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ISSUE 34 WINTER 2010 www.wton-partnership.org.uk
Free news for the people of Wolverhampton from public and voluntary servicesone CITYnews
Familiesurged to putrent first atChristmas
Page 10
Festivebargainsat ourmarketsPage 6
What’s hotand what’snot... thepublic’s view
Page 4
Big boostfor Xmasshoppers
See page 5
RECYCLINGinitiative officersRebecca Jenkinsonand Jenni Will withtwo of the new foodcaddies to beintroduced in thecity... see page three.
Food caddies improve recycling
New schoolsto benefit
whole city
SHOPPERS are being givenan early Christmas presentwith over 1,500 free parkingspaces available in the citycentre.
Fold Street car park, which has298 spaces, will be free to use onlate night shopping evenings whichbegin on November 24 and on allweekday evenings from 5.30pm to4am from December 13 to 24.
Free parking will be available in:● Council car parks and on-streetparking (apart from the CivicCentre) every Sunday.● Mander Centre: 10am to 5pmevery Sunday and 5.30pm to 9pmon late night shopping evenings.
● Beatties: 5.30pm to 9pm on latenight shopping evenings.● Carillion/Birch Street: freeSaturdays and Sundays 7.30am to5pm (except during Wolves homegames) and from 5pm onwards onlate night shopping evenings.
Councillor Paddy Bradley, thecity council's cabinet member forregeneration and enterprise, said:“We are committed to supportingour local retailers and have a greatarray of shops.”
Kim Gilmour,WolverhamptonCity Centre manager said:“Lots of
people are working together tooffer free parking to makeWolverhampton a more attractiveplace for shoppers.”
● Shoppers will also be able tomake the most of public transportand Park & Ride with free parkingat the Priestfield Metro Stop,Bilston Road,Tettenhall Pool andPlascom Road and Corser Streetcar parksbus and rail services,which are all geared up for theChristmas rush. For details visitwww.itschristmaswolverhampton.co.uk
Free parking announced
Page 2 One City News
UK curry capitalbid gathers pace
WARNINGS have been issuedabout illegal loan sharks who maytry to take advantage of people inWolverhampton this Christmas.
Anyone finding it difficult tomake ends meet during the festiveperiod should follow these tips tohelp cover the cost.Plan and prioritise: Try toestimate your seasonal spend inadvance and put money aside forChristmas presents, food andother trimmings. It may soundobvious, but pay your priority bills,such as rent, before anything else.Borrowing: If you do have toborrow money, choose a reputablesource and check the APR – thehigher the rate the more yourloan will cost.Try not to let thefestive spirit carry you away – onlyborrow what you need.Loans: If you decide you still needa loan, contact your local creditunion,Wolf Savings and Loans.Savings: When you’ve paid yourloan back, why not continueputting the same amount away in asavings account to pay for thefollowing Christmas.
If you are a WolverhamptonHomes tenant and would likefurther advice, call the MoneySmart Team on 01902 556789.
Warningsissued overloan sharks
SPICY fayre served up inWolverhampton’s famousAsian restaurants couldput the city at the top ofthe UK menu as currycapital of Britain.
The city is one of 12competing for the prestigiousaccolade which is being held aspart of National Curry Week.
Four restaurants werechosen by public vote torepresent Wolverhampton –The Bilash and Red Fort in thecity centre, Café Rickshaw inChapel Ash and Malabar inPenn.
Sitab Khan, 55, owner of TheBilash, said:“It’s a pleasure torepresent Wolverhampton inthe competition. It’s a reflectionof our hard work as well as asource of encouragement to dothe best in future.”
He added:“Wolverhamptonhas a great chance of winning.”
Kim Gilmour, fromWolverhampton City Centre
Company, said:“Thecompetition is a bit of fun but itwas originally set up 10 yearsago to provide a showcase forselected cities in UnitedKingdom with large ethniccommunities through themedium of food and drink.
“It focuses on what the citiesdo for their ethniccommunities and, in return,what the multi-racialcommunity brings to that city.”
All restaurants involved wereinvited to hold a special charitydinner this month in aid of TheCurry Tree Charitable Fund,which helps poor andmalnourished people aroundthe world.
Wolverhampton is up againstBradford, Newcastle, Cardiff,Edinburgh, Manchester,Glasgow, Liverpool,Birmingham, Leeds, Sheffieldand previous winner Leicester.
The winning city will beannounced on December 8.
Community drive to beat burglars reduces crimeA MAJOR operation to tackle burglaryin the Spring Hill area of Penn hasresulted in a significant drop in thenumber of offences.
Officers from the Penn and MerryHill neighbourhood policing teamscarried out crime prevention visits,leaflet drops and activities to improvehome security in the area during anine-day period last month.
In September, burglary offences inPenn averaged at around one per day;however, during the operation this
figure reduced to one burglary in ninedays.
It is estimated that around 500homes were visited during theoperation, which also involved officersout in high-visibility and covert patrolsto act as a deterrent, to reassuremembers of the community and tolook out for potential offenders.
Sergeant Ron Price, from the Pennand Merry Hill neighbourhood policingteams, said: “Burglary became one ofour key priorities following the number
of offences that we saw in September.“We visited every home in the
neighbourhood to advise residents onwhat steps they could take to preventthemselves from becoming victims.
“The main thing to remember isthat the harder you make it forburglars to break-in, the less likely theyare to try.”
For further information and adviceon how residents can protect theirhome from thieves, visit www.west-midlands.police.uk/saferhomes
PLANNING is underway as gold winningWolverhampton aims to go one better innext year’s Heart of England in Bloom awards.
Organisers, who want to retain gold atleast, are now urging the people of the city toplay their part as they target an even bettertitle next year as well.
Emma Cleary, the floral city co-ordinator forWolverhampton City Council, said:“Communityinvolvement is at the heart of what we do sogetting more people involved next year iscrucial.
“We’re talking about hosting more events,staging a seed swap in the spring and maybe avolunteers scheme so people can help us withlocal projects like clean ups.”
Residents, schools, businesses and sponsorsenthusiastically support the In Bloom bidwhich last year saw the city council plantmore than 300,000 spring and summer plantsand bulbs across the city.● If you want to get involved call 01902551069, email floralcity@wolverhampton.gov.ukor visit www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/floralcity
Touchingthe moonCHILDREN fromacross the citywere able to touchthe moon whenrare samples of itlanded at City ofWolverhamptonCollege.
It was part of aschool astronomyday, in which highschool and collegestudents got thechance to handlemoon rock andsamples ofmeteorites.
The pupils alsotook part in aseries ofworkshopsexploringasteroids andcomets and thethreats they pose.
The award-winning garden of Albert Poutney, from Wednesfield,who is in his 80s. Albert’s work helped the city win a Heart ofEngland in Bloom accolade.
Public help scooptop blooms awardPublic help scooptop blooms awardPublic help scooptop blooms awardPublic help scooptop blooms awardPublic help scooptop blooms awardPublic help scooptop blooms awardPublic help scooptop blooms awardPublic help scooptop blooms awardPublic help scooptop blooms award
A SCHEME is helping people offthe housing waiting list and intoempty privately ownedproperties.
Sixty landlords and ownershave signed up to the initiativesince it was launched 18 monthsago.
It is hoped to have another 120properties on its portfolio overthe next 12 months.● Landlords or ownersinterested in finding out moreabout the scheme and thestandards required should call01902 555705 or City Direct on01902 551155.
New schemehelps fill upempty homes
Young peoplehave their sayon city issuesYOUNG people had their sayabout important issues at ameeting of Wolverhampton'sYouth Council.
Wolverhampton youthcouncil chair Daniel Warrensaid:“We asked for youngpeople’s feedback on thequality of youth provision inWolverhampton which wewill be feeding back to thecity councillors.”
You can find out moreabout getting involved withthe youth council by visitingwww.melnkim.com/YouthCouncil or the city council’swebsite at www.wolverhampton.gov.uk or emailoffice@wolverhamptonyouthcouncil.org.uk
Emma Cleary, tourism projects officer,Wolverhampton City Council andKim Gilmour,Wolverhampton City Centre manager with Ram ChandraSubedi, head chef at the Red Fort with the curry capital portfolio.
MORE young people arebeing encouraged toenjoy the warmth andsafety of the EPIC YouthCafé in Wolverhamptoncity centre now the coldwinter nights aredrawing in.
A lively programme ofautumn and winteractivities are planned atthe safe haven, whichhas already attractedmore than 800 youngpeople through itsdoors since it openedproperly in the summer.
The café for 13 to 18year olds was createdfrom three derelictbuildings in LichfieldStreet with money fromthe Department forChildren, Schools andFamilies Youth CapitalFund Plus.
Some of the city’syoung people wereinvolved in its planningand design and now,through a youth forum,help run it and decidehow it develops.
It provides a safe citycentre venue and analternative meetingplace for young peopleas well as acting as abase for the some ofthe council’s youthworkers.● For more informationon opening hours andsessions at EPIC, call01902 551975.
Youngstersflock forEPIC fun
City centre café a winter haven full of exciting activities
Playing computer games on a big screen are 11-year-olds Curtis, Jamal, and Jamie.
Tell us howyou want tocelebrateIT’S 10 years sinceWolverhamptonwon the right to callitself a city... andthere are calls tocelebrate thedecade’s successesin style.
Residents of thecity are being askedto put forward theirideas for how theanniversary could bemarked, and topoint out their ownhighlights of the lastdecade.
It might be Wolves’Premier Leagueexploits, one of manyregeneration projectsor even the fact thatWolverhampton wasnamed a FairtradeCity in 2004.● Email ideas tocityten@wolverhampton.gov.uk
Caddiesset toimproverecycling
One City News Page 3
ENVIRONMENTALcampaigners and membersof the public are welcomingthe launch of a £1 millionfood recycling initiativeacross Wolverhampton inJanuary.
The city council and itsrecycling partners Enterpriseare supplying 98,000 homeswith indoor and outdoorfood bins and bio-degradableliners.
It will make the collectionof food waste more effectiveand enable thousands offamilies across the city to dotheir bit for theenvironment.
Householders will be ableto recycle food in a liner bagin a small five-litre caddy andthen transfer it to a 23-litrebin outside for weeklycollection with their black-wheeled bins.
Collected waste will bethen be turned into fertiliser,electricity and vehicle fuel.
Dave Clare from Friends ofthe Earth in Wolverhampton,said:“We are pleased thatWolverhampton CityCouncil is leading the way byoffering collection of foodwaste.
“Hopefully, residents of thecity will support thecollections.
“This way of dealing withfood waste deserves to besuccessful and copied acrossthe region.”
Information on the newsystem is being distributedto homes throughoutWolverhampton, along witha collection calendar andinformation about the newservice.
New food waste caddieswill be delivered before theend of February along withinformation on how to usethe service and a pack of freebio-degradable liners.
Councillor Barry Findlay,Wolverhampton CityCouncil’s cabinet member forthe environment, said:“Wehope all the residents willmake full use of this newservice to do their bit tomake waste collection moreeffective and improve andprotect our localenvironment.”
Views soughtover city planOVER the next three monthsthe council and other public,private, voluntary andcommunity organisations will beworking together to develop anew plan that will create abetter blueprint for prosperityand employment in the city.
The Wolverhampton Partnership isco-ordinating the production of arevised city strategy, (this will replacethe current big plan for the city)which looks at the best ways tostimulate economic growth andcreate job opportunities for localpeople over the next decade.
The current economic conditions,combined with public sector cuts anduncertainty over funding, means thatthe challenges are great.
This is why all the Partnership’sstakeholders are involved in a 12-weekengagement process to put forwardtheir solutions to the current problemsand their thoughts on creatingprosperity and opportunities.
The partnership wants to engagewith local community organisationsand neighbourhood partnerships, aswell as the big statutory partners.
The Partnership will also be lookingat new ways to engage with groups ofpeople who have not been fullyrepresented in the resident opinionsurveys that have taken place so far.
Keren Jones, director of theWolverhampton Partnership said:“Working together has broughtconsiderable benefits to local peopleand helped us improve some of the
big issues such as reducing crime andimproving health.
“But the major thing that peopletell us they are concerned about atthe moment is the creation of newemployment opportunities anddeveloping a city they can be proudof and enjoy.”
Keren added:“Local communitieshave a key role to play, as well asbusiness. It is very important thatlocal people benefit directly from theopportunities we seek to create.”● A full version of the revised citystrategy can be found on thePartnership’s website at:www.wton-partnership.org.uk
It contains details on how to emailin ideas. Alternatively people can callthe partnership on 01902 554022.
Page 4 One City News
Survey highlightspublic’s feelings
Wolves chiefsget degrees
New careerblossoms forseeker Amy
PEOPLE in Wolverhamptonare optimistic thatopportunities to recycle athome, health services andchances for children stayingon in education are allimproving.
A wide-sweeping survey ofresidents also highlighted thatcommunities are feeling safer andthat police are reassuring peopleabout crime in the city andresponding to people’s crime andsafety issues.
The results come from feedbackfrom a survey of the public.
The survey was carried outamong visitors to the One CityMarquee at the Vaisakhi event andCity Show this summer and wasconducted in every LocalNeighbourhood Partnership.
Hundreds of people took part,giving a valuable insight into whatthings people feel are being doneright and what things still need tobe improved.
Results show that more than 83per cent of respondents believerecycling opportunities at homeare improving. A total of 77 percent said local health services areimproving and 73 per cent thatchildren’s educational attainment isimproving.
However, less people – 58 percent – believe that enoughopportunities are available forpeople to get the skills they need.
Less than half – 48.5 per cent –believe the city has the righthousing to meet the needs of localpeople, and only 42 per cent ofpeople stated that the city iscreating the right opportunities toget local people into the rightlocal jobs.The survey alsohighlighted the five things thatlocal residents think are mostimportant to them. In order ofpriority they are feeling safer andmore involved, having more jobopportunities, liking where theylive, living longer and healthierlives, and having the skills andknowledge that are needed.
Sam Axtell, consultation and
community involvement officer,said:“We are pleased to see thatpeople feel we are heading in theright direction when it comes tomany important areas includinghome recycling, educational
attainment and health services.“This information has been used
to draw up plans for the city’sfuture (see page three).
“However, the survey alsothrows up areas where we still
need to improve and buildconfidence, particularly in creatingjob and skills opportunities.”● For more details about thesurvey log onto www.wton-partnership.org.uk
Credit union’s help turns life aroundAS the sole provider for his family, MalcolmLawrence faced a series of hardships when heleft work.
The father-of-two, 53, from Hendon Close,Low Hill, stumbled into debt, which in turnheaped stress and pressure on his home life.But after being introduced to a local creditunion last year he says his life has “turnedaround”.
“They really helped me with my financialsituation”, he said.
Credit unions, often known as people’sbanks, are financial institutions owned andcontrolled by their members.
They save money into a common fund anduse the profits to keep interest rates low onfinancial products.
Tony Blakeway, 55, is chairperson of N.E.WFriends Community Credit Union whereMalcolm received support.
He said:“Malcolm ran up huge debts. Hewas paying £70 a month, £48 pounds ofwhich was just interest.We gave him anopportunity to get out of that situation andlead a comparatively better life.
“We encourage members to save moneywith us.Then, after three months, they canborrow twice of what they have saved at oneper cent interest, subject to conditions.”
And Malcolm is not the only one to haveseen their bank balance improve since comingacross the union.
Tony said:“We have had quite a few peoplewho have been in exactly the same situation.
“We live in a deprived area ofWolverhampton and at one point we werebombarded with loan sharks charging up to150 or 200 per cent interest.
“We like to think that we can offer a good,free service or point people in the directionof further support.
“It’s important to stress though that withoutthe commitment and trust of our volunteersthe credit union would not exist today.”
And now that things have turned aroundfor Malcolm he is paying the union back in adifferent way – by being one of the vitalvolunteers himself.● For more information contactN.E.W. Friends Credit Union on 01902 304082.
One youngvisitor to the
One City Showenjoys drawing
on a graffitiwall.
EVERYTHING has come upsmelling of roses for formerstudent Amy Snee after shelanded an office job workingon several projects includingBilston in Bloom.
The 20-year-old was out ofwork and claiming JobSeekers Allowance aftercompleting courses infashion, office administrationand floristry at City ofWolverhampton college.
Her break came whenBilston Town Centre managerCheryl Welsh created anadminstrative post withmoney from theGovernment’s Future JobsFund. Heantun HousingAssociation administers theFund in the area.
She was supported throughfurther NVQ training, workedwith the Local NeighbourhoodPartnership on the awardwinning Bilston in Bloomproject, went out withneighbourhood wardens andsupported partnership events.
“I really enjoyed it and itgave me a lot of experience,”she said.
She applied for a full-timejob as a receptionist withShepherd Construction and isnow based in Bilston wherethe company is building anew £14.9 million leisurecentre for the council.● Need help and advice onfinding a job? Call JobcentrePlus on 01902 435900.
JON Crockett, above, chiefexecutive of WolverhamptonCity Primary Care Trust hasbeen awarded an honorarydoctorate for his contributionto healthcare in the WestMidlands. He received anhonorary Doctor of Sciencedegree from the School ofHealth and Wellbeing, theUniversity of Wolverhampton.
Also receiving an honourthis year was Wolveschairman Steve Morgan OBE,below, who was presentedwith an honorary degree ofDoctor of Letters.
One City News Page 5
WORK has started on the first phase ofa project to transform Wolverhampton’sSchools serving secondary age pupilsinto first-class, state-of-the-art centresof learning.
Contractors are on site at King’s Church ofEngland School in Tettenhall and HighfieldsSpecialist Science College in Penn as part of theBuilding Schools for the Future programme.
Wolverhampton-based company Carillion, partof the inspiredspaces consortium which willdeliver Building Schools for the Future in thecity, has committed to providing employmentand training opportunities for local peoplethrough the provision of apprenticeships andwork experience.
Currently, on the construction work takingplace for these schools more than 60 per centof construction spend is targeted at localsuppliers within the city and local labour will be
used, thereby both creating and safeguardingjobs within the city. A key part of thisinnovation has been to focus on designinglearning facilities fit for 21st century learning.
Tim Westwood, the city council’s chiefchildren’s service officer, said: “The designershave benefited from the significant input ofschools their staff, learners and local people.Theresult is the plans will have a massive impact onteaching and learning across the city.
“As well as areas for specific purposes, theschools have been given flexible spaces that willprovide teachers with the chance to offer pupilslots of different ways of learning. In addition, thedesigners have improved social spaces to helpeliminate unsupervised areas that could lead tobullying and antisocial behaviour.”
As part of the first phase of work HighfieldsSpecialist College in Penn is being completelyrebuilt and pupils from Pennfields Special School,
which caters for students with moderate andsevere learning difficulties, will co-locate there.
The school will boast a cyber café, new sportsfacilities and inspirational learning zones.
Meanwhile, the redesign of King’s School willinclude the co-location of pupils from TettenhallWood Special School, which works withstudents with autistic spectrum conditions.
Construction work on the first two schoolswill be completed by September 2012 and willpave the way for the rebuilding of a further 22schools and two new academies in five phasesbetween now and 2014.● More information about Wolverhampton’sBSF programme is available on a new websitewhich outlines the project’s aims and objectivesand contains news and information about theexciting developments taking place inWolverhampton. It can be visited atwww.wolverhamptonbsf.org.uk
The campus frontage at HighfieldsSpecialist Science College in Penn.
POLICE and landlords are calling timeon individuals who commit crime andantisocial behaviour in town centrepubs through the launch of a newinitiative in Bilston.
Pubwatch – an extension of theShopwatch initiative – aims to preventcrime and disorder in licensed premisesand the surrounding areas by improvingcommunication between the police, barstaff and local traders.
A total of 15 licensed premises havesigned up to the agreement – 12 ofwhich have enrolled onto the radio-linkinitiative.This enables staff to contactpolice, retailers and other partners via aportable radio.
Staff from seven pubs have alsoenrolled on the ‘Barcode’ scheme whichprovides training for pub staff anddrinks retailers on how to do their jobmore effectively.
Sergeant Ian Parnell, from Bilstonpolice station, said:“This initiative builds
on the success of the Shopwatchscheme and ensures that traders andlicensees are able to alert the policeand each other to criminal or suspiciousbehaviour in the area.The reaction fromthe pubs and traders has been fantastic,we are all working towards the samevision – to make Bilston a safer place tolive, work and socialise.
“Anyone who commits an offence ona licensed premise in Bilston facesaction from the police and a ban fromthe pub.What’s more, this joined-upapproach means that once you arebarred from one Bilston pub, you’rebarred from them all.”
Cheryl Welsh, Bilston Town Centremanager, said:“This is a true partnershipwith the whole town supporting theinitiative.To achieve 100 per centmembership to Pubwatch is a boost tothe town and the pubs will play aprominent role in promoting our nighttime economy.”
Partnership uses hi-tech links tocall time on pub troublemakers
Police chief’scommitment
Advice on theenvironment
Grants aresupportinglocal firms
POLICING in the region isset to change following theGovernment’s spendingreview, but West MidlandsPolice remain committedto tackling important localissues.
Chief Constable ChrisSims said that over the last18 months they have beenplanning ahead andreshaping the way policingwill be delivered, with afocus on ensuring servicedelivery remains a priority.
He said:“It is going tomean that we have tochange the way we operateand it’s inevitable that, overthe next four years, peopleare going to notice some ofthese changes.
“But the people have myabsolute assurance that wewill be doing this in a waythat prioritises the thingsthat matter to them inrespect of policing.”
OVER £100,000 has beenhanded out to local businessessince a package of grants waslaunched in August.
The WolverhamptonBusiness Grants Suite isdesigned to help buddingentrepreneurs set-up in thecity, as well as offering supportto existing companies.
It is hoped the funding willtackle the amount of emptyshops and help boost the localeconomy, which continues toface challenges as the countryemerges from recession.
And the pot of money, madepossible thanks to £526,000from the WorkingNeighbourhoods Fund, hasalready reached the pockets ofmore than 30 businesses.
Councillor Paddy Bradley,cabinet member forregeneration and enterprise,said:“It is particularly pleasingto see additional start-upgrants for businesses setting upin premises in key sites in thecity centre.We all know thereare issues with empty units andthis will hopefully see many ofthem filled.”
For more information callthe city’s Business SolutionsCentre on 01902 321272 orvisit www.finditinwolverhampton.co.uk for an applicationform.
RESIDENTS can get adviceabout reducing their carbonfootprint by logging on towww.wolverhampton.gov.uk/gogreen and view a seriesof pages on the citycouncil’s website that offertips on being energyefficient in the home andhelping the environment.
New schools tobenefit whole city
Pictured: Left to right – PC Paul Davis from BilstonNeighbourhood Police Team, Chief Inspector JoanneChilton, David Keely, licensee of the Market Tavern andCheryl Welsh, Bilston Town Centre Manager.
Page 6 One City News One City News Page 7
WOLVERHAMPTONPARTNERSHIPwww.wton-partnership.org.ukTel: 01902 310805
WOLVERHAMPTON CITYCOUNCILwww.wolverhampton.gov.ukwww.twitter.com/wolvescouncilTel: 01902 551155
WEST MIDLANDS POLICEwww.west-midlands.police.ukTel: 0345 113 5000 or inan emergency 999www.wolverhamptonpolice.org.ukwww.facebook.com/wolverhamptonpolicewww.twitter.com/wolvespolicewww.youtube.com/westmidlandspolice
ABCDwww.abcd-ndc.org.ukTel: 01902 556747
WOLVERHAMPTON CITYPRIMARY CARE TRUSTwww.wolvespct.nhs.ukTel: 01902 444888
WOLVERHAMPTONVOLUNTARY SECTORCOUNCILwww.wolverhamptonvsc.org.ukTel: 01902 773761
WOLVERHAMPTONNETWORK CONSORTIUMwww.w-n-c.orgTel: 01902 572020
CITY OFWOLVERHAMPTONCOLLEGEwww.wolverhamptoncollege.ac.ukTel: 01902 836000
WEST MIDLANDS FIREAND RESCUEwww.wmfs.netTel: 0121 380 7404
SAFERWOLVERHAMPTONPARTNERSHIPwww.saferw-ton.orgTel: 01902 572014
WOLVERHAMPTONHOMESwww.wolverhamptonhomes.org.ukTel: 01902 556789lyndsey.george@wolverhamptonhomes.org.ukwww.wolverhamptonhomes.org.ukwww.twitter.com/WolvesHomeswww.youtube.com/WolvesHomes
FOR EVENTS IN THECITY:www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/visitwww.twitter.com/eventsinwolves
One City contacts
THRIVING new businesses arereplacing empty shops inWolverhampton city centre.Over the past few monthsseveral shops have opened forbusiness, including twoconvenience stores, two fashionshops and a Polish bakery.
It comes after a £52,000 cashinjection from the Empty ShopsInitiative helped to transform40 vacant units – by openingthem up for community use ordressing them up with windowimages.
Among the new additions isGym Squid, a student gym onLichfield Street proving thatnew businesses can succeed.
Owner and head trainerElliot Shuttleworth said:“Therewere no gyms in the citycentre and what there was inthe area was expensive.Wethought students should have adiscount place for them to go.
“Business is going really welland we are already lookingforward to after Christmaswhen more people join a gym.”
Sally Clayton, 40, is theowner of new age shop AngelsWings on Farmers Fold. Sheadded:“I was based in theindoor market, but sincemoving into a store inSeptember there has been adefinite rise in business.”
And with business picking up,Wolverhampton City CentreCompany has launched a bestpractice guide that hopes tospur further development.
Manager Kim Gilmour said:“We published the guide tohelp people get started as wereceive so many requests andthe process of opening up orimproving an empty shop canoften be harder than peopleimagine.”
With shops slowly filling andhelp on hand,Wolverhamptonis now bucking the nationaltrend in terms of empty shops.
The city was labelled ashaving the highest percentageof vacant shops in a surveyearlier this year, but whereasthe national average has risen,Wolverhampton’s percentagehas dropped in the last sixmonths.
Kim said:“There are over onemillion visitors to the city centreeach month and, as the economypicks up, new retailers willrecognise this potential and wewill see a gradual improvementin the city centre.”
The council’s director forsustainable communities SteveBoyes said:“The city council isworking hard with its partnersto stimulate growth across thecity.
“The WolverhamptonBusiness Grant Suite, funded by£526,000 from the WorkingNeighbourhoods Fund, providesgrants to new businessesincluding retail, and we’reconfident that this package willstart to have a positive impacton city centre shopping.”
EXTRA shopping days arebeing laid on at city councilrun markets inWolverhampton,Wednesfieldand Bilston this Christmas.
Eight days have been added to thecalendar as market traders gear upto help customers beat the recessionand bag a bargain.
Bilston’s indoor and outdoormarkets, which normally close onTuesdays and Wednesdays, will openon Tuesdays December 14 and 21and Wednesdays December 15 and22.The indoor market will also betrading on Sundays December 12 and19. Bilston has more than 200 stalls
and units as well as a modern café.Wednesfield outdoor market –
with 26 street stalls inthe High Street – andWolverhampton citycentre’s indoor andoutdoor markets, withmore than 100 stalls willboth open for an extraday on ThursdayDecember 23.
Sue Handy, thecouncil’s head ofmarkets service, said:“Christmas is such abusy and stressful timefor customers, especiallywhen they’re worriedabout budgets.That’swhy we’re having extraopening days at themarkets so shopperscan be sure they getfresh produce and lastminute presents at agood price.”
For a full schedule ofopening times go towww.wolverhampton.gov.uk/markets or call01902 555213.
Christmas carols could bedrowned out this year when Santaarrives in Wolverhampton...accompanied by a massivemonster truck.
Big Pete, as the roaring truck isknown, will follow Father Christmasas part of a reindeer parade on theDecember 11. Elves and streetentertainers will also join in theprocession, which takes place frommidday in Queen Square.
But it’s not the only treatWolverhampton has in store this
Christmas – late-night shopping,Christmas markets a 3D panto and afantasy themed grotto are among thesack full of attractions.
Mark Blackstock, Civic Halls andoutdoor events manager, said:“At atime when there is a fair amount ofgloom around, we are keepingChristmas cheery.We have a verywide spectrum of events that are allessentially fun – and fun is our oneaim during this time of seasonal joy.”
Between December 10 and 19 aChristmas market will fill Dudley
Street and parts of the city centre tooffer shoppers a wide-range ofChristmas gifts. And every Wednesdayuntil December 22 and every weekdaynight from December 13 to 23 therewill be free parking from 5.30pm inselected car parks during late nightshopping when city centre shops willbe open until 9pm.
And with the usual light switch-ons,firework displays, brass bands andstreet entertainers, the city isheading for a real winter wonderlandthis Christmas.
A CAMPAIGN hasbeen launched inWolverhampton GPpractices to immunisearound 35,000 peopleagainst flu.
People eligible forfree immunisation arebeing reminded of theimportance ofprotecting themselvesfrom the virus and itspotentially seriouscomplications, whichinclude bronchitis andpneumonia.
Ros Jervis, consultantin public health forWolverhampton CityPCT, said:“Seasonal fluimmunisation is wellestablished inWolverhampton andGP practices and thePCT’s public healthteam work very hard toensure that thoseeligible for a free flu jabare immunised.”
This year’s vaccineincludes protectionagainst the threeviruses which arepredicted to becirculating during thewinter months –including H1N1 swineflu.
Groups that qualifyfor free immunisationinclude:● pregnant womenwho have not alreadyreceived the H1N1vaccine● people 65 and over● front line health andsocial care workers● poultry workers ● main carers of anelderly or disabledperson whose welfaremay be at risk if thecarer falls ill.● adults and childrenover six months in theusual seasonal clinicalrisk groups includingpeople with chronicheart disease, kidney orliver disease, and peoplewho have loweredimmunity due todisease or treatment.
GPs ensure patientsin these clinical riskgroups are dealt withon an individual basisand liaise withconsultant colleagueswhere appropriate.
GP practices usuallyinvite their eligiblepatients forimmunisation, however,anyone who thinks theyare eligible for a freeseasonal flu jab shouldcontact their practicefor advice.
The campaign willrun until the end ofMarch 2011.
SHARON Akpoguma hassigned up as WolverhamptonVolunteers’ 1,000th member– and benefitted immediatelyby finding a paid job.
Working in a local carehome allows her to putsomething back into hercommunity and has proved tobe an important step on thecareer ladder.
But things were not alwaysso rosy.
After being out of work fortwo years while she broughtup her baby, she struggled tosecure interviews for jobseven though she is a qualifiedhealthcare assistant.
Then she signed up at theWolverhampton VolunteerCentre and the rest, as theysay, is history.
She wanted her volunteeringto help boost her futureemployability, and identifiedfour local care homes close toher home, before the centrehelped her out with referrals.
She attended a one weekwork skills course at the Cityof Wolverhampton College,and a food hygiene level 2course.
After completing these sheattended an interview for avolunteer’s post at a carehome where staff were soimpressed with her CV andcommitment they offered hera part-time paid position of16-21 hours a week.
Sharon said:“It was of greatbenefit attending thevolunteer centre and ithelped me to get my job.”
She hopes to be able toincrease her hours soon andhas started a one year healthand wellbeing course at theUniversity of Wolverhampton.● Wolverhampton Volunteersare open for drop-in visitsMonday-Friday 10am-2pm at16 Temple Street,Wolverhampton,WV2 4AN.Tel. 01902 328980.
POPULAR apprenticeshipsat the City ofWolverhampton College arehelping people already in ajob to boost their skills.
One of the largestapprenticeship programmesin the West Midlands offerssupport to people working inmore than 20 differentindustry sectors.
One apprentice currentlyenjoying the benefits of acollege course is AmieManuell, a bar assistant atLight House Media Centrewho is working towards herNVQ level 2 in food anddrink.
Amie, aged 23, said:“Ialready had my food hygienecertificate but felt thatstudying towards my NVQ
would give me somethingelse to put on my CV, andthe fact I could studytowards it while at workmade it a lot easier.
“I would never have hadthe confidence to do theNVQ myself but now I knowit’s not as scary as you thinkand I event want to study thenext level.
“Unlike at college youwork with an assessor on aone-to-one basis so I feelcomfortable asking questionsas I don’t have a class ofstudents staring at me.”
“It’s really useful studyingwhile I work as I am in theright environment I need tobe to gain the practicalexperience.
“I’ve even been able to
choose modules in my NVQthat back up what I do in myjob.”
People who already have ajob could combine it with anapprenticeship and gainqualifications while they work– and it won’t cost a penny.● Places are filling up fast.Tofind out more ring CollegeDirect on 01902 836000.
Extra market daysfor festive bargains
Bilston Market traders... above, Gemma Stanley atSuzanne’s Frock Shop and, below, Laura Kilvertwith a selection of cards and gifts for sale onher stall. Thriving businesses
replace empty shops
Kim Gilmour and Marianne Carter of WolverhamptonCity Centre Company and Katie Fellowes of the ManderCentre at the launch of the best practice guide.
Richard Leighton inthe We Create shop.
GPs aimto giveflu jabsto 35,000people inthe city
Volunteer work ledto paid employment
Combining job withan apprenticeship
Bar Assistant Amie Manuell.
Care Assistant Sharon Akpoguma.
Andy Turner,left, and Lee
Hudson ready forthe Christmas rushat Wolverhampton
Market.
Page 6 One City News One City News Page 7
WOLVERHAMPTONPARTNERSHIPwww.wton-partnership.org.ukTel: 01902 310805
WOLVERHAMPTON CITYCOUNCILwww.wolverhampton.gov.ukwww.twitter.com/wolvescouncilTel: 01902 551155
WEST MIDLANDS POLICEwww.west-midlands.police.ukTel: 0345 113 5000 or inan emergency 999www.wolverhamptonpolice.org.ukwww.facebook.com/wolverhamptonpolicewww.twitter.com/wolvespolicewww.youtube.com/westmidlandspolice
ABCDwww.abcd-ndc.org.ukTel: 01902 556747
WOLVERHAMPTON CITYPRIMARY CARE TRUSTwww.wolvespct.nhs.ukTel: 01902 444888
WOLVERHAMPTONVOLUNTARY SECTORCOUNCILwww.wolverhamptonvsc.org.ukTel: 01902 773761
WOLVERHAMPTONNETWORK CONSORTIUMwww.w-n-c.orgTel: 01902 572020
CITY OFWOLVERHAMPTONCOLLEGEwww.wolverhamptoncollege.ac.ukTel: 01902 836000
WEST MIDLANDS FIREAND RESCUEwww.wmfs.netTel: 0121 380 7404
SAFERWOLVERHAMPTONPARTNERSHIPwww.saferw-ton.orgTel: 01902 572014
WOLVERHAMPTONHOMESwww.wolverhamptonhomes.org.ukTel: 01902 556789lyndsey.george@wolverhamptonhomes.org.ukwww.wolverhamptonhomes.org.ukwww.twitter.com/WolvesHomeswww.youtube.com/WolvesHomes
FOR EVENTS IN THECITY:www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/visitwww.twitter.com/eventsinwolves
One City contacts
THRIVING new businesses arereplacing empty shops inWolverhampton city centre.Over the past few monthsseveral shops have opened forbusiness, including twoconvenience stores, two fashionshops and a Polish bakery.
It comes after a £52,000 cashinjection from the Empty ShopsInitiative helped to transform40 vacant units – by openingthem up for community use ordressing them up with windowimages.
Among the new additions isGym Squid, a student gym onLichfield Street proving thatnew businesses can succeed.
Owner and head trainerElliot Shuttleworth said:“Therewere no gyms in the citycentre and what there was inthe area was expensive.Wethought students should have adiscount place for them to go.
“Business is going really welland we are already lookingforward to after Christmaswhen more people join a gym.”
Sally Clayton, 40, is theowner of new age shop AngelsWings on Farmers Fold. Sheadded:“I was based in theindoor market, but sincemoving into a store inSeptember there has been adefinite rise in business.”
And with business picking up,Wolverhampton City CentreCompany has launched a bestpractice guide that hopes tospur further development.
Manager Kim Gilmour said:“We published the guide tohelp people get started as wereceive so many requests andthe process of opening up orimproving an empty shop canoften be harder than peopleimagine.”
With shops slowly filling andhelp on hand,Wolverhamptonis now bucking the nationaltrend in terms of empty shops.
The city was labelled ashaving the highest percentageof vacant shops in a surveyearlier this year, but whereasthe national average has risen,Wolverhampton’s percentagehas dropped in the last sixmonths.
Kim said:“There are over onemillion visitors to the city centreeach month and, as the economypicks up, new retailers willrecognise this potential and wewill see a gradual improvementin the city centre.”
The council’s director forsustainable communities SteveBoyes said:“The city council isworking hard with its partnersto stimulate growth across thecity.
“The WolverhamptonBusiness Grant Suite, funded by£526,000 from the WorkingNeighbourhoods Fund, providesgrants to new businessesincluding retail, and we’reconfident that this package willstart to have a positive impacton city centre shopping.”
EXTRA shopping days arebeing laid on at city councilrun markets inWolverhampton,Wednesfieldand Bilston this Christmas.
Eight days have been added to thecalendar as market traders gear upto help customers beat the recessionand bag a bargain.
Bilston’s indoor and outdoormarkets, which normally close onTuesdays and Wednesdays, will openon Tuesdays December 14 and 21and Wednesdays December 15 and22.The indoor market will also betrading on Sundays December 12 and19. Bilston has more than 200 stalls
and units as well as a modern café.Wednesfield outdoor market –
with 26 street stalls inthe High Street – andWolverhampton citycentre’s indoor andoutdoor markets, withmore than 100 stalls willboth open for an extraday on ThursdayDecember 23.
Sue Handy, thecouncil’s head ofmarkets service, said:“Christmas is such abusy and stressful timefor customers, especiallywhen they’re worriedabout budgets.That’swhy we’re having extraopening days at themarkets so shopperscan be sure they getfresh produce and lastminute presents at agood price.”
For a full schedule ofopening times go towww.wolverhampton.gov.uk/markets or call01902 555213.
Christmas carols could bedrowned out this year when Santaarrives in Wolverhampton...accompanied by a massivemonster truck.
Big Pete, as the roaring truck isknown, will follow Father Christmasas part of a reindeer parade on theDecember 11. Elves and streetentertainers will also join in theprocession, which takes place frommidday in Queen Square.
But it’s not the only treatWolverhampton has in store this
Christmas – late-night shopping,Christmas markets a 3D panto and afantasy themed grotto are among thesack full of attractions.
Mark Blackstock, Civic Halls andoutdoor events manager, said:“At atime when there is a fair amount ofgloom around, we are keepingChristmas cheery.We have a verywide spectrum of events that are allessentially fun – and fun is our oneaim during this time of seasonal joy.”
Between December 10 and 19 aChristmas market will fill Dudley
Street and parts of the city centre tooffer shoppers a wide-range ofChristmas gifts. And every Wednesdayuntil December 22 and every weekdaynight from December 13 to 23 therewill be free parking from 5.30pm inselected car parks during late nightshopping when city centre shops willbe open until 9pm.
And with the usual light switch-ons,firework displays, brass bands andstreet entertainers, the city isheading for a real winter wonderlandthis Christmas.
A CAMPAIGN hasbeen launched inWolverhampton GPpractices to immunisearound 35,000 peopleagainst flu.
People eligible forfree immunisation arebeing reminded of theimportance ofprotecting themselvesfrom the virus and itspotentially seriouscomplications, whichinclude bronchitis andpneumonia.
Ros Jervis, consultantin public health forWolverhampton CityPCT, said:“Seasonal fluimmunisation is wellestablished inWolverhampton andGP practices and thePCT’s public healthteam work very hard toensure that thoseeligible for a free flu jabare immunised.”
This year’s vaccineincludes protectionagainst the threeviruses which arepredicted to becirculating during thewinter months –including H1N1 swineflu.
Groups that qualifyfor free immunisationinclude:● pregnant womenwho have not alreadyreceived the H1N1vaccine● people 65 and over● front line health andsocial care workers● poultry workers ● main carers of anelderly or disabledperson whose welfaremay be at risk if thecarer falls ill.● adults and childrenover six months in theusual seasonal clinicalrisk groups includingpeople with chronicheart disease, kidney orliver disease, and peoplewho have loweredimmunity due todisease or treatment.
GPs ensure patientsin these clinical riskgroups are dealt withon an individual basisand liaise withconsultant colleagueswhere appropriate.
GP practices usuallyinvite their eligiblepatients forimmunisation, however,anyone who thinks theyare eligible for a freeseasonal flu jab shouldcontact their practicefor advice.
The campaign willrun until the end ofMarch 2011.
SHARON Akpoguma hassigned up as WolverhamptonVolunteers’ 1,000th member– and benefitted immediatelyby finding a paid job.
Working in a local carehome allows her to putsomething back into hercommunity and has proved tobe an important step on thecareer ladder.
But things were not alwaysso rosy.
After being out of work fortwo years while she broughtup her baby, she struggled tosecure interviews for jobseven though she is a qualifiedhealthcare assistant.
Then she signed up at theWolverhampton VolunteerCentre and the rest, as theysay, is history.
She wanted her volunteeringto help boost her futureemployability, and identifiedfour local care homes close toher home, before the centrehelped her out with referrals.
She attended a one weekwork skills course at the Cityof Wolverhampton College,and a food hygiene level 2course.
After completing these sheattended an interview for avolunteer’s post at a carehome where staff were soimpressed with her CV andcommitment they offered hera part-time paid position of16-21 hours a week.
Sharon said:“It was of greatbenefit attending thevolunteer centre and ithelped me to get my job.”
She hopes to be able toincrease her hours soon andhas started a one year healthand wellbeing course at theUniversity of Wolverhampton.● Wolverhampton Volunteersare open for drop-in visitsMonday-Friday 10am-2pm at16 Temple Street,Wolverhampton,WV2 4AN.Tel. 01902 328980.
POPULAR apprenticeshipsat the City ofWolverhampton College arehelping people already in ajob to boost their skills.
One of the largestapprenticeship programmesin the West Midlands offerssupport to people working inmore than 20 differentindustry sectors.
One apprentice currentlyenjoying the benefits of acollege course is AmieManuell, a bar assistant atLight House Media Centrewho is working towards herNVQ level 2 in food anddrink.
Amie, aged 23, said:“Ialready had my food hygienecertificate but felt thatstudying towards my NVQ
would give me somethingelse to put on my CV, andthe fact I could studytowards it while at workmade it a lot easier.
“I would never have hadthe confidence to do theNVQ myself but now I knowit’s not as scary as you thinkand I event want to study thenext level.
“Unlike at college youwork with an assessor on aone-to-one basis so I feelcomfortable asking questionsas I don’t have a class ofstudents staring at me.”
“It’s really useful studyingwhile I work as I am in theright environment I need tobe to gain the practicalexperience.
“I’ve even been able to
choose modules in my NVQthat back up what I do in myjob.”
People who already have ajob could combine it with anapprenticeship and gainqualifications while they work– and it won’t cost a penny.● Places are filling up fast.Tofind out more ring CollegeDirect on 01902 836000.
Extra market daysfor festive bargains
Bilston Market traders... above, Gemma Stanley atSuzanne’s Frock Shop and, below, Laura Kilvertwith a selection of cards and gifts for sale onher stall. Thriving businesses
replace empty shops
Kim Gilmour and Marianne Carter of WolverhamptonCity Centre Company and Katie Fellowes of the ManderCentre at the launch of the best practice guide.
Richard Leighton inthe We Create shop.
GPs aimto giveflu jabsto 35,000people inthe city
Volunteer work ledto paid employment
Combining job withan apprenticeship
Bar Assistant Amie Manuell.
Care Assistant Sharon Akpoguma.
Andy Turner,left, and Lee
Hudson ready forthe Christmas rushat Wolverhampton
Market.
Page 8 One City News
Academies getthe go-ahead
A CHEAP Christmas treat ison the menu forWolverhampton at thecollege’s AcademyRestaurant.
During December guestscan tuck into a three-courseChristmas lunch or dinner,and you won’t need a sackfulof cash to pay for it.
For just £12 for lunch or£15 for dinner, diners canselect their festive favouritesfrom the menu beforewinding down with a merrymince pie or Christmaspudding.
The Academy Restaurant,based at the Metro Onecampus, is a culinaryclassroom, allowing buddingchefs to sharpen their skillsand cut the mustard in a realworking environment.● A deposit is required. Formore information or to booka meal, call the restaurant on01902 821340 or 821350.
Festive treattops menu atcollege diner
ITALIAN students sampleduniversity life in the UKduring a visit toWolverhampton.
Fourteen students from theUniversity of Turin attendedlectures at the city’suniversity for four weeks.
It was part of an on-goingrelationship between the twouniversities, which is now inits tenth year.
Mamma mia!Italians enjoyvisiting city
THE University ofWolverhampton has bagged a topaward for its commitment toFairtrade.
It was named runner-up in theOutstanding Achievementcategory of this year’s FairtradeFortnight Awards after hosting aseries of events for staff andstudents.
Fairtrade is about better prices,decent working conditions, localsustainability, and fair terms oftrade for farmers and workers inthe developing world.
Conventional trade candiscriminate against the poorest,weakest producers, but Fairtradeenables them to improve theirposition and have more controlover their lives.
Jon Elsmere, joint chair of theuniversity’s Fairtrade steeringgroup, said:“This was a real teameffort. Staff, students and, inparticular, our partnership withthe Students’ Union really made ithappen for us this year.”
The university was presentedwith the award during a ceremonyat the annual Fairtrade SupporterConference in London.
Universityscoops awardfor Fairtrade
TWO new school academies inWolverhampton have had the go-aheadfor a rebuild, despite national cutbacks inspending.
South Wolverhampton and Bilston Academy(SWB Academy) and North EastWolverhampton Academy (NEW Academy) willstill get their new buildings because financialdeals had already been signed.
The University of Wolverhampton, City ofWolverhampton College and the city councilsponsor the two academies.
Ian Millard, principal of City ofWolverhampton College, said:“It’s a huge reliefto be told we can go ahead with our plans torebuild the two academies.
“We are delighted that the Governmentrecognised how far advanced the plans werefor them and the significance of the buildingprogramme to the pupils, staff and the wholecommunity.This investment in the two newacademies will be a huge boost to the city,providing 21st century education facilities forour young people, and building better andbrighter futures for our communities.”
The Northicote School merged withPendeford Business and Enterprise College inSeptember to form NEW Academy.A newbuilding will open in 2013/14, enabling pupils tobe taught in purpose-built facilities.
SWB Academy is currently on the site of theformer Parkfield High School, but will relocate
in 2012 to a new purpose-built secondaryschool in Bilston.
Principal of SWB Academy Kerry Insckersaid:“Since we opened in September 2009,SWB Academy staff have been relentlesslyfocused on providing a first-class education forour students.
“It is wonderful to be able to celebrate ourfirst year as an academy with the news that thefunding for our new building is secure.”
BSF, the biggest ever school investmentprogramme, was cut back by the government inJuly. In the recent spending review, however, itwas announced that £158 billion would bemade available to refurbish and rebuild some600 schools.
Partners join forces to help victims of domestic violence
Residents celebrate 12 months of improved lettings schemeA GROUNDBREAKING scheme that has helpedfind new homes for hundreds of people in thecity is celebrating a successful first year.
Homes in the City was launched in November2009 to give customers the opportunity to bidfor properties in a different way to the oldpoints system – via the internet, phone or bytext.
One happy customer is Sue Middleton,pictured, 51, who recently used the scheme.
She said:“I would definitely recommend usingHomes in the City to anyone looking for ahome. It’s much better than the old pointssystem as you can see photos of all the differentproperties so it gives you a lot more insight intowhat’s available. Plus, best of all, you can do itonline from the comfort of your own livingroom.”
The scheme covers all Wolverhampton CityCouncil properties managed by WolverhamptonHomes, as well as other social and private sectorlandlords.
Pauline Evans, voids and lettings manager forWolverhampton Homes, said:“Ultimately, ouraim is to provide suitable, affordable housing foras many people as possible.
“We have invested significant resource intodeveloping this scheme which has transformedhow properties are let in the city, making it muchmore accessible and transparent than before.”● For more information call 01902 556789 orvisit www.homesinthecity.org.uk
A MULTI-AGENCY team inWolverhampton is helping toreduce the pain and suffering foradult and child victims of domesticviolence.
It was set up to provide aquicker response to domesticviolence, to prevent spirallingabuse and the risk of furtherphysical or emotional harm.
The team consists of theWolverhampton DomesticViolence Forum, an adult abusepolice officer, a child protectionpolice officer, a children’s socialworker, a housing officer, a criminaljustice support services co-ordinator, an independentdomestic violence advisor and asafeguarding children’s nurse.
Kathy Cole-Evans, strategy co-ordinator for theWolverhampton DomesticViolence Forum, said:“Thisfront-line multi-agency teamenables us to jointly manage highrisk domestic violence casesearlier and more effectively whichhelps to prevent the spiral ofabuse and reduces the risk offurther serious harm and injury.
“We also assess and respond tothe risks to children of witnessingand experiencing domesticviolence.”
The Christmas and New Yearperiod is a particularly busy timefor domestic violence services inthe city.
Kathy added:“Christmas can be
a time of exceptional family stressand in the current financial climatethere are often significant moneyworries to contend with toowhich can contribute to domesticabuse.”
Anyone experiencing domesticviolence can call one of thefollowing numbers to speak to anexpert for support, advice and help:
The Haven – 01902 713001provides emergency temporaryaccommodation for women andchildren, housing advice, specialistsupport in the community,counselling services for womenand children, independentadvocacy, and immigration andbenefits advice.
The National DV Helpline –0800 20000247 provides adviceand support for victims ofdomestic violence, friends andfamily of a victim of domesticviolence or professionals who dealwith domestic violence victimsdirectly or indirectly.
And for men who suffer domesticabuse the Men’s Advice Line –0808 8010327 providesemotional support, practical adviceand signposting to specialistservices for advice on legal issues,housing, child contact, mentalhealth and wellbeing and otherissues.
In an emergency call 999.
One City News Page 9
Safety drivestarts again
GRITTING crews are on stand-by now theovernight weather is being monitored acrossWolverhampton for frost and snow.
Extra supplies of rock salt have been broughtin as highways bosses prepare to keep the citymoving if harsh winter weather arrives.
Ten gritters, which have snow ploughs attachedto the front, have been road tested and theirspinners calibrated and set for a variety of saltspread rates.
Up to 24 drivers operate in two shifts 24/7 withthe city council able to call on a further 50 stafffrom the highways department if needed.Thedrivers have already been out familiarisingthemselves with their routes.
Ian Law, highway operational services manager,said:“We’ve got a fabulous gritting team.You
just have to look at how they performed lastyear and the year before.They always come uptrumps.”
Steve Woodward, head of street scene services,said:“Although Wolverhampton did not run outof gritting salt last winter, there were pressureson supply nationally and we want to ensure thatwe have satisfactory supplies in case we haveanother harsh winter this time around.
“The initial 2,500 tonnes of our rock saltsupply is coated with molasses, a by-product ofthe sugar making process.
“This is slightly more expensive than standardrock salt but gives better coverage of thenetwork as it sticks to the road when it isapplied.The additional 1,000 tonnes will bestandard rock salt.”
True grit team ready for any cold snap
A campaign to help Christmasrevellers in Wolverhampton staysafe is being run for the thirdtime this year.
Keep It Safe was so successful inprevious years that the SaferWolverhampton Partnership is pumping£60,000 into running a similar operationover nine nights on Thursday, Friday andSaturdays in December.
The 2009 campaign organised byWolverhampton City Primary Care Trustand had a dramatic impact.
City centre antisocial behaviour fell by48 per cent compared to the sameperiod in 2007, violent crime dropped by26 per cent, alcohol related ambulancecalls outs were down by 7 per cent andthere was an 18 per cent drop inhospital accident and emergencyadmissions.
Campaign director Ros Jervis,
consultant in public health for the PCT,said:“Last year our aim was to promoteWolverhampton as a fun and safe placeto come and celebrate Christmas.
“The campaign achieved all itsobjectives, producing extremely positiveresults for the city and local people, sowe’re delighted to have been givenfunding to run another campaign thisyear.”
Planned initiatives include a temporarymedical centre for minor injuries notneeding hospital treatment, combinedwith a safe haven offering warm drinkswhere people can rest while waiting forpre-booked taxis, at the EPIC youth caféin Lichfield Street in the city centre andstewards on the taxi rank in MarketStreet.
Voluntary street pastors will offerhelp, comfort and advice while safe sexand sensible drinking messages will be
promoted via a range of merchandiseincluding anti-spiking bottle tops andcondom key rings.
Bluetooth technology will be used tooffer safety messages after the mobilephone messaging service proved successfulduring a summer World Cup campaignfocussed on domestic violence, alcohol-related harm and antisocial behaviour.
Feedback showed between nine and tenthousand people downloaded feed toBluetooth enabled phones.
This year’s campaign will again bedelivered in partnership with a numberof agencies and organisations includingWolverhampton City Council,WestMidlands Police,West Midlands FireService, the Wolverhampton City CentreCompany, Pub Watch, licensed tradersand the mini-cab and Hackney cab trade,Wolverhampton Domestic ViolenceForum and the British Red Cross.
Ros Jervis, consultant in public health medicine at Wolverhampton City PCT, right, and a member of staff atYates’s hand out spikeys and condom key rings to revellers.
Action plan canbeat burglars
NEET training schemescoops national award
RESIDENTS are being reminded not toadvertise their home to thieves as part of apolice blitz on burglars to tie in with Christmasand winter nights.
West Midlands Police has set up a taskforceto tackle the issue as part of Operation Verve, aseasonal initiative aimed at cutting acquisitivecrime and antisocial behaviour.
And with the nights getting darker in the runup to Christmas householders are beingencouraged to play their part by switching onto some simple crime prevention tactics.
Crime prevention expert PC Mark Ledo said:“Leaving your house in total darkness is a suresign no-one’s at home and an invitation toburglars. Leaving a light on costs literally pencein electricity – and that pales into insignificancecompared to the hundreds of pounds ininsurance excess you might have to pay shouldyour home be broken in to.”
Almost one-in-five of all break-ins are as aresult of properties being left insecure sochecking all windows and doors are lockedbefore leaving the house is crucial.
PC Ledo added:“Also, never leave a spare keyunder the doormat or a flowerpot. Burglars willalways look there first so it’s not much of ahiding place.”
Superintendent Steve Jupp, who heads-up thetaskforce, said:“Communities are telling usburglary is a major concern and we’veresponded by making it a priority.
“I want all officers to know and recognise theburglars who are causing most pain in ourcommunities.We all have a part to play inbringing these offenders to justice.”
A CITY ofWolverhamptonCollege programmedesigned to tackle thenumber of youngpeople who drop out ofeducation and traininghas scooped a regionalaward.
Its work to helpNEETS (people not ineducation, employmentand training) over theage of 16 has won theEqual OpportunitiesSpecialist Award at thisyear’s ESFMainstreaming LeaderAwards forencouraging peopleback into learning.
The scheme, which
has worked with over200 vulnerableyoungsters, aims toboost their self-confidence andmotivation and helpthem focus on theirfuture.
Project co-ordinatorJenny Brett said: “As aresult of the projectyoung people whowould not normallyconsider college havegained the confidenceto enrol on courses andare now attendingclasses to improvetheir skills.”● For moreinformation call01902 836000.
Page 10 One City News
A PIONEERING partnershipto help businesses thrive hasbeen launched inWolverhampton with thehelp of the city council.
Wolverhampton BusinessSolutions Centre, thought to bethe first of its kind in the country,aims to provide integrated offers aone-stop shop for business adviceand support..
The partnership brings togetherthe University of Wolverhampton,Black Country Chamber ofCommerce, City ofWolverhampton College,Wolverhampton City Council andBusiness Link West Midlands.
It hopes to have a positive impacton the West Midlands region byproviding fast and convenient accessto business services.
It offers friendly, professional
advice on a huge range of issuesincluding support for businessstart ups; information on serevicesavailable for existing business suchas consultancy andmarket/product research; adviceon injecting new ideas intobusiness, introducing retrainingapprenticeships and mentoring,and information on legalrequirements businesses need tomeet, such as health and safetyand environmental safety.
Councillor Paddy Bradley added:“The Business Solutions Centre isan extremely importantinnovation.We are grateful to theuniversity for taking it on boardand running with it.”
To contact the WolverhamptonBusiness Solutions Centre, call01902 321272 or emailenquiries@wolverhamptonbsc.com
Website helpscompanieswin businessA NEW website that allowsWolverhampton businessesto pitch for and win contractshas been helping to boost thearea’s economy since it waslaunched in September.
Whether it is to get shelvesup or have a websiteprofessionally designed,www.finditinwolverhampton.co.uk enables businesses topost their needs and havethem met by local suppliers.
Users of the website alsobenefit from free networkingevents, seminars and courses– all designed to helpbusinesses win more work.
Project manager JennyLong said:“We already have800 people registered on thesite, helping them to find newbusiness opportunities everyday.”
Business people fromacross the city attended thewebsite’s launch at theMolineux Stadium inSeptember.
Simon Warren, chiefexecutive of WolverhamptonCity Council, told guests:“The number one priorityfor this council is economicregeneration.We’re not hereto make jobs – we’re here tocreate the right conditionsfor you to make jobs.”
Councillor Paddy Bradleyadded:“Wolverhampton willrely on its small andmedium-sized businesses alot more in the future – theywill create a lot of jobs forthe city over the comingyears.”● Anyone from a localbusiness can register on thewebsite for free. For moreinformation visitwww.finditinwolverhampton.co.uk
Centre offers helpto local business
Campaign helpsto stub out litterLITTERBUGS were the target ofa crackdown campaign inWolverhampton city centre.Clean City Days were set up tohighlight the problem oflittering, which includes smokerswho drop cigarette butts on thefloor.
The council’s Streetsceneteam, who have featured onITV’s Grimefighters, scoured thestreets dressed as litter in a bidto encourage people to playtheir part in tackling the issue.
Local police issued on thespot fines of up to £50 to thosecaught dropping rubbish, whilethe fire service were on hand tohighlight the dangers ofdiscarding cigarettes.
The city council, primary caretrust, police and fire services alljoined forces for the event, whichwas organised by WolverhamptonCity Centre Company.
Manager Kim Gilmour said:“Cigarette waste, particularly inhot spot areas around doorentrances, is causing anincreasing problem and, alongwith education and someenforcement, we gave outcigarette pouches as anincentive to dispose of cigarettewaste responsibly.
“Over the four weekcampaign overall there was afive per cent drop in litter, whichis excellent news for everyonewho uses the city centre.”
Steve Boyes from Wolverhampton City Council, Ian Grewcockfrom Business Link West Midlands, Professor Ian Oakes fromthe University of Wolverhampton, Margaret Corneby from theBlack Country Chamber of Commerce and Bhanu Dhir fromthe City of Wolverhampton College.
Grimefighter Lewis Carrington with,left to right, Loxley Longmore, Lucy Bickleyand Anne Allan promote the Clean City Days.
Grimefighter Lewis Carrington with,left to right, Loxley Longmore, Lucy Bickleyand Anne Allan promote the Clean City Days.
CREDIT union staff have beengoing out to promote theirservice in the run up toChristmas.
They have been tellingresidents how they can saveregularly and borrow within theirmeans to help them throughdifficult financial times.
The Wolf Savings and LoansCredit Union offers easy overthe counter access at its branchin Worcester Street andstatements can be viewed online.
Lisa Summers, from WolfSavings and Loans, said: “We areencouraging people to save. Noamount is too small and they cantake advantage of the free lifecover we offer.
“We also offer lending to peoplewho may be financially-excludedand have funding from theDepartment of Work andPensions, so we are able to lend tothem straight away.”● For more information pleasecontact Wolf Savings and Loanson 01902 572340 or visitwww.wolfsavingsandloans.co.uk
Saving andlending advice
WOLVERHAMPTONHomes is remindingtenants to put their rentfirst when budgeting forChristmas with therelaunch of an annualcampaign.
The Rent First drive ispromoted by postersthroughout the city.
Anne Herrmann, headof rents management atWolverhampton Homes,said: “We know thereare many pressures inthe run up to Christmasbut it is important forpeople to put their rentfirst.
“As always, during thiscampaign, our staff willbe on hand with helpfuladvice and informationfor our tenants.”
Pictured, Carole Isaccsand Gary Rolans enjoysplashing out on a niceholiday once they've paidtheir rent.● Free help and
advice is available to
anyone in debt or
having difficulty
paying their rent and
bills.
For information call
Wolf Savings & Loans
on 01902 572240.
Families urged to put rent first at Christmas
One City News Page 11
WOLVERHAMPTON’SGP out-of-hours servicefor urgent medical carewill be running from6.30pm on Friday,December 24 until 8amon Wednesday,December 29.
Over New Year theservice will run from6.30pm on Friday,December 31 until 8amon Tuesday, January 3.
The service is run byPrimecare and providesurgent medicaltreatment when patientsown surgeries are closed.
Anyone needing carecan call 0845 145 1800or their GP practicewhich will either divertto Primecare or directthem to the out of hoursnumber.
Patients’ symptomswill be assessed anddepending on theirhealth condition, theywill be given advice overthe phone, anappointment to see adoctor at the Phoenixhealth centre inWolverhampton, or ahome visit if necessary.
Anyone needingemergency dentaltreatment over thefestive holiday shouldfirst phone their dentalpractice. If the practice isclosed there will berecorded information onhow to get treatment.
Anyone who does nothave a regular dentist andwho needs emergencydental care can make anappointment at one ofthe city’s NHS dentalaccess centres by calling01902 444111 or444112 Monday toFriday 8.30am-4.30pm(excluding bank holidays).
NHS charges applyexcept for patients whoare exempt frompayment.
If centres are closed,call 07931 459707between 6.30-8.30pm onweekdays or telephone07774 778597 between9-11.30am on weekendsand bank holidays.
CHRISTMAS DAY – SATURDAY 25 DECEMBER 2010
Pharmacy Name Address Open
Alpha Pharmacy 468 Stafford Road, Oxley Wolverhampton WV10 6AN 11am-1pmBilston Pharmacy 74 Church Street, Bilston WV14 0AX 7am-1pmNewbridge Pharmacy 325 Tettenhall Road, Newbridge,Wolverhampton WV6 OJZ 10am-12 noonPhoenix Pharmacy Phoenix Health Centre, Parkfield Road,Wolverhampton WV4 6ED 10am-6pmPortobello Chemist 1a Vaughan Road, Portobello,Willenhall WV13 3TJ 9am-11am
BOXING DAY – SUNDAY 26 DECEMBER 2010
Pharmacy Name Address Open
Bilston Pharmacy 74 Church Street, Bilston WV14 0AX 10am-4pmBoots UK Ltd 40-41 Dudley Street,Wolverhampton WV1 3ER 10.30am-4.30pmBoots UK Ltd Bentley Bridge Retail Park,Wednesfield WV11 1BP 10.30am-4.30pm The Co-operative Pharmacy 8 Showell Circus,Wolverhampton WV10 9BA 9am-11amNewbridge Pharmacy 325 Tettenhall Road, Newbridge,Wolverhampton WV6 OJZ 11am-1pmPhoenix Pharmacy Phoenix Health Centre, Parkfield Road,Wolverhampton WV4 6ED 9am-8pm
BANK HOLIDAY – MONDAY 27 DECEMBER 2010
Pharmacy Name Address Open
Asda Pharmacy Asda Store,Waterloo Road,Wolverhampton WV1 4DE 9am-6pmBilston Pharmacy 74 Church Street, Bilston WV14 0AX 10am-4pmBoots UK Ltd Waitrose Store, Penn Road,Wolverhampton WV2 4NJ 8.30am-6pmBoots UK Ltd Bentley Bridge Retail Park,Wednesfield WV11 1BP 9am-6pmBoots UK Ltd 40-41 Dudley Street,Wolverhampton WV1 3ER 8am-6pmLloyds Pharmacy 18 High Street,Wednesfield WV11 1SZ 10am-2pmMorrisons Pharmacy Black Country Route, Bilston WV14 ODZ 9am-6pmMorrisons Pharmacy Blaydon Road, Pendeford,Wolverhampton WV9 5PG 9am-6pmPhoenix Pharmacy Phoenix Health Centre, Parkfield Road,Wolverhampton WV4 6ED 10am-4pm
BANK HOLIDAY – TUESDAY 28 DECEMBER 2010
Pharmacy Name Address Open
Asda Pharmacy Asda Store,Waterloo Road,Wolverhampton WV1 4DE 9am-6pmBilston Pharmacy 74 Church Street, Bilston WV14 0AX 10am-4pmBoots UK Ltd Waitrose Store, Penn Road,Wolverhampton WV2 4NJ 9am-6pmBoots UK Ltd 40-41 Dudley Street,Wolverhampton WV1 3ER 8am-6pmBoots UK Ltd Bentley Bridge Retail Park,Wednesfield WV11 1BP 8am-8pmBoots UK Ltd 2 Blackhalve Lane,The Scotlands,Wolverhampton WV11 1BQ 10am-2pmMorrisons Pharmacy Black Country Route, Bilston WV14 ODZ 9am-6pmMorrisons Pharmacy Blaydon Road, Pendeford,Wolverhampton WV9 5PG 9am-6pmPhoenix Pharmacy Phoenix Health Centre, Parkfield Road,Wolverhampton WV4 6ED 10am-4pm
NEW YEAR’S DAY – SATURDAY 1 JANUARY 2011
Pharmacy Name Address Open
Bilston Pharmacy 74 Church Street, Bilston WV14 0AX 10am-4pmBoots UK Ltd 40-41 Dudley Street,Wolverhampton WV1 3ER 10am-5pmBoots UK Ltd Bentley Bridge Retail Park,Wednesfield WV11 1BP 9am-6pmBridgnorth Rd Pharmacy Ltd 41 Bridgnorth Road, Compton,Wolverhampton WV6 8AF 9am-1pmThe Co-operative Pharmacy 1 Raynor Road,Wolverhampton WV10 9QY 9am-5.30pmLloyds Pharmacy 18-20 The Broadway, Bushbury,Wolverhampton WV10 8EB 10am-2pmLloyds Pharmacy 18 High Street,Wednesfield WV11 1SZ 10am-2pmPhoenix Pharmacy Phoenix Health Centre, Parkfield Road,Wolverhampton WV4 6ED 9am-12 midnightStaveley Chemist 212 Staveley Road,Whitmore Reans,Wolverhampton WV1 4RS 9am-2pmSuperdrug Pharmacy Superdrug Store, 65-67 Mander Square,Wolverhampton WV1 3NN 8.30am-5.30pm
SUNDAY 2 JANUARY 2011
Pharmacy Name Address Open
Asda Pharmacy Asda Store,Waterloo Road,Wolverhampton WV1 4DE 10am-4pmBilston Pharmacy 74 Church Street, Bilston WV14 0AX 10am-6pmBoots UK Ltd 40-41 Dudley Street,Wolverhampton WV1 3ER 10.30am-4.30pmBoots UK Ltd Bentley Bridge Retail Park,Wednesfield WV11 1BP 10.30am-4.30pmBoots UK Ltd Waitrose Store, Penn Road,Wolverhampton WV2 4NJ 10am-4pmMorrisons Pharmacy Black Country Route, Bilston WV14 ODZ 10am-4pmMorrisons Pharmacy Blaydon Road, Pendeford,Wolverhampton WV9 5PG 10am-4pmPhoenix Pharmacy Phoenix Health Centre, Parkfield Road,Wolverhampton WV4 6ED 9am-8pm
BANK HOLIDAY – MONDAY 3 JANUARY 2011)
Pharmacy Name Address Open
Asda Pharmacy Asda Store,Waterloo Road,Wolverhampton WV1 4DE 9am-6pmBilston Pharmacy 74 Church Street, Bilston WV14 0AX 10am-4pmBoots UK Ltd 40-41 Dudley Street,Wolverhampton WV1 3ER 8am-6pmBoots UK Ltd Bentley Bridge Retail Park,Wednesfield WV11 1BP 9am-6pmBoots UK Ltd Waitrose Store, Penn Road,Wolverhampton WV2 4NJ 10am-6pmBoots UK Ltd 2 Blackhalve Lane,The Scotlands,Wolverhampton WV11 1BQ 10am-2pmMorrisons Pharmacy Black Country Route, Bilston WV14 ODZ 9am-6pmMorrisons Pharmacy Blaydon Road, Pendeford,Wolverhampton WV9 5PG 9am-6pmPhoenix Pharmacy Phoenix Health Centre, Parkfield Road,Wolverhampton WV4 6ED 10am-4pm
Christmas and New Year pharmacy rota 2010/11
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24hr
s,ev
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day
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The
serv
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incl
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:
■ex
peri
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d nu
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who
can
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you
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anxi
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hea
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■he
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advi
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who
hav
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tails
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wid
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s in
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ing
the
open
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s of
loca
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GP
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w t
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for
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all w
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auto
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ly t
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conf
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elep
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inte
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serv
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Cal
ls t
o N
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Dir
ect
are
char
ged
at lo
cal r
ates
and
for
patie
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saf
ety
all c
alls
are
reco
rded
.
NH
S D
irec
t o
n 08
45 4
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xtph
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084
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NH
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Tele
phon
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45 4
6 47
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at
phar
mac
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incl
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■di
spen
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pre
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onl
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ava
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e fr
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of r
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phar
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an
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unab
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on
0845
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r a
list
of c
hem
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supp
lyin
g th
e‘m
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pill
with
out
a pr
escr
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ing
to t
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Phar
mac
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For
mo
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pho
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our
G
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or
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mak
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appo
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GPs
vis
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s at
hom
e on
ly if
the
y de
cide
ther
e is
a m
edic
al n
eed.
If yo
ur s
urge
ry is
clo
sed
and
you
need
urg
ent
advi
ce o
r tr
eatm
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call
NH
S D
irect
or
the
GP
out-
of-h
ours
ser
vice
.
GP
Surg
ery
NH
S O
nlin
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to
a h
osp
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even
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such
as:
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a h
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pro
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hea
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info
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on
the
inte
rnet
by
visi
ting
NH
S D
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ww
w.n
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Wol
verh
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on w
alk-
in c
entr
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rm
inor
illn
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s an
d in
juri
es t
hat
do n
otne
ed h
ospi
tal t
reat
men
t ar
e at
:
■Ph
oeni
x H
ealth
Cen
tre,
Park
field
Roa
d,Pa
rkfie
lds W
V4
6ED
.O
pen
10am
-7pm
Mon
day
to F
rida
y an
d10
am-4
pm w
eeke
nds
and
bank
hol
iday
s.Bu
ses
526
(sto
ps o
utsi
de)
and
558.
■Sh
owel
l Par
k H
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& W
alk-
in C
entr
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fth A
venu
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pen
8am
-8pm
eve
ry d
ay in
clud
ing
bank
hol
iday
s.Bu
ses
598,
532,
533
and
525.
No
appo
intm
ent
nece
ssar
y.Ba
bies
und
er t
he a
geof
12
mon
ths
mus
t be
see
n by
the
ir o
wn
GP.
Adv
ice
and
trea
tmen
t fo
r co
mpl
aint
s in
clud
ing
min
or c
uts,
brui
ses,
burn
s,sc
alds
,hea
d in
juri
esan
d in
sect
bite
s;m
uscl
e an
d jo
int
inju
ries
,bac
kpa
in,c
ough
s,co
lds;
head
ache
and
diz
zine
ss;
stom
ach
ache
,ind
iges
tion,
cons
tipat
ion,
vom
iting
and
diar
rhoe
a;ea
r,no
se a
nd t
hroa
t pr
oble
ms
incl
udin
g m
inor
infe
ctio
ns a
nd s
ore
thro
ats;
eye
prob
lem
s su
ch a
s co
njun
ctiv
itis
and
stye
s;sk
inco
mpl
aint
s in
clud
ing
rash
es,m
inor
alle
rgic
reac
tions
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bies
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d na
ppy
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;ge
nito
-uri
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com
plai
nts
such
as
urin
ary
infe
ctio
ns a
nd t
hrus
h an
d pr
egna
ncy
test
ing,
advi
ce a
nd r
efer
ral,‘
mor
ning
-afte
r’ e
mer
genc
yco
ntra
cept
ion
pill
and
sexu
al h
ealth
adv
ice.
Wal
k-in
Cen
tres
If y
our
GP
sur
gery
is c
lose
d,ur
gent
out
-of
-hou
rs m
edic
al c
are
is p
rovi
ded
byP
rim
ecar
e.
Thi
s se
rvic
e is
for
med
ical
pro
blem
s to
o ur
gent
to w
ait
until
you
r ow
n G
P pr
actic
e is
nex
top
en a
nd r
uns
betw
een
6.30
pm a
nd 8
am in
the
wee
k an
d al
l day
wee
kend
s an
d Ba
nk H
olid
ays.
You
will
ass
esse
d ov
er t
he p
hone
and
giv
enei
ther
hea
lth a
dvic
e,an
app
oint
men
t to
see
ado
ctor
at
at t
he P
hoen
ix H
ealth
Cen
tre
inPa
rkfie
lds
or a
hom
e vi
sit
if ne
cess
ary.
GP
out-
of-h
ours
Tele
phon
e: 0
845
145
1800
Win
ter
2010
/11
Choo
sew
ell.
Ch
oo
se W
ell i
n W
olv
erh
am
pto
nW
olv
erh
amp
ton
Cit
y
Published by Wolverhampton Strategic Partnership. Editorial services, Smith Davis Press. Printed by PCP.