire Council is trialling the introduction of meadow verges in a couple of key areas within the district, in partnership with Staffordshire County Council, Parish Councils and local community groups. By changing our grounds maintenance approach to these areas, the Council hopes to enhance their environmental value for local wildlife and important pollinators such as bees, butterflies and other insects. Click here to find out more.

Virtual business support

The Council is holding a series of free, 30-minute virtual business support sessions to help businesses keep trading through the current COVID-19 pandemic. All sessions last for 30 minutes and will start at 8.30am. Places can be booked through Eventbrite and the sessions will run through Microsoft TEAMs.

Maximising social media to generate new business and managing your finances – Wednesday 27 May 2020.

With Josie Hadley from OMG Marketing. Click here to reserve a place.

Finances, cashflow and survival budget – Wednesday 3 June 2020.

For this session, the Council has partnered with Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce and their dedicated business advisor Pete Ball, a business banker for over 25 years.

Click here to reserve a place.

 

 International Learn to Swim Week

This week has also been International Learn to Swim Week. Although the swimming pools are shut and we can’t swim, the Swimming Teachers’ Association (STA) has taken the campaign online and has been promoting water safety with a range of activities for children to do at home including word scrambles, word searches, dot to dots and colouring in sheets. To access the resources, click here.

 24-hour spin cycle

Well done to Tim from Wombourne Leisure Centre and his 24-hour spin cycle. So far, Tim has raised just over £571. Click here to donate.

Update on Council services

The last two months have witnessed a fantastic response by Council staff who have repeatedly gone above and beyond to support and help local residents and businesses. Click here to view a video about the Council’s response to coronavirus.

 

Here’s an update on council services along with an overview of some of the important work being carried out by our teams.

 

• So far, 1,342 applications for Business Grant payments have now been processed, providing £15.325 million of welcome relief for businesses in the district. For more information about business support and how to apply for a small business grant, click here.

 

• All Street Scene work and scheduled waste and recycling collections are continuing to take place as normal. The Council’s bulky waste collection service is also available and can help you get rid of your bulky waste items including sofas, beds, wardrobes and white goods such as fridges, freezers and washing machines. Click here to book online 24/7.

 

• The South Staffordshire COVID-19 helpline is open seven days a week, from 9am to 5pm and will be open over the Bank Holiday weekend. This helpline is available to all residents in the district, providing an essential service for some of our most vulnerable residents and prioritising those over 70 or under 70 with underlying health conditions, self-isolating but with no friends, family or neighbours to help. Please contact the helpline if you need help with collecting prescriptions, shopping, topping up gas or electricity meters, dog walking, or if you’re feeling anxious or lonely and need to talk to someone.

 

The helpline is open daily, including weekends, 9am to 5pm.

Tel: 01902 696499                 

Email: Covid-19@sstaffs.gov.uk

 

• Our Environmental Health and Licensing team continues to monitor businesses and compliance with COVID-19 regulations. Over 300 site visits to premises have taken place since the lockdown.

 

• Baggeridge Country Park remains open and we are monitoring it on a daily basis. All amenities on site are closed and visitors are asked to abide by the recommended social distancing guidelines and keep at least two metres (six ft) away from other people. Car parking capacity has been increased to 40 cars at any one time. This will be reviewed after the bank holiday weekend.

 

• From Monday 18 May 2020, the two car parks on the Railway Walk re-opened, initially between 10am and 4pm (subject to review). The Council owned fishing pools on the Wyrley Essington Canal Local Nature Reserve also re-opened on Wednesday 13th May in line with national guidance and advice from The Angling Trust.

 

• Strawberry Lane and Sytch Lane Cemeteries remain open daily from 9am to 8pm. Visitors are asked to abide by the recommended social distancing guidelines. If you have any queries relating to our cemeteries and funerals please contact us on 01902 696405.

 

• The Leisure Centres in Cheslyn Hay, Codsall, Penkridge and Wombourne are closed but our team of staff are still helping residents stay active via the internet and social media and sending their best wishes to customers.

 

South Staffordshire Connect service

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Connect dial-a-ride

service is now focusing on providing shopping services for

vulnerable residents. This shopping service covers all five

localities in the district and is offered to residents registered

with Connect as well as other vulnerable residents who

are struggling to access essential supplies.

 

For more information, please call 01902 910263.

www.sstaffs.gov.uk/connectbus

 

Financial advice and assistance

We appreciate that this is a difficult time for many of our residents. If your income has dropped or ceased due to the coronavirus pandemic, you can apply for Universal Credit and other support options such as our Council Tax Support Scheme.

 

To claim Universal Credit and other benefits, visit www.gov.uk/apply-universal-credit and apply online. The telephone number for the Universal Credit Helpline is 0800 328 5644.

 

If changes in your income mean you are struggling to pay your Council Tax, then please contact the Council and ask about our special payment plan and Council Tax Support Scheme. This

scheme applies a discount directly to your Council Tax account. The amount of support will depend on your income and personal circumstances and you can apply for support if you own your own home, rent from a social or private landlord, are unemployed or are working.

 

Tel: 01902 696668 Email benefits@sstaffs.gov.uk

 

Beware of fraud and cybercrime

We’re continuing to see an escalation in cybercrime and fraud in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Criminals are experts at impersonating people, organisations and the police and taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe. Please be on your guard and don’t click on links or attachments in suspicious email or text messages. Click here for more information or visit www.actionfraud.police.uk.

 

 

#YouAreNotAlone

Domestic abuse can often get worse during times of stress and uncertainty. If you are in an abusive relationship and need help, there are a number of organisations who can help and here are some useful telephone numbers.

 

Call 999 if in immediate danger. If you can’t speak, listen to the operator and, when prompted, dial 55 to connect to the police, who will help.

 

National Domestic Violence Helpline: 0808 2000 3778 (24 hours)

 

New Era, a domestic violence abuse service offering help to all those affected by domestic abuse in Staffordshire

Tel: 0300 303 3778

http://www.new-era.uk

 

Find support at www.gov.uk/domestic-abuse

 

Useful apps include Hollie Guard, which turns your smartphone into an advanced personal safety device, and Bright Sky, which provides support and information to anyone who may be in an abusive relationship or those concerned about someone they know.

 

Manage your health and wellbeing at home

While you are at home it’s still easy to get NHS help using your smartphone, tablet or computer and there’s a new Health at Home webpage at https://www.nhs.uk/health-at-home/

 

This webpage contains information about how to:

• Contact your GP.
• Order repeat prescriptions.
• Manage long-term conditions.
• Maintain your mental and physical wellbeing.

 

If you need to contact your GP, click here to view a useful video.

 

Everyone is encouraged to submit news items, please email: comms@sstaffs.gov.uk

South Staffordshire Council’s Latest News Bulletin

Last week’s news from South Staffordshire Council.

• Update on Council services
The last few weeks have been a challenging time for everyone and our teams are going above and beyond to keep council services running, although sometimes delivered in a slightly different way to ensure social distancing guidelines are followed. We know it is appreciated by residents and thank you for your support and showing your appreciation. Here’s an update on council services along with an overview of some of the important work being carried out by our teams.

o Over 400 applications for Business Grant payments have now been processed, providing almost £5 million of welcomed relief for businesses in the district. Applications are being processed within a couple of days of receipt and the Council has received many compliments from the business community. For more information about business support and how to apply for a small business grant, click here.

o Housing Benefit applications are being processed within 12 calendar days to provide support to those in need in district.

o All Street Scene work and scheduled waste and recycling collections are taking place as normal and if you follow the Council’s Facebook and Twitter social media accounts, you’ll have seen the fantastic response from our residents thanking the crews.

o The South Staffordshire COVID-19 helpline was manned throughout the Easter break and has received over 100 calls so far. This helpline is available to all residents in the district, providing an essential service for some of our most vulnerable residents and prioritising those over 70 or under 70 with underlying health conditions, self-isolating but with no friends, family or neighbours to help. Please contact the helpline if you need help with collecting prescriptions, shopping, topping up gas or electricity meters, dog walking, or if you’re feeling anxious or lonely and need to talk to someone.

The helpline is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
Tel: 01902 696499 Email: Covid-19@sstaffs.gov.uk

o Our Environmental Health and Licensing team continues to monitor businesses and compliance with COVID-19 regulations. Over 250 site premise visits have taken place since the lockdown and the team has even rehomed a rescue hedgehog although, unfortunately, he’s run away already.

o Baggeridge Country Park remains open and we are monitoring it on a daily basis. All amenities on site are closed and visitors are asked to abide by the recommended social distancing guidelines and keep at least two metres (six ft) away from other people. Car parking capacity has been reduced to 30 cars at any one time.

o Strawberry Lane and Sytch Lane Cemeteries remain open on a daily basis from 9am to 8pm. Again, visitors are asked to abide by the recommended social distancing guidelines. If you have any queries relating to our cemeteries and funerals please contact us on 01902 696405.

o The Leisure Centres in Cheslyn Hay, Codsall, Penkridge and Wombourne are closed but please follow their Facebook pages for information about activities you can participate in via the internet and social media.

o The Council Offices remain closed. If you have any queries, please email info@sstaffs.gov.uk or telephone 01902 696000.

• Council Plan 2020-2024
The Council’s corporate plan for 2020-2024 has now been approved by Full Council. Entitled ‘Shaping South Staffordshire’s future’, the plan is a very important document as it outlines the strategic direction of the Council and sets out its vision and priorities for the next four years. Its vision will be delivered through two priority areas that are divided into ‘Prosperous Communities’ and ‘Vibrant Communities’. Each priority area has five key objectives and outcomes, and each of these is supported in its delivery by five key themes including financial stability, embracing technology, a flexible and skilled Council, working with our communities, and creating a business and community hub.

Click here to download a copy.

• May PFCC elections postponed
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner elections scheduled to take place on Thursday 7 May 2020 have now been postponed until next year and will take place on Thursday 6 May 2021. Commissioners elected in 2021 will be in office for three years, not the usual four.

• Financial advice and assistance
As a result of the impact of coronavirus, we know some residents may find themselves with reduced levels of income and there are a number of actions we have taken as a council to help residents.

o Council Tax – If you are on a 10-monthly instalment plan, you can amend payments so that they start in June 2020 and end in March 2021. If you are on a 12-montly instalment plan you can agree a flexible payment arrangement where you can pay a reduced amount in April and May 2020 or you can change your payment plan to a 10-montly instalment plan and start paying in June 2020.
o Suspension of debt recovery – The Council will not be undertaking any debt recovery between now and the end of April 2020 and will assess the situation then.

• Beware of fraud and cybercrime
We’re continuing to see an escalation in cybercrime and fraud in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Criminals are experts at impersonating people, organisations and the police and taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe. Please be on your guard and don’t click on links or attachments in suspicious email or text messages. Click here for more information or visit www.actionfraud.police.uk.

• Domestic abuse – support available
Domestic abuse can often get worse during times of stress and uncertainty. If you are in an abusive relationship and need help, there are a number of organisations who can help and here are some useful telephone numbers.

National Domestic Violence Helpline: 0808 2000 3778 (24 hours)

New Era, a domestic violence abuse service offering help to all those affected by domestic abuse in Staffordshire
Tel: 0300 303 3778

Home

• Stay home to help save lives
Remember to maintain social distancing measures and keep at least two metres away from other people to avoid catching or spreading coronavirus. Right now, the safest place to be is at home. To help reduce the risk of catching or spreading coronavirus, please continue to follow the advice from Public Health England and the NHS.

o Wash your hands more often.
o Use soap and water for 20 seconds.
o Or use hand sanitiser.

Follow official NHS advice at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

• What to do if you have symptoms?
COVID-19 is a new strain of coronavirus that can affect your lungs and airways. Symptoms include a new, continuous cough, a high temperature (37.8 degrees or higher) and shortness of breath. These symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness and the symptoms are similar to other illnesses that are much more common such as cold and flu.

If you have symptoms of COVID-19, self-isolate at home immediately and do not go directly to your GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. If you live alone, self-isolate for seven days and for those with a family it is 14 days. For most people COVID-19 will be a mild illness but there is a need to protect others in your community while you are infectious as older people and others with weakened immune systems or with long-term conditions like diabetes, cancer and chronic lung disease may experience severe illness.

To relieve your symptoms, doctors are advising stay-at-home COVID-19 patients to take whatever they would for a cold such as paracetamol, eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables and drink lots of fluids. If your symptoms worsen during home isolation or are no better after seven days, contact the NHS online coronavirus service at https://111.nhs.uk/covid-19 or call 111 if you cannot get help online.

• Manage your health and wellbeing at home
While you are at home it’s still easy to get NHS help using your smartphone, tablet or computer and there’s a new Health at Home webpage at https://www.nhs.uk/health-at-home/

This webpage contains information about how to:
o Contact your GP.
o Order repeat prescriptions.
o Manage long-term conditions.
o Maintain your mental and physical wellbeing.

If you need to contact your GP, click here to view a useful video..

• Health and wellbeing in the home
A dedicated web page has been created on the Council’s Leisure website where customers and staff can access free online home workouts. The information contains advice and links signposting to other websites such as the NHS as well as links to YouTube channels including videos showcasing some of own instructors delivering sessions. For home workouts click here. We will be extending the list as our instructors continue to develop videos of home workouts.

In addition, this section includes additional pages to support people in general at home with advice on mental health and wellbeing, how to keep children active at home and how to work safely from home. Content is being developed and added all the time so please check back regularly. Click here to view.

• Wombourne Leisure Centre
Click here to view a short video that staff from Wombourne Leisure Centre have created for their customers in attempt to keep everyone smiling.

• Befriending service
If you are feeling lonely or would like someone to talk to, a friendly voice on the other end of the phone is now available. More information is available from Wendy Sutton on 01902 851682 or email w.sutton@sstaffs.gov.uk.

• Songs for you
Well done to Kenyon Walker who is leading virtual singalongs and bringing music to isolating elderly residents with the support of South Staffordshire Council and Care Plus. Click here to find out more and click here for the link to Kenyon’s Facebook page where over 200 people are watching him live every day.

• South Staffordshire Connect service available
The South Staffordshire Connect dial-a-ride bus service is now available.
This local, bookable bus service is once again helping many people
who struggle to get out and about and it is aimed at residents who live
away from regular bus routes or who find it difficult to use a standard
bus. The new Connect service operates between 10am and 3pm to
three zones. For more information, please click on the following for
more information – Zone 1, Zone 2 and Zone 3.

Everyone is encouraged to submit news items, please email: comms@sstaffs.gov.uk

South Staffordshire Council’s news round up – Important COVID-19 information enclosed

This week’s news from South Staffordshire Council

• Stay home to help save lives
Remember to maintain social distancing measures this holiday weekend and keep at least two metres away from other people to avoid catching or spreading coronavirus. We’re expecting more good weather and people may be tempted to ignore official advice and spend more time outside. Right now, the safest place to be is at home.

To help reduce the risk of catching or spreading coronavirus, please continue to follow the advice from Public Health England and the NHS.
o Wash your hands more often.
o Use soap and water for 20 seconds.
o Or use hand sanitiser.

Follow official NHS advice at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

• Council services over the Easter break
o The Council Offices will remain closed. If you have any queries, please email info@sstaffs.gov.uk and we will be in touch on Tuesday.
o All scheduled waste and recycling collections will be taking place as normal on Friday and Monday.
o The COVID-19 helpline for vulnerable residents will be open over the Easter holiday weekend.
o Baggeridge Country Park remains open and we are monitoring it on a daily basis. All amenities on site are closed and visitors are asked to abide by the recommended social distancing guidelines and keep at least two metres (six ft) away from other people. Car parking capacity has been reduced to 30 cars at any one time.
o Strawberry Lane and Sytch Lane Cemeteries remain open on a daily basis from 9am to 8pm. Again, visitors are asked to abide by the recommended social distancing guidelines.
o The Leisure Centres in Cheslyn Hay, Codsall, Penkridge and Wombourne are closed but please follow their Facebook pages for information about activities you can participate in via the internet and social media.
o Our Environmental Health and Licensing team will continue to monitor businesses and compliance with COVID-19 regulations and liaise with the Police.
o Our other services will be closed until Tuesday but the Council always remains open for emergencies out of hours – call 01902 696000.

• COVID-19 helpline
If you are over 70 or under 70 with underlying health conditions, self-isolating but have no friends, family or neighbours to help, please contact the South Staffordshire COVID-19 helpline, your dedicated community support helpline. The helpline will be open over the Easter holiday weekend, 9am to 5pm.

Tel: 01902 696499
Email: Covid-19@sstaffs.gov.uk

Please only use this telephone number and email address if you are considered vulnerable and in this category. For any other customer enquiries, please contact our Customer Services team on 01902 696000 or email info@sstaffs.gov.uk, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

• Small business grants
Officers at the Council are working hard to process all applications for small business grants to ensure all eligible firms receive their funding as soon as possible. We will be making payments on a daily basis, in the order applications were received, and the first BACS payments commenced on Wednesday 8 April 2020. We hope to process each individual application within seven working days of submission, although there may be another two days before funds are cleared through the banking system. We will ensure no applications are omitted and that every single eligible firm receives the funding they are due as soon as practically possible. Thank you for your patience whilst we work to process several hundred separate applications.

For more information about business support and how to apply for a small business grant, click here.

• Beware of fraud and cybercrime
We’re continuing to see an escalation in cybercrime and fraud in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Criminals are experts at impersonating people, organisations and the police and taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe. Please be on your guard and don’t click on links or attachments in suspicious email or text messages. Click here for more information or visit www.actionfraud.police.uk.

• Domestic abuse – support available
Domestic abuse can often get worse during times of stress and uncertainty. If you are in an abusive relationship and need help, there are a number of organisations who can help and here are some useful telephone numbers.

National Domestic Violence Helpline: 0808 2000 3778 (24 hours)

New Era, a domestic violence abuse service offering help to all those affected by domestic abuse in Staffordshire
Tel: 0300 303 3778

Home

• Health and wellbeing in the home
A dedicated web page has been created on the Council’s Leisure website where customers and staff can access free online home workouts. The information contains advice and links signposting to other websites such as the NHS as well as links to YouTube channels including videos showcasing some of own instructors delivering sessions. For home workouts click here. We will be extending the list as our instructors continue to develop videos of home workouts.

In addition, this section includes additional pages to support people in general at home with advice on mental health and wellbeing, how to keep children active at home and how to work safely from home. Content is being developed and added all the time so please check back regularly. Click here to view.

• South Staffordshire Connect service now available
The South Staffordshire Connect dial-a-ride bus service is now available.
This local, bookable bus service is once again helping many people
who struggle to get out and about and it is aimed at residents who live
away from regular bus routes or who find it difficult to use a standard
bus. The new Connect service operates between 10am and 3pm to
three zones. For more information, please click on the following for
more information – Zone 1, Zone 2 and Zone 3.

Everyone is encouraged to submit news items, please email: comms@sstaffs.gov.uk

Last week’s news from South Staffordshire Council – 159

Last week’s news from South Staffordshire Council. 

• This week’s news from around the Council.

• Coronavirus (COVID-19) public health information
We understand that residents may have concerns about coronavirus (COVID-19). The government and NHS are well prepared to deal with this virus and South Staffordshire Council is working closely with Staffordshire County Council, Public Health England and other partners to monitor and manage the situation.

Useful websites
NHS website – updated on a daily basis with the latest information and guidance.
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/
GOV.UK – for the latest information and advice from the Government.
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-information-for-the-public

Currently, four residents in Staffordshire are confirmed to have contracted coronavirus COVID-19. People who have been in close contact with the residents are being contacted and there is no significant risk to anyone else in the county. There are no cases in South Staffordshire at the present time.

If you have either a high temperature or a new, continuous cough, the advice is to stay at home for seven days. Do not go directly to your GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. You do not need to contact 111 to tell them you are staying at home.

What can I do to reduce my risk of catching coronavirus?
• Wash your hands more often and for at least 20 seconds. This is particularly important after taking public transport or when you get home or arrive at work.
• Use soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitiser that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze.
• Put used tissues in the bin straight away and wash your hands afterwards.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces in the home and work environment.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell.

More information is available on the Council website – click here to find out more.

• Council budget approved
At its meeting on Tuesday 25 February 2020, the Council approved the budget for 2020/21 and the Council’s Medium Term Financial Strategy. The full report can be found here. This includes information on the setting of the Council Tax for 2020/21 for South Staffordshire residents.

• Annual billing
This week, Council Tax bills have been issued and are now in the process of being delivered to customers. During this time, the Council’s phone lines can become very busy so if you have any questions about your bill you may find it quicker and easier to use our online My Account facility to answer any queries. Click here to sign up to My Account or visit the Council website for more information about Council Tax.
https://www.sstaffs.gov.uk/council-tax/

• Changes to methods of payment
From Wednesday 1 April 2020, the Council will no longer accept cash payments at the Council Offices in Codsall and will be moving solely to other more efficient methods of payment that are safe and secure. There are many alternative methods of payment that are easy to access from the comfort of your home including:
o Direct Debit.
o Pay online.
o 24 Hour telephone payment facility – 01902 696678.
o By Standing Order.
o Internet banking.
o At Post Office counters and PayPoint outlets.
o Pay by card at the Council Offices.
o By post (cheques only).
• South Staffordshire online chat
Staffordshire Police is holding a series of online chats giving residents the opportunity to chat live with local police officers regarding any issues or concerns relating to South Staffordshire. The next online chats will take place on Thursday 19 March 2020 at 7pm. Click here for more information.

• Fly-tipping news
Click here to see some of the fly-tipping our Street Scene team picked up in March 2020. South Staffordshire Council encourages the reporting of fly-tipping and you can report it on the Council’s website at www.sstaffs.gov.uk.

• Flood recovery support
If your property or business was flooded as a result of the recent storms, then there may be funding available to support you. Click here for more information.

• Courses and workshops at Baggeridge Country Park
Click here for more information about courses and workshops this spring run by Rudge Wood Horticulture CIC. To book, email mail@rudgewood.co.uk.

• 2020 Support Staffordshire Volunteer Star Awards
Do you know someone who volunteers and supports people and commits their time, energy and resources to helping people locally? Or maybe a community group or club that offers support to local people or a business where the staff volunteer in the local area and show a social responsibility? Then please make sure their actions are recognised in this year’s Support Staffordshire Volunteer Star Awards. Nominations for this year’s awards are now live and these awards celebrate the contribution that volunteers make to our local community. Find out more on the Support Staffordshire website – click here for more information. Nominations close on Friday 3 April 2020 (5pm) and the results will be announced at a ceremony at Rodbaston Hall in Penkridge on Tuesday 23 June 2020. Any queries, please contact Maggie Quinn (m.quinn@sstaffs.gov.uk).

• Sport Relief 2020
It’s Sport Relief this week and today the Council’s four Leisure Centres are all getting involved by running sweep stakes. Donation buckets will be at the ready for anyone to donate to this year’s Sport Relief and staff will be wearing red headband boppers to show their support. Please show your support for this great fundraising event by wearing red when you work out at the Leisure Centres. Click here to see more.

• Support our cycle challenge
It’s not long until the Council’s charity bike ride on Wednesday 25 March 2020, inspired by the Land’s End to John O’Groats cycling challenge. Bikes will be in action from 8am to 5pm at the Council Offices and four leisure centres so please support the Chairman and her charity – click here for more information and for details about how to donate.

• March motivation starts here
This March, members of the Council’s leisure centres in Cheslyn Hay, Codsall, Penkridge and Wombourne are being encouraged to complete and log 16 fitness sessions throughout the month to be in with the chance of winning some amazing prizes. Prizes include a Fitbit Charge 3, Hybrid resistance bands, a ‘Lean in 15’ cookbook, Grenade protein bars, swimming goggles, water bottles and towels and discounts off monthly fees. To enter, collect a log card from your local leisure centre and have it stamped every time you work out at your leisure centre.

• Special offer on swimming lessons
There’s no better time to learn to swim at the South Staffordshire Swim Academy at Cheslyn Hay and Penkridge Leisure Centres. New joiners can start their swimming lesson journey at any point in March, pay £10 and get April free, with normal payments starting on 15 May 2020. Click here to find out more or visit www.sstaffs.gov.uk/swimacademy

• Easter school holiday camps
Bookings are now being taken for the Easter school holiday camps at the Council’s Leisure Centres in Cheslyn Hay, Codsall and Wombourne. Running from Monday 6 to Friday 10 April 2020 and from Tuesday 14 to Friday 17 April 2020, the activity camps are a great way for children to have fun in a safe and structured environment and at an affordable price. Click here to find out more.

• Council job vacancies
o Customer Services General Advisor – click here for more information.
Closing date – Friday 13 March 2020.
o Solicitor – click here for more information.
Closing date – Friday 20 March 2020.

• Next week’s Committee/Panel meetings
o Your Place Challenge Panel – Monday 16 March 2020 – 4pm – Committee Room 2.
o Planning Committee – Tuesday 17 March 2020 – 6.30pm – Council Chamber.
o Licensing and Regulatory Committee – Thursday 19 March 2020 – 2.30pm – Bill Brownhill Room.
o Local Plans Member Seminar – Thursday 19 March 2020 – 5.30pm – Council Chamber.

• 5 Rating
The following organisations have achieved a 5 Rating following their food inspection this week – The Royal Oak in Great Wyrley and The Bradford Arms in Ivetsey Bank.

• South Staffordshire Connect service
The South Staffordshire Connect dial-a-ride bus service is now available.
This local, bookable bus service is once again helping many people
who struggle to get out and about and it is aimed at residents who live
away from regular bus routes or who find it difficult to use a standard
bus. The new Connect service operates between 10am and 3pm to
three zones. For more information, please click on the following for
more information – Zone 1, Zone 2 and Zone 3.

• Together we win!
Good causes in South Staffordshire need your support and one way you can help is by buying a lottery ticket in our weekly Community Lottery. As well as supporting a good cause you might even win a cash prize ranging from £25 up to a jackpot of £25,000. To buy a lottery ticket, simply register on the website (www.southstaffslottery.co.uk) or telephone 01902 213777.

Everyone is encouraged to submit news items, please email: comms@sstaffs.gov.uk

Last week’s news from South Staffordshire Council – 156

Last week’s news from South Staffordshire Council. 

• Flooding and disruption at Hinksford Mobile Home Park

Last Sunday, flooding affected Hinksford Mobile Home Park following the widespread disruption caused by Storm Dennis. A number of homes needed to be evacuated from the Council-managed site and the Council’s emergency procedures were activated by the director on call. The Council’s response team worked throughout Sunday to ensure residents were safe and an emergency rest centre was set up in the nearby village of Swindon. Many of those affected by the evacuation were elderly residents and the Council’s housing team was on hand to arrange accommodation and welfare support following the incident. During the day, the Council closely monitored the situation and although electricity had to be turned off for a time due to high water levels, power was restored in the early evening.

By Monday, the majority of flood water had gone, and park warden and the Council’s Street Scene and Commercial Services teams supported residents with the clean-up of the site. A big thank you to all residents, local councillors, volunteers and Council staff, many of whom were not on call but who came in to support the residents of Hinksford Mobile Home Park. Click here to see some pics. 

• Coronavirus (COVID-19) update

Click here for the latest advice from the Public Health England blog and click here to view a video about the best way to slow the spread of almost any germs, including Coronavirus.

• Community Safety – speed checks

On Thursday 13 February 2020, Staffordshire Police carried out speed checks in Swindon High Street and Lower Penn (Springhill Lane and Langley Road). The locations were identified as a result of recent complaints made by concerned residents and Parish Councils. Although a little hampered by the weather, ten warning notices were given out. #OpLightning 

• Weddings

After careful consideration of the business case, the decision has been made to stop offering a wedding service here at the Council Offices in Codsall. There are two weddings left for us to host in May and July this year but they will be our last. 

• South Staffordshire online chat

Staffordshire Police is holding a series of online chats giving residents the opportunity to chat live with local police officers regarding any issues or concerns relating to South Staffordshire. Online chats will take place on Monday 24 February Monday 2 March, Thursday 19 March 2020 at 7pm. Click here for more information about the first online chat next week. 

• Staffordshire Day

Creativity will be the focus of this year’s Staffordshire Day when it returns for the fifth time on Friday 1 May 2020. Coordinators Enjoy Staffordshire, in conjunction with Staffordshire County Council and other local authority partners, are encouraging the people of Staffordshire to embrace their creative side and show the world why they love their county. Details of how to get involved in Staffordshire Day, alongside a full listing of Staffordshire Day events, can be found at www.enjoystaffordshire.com/staffsday

• 2020 Support Staffordshire Volunteer Star Awards

Nominations for this year’s Volunteer Star Awards are now live. These awards celebrate the contribution that volunteers make to out local community and you can find out more on the Support Staffordshire website – click here for more information. Nominations close on Friday 3 April 2020 (5pm) and the results will be announced at a ceremony at Rodbaston Hall in Penkridge on Tuesday 23 June 2020. Any queries, please contact Maggie Quinn (m.quinn@sstaffs.gov.uk)  

• South Staffordshire business survey and roundtable event

If you’re a local business, make sure you complete the south Staffordshire business survey. The Council is committed to creating the right conditions for economic growth across the district and supporting local businesses and your thoughts and opinions are key. Click here to take part in the survey, which closes on Sunday 23 February 2020 (5pm). This piece of research will be instrumental in informing South Staffordshire Council’s future strategic plans. To accompany this, Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce are hosting a series of small business roundtable events on behalf of South Staffordshire Council. Click here to find out more and to book a place at the business roundtable being held on Friday 28 February 2020 at the Council Offices in Codsall from 10am to noon. 

• Dunston Business Village drop in

Dunston Business Village in association with Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce will be holding a free drop in session for local businesses on Wednesday 26 February 2020 from 9am to 4pm. Click here for more information. 

• Next week’s Committee/Panel meetings
• Full Council – Tuesday 25 February 2020 – 7pm – Council Chamber.
• Asset Scrutiny Panel – Thursday 27 February 2020 – 4pm – Committee Room 2.
• Highways England Briefing – M54/M6 Link Road – Thursday 27 February 2020 – 5.30pm – Council Chamber

• Council job vacancies
• ICT Support Officer (fixed term) – click here for more information.

Closing date – Tuesday 25 February 2020 (12 noon).

• Solicitor – click here for more information.

Closing date – Thursday 27 February 2020 (10am). 

• South Staffordshire Connect service now available

The South Staffordshire Connect dial-a-ride bus service is now available.

This local, bookable bus service is once again helping many people

who struggle to get out and about and it is aimed at residents who live

away from regular bus routes or who find it difficult to use a standard

bus. The new Connect service operates between 10am and 3pm to

three zones. For more information, please click on the following for

more information – Zone 1, Zone 2 and Zone 3. 

• 5 Rating

The following organisations have achieved a 5 Rating following their food inspection this week – Mary Herman-Smith Catering in Trysull and Farmer & Friends Coffee Shop in Wombourne. 

Everyone is encouraged to submit news items, please email: comms@sstaffs.gov.uk

Weekly news bulletin from South Staffordshire Council – 155

Last week’s news from South Staffordshire Council.

 Latest funding awards

Five more community-led projects in the district are celebrating after being awarded grants from the South Staffordshire Community Innovation Fund. The Community Innovation Fund distributes money raised by the South Staffordshire Community Lottery and grants are available for not-for-profit groups, community projects or charities.

£987 to A Child of Mine to hold support sessions for bereaved parents who have lost a child.

£893 to Cheslyn Hay Tennis Club to promote tennis in the community through festivals.

£1,000 to Perton Brownies for further resources and for future activities.

£540 to the Good Life Wellbeing Association for crafts and arts sessions to be held at Lifestyle Roadshows around the district.

£750 to Support Staffordshire to support local Community Connectors.

The next round of funding will be open this autumn. Don’t forget, you can support local good causes by buying a lottery ticket in the South Staffordshire Community Lottery. As well as supporting a good cause you might even win a cash prize ranging from £25 up to a jackpot of £25,000. To buy a lottery ticket, simply register on the website (www.southstaffslottery.co.uk) or telephone 01902 213777. 

• Coronavirus (COVID-19) update

Click here for the latest advice from the Public Health England blog and click here to view a video about the best way to slow the spread of almost any germs, including Coronavirus. 

• Changes to Council Tax discounts

From Wednesday 1 April 2020, the Council is making changes to its Council Tax discounts to encourage owners to bring empty homes back into use to provide homes that people need. Click here for further information.

• South Staffordshire business survey and roundtable events

If you’re a local business, make sure you complete the south Staffordshire business survey. The Council is committed to creating the right conditions for economic growth across the district and supporting local businesses and your thoughts and opinions are key. Click here to take part in the survey, which closes on Sunday 23 February 2020 (5pm). This piece of research will be instrumental in informing South Staffordshire Council’s future strategic plans.

To accompany this, Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce are hosting a series of small business roundtable events on behalf of South Staffordshire Council. Click here to find out more and to book a place at the business roundtable being held on Friday 28 February 2020 at the Council Offices in Codsall from 10am to noon.

• Dunston Business Village drop in

Dunston Business Village in association with Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce will be holding a free drop in session for local businesses on Wednesday 26 February 2020 from 9am to 4pm. Click here for more information.

• 2020 Support Staffordshire Volunteer Star Awards

Nominations for this year’s Volunteer Star Awards are now live. These awards celebrate the contribution that volunteers make to out local community and you can find out more on the Support Staffordshire website – click here for more information. Nominations close on Friday 3 April 2020 (5pm) and the results will be announced at a ceremony at Rodbaston Hall in Penkridge on Tuesday 23 June 2020. Any queries, please contact Maggie Quinn (m.quinn@sstaffs.gov.uk)

• Half-term activities at the Leisure Centres

Next week during half-term, Penkridge Leisure Centre is offering a selection of craft-related sessions. Click here for more information or visit the website here to find out more about its school holiday activity camps. To book, call 01785 714152. Activity camps are also taking place at the Leisure Centres in Cheslyn Hay, Codsall and Wombourne. To find out what’s on click here and click here to book. 

• Changes to swimming programmes next week

Due to the school holiday next week, the swimming times at the Council’s Leisure Centres will change during the day. Find out more at www.sstaffs.gov.uk/leisure 

• Next week’s Council Committee/Panel meetings
• Cabinet – Tuesday 18 February 2020 – 2pm – Committee Room 2.
• Planning Committee – Tuesday 18 February 2020 – 6.30pm – Council Chamber. 

• Council job vacancies
• ICT Support Officer (fixed term) – click here for more information.

Closing date – Tuesday 25 February 2020 (12 noon).

• Solicitor – click here for more information. Closing date – Thursday 27 February 2020 (10am). 

• Trustees required for new CIC

Together Active, a new charitable incorporated organisation (CIC) formed from Sport Across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent (SASSOT) is looking for new Trustees. If you believe in the life-changing benefits of physical activity and sport and have the skills to help lead this new charity forward, then click here for more information about how to apply. Closing date is Friday 28 February 2020 (5pm).

• South Staffordshire Connect service now available

The South Staffordshire Connect dial-a-ride bus service is now available.

This local, bookable bus service is once again helping many people

who struggle to get out and about and it is aimed at residents who live

away from regular bus routes or who find it difficult to use a standard

bus. The new Connect service operates between 10am and 3pm to

three zones. For more information, please click on the following for

more information – Zone 1, Zone 2 and Zone 3. 

• 5 Rating

The following organisations have achieved a 5 Rating following their food inspection this week – Wightwick Hall School in Wightwick and Evelyn’s Kitchen in Huntington.

Everyone is encouraged to submit news items, please email: comms@sstaffs.gov.uk

Weekly news bulletin from South Staffordshire Council – 154

Last week’s news from South Staffordshire Council.

•  Prosecution success for Council

A local dog boarding kennels in Blymhill near Shifnal has been successfully prosecuted by South Staffordshire Council after it was found to be in breach of the Animal Boarding Establishments Act 1963 during an inspection. Click here to read more. 

• Appeal for information about recent fly-tip

A recent fly-tip of asbestos in Moor Hall Lane in Penkridge is going to cost the taxpayer in the region of £900 to collect and dispose of. Click here to see some pics and if you have any information, please contact the Council on Facebook or call 01902 696000. 

• 2020 Support Staffordshire Volunteer Star Awards

Nominations for this year’s Volunteer Star Awards are now live. These awards celebrate the contribution that volunteers make to our local community and you can find out more on the Support Staffordshire website – click here for more information. Nominations close on Friday 3 April 2020 (5pm) and the results will be announced at a ceremony at Rodbaston Hall in Penkridge on Tuesday 23 June 2020. Any queries, please contact Maggie Quinn (m.quinn@sstaffs.gov.uk)

• Coronavirus update

Click here for the latest information on the Public Health England Blog. 

• South Staffordshire business survey and roundtable events

If you’re a local business, make sure you complete the south Staffordshire business survey. The Council is committed to creating the right conditions for economic growth across the district and supporting local businesses and your thoughts and opinions are key. Click here to take part in the survey, which closes on Sunday 23 February 2020 (5pm). This piece of research will be instrumental in informing South Staffordshire Council’s future strategic plans.

To accompany this, Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce are hosting a series of small business roundtable events on behalf of South Staffordshire Council.

• Click here to find out more and to book a place at the business roundtable being held on Tuesday 11 February 2020 at Essington Farm from 10am to noon.
• Click here to find out more and to book a place at the business roundtable being held on Friday 28 February 2020 at the Council Offices in Codsall from 10am to noon. 

• Breast screening mobile unit

At this week’s Wellbeing Select Committee, the local NHS screening team attended the meeting to update Members on the result of the screening unit being based at the Council Offices. The results were very positive with a 7% increase in screening take up which equates to a full weeks screening on a mobile unit. Previously, the mobile screening unit had been located at Codsall Clinic but it was withdrawn 10 years ago, with residents having to either travel into Wombourne or New Cross Hospital to access screening appointments. Through local campaigning and support from the Council, the unit became based at the Council Offices and this has made a significant difference and increased take-up rates across the four local GP practices, with all practices now above the national take-up rate of 70.5% This shows the benefit of services being based locally and accessible to our residents and as part of the Community Hub work, we will welcome the screening unit back in three years’ time and hopefully see further increases in the take-up rates. 

• Tree-mendous effort South Staffordshire!

A total of 1,300 Christmas trees were collected at the kerbside in January. That three times more trees than last year and all the trees were composted at a local facility.

• First signs of Spring are here

Click here to see some pics of the snowdrops out now in Whites Wood at Baggeridge Country Park. For daily news and updates about the country park, sign up to its Facebook page and its @Baggeridge Twitter account. 

• Next week’s Council Committee and Panel meetings
• Your Council Challenge Panel – Monday 10 February 2020 – 4pm – Bill Brownhill Room
• Your Place Challenge Panel – Monday 10 February 2020 – 4pm – Members’ Room (bar side).
• Audit and Risk Committee – Tuesday 11 February 2020 – 4pm – Bill Brownhill Room.
• Local Plans Member Seminar – Thursday 13 February 2020 – 5.30pm – Members’ Room. 

• Job vacancies
• Partner vacancy opportunity – Brewood and Coven Parish Assistant Clerk – click here for more information.

Closing date – Friday 14 February 2020. 

• 5 Rating

The following organisations have achieved a 5 Rating following their food inspection this week – Maypole Café in Wombourne, The New Talbot in Cheslyn Hay, St John’s Primary School in Swindon, Cakes by Max of Wheaton Aston, Three Hammers Bar and Bistro in Coven, Sandiacre Farm Shop and Nurseries, St Anthony’s in Wolverhampton, Windmill Bakery in Wombourne, and Jethro’s Marinades in Huntington.

• South Staffordshire Connect service now available

The South Staffordshire Connect dial-a-ride bus service is now available.

This local, bookable bus service is once again helping many people

who struggle to get out and about and it is aimed at residents who live

away from regular bus routes or who find it difficult to use a standard

bus. The new Connect service operates between 10am and 3pm to

three zones. For more information, please click on the following for

more information – Zone 1, Zone 2 and Zone 3. 

• Together we win!

Good causes in South Staffordshire need your support and one way you can help is by buying a lottery ticket in our weekly Community Lottery. As well as supporting a good cause you might even win a cash prize ranging from £25 up to a jackpot of £25,000. To buy a lottery ticket, simply register on the website (www.southstaffslottery.co.uk) or telephone 01902 213777.

Everyone is encouraged to submit news items, please email: comms@sstaffs.gov.uk