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Weekly News 368

Your view mattters

Our 2024 Resident Survey is now live! 

We have received some very informative and helpful feedback in previous years and your responses have been greatly received.

Please take this opportunity to tell us more about your experience of living in South Staffordshire.

For a chance to win a £50 voucher please complete the survey before 4th November. https://forms.office.com/e/7CP3m77NvY

Your responses will be used to inform future Council decisions.

Affordable homes for local people

 

Housing affordability continues to be a big issue across the district.

Young adults are leaving the rural areas they were brought up in as they’re unable to afford their first home, older people needing to downsize are leaving their support networks due to unsuitable housing options, and businesses are struggling to hire and retain employees due to a lack of affordable housing.

 

South Staffordshire Council is working in partnership with Support Staffordshire and Housing Plus Group to empower communities to identify what affordable homes are needed in their village and where.

Working with an independent Rural Housing Enabler, parish councils have the opportunity to commission a housing needs survey at grass roots level, to find out how many households in the parish are in need of affordable housing. This could be homes for rent or affordable routes to home ownership.

If the survey identifies a local need, parish councils can then, if they wish, explore options for meeting this need with a small development in their village. Affordable homes are strictly reserved for people with a proven local connection.

Interested in finding out more? Contact Senior Housing Strategy Officer, Jennifer Fox, at South Staffordshire Council: j.fox@sstaffs.gov.uk

 

Calling all residents near Codsall!

 

Come explore the Sustainability Dreamhouse—a fun, interactive way to learn how to reduce your carbon footprint and energy usage at home! 🏡

Our @EnterpriseBusinessTeam will be there alongside Community Homes Solutions, sharing expert advice on cost-effective energy-saving tips. Don’t miss out!

📍 Codsall Community Hub

🗓️ Tuesday, 15th October: 12noon – 5pm

🗓️ Wednesday, 16th October: 10am – 2pm

Learn more about the Sustainability Dreamhouse here: https://youtu.be/ZG_rQrukEmM

We can’t wait to see you there!

 

High Street Boost South Staffordshire

 

South Staffordshire retailers are set to benefit from a series of free workshops this autumn, part of the extended ‘High Street Boost’ campaign originally launched in Stafford Borough.

Delivered by retail consultancy Good2Great and funded by the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the initiative aims to support independent businesses in the district’s village centres with workshops taking place in Codsall, Kinver, Penkridge, Womborne, and Brewood.

The workshops will cover a variety of topics designed to help retailers grow, including digital marketing strategies, customer and community engagement, sales techniques, and visual merchandising.

Led by Carmel Allen, an experienced retail expert and former creative director for brands like Heal’s and the Conran Shop, the sessions will offer hands-on advice on subjects like social media and window displays.

Alongside the workshops, participating businesses will also receive one-on-one support tailored to their individual needs, helping them enhance operations, attract more customers, and increase profitability.

“This High Street Boost programme shows our ambition to support new and existing businesses across the district,” said Councillor Mark Evans, South Staffordshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Planning and Enterprise Services. 

To register please visit: https://bit.ly/3zJpJry

 

South Staffordshire council drop-in sessions

 

Are you a resident of Penkridge, Acton Trussell, Bednall, Teddesley Hay, Dunston with Coppenhall, Hatherton, or Huntington? 

We would like to invite you to our drop-in support sessions listed below dedicated to enhancing digital skills, providing welfare assistance and pension support.

Our first drop-in sessions for welfare support and digital adoption are planned over the next few weeks in locality one.

Council teams and partners will be attending the following upcoming events:

Digital support workshop and welfare support session

🏢Haling Dene Centre, Penkridge

📅17th October

⏱️11am till 3pm

Please click below for further information ⬇️

https://www.sstaffs.gov.uk/events

Complimentary refreshments will be available.

Look forward to seeing you there!

 

Artificial intelligence beyond the basics

 

Whatever your level of knowledge of AI, you can access AI educational resources and training to support you in your role.

The NHS Digital Academy resources are free to access and have been approved by a panel of AI in healthcare experts.

 

Keeping our communities safe

As part of the Community Safety Partnership, we work closely with Staffordshire Police and South Staffordshire Police to drive down crime in the district and to identify and tackle the high-priority concerns of our residents.

For free regular updates on this, including the latest crime figures for the area, you can sign up to our newsletter here ⬇️ https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKSSTAFFS/subscriber/new?topic_id=UKSSTAFFS_219

South Staffordshire Councils Village Centre Improvement Fund

 

As part of the Council’s approach to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), a degree of funding was prioritised to support further improvements to our key village centres and high streets.

The Council is now seeking applications aimed at bringing the village centres to life, increasing footfall and improving accessibility.

In principle, projects will be considered which meet support the following objectives:

  • Strengthening social fabric and fostering a sense of local pride.
  • Improving physical, cultural and social ties.
  • Improving amenities, community infrastructure and green space.
  • Building resilient and safe neighbourhoods, through investment in spaces and innovative approaches to crime prevention.
  • Improved accessibility.

The deadline for applications is Thursday 17th October, 2024.

Click here to find out more and register your application.

 

Events in your area

 

Please check out our website for the latest events in your area!

What’s on

 

Job vacancies
  • Estates Officer, closing 20th October
  • Planning Solicitor, open closing date

All vacancies can be viewed in full and applied for on our recruitment site:

Find a job | South Staffordshire District Council (sstaffs.gov.uk)

 

Partnership Updates

 

Compton Care Business Club Event

 

 

 

Leisure Updates

 

Have a Laugh and a Half this October

Local company Curiosity Productions are teaming up with Silly Billy Standup to bring the Laugh and a Half comedy night to Bilbrook Village Hall on 25th October to help raise funds for this great community venue.

You can expect a fantastic line-up of acts from the Midlands comedy circuit.

Winner of Birmingham Breaking Talent Award 2022 Hannah Weetman will be headlining. She was also runner up in 2019 Best New Act category in the West Midlands Comedy Awards. Shortlisted BBC New Act 2023.

Alongside her on the line-up will be…

Danny Clives from Dudley. His sharp joke writing and easy-going charm has seen him support the likes of Joe Lycett, Guz Khan and Nigel Ng (Uncle Roger) on tour, as well as earning him a spot on the prestigious Pleasance Comedy Reserve at the Edinburgh Fringe.

Jonathan Hipkiss has performed in Birmingham, Leicester, Edinburgh, Chicago, New York, LA and now he’s coming to Bilbrook!

MC for the night will be Silly Billy Standup founder Rachel Baker. Funny Women Finalist, BBC New Creative.

Come along and have a laugh with us. There will be a bar serving wine, beer and snacks. Fundraising for Bilbrook Village Hall.

When: Friday 25th October

Doors open 7.30pm, show starts 8pm

Where: Bilbrook Village Hall, Joey’s Lane, WV8 1JL

Tickets: £12.50 from Ticketsource

Contact: 07511 339598 / bilbrookvillagehall@hotmail.com for more information

October school holiday activities

 

This October half term, South Staffordshire Council’s leisure centres have got lots on offer for children and young people.

Here is a quick run down of what’s on:

  • Aspire Active Camps for 5-14 yr olds
  • Wolves Halloween Soccer Schools
  • Daytime swimming programme
  • Active Youth gym sessions for 13 yrs+

To find out more, visit the website at https://www.sstaffs.gov.uk/sports-and-fitness/activities-children-young-people

 

Children’s University Award Scheme – collect stamps with South Staffordshire Swimming Academy

Children’s University is an award scheme for children aged 5 – 14 years, that encourages, tracks and celebrates their participation in learning beyond the classroom.

Children receive a Passport to Learning and they can collect credits, also known as stamps, for each activity they take part in. Credits can be given for taking part in learning experiences and activities at after school clubs, sports clubs, museums, activity centres, and music groups. Children can keep a log of everything they do, and each hour of participation takes them one step closer to their next certificate!

The child’s school or club must be registered with the Children’s University to be able to claim the stamps however parents/carers/guardians can independently subscribe to the scheme should they wish, which enables children who are home schooled, in looked after care or attending virtual schools to join in.  Find out how to subscribe online at https://www.childrensuniversity.co.uk/childrens-university-online/ Children’s University Online (childrensuniversity.co.uk)

Free swimming lessons at Wombourne Leisure Centre

 

Wombourne Leisure centre are looking for swimmers to help with our Advanced swimming teachers course!

Free lessons are available for Angelfish, Shark and Advanced swimmers or Swim England level 7 upwards.

Swimmers are needed between Tuesday, 29th October – Friday, 1st November between 1-1.30pm.

To find out more or reserve a place contact Wombourne Leisure Centre at wombourne@sstaffs.gov.uk or call 01902 898202.

 

Save up to 10% with the Leisure Advantage Card

 

Start saving today with our Leisure Advantage Card!

Customers can enjoy 10% off activities such as swimming, gyms, exercise classes and more with the Leisure Advantage card which is available to children and adults.

Sign up at your nearest leisure centre and start saving now!

Sign up now!

  

Weekly News 367

Council and district news

50th celebratory edition

South Staffordshire Council celebrates 50th anniversary with awards evening and commemorative tree planting  

What an eventful week it’s been!

South Staffordshire Council marked its 50th anniversary with a special celebratory event on Tuesday, 1st October 2024, bringing together 100 invited guests, including the Lord Lieutenant, Chairman of the Council, Leader of the Council, award winners, sponsors, Council Officers, and other distinguished attendees. 

The evening, held at the new Community Hub, highlighted the Council’s significant achievements over the past five decades, honouring the people and projects that have shaped South Staffordshire into a thriving community. Cllr Kath Perry officially opened the event, delivering a heartfelt speech: 

“Today, we honour not just the history, but the people—past and present—who have contributed to our community’s success. As we reflect on these achievements, let us look forward to many more years of collaboration, growth, and progress. So as we look back on the past 50 years, we celebrate not just the council’s achievements, but the spirit of South Staffordshire itself—a place where every resident, every staff member, and every initiative contributes to the rich community life.” 

The evening’s programme reflected on key milestones, from the Council’s official opening on 1st April 1974 to royal visits, the Olympic Flame and Commonwealth baton relays, and the transformational initiatives that have shaped the district.

Highlights included a focus on the major planning developments of the South Staffordshire i54 and Logic 54, which have created around 7,000 jobs, with an additional 7,000 expected. The Council’s investments in commercial assets, now valued at £43.3 million, were also recognised. 

One of the most significant moments of the event was the recognition of South Staffordshire’s volunteers. Awards were presented by the Lord Lieutenant, Mr Ian Dudson, and Chairman of the Council, Cllr Dan Kinsey, in celebration of the incredible dedication and contributions of the local residents. Following the presentations, Cllr Kinsey expressed his gratitude: 

“It has been an absolute honour to present tonight’s awards and celebrate the incredible contributions of our residents. Their dedication and hard work truly shape South Staffordshire into the wonderful place we all love and call home.” 

The celebrations continued the next day, Wednesday, 2nd October, 2024, with the planting of a commemorative Liquidamber Sweet Gum tree at the Community Hub in Codsall.

The tree, generously donated by Boningale Nurseries, was planted by Chairman of the Council, Cllr Dan Kinsey, as a symbolic tribute to the Council’s 50 years of service to the community. 

As part of the Council’s ongoing commitment to the environment and sustainability, a further 200 commemorative trees will be planted across the district in mid-November.

This initiative, in partnership with the Woodland Trust and community groups, underscores the Council’s dedication to its Climate Change Action Plan while celebrating its milestone anniversary. 

Photo caption (left to right): Darren Allen – Tree Inspector and Tree Team Operational Manager, Ryan Taylor – Street Scene Performance and Climate Change Manager, and Cllr Dan Kinsey – Chairman of the Council.  

 

Charity football match is a great success! ⚽

Andy Aston and Emily Langford discussed fundraising ideas for the chairman’s charity and decided a charity football match would be a great idea.

With the help of the players and Cheslyn Hay leisure centre staff they managed to get the game organised for Saturday, 28th September.

The Offices vs Leisure charity football match went ahead and a great afternoon was had by all. The score was 4-3 to the offices and it was a fierce battle of experience vs youth, but we managed to secure the win in the end.

The leisure services raised a total of £366 and offices raised £70. The total raised was £436 for the chairman’s charity ‘Staffordshire Blood Bikes.’

We had a great turnout including Dave, Cllr Kath Perry, Cllr Dan Kinsey, friends and family of the players and members from the leisure centre supporting from the sidelines.

We would like to thank everyone who attended and supported the event.

Staffordshire farmers linked with Staffordshire Police and Council to tackle rural crime

 

Lower Drayton Farm proudly hosted a Farm and Rural Crime event aimed at helping combat rural crime. 

The event at Penkridge ran in conjunction with Staffordshire Police and South Staffordshire Council.

They joined the farming community to discuss a range of relevant subjects, including crime prevention, business planning, and mental health. A coordinated approach was called for, urging farmers to report crime to ensure police can investigate it.

South Staffordshire Council and Staffordshire Police were on hand to answer questions and support farmers.

 

South Staffordshire LGBTQ+ Support Group

South Staffordshire LGBTQ+ Support Group is a safe place to meet like-minded people from the LGBTQ+ community to talk about how they’re feeling and get support from peers in a non judgemental and supportive way.

Refreshments are provided and you are more than welcome to bring a friend along with you.

Contact Stuart or Debra if you’d like to attend so we have a rough idea of numbers on: 01902 696228 or text 07966 255338.

There will be a free craft session on the day!

Sessions will run initially once a month to begin with.

Newly launched – High Street Boost South Staffordshire

 

South Staffordshire Council are thrilled to launch their new High Street Boost programme.

Offering a transformative initiative designed to propel all independent village centre based businesses in South Staffordshire, to new heights.

You are invited to one of their dynamic launch events, where you’ll gain valuable insights through business and retail workshops.

Engage with interactive sessions led by experienced retail experts, discover tips and strategies that separate exceptional retailers from the average and learn from award winning experts who’ve been where you are and know the path to success.

The dates for the workshops can be found below:

Codsall, The Crown Joules Thursday 10th October 5.30pm – 7:00pm

Penkridge, Haling Dene Centre Wednesday 16th October 5.30pm – 7:00pm

Kinver, Edward Marsh Centre Monday 4th November 5.30pm – 7:00pm

Brewood, The Oakley Arms Thursday 7th November 5.30pm – 7:00pm

Wombourne, Civic Centre Wednesday 13th November 5.30pm – 7:00pm

Following the workshops their programme offers personalised, fully funded, one-to-one support ensuring you get the targeted assistance you need directly at your business premises. Their mentors are award-winning professionals with real-world experience and a track record of success.

Click here for further information and to register your place onto one of the above events.

 

Help us celebrate National Customer Service Week 

As you may or may not be aware, next week is National Customer Service Week and we would like you to support us in celebrating the fantastic work done by South Staffordshire Council employees throughout the week.  

National Customer Service Week is a week-long opportunity to raise awareness of customer service and the vital role it plays in successful business practice and the growth of the UK economy.

This year’s national campaign focuses on five key themes:

  • The future of service.

The future of service is poised to undergo a profound transformation driven by rapid technological advancements and shifting customer needs.

  • Service with respect

National Customer Service Week is a dedicated time to honour the essential role that customer service professionals play in enhancing the customer experience and fostering brand loyalty.

  • Effective Service Leadership

In today’s competitive landscape, where customer expectations are constantly evolving, strong service leadership is essential for driving innovation, building loyalty and achieving sustainable growth.

  • Risk, reputation and trust

By prioritising transparency, consistency and ethical conduct, businesses can cultivate trust, fortify their reputation, and navigate risks effectively, ultimately delivering superior customer service experiences that stand the test of time.

  • Customer Service Recognition Day

Customer Service Recognition Day is a great opportunity to recognise the invaluable contributions of all customer service professionals.

Follow us on Facebook, X and Linked In to keep up to date with our social media celebrations.

South Staffordshire council drop-in sessions

 

Are you a resident of Penkridge, Acton Trussell, Bednall, Teddesley Hay, Dunston with Coppenhall, Hatherton, or Huntington? 

We would like to invite you to our drop-in support sessions listed below dedicated to enhancing digital skills, providing welfare assistance and pension support.

Our first drop-in sessions for welfare support and digital adoption are planned over the next few weeks in locality one.

Council teams and partners will be attending the following upcoming events:

Digital support workshop and welfare support session

🏢Haling Dene Centre, Penkridge

📅17th October

⏱️11am till 3pm

Please click below for further information ⬇️

https://www.sstaffs.gov.uk/events

 

Successful healthy ageing events in Staffordshire

 

Online provider and professional workshops are coming up next week and in early October for the development of Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Integrated Care Board’s (ICB) Healthy Ageing and Frailty and All-Age Respiratory strategies.

The strategies will align with patient, provider and professional stakeholder priorities and we’ll be seeking the views of anyone who provides or offers respiratory, older adults or frailty care services, support or advice.

The dates of the events, being held on Microsoft Teams are:

Healthy ageing and frailty strategy

  • Thursday 10th October from 10.30am – 12pm.

All-Age respiratory strategy

  • Wednesday 9th October from 10am – 11:30am.

To attend one of the online events, please email claire.tallentire@staffsstoke.icb.nhs.uk with which event you would like to attend and a diary invite will be sent to you.

If you would like to invite a relevant colleague, please do share this email with them. We welcome feedback from as many different professionals as possible to help develop the strategies.

If you are unable to attend the events, please email Claire as above and we will send you a copy of the presentation/s and discussion areas for your feedback.

 

South Staffordshire Councils Village Centre Improvement Fund

 

As part of the Council’s approach to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), a degree of funding was prioritised to support further improvements to our key village centres and high streets.

The Council is now seeking applications aimed at bringing the village centres to life, increasing footfall and improving accessibility.

In principle, projects will be considered which meet support the following objectives:

  • Strengthening social fabric and fostering a sense of local pride.
  • Improving physical, cultural and social ties.
  • Improving amenities, community infrastructure and green space.
  • Building resilient and safe neighbourhoods, through investment in spaces and innovative approaches to crime prevention.
  • Improved accessibility.

The deadline for applications is Thursday 17th October, 2024.

Click here to find out more and register your application.

 

Job vacancies
  • Relief Water Assistant, Penkridge Leisure Centre, closing 7th October
  • Estates Officer, closing 20th October
  • Planning Solicitor, open closing date
  • Cleaner, Penkridge Leisure Centre, closing 11th October

All vacancies can be viewed in full and applied for on our recruitment site:

Find a job | South Staffordshire District Council (sstaffs.gov.uk)

 

Partnership Updates

 

Volunteering information drop-in session at Codsall

 

Support Staffordshire run monthly Volunteering Drop in Sessions at Codsall Community Hub.

They are held on the first Wednesday of the month from 10am to 12 midday.

While it is aimed at the public, staff are, of course, welcome to go along – this might help them to identify opportunities to use their volunteering days.

If you’d like more information or to chat about volunteering, please contact us on volunteering@supportstaffordshire.org.uk

New Volunteering Drop-in Sessions in Codsall – Support Staffordshire

While it is aimed at the public, staff are, of course, welcome to go along – this might help them to identify opportunities to use their volunteering days.

Pop in and see us!

Please click below to find out more information on our Employee Volunteer Scheme:

Draft Employee Volunteer Scheme

 

Leisure Updates

 

Wolves Halloween Soccer Schools

 

Wolves Soccer School are holding sessions this October half term at our leisure centres for children aged from Year 1-7.

2-day courses are £45 and 3-day courses are £65

For more information email footballdevelopment@wolves.co.uk  or to make a booking, visit https://coaching.wolves.co.uk/

Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre 28th – 30th October
Penkridge Leisure Centre 31st October and 1st November
Wombourne Leisure Centre 31st October and 1st November

Contact your nearest leisure centre to find out more and get started.

Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre  Cheslynhay@sstaffs.gov.uk or call 01922 417790

Codsall Leisure Centre  codsall@sstaffs.gov.uk or call 01902 844032

Penkridge Leisure Centre  penkridge@staffs.gov.uk or call 01785 714152

Wombourne Leisure Centre  wombourne@sstaffs.gov.uk or call 01902 898202

 

October school holiday activities

 

It’s time for Halloween activities, inflatables and Nerf showdowns!

From Monday, 28th October to Friday, 1st November, Aspire Active Camps will be delivering a range of fun-filled activities for 5-14 year olds.

Young people can come for a half day or a full day booking from 8am-4pm.

Book now for the best possible price!

Discounts are available for emergency service workers and siblings.

ACTIVITIES

  • Variety of multi-sports
  • Halloween themed activities
  • Inflatables
  • Nerf showdowns
  • Tournament days

ACTIVITY TIMETABLES: https://20198108.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/20198108/COD%2c%20WOM%20TIMETABLES%20OCTOBER%202024.pdf

To find out more and to book visit your nearest centres web link below:

Codsall Leisure Centre: https://www.aaeg.co.uk/active-camps-codsall

Wombourne Leisure Centre:  https://www.aaeg.co.uk/active-camps-wombourne

BOOK NOW!

 

Active Youth Gym sessions for 13 years+

 

Young people aged 13-16 years can enjoy discounted and supervised gym access as part of the Active Youth scheme. (This scheme is available all year round including term-time). Advanced booking is required.

  • Young people can attend the gyms unaccompanied, during any of the dedicated ‘Active Youth’ times – these sessions are all supervised by a qualified gym instructor
  • Young people will be required to undergo a free gym induction during their first ‘Active Youth’ session – this must be booked in advance
  • A parent/guardian will be required to sign a declaration giving permission for their child to participate
  • Young people can attend the gyms at any time when accompanied by a participating parent/guardian

Active Youth Gym times

Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre Wednesdays 7.15-8.15pm
Codsall Leisure Centre Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays 3.15-4.15pm
Penkridge Leisure Centre Tuesdays and Thursdays 3.45-4.45pm
Wombourne Leisure Centre Tuesdays 3-4pm and 4-5pm
Wombourne Leisure Centre Wednesdays and Fridays 4-5pm

Contact your nearest leisure centre using the details below to find out more and get started:

Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre  Cheslynhay@sstaffs.gov.uk or call 01922 417790

Codsall Leisure Centre  codsall@sstaffs.gov.uk or call 01902 844032

Penkridge Leisure Centre  penkridge@staffs.gov.uk or call 01785 714152

Wombourne Leisure Centre  wombourne@sstaffs.gov.uk or call 01902 898202

 

Save up to 10% with the Leisure Advantage Card

 

Start saving today with our Leisure Advantage Card!

Customers can enjoy 10% off activities such as swimming, gyms, exercise classes and more with the Leisure Advantage card which is available to children and adults.

Sign up at your nearest leisure centre and start saving now!

Sign up now!

 

 

 

Weekly News 366

Council and district news

Updated Members of the Council 2024 – 2025

Following a Full Council meeting on Tuesday, 24th September, Cllr Kath Perry MBE was elected as the new Leader of South Staffordshire Council along with a new Cabinet.

The Envirocrime Team thank their witness for successful littering prosecution

 

This week, a driver has paid a £400 Fixed Penalty Notice for littering a cigarette from their window on the A5 in Wheaton Aston.  Litter often gathers at the side of roads, looking unpleasant and causing a danger to wildlife.

Thanks to the witness in the vehicle behind, this £400 will be invested in measures to reduce future offences.

If you witness anything whilst you’re out and about, please do get in touch! You can report littering through our website or email Envirocrime@sstaffs.gov.uk

 

Street Scene work requested by Members update

All District Councillors have had the chance to request environmental enhancements for their wards, which are in addition to the regular grounds maintenance schedule. 

We’re sharing a selection of photos to show the work that’s being done.

This time the photos are of areas at Cheslyn Hay and Kinver.

The work is being carried out by our Street Scene team and will be completed over the next two years.

Job vacancies
  • Relief Water Assistant, Penkridge Leisure Centre, closing 7th October
  • Estates Officer, closing 20th October
  • Planning Solicitor, open closing date

All vacancies can be viewed in full and applied for on our recruitment site:

Find a job | South Staffordshire District Council (sstaffs.gov.uk)

 

Partnership Updates

 

Mix It Up for National Vegetarian Week 2024

National Vegetarian Week is the perfect reason to give vegetarian food a go!

Whether it’s going veggie all week or just for one meal – you’ll still be making a big difference because small swaps here and there can have a real and positive impact on the planet.

The National Vegetarian Week vegetarian and vegan recipes are all carbon-calculated for some planet-friendly and tasty inspiration.

It’s easy to get involved: check out the recipes, spread the word on social media, and eat some delicious food.

Don’t just go for what you know…mix it up!

Find out more about National Vegetarian Week

 

Get to #KnowTheSigns of child sexual exploitation

Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) is a crime where young people may be tricked into believing they’re in a consensual relationship and might be given gifts in exchange for sexual activity.

Staffordshire Police is raising awareness of the signs of this type of exploitation as part of our #KnowTheSigns campaign as communities hold the key to helping reduce this crime by reporting any suspicious activity. Information from witnesses and local communities is vital if they are to obtain the evidence needed to arrest and prosecute offenders.

CSE can be difficult to spot and is sometimes mistaken for ‘normal’ teenage behaviour but if a young person you know is exhibiting a few of the other common signs of CSE it is important that you seek advice and report it.

Your information could be the missing piece of the puzzle. Speak up, it could help a child escape exploitation.

For more information about CSE, the signs, and how to report it, please visit the child sexual exploitation advice page.

 

Leisure Updates

 

National Fitness Day success

 

National Fitness Day took place on 18th September and proved a real success in helping to encourage people to reap the benefits of being physically active.

Throughout the week, the leisure centres provided free health checks in addition to Bring a Friend for Free offers and Refer a Friend deals with discounts for new joiners.

Our leisure centres also ran centre challenges in the gyms and swimming pools which customers really enjoyed.

Thank you to all of our members and users for taking part, helping to celebrate fitness and bringing and referring your family and friends!

 

Summer Space Scheme success

 

Throughout the summer, South Staffordshire Council offered discounted access into a range of facilities for young people thanks to funding from the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner.

As a result, the leisure centres were able to increase opportunities for young people to access swimming, the gyms and 3G pitches.

This summer proved a real success with over £3000 used to subsidise in the region of 1000 bookings for local children and young people.

 

School holiday activities

 

During October half term, South Staffordshire Council’s leisure centres are providing a range of activities for children and young people.

Activities on offer include:

  • Daily swimming
  • Active Youth – supervised gym sessions for 13 years+
  • Aspire Activity Camps (5-14 year olds)
  • Wolves Soccer Schools
  • Discounted student and apprentice memberships
  • Training courses for 14+ years

Read full details on what’s on offer for young people here.

 

Community Exercise classes

 

South Staffordshire Council’s leisure centres provide a range of community exercise classes which take place from various locations around the district.

The classes are suitable for people aged 50 years+ of all fitness levels.

Find out more information about Community Exercise classes here.

 

Community walks

 

South Staffordshire Council provides a programme of weekly volunteer-led walks which vary in length and difficulty.

The walks take place from various locations around the district and are free to join.

View the council’s weekly volunteer-led community walks here.

 

Making every step count with WALX

 

Walx is a unique instructor-led walking class which consists of mixing walking drills, strength and balance exercises using total body walking poles.

Sessions are suitable for all ages and abilities and are free to attend, however please note that advanced booking is required.

This class runs every Thursday lunchtime from 12noon-1pm starting at Codsall Community Hub.

For more information and to book your place contact: Lisa at lisaembrey@hotmail.com or call 0777 332 6373.

 

Save up to 10% with the Leisure Advantage Card

 

Start saving today with our Leisure Advantage Card!

Customers can enjoy 10% off activities such as swimming, gyms, exercise classes and more with the Leisure Advantage card which is available to children and adults.

Sign up at your nearest leisure centre and start saving now!

Sign up now!

 

 

In case you missed it

 

Village centre improvement fund – Open for applications

As part of the council’s approach to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), a degree of funding was prioritised to support further improvements to our key village centres and high streets.

Following an appraisal of the district’s key village centres, the following projects are now live or planned to be delivered before the end of March 2025.

  • Public car park improvements
  • Shop front grant for businesses and property owners
  • High street business support programme
  • Destination marketing campaign
  • Good Food and Drink Guide

An allocation of £200,000 has been made available to be delivered before 31st January, 2025. £100,000 will support capital projects with the remainder being available to support revenue projects.

The council is now seeking applications aimed at bringing the village centres to life, increasing footfall and improving accessibility. In principle, projects will be considered which support the following objectives:

  • Strengthening social fabric and fostering a sense of local pride.
  • Improving physical, cultural and social ties.
  • Improving amenities, community infrastructure and green space.
  • Building resilient and safe neighbourhoods, through investment in spaces and innovative approaches to crime prevention.
  • Improved accessibility.

For more information visit: Village centre improvement fund | South Staffordshire District Council (sstaffs.gov.uk)

 

Weekly News 365

Council and district news

NEW! Recite Me News accessibility website update

 

Our council’s website now features an accessibility toolbar designed to help all residents access the site with ease.

You can activate the Recite Me Accessibility toolbar by clicking the ‘Accessibility Icon’ button located in the top right corner of every page.

The Recite Me toolbar offers a variety of functions to enhance your browsing experience:

  • Read website text aloud, including PDFs.
  • Download text as an MP3 file to listen to it at your convenience.
  • Adjust font sizes and colours to suit your preferences.
  • Customise background colours for better readability.
  • Translate text into over 100 languages.
  • Access a fully integrated dictionary and thesaurus.

We have also launched a comprehensive User Guide and FAQs section to help you make the most of the toolbar.

You can find it here ➡️Accessibility toolbar user guide | South Staffordshire District Council.

Support the local community

 

South Staffordshire Community Lottery is a weekly lottery that directly supports local good causes and community initiatives.

Lotteries are a fun and effective way for causes to raise much-needed funds in these difficult times.

By getting more people on board, they don’t just raise funds, they also raise awareness.

When you play South Staffordshire Community Lottery you know that 60% of your ticket price goes to good causes (more than DOUBLE than the National Lottery­) and the money raised is going to good causes that benefit your local community.

Proceeds generated go into a general good cause fund, administered by South Staffordshire Council, which will be spent on providing vital support to a wide range of local organisations and community initiatives which have a beneficial impact on the local community.

Here’s why you should register

  • 50 ticket sales can secure an annual income of £1,300
  • An online fundraising solution that puts the ‘fun’ into fundraising
  • It’s a simply and easy way of boosting your fundraising
  • Year-round, free, marketing materials and support to help you raise funds
  • 50p from every £1 ticket sale goes directly to your cause with an additional 10p going to the central fund used to further support local good causes
  • Join today – it’s simple, free and easy

To find out how the council allocate grants to local good causes via their website, click on the link below ⬇️

 

Support the community fund

 

South Staffordshire council drop-in sessions

Are you a resident of Penkridge, Acton Trussell, Bednall, Teddesley Hay, Dunston with Coppenhall, Hatherton, or Huntington? 

We would like to invite you to our drop-in support sessions listed below dedicated to enhancing digital skills, providing welfare assistance and pension support.

Our first drop-in sessions for welfare support and digital adoption are planned over the next few weeks in locality one. Council teams and partners will be attending the following upcoming events:

Drop in sessions

Welfare support drop in session

🏢St Thomas Church, Huntington

📅25th September

⏱️1.30pm till 3.30pm

Welfare Support session inc signposting for pension credits

🏢Haling Dene Centre, Penkridge

📅26th September

⏱️11am till 3pm

Digital support workshop and welfare support session

🏢Haling Dene Centre, Penkridge

📅17th October

⏱️11am till 3pm

Please click below for further information ⬇️

Drop in sessions

 

Village centre improvement fund – Open for applications

As part of the council’s approach to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), a degree of funding was prioritised to support further improvements to our key village centres and high streets.

Following an appraisal of the district’s key village centres, the following projects are now live or planned to be delivered before the end of March 2025.

  • Public car park improvements
  • Shop front grant for businesses and property owners
  • High street business support programme
  • Destination marketing campaign
  • Good Food and Drink Guide

An allocation of £200,000 has been made available to be delivered before 31st January, 2025. £100,000 will support capital projects with the remainder being available to support revenue projects.

The council is now seeking applications aimed at bringing the village centres to life, increasing footfall and improving accessibility. In principle, projects will be considered which support the following objectives:

  • Strengthening social fabric and fostering a sense of local pride.
  • Improving physical, cultural and social ties.
  • Improving amenities, community infrastructure and green space.
  • Building resilient and safe neighbourhoods, through investment in spaces and innovative approaches to crime prevention.
  • Improved accessibility.

For more information visit:

Village centre improvement fund | South Staffordshire District Council

Community hub – scaffolding works advanced notice 

During October work will be undertaken to prevent pigeons nesting under the solar panels at Codsall Community Hub. 

This work is required to prevent infestation, additionally the panels will be cleaned helping improve energy consumption.

We will also complete minor roofing works to prevent leaks over the winter period, clear high-level drains and carry out maintenance on soffits.

Key dates

📅 2nd October – Work will commence erecting scaffolding on three sides where we have solar panels on the roof. These are highlighted with red arrows on picture (as above).

📅 7th October – Work will commence bird proofing the solar panels on the roof.

The scaffolding will be in place for a minimum of two weeks.

During the works some areas of the car park will be coned off, details will follow nearer the start dates.

Job vacancies
  • Estates Officer, closing 20th October
  • Receptionist, Wombourne Leisure Centre, closing 25th September
  • Planning Solicitor, open closing date

All vacancies can be viewed in full and applied for on our recruitment site:

Find a job | South Staffordshire District Council (sstaffs.gov.uk)

 

Partnership Updates

 

Perton library hosts Macmillan Coffee morning

Perton library are hosting their third coffee morning.

Macmillan Cancer Support is very close to our heart as we have two members who are currently having treatment for cancer. We have a tombola and raffle as well as home-made cakes and crafts.

Everyone is welcome! ☕🍰

Perton Crafters also meet every Thursday 10am – 12pm.

We have a ‘Knit and Natter’ group that meets on Monday 2pm – 4pm. We charge 50p, and you get a tea/coffee and biscuits 😋.

We are all very friendly and share a wide variety of talents.

Have you been a victim of hate crime? Call it out

Uniting Staffordshire Against Hate (USAH) is a free and confidential support service providing information and emotional and practical support to all victims of hate driven crime or incidents, who either live in Staffordshire or were targeted when visiting the area on more than two occasions.

To access support, you do not need to have reported this to the police.

For more information and support please click below ⬇️

USAH – Uniting Staffordshire Against Hate

Successful healthy ageing events in Staffordshire

Online provider and professional workshops are coming up next week and in early October for the development of Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Integrated Care Board’s (ICB) Healthy Ageing and Frailty and All-Age Respiratory strategies.

The strategies will align with patient, provider and professional stakeholder priorities and we’ll be seeking the views of anyone who provides or offers respiratory, older adults or frailty care services, support or advice.

The dates of the events, being held on Microsoft Teams are:

Healthy ageing and frailty strategy

  • Tuesday 24th September from 2pm – 3:30pm.
  • Thursday 10th October from 10.30am – 12pm.

All-Age respiratory strategy

  • Thursday 26th September from 2pm – 3:30pm.
  • Wednesday 9th October from 10am – 11:30am.

To attend one of the online events, please email claire.tallentire@staffsstoke.icb.nhs.uk with which event you would like to attend and a diary invite will be sent to you.

If you would like to invite a relevant colleague, please do share this email with them. We welcome feedback from as many different professionals as possible to help develop the strategies.

If you are unable to attend the events, please email Claire as above and we will send you a copy of the presentation/s and discussion areas for your feedback.

WM Airfields to be honoured with memorials

 

As a result of long planning and co-operation between the Airfields of Britain Conservation Trust (ABCT) – the world’s first national airfield charity, three memorials will be unveiled on 25th – 27th September to commemorate Hixon, Rednal and Wheaton Aston Airfields.

Event details as follows:

Hixon Airfield

https://www.abct.org.uk/airfields/airfield-finder/hixon/

Wednesday 25th September, 10.30am.

Address: Close to entrance of Hixon Airfield Industrial Estate off New Road on SE side of airfield, NW of Hixon village, NE of Stafford

Postcode (nearest) ST18 0PE, What3Words: ultra.dented.blueberry

Rednal Airfield

https://www.abct.org.uk/airfields/airfield-finder/rednal/

Thursday 26th September at 10.30 am.

Address: Close to entrance of Rednal Karting on SW side of airfield alongside Grimpo Road, SE of Rednal hamlet and NE of West Felton, E of Oswestry

Postcode SY11 4HS, What3Words: pioneered.blown.thudded

Wheaton Aston Airfield

https://www.abct.org.uk/airfields/airfield-finder/wheaton-aston/

Friday 27th September, 10.30am.

Address: On SW side of airfield, at junction of Sweetplace Lane/Marston Road/Little Onn Road, between Wheaton Aston and Church Eaton villages, SW of Stafford

Postcode (nearest) ST20 0FN, What3Words: rooms.tracks.narrating

Also see ABCT’s extremely popular 3,500 pages website https://www.abct.org.uk and associated social media pages for further details.

Photo credit: Aerial view of Hixon airfield, c. 1976. © Dave Welch.

 

Leisure Updates

 

Advanced closure notice – Codsall Leisure centre

 

On Thursday,  26th September, Codsall Community High School is holding an open evening.

The school is anticipating that the event will attract a substantial number of prospective pupils and parents to the site.

Due to the demand on the leisure centres facilities and car parking, the centre will close from 5pm onwards.

Closure times

  • Codsall Leisure Centre will be completely closed from 5pm for the remainder of the evening.
  • Leisure centre customers will be required to exit the leisure centre carpark by 5.15pm.
  • All activities and sessions will run until 5pm only.
  • The final swimming lesson will take place at 4.30-5pm. All remaining swimming lessons will be cancelled for the evening.

Leisure centre members are invited to use facilities at our other three centres in Cheslyn Hay, Penkridge and Wombourne. For activity timetables, visit the website at https://www.sstaffs.gov.uk/sports-and-fitness

Please accept our apologies for this inconvenience and thankyou in advance for your cooperation.

 

Become a swimming instructor

 

The leisure centres provide a range of aquatic training courses which are available during school holidays, training people to become qualified pool lifeguards, swimming teachers and water assistants.

During October half term, Wombourne Leisure Centre is running a swimming teachers course.

There is very limited availability on the course To find out more click here.

Funded Training Available

To find out if you’re eligible for funded training,

📱Phone: 01902 696228

📧Email: peopleandskills@sstaffs.gov.uk

 

10% discount with our Leisure Advantage card

 

Children and adults can enjoy 10% off full-price leisure centre activities such as swimming, gyms, exercise classes, toning suites and more. 

Sign up at your nearest leisure centre and start saving now!

To find out more, click below ⬇️

 

Leisure Advantage Card

 

 

In case you missed it

 

Catch up on our latest news and updates across all our newsletters:

Sports and fitness | South Staffordshire District Council

 

 
 

 

 

 

 

Weekly News 364

Council and district news

 

Last chance – tell us your nominations today!📢

Would you like to help us celebrate and recognise an individual, group or organisation who continuously goes above and beyond for their community?

You can nominate individuals, groups, organizations, or local businesses—anyone who lives, works, or operates within South Staffordshire.

As part of South Staffordshire Council’s 50th anniversary celebrations, we are hosting an invite-only awards ceremony on Tuesday, 1st October, from 6pm at Codsall Community Hub, WV8 1PX.

The winners will be invited to join us in recognising those who have made a lasting difference in our community.

Please don’t delay!

Today is the final day for nominations for the upcoming 50th Anniversary Celebration Evening.

Click below to download the nomination form ⬇️ 🏆

Nomination form

 

Don’t lose your vote ❎

It’s that time of year for the annual Canvass, and if you live within the district, you may have noticed it is already underway.

The Canvass is a statutory exercise we must undertake each year, to ensure everyone is registered to vote at the correct address. This keeps the electoral register up to date and accurate.

Registering to vote is a legal requirement, even if there is no intention from an individual to vote in any election.

The first set of forms were posted out on the 19th of August.

Certain properties have three weeks to respond. If we don’t receive a response by this time, they will be sent a reminder form. They will then have another three weeks to respond. If they still don’t, we must make personal contact, via telephone call.

To make sure you don’t lose your vote and say on decisions that affect you please make sure to update your electoral registration details.

Candidate Open day

Staffordshire County Council is hosting two Candidate Open Days for people who are considering standing for election to the County Council in May 2025.

The events will be held on Monday, 4th November and Tuesday, 26th November in County Buildings, Martin Street, Stafford, ST16 2LE.

There will be two sessions you can choose from:

12pm – 2pm

6pm – 8pm

The purpose of the session is to give prospective candidates a general insight into the work of the County Council and the support on offer if elected.

You will have the opportunity to meet key officers from the County Council, find out about the Staffordshire Community Fund, how Scrutiny works in Staffordshire, our training and support offer to you, learn about the civic role and meet representatives from service areas.

To book your place on one of the sessions please email elections@staffordshire.gov.uk

Visit our elections page to keep up to date:

Elections and democracy – Staffordshire County Council

Or scan the QR code ➡️

  

 

Street Scene update

All district councillors have had the chance to request environmental enhancements for their wards, which are in addition to the regular grounds maintenance schedule.

We’re going to be sharing a selection of before and after photos to show the work that’s being done by our Street Scene team over the next two years.

Job vacancies
  • Planning Solicitor, open closing date
  • Receptionist, Wombourne Leisure Centre, closing 25th September
  • Relief Leisure Assistant, Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre, closing date 18th September

All vacancies can be viewed in full and applied for on our recruitment site:

Find a job | South Staffordshire District Council (sstaffs.gov.uk)

 

Partnership Updates

 

Community Risk Management Plan consultation

 

Do you want to have your say on your local fire service?

Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service is encouraging local communities to have their say on the future priorities of the service as part of a consultation running until 5th November.

The consultation will help contribute to the service’s Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP), which is a document all fire and rescue services are required to produce.

A draft version of the CRMP has been produced and a survey invites people to give their views. Those who complete the survey will be entered into a prize draw to win a £100 Amazon voucher.

Find out more:

You can read more about the campaign in our press release: Have your say on your fire and rescue service (staffordshirefire.gov.uk)

Or visit our website for further information:  Community Risk Management Plan 2025-2028 consultation (staffordshirefire.gov.uk)

A draft version of the CRMP has been produced and a survey invites people to give their views. Those who complete the survey will be entered into a prize draw to win a £100 Amazon voucher.

To complete the consultation survey and be in with a chance to win a £100 Amazon voucher, click below ⬇️

 

Have your say

 

Leisure Updates

 

Don’t Drink and Drown

 

Don’t Drink and Drown is the Royal Life Saving Society UK’s national campaign that encourages smart decision making after drinking alcohol around water. 

It particularly targets individuals to be responsible for their friends if they have had too much to drink; helping them to return home safely.

Research indicates that among those aged 16-25 years who lost their lives to accidental drowning,

44% had alcohol and/or drugs in their bloodstream.

Many of them drowned because they walked home alone and fell into the water.

RLSS advice

  • Look out for your friends, make sure they get home safely
  • If you’ve had a drink, stay away from the water
  • Find an alternative route home, don’t walk home near the water
  • Stay away from the water in winter, cold water shock kills

Effects of alcohol on the body

  • Alcohol lowers inhibitions, leading to impaired judgment which means you are more likely to take risks and get in trouble
  • Alcohol limits muscle ability making simple movements much harder
  • Alcohol slows down reactions making it difficult to get yourself out of trouble
  • Alcohol numbs the senses making swimming very difficult

Click below for more information about the campaign ⬇️

 

Don’t Drink and Drown

 

National Fitness day

 

Wednesday, 18th September marks National Fitness Day.

In celebration, South Staffordshire Council’s leisure centres want to encourage people to reap the physical, social and mental benefits of physical activity.

Leisure centres will be offering free health checks, bring a friend for free, refer a friend deals and much more.

Here’s a run-down of events to inspire you to move more:

Free leisure centre passes 

Free passes will be available and issued on a first come, first served basis. (Limited to one pass per family.  Limited availability).

Free health checks 

  • Delivered by qualified and experienced health and fitness instructors.
  • Available at specific times only
  • No booking required. Just pop in and see us.
  • Health checks will be 5-10 mins
  • Health checks include blood pressure, height, weight and BMI.

For full details click below ⬇️

 

National Fitness day⛹️

 

Perton table tennis club

Join the new table tennis club at Perton Civic Centre.

The club takes place every Wednesday afternoon from 2pm – 4pm at Perton Civic Centre.

All equipment is provided, and all abilities are welcome!

The session costs £4 and includes refreshments.

If you have any questions regarding the club, please contact Councillor Philip Davis at P.Davis@sstaffs.gov.uk or on 07980977962.

Enjoy 10% off with our Leisure Advantage card

 

Children and adults can enjoy 10% off full-price leisure centre activities such as swimming, gyms, exercise classes, toning suites and more. 

Sign up at your nearest leisure centre and start saving now!

To find out more, click below ⬇️

 

Leisure Advantage Card

 

 

In case you missed it

 

Catch up on our latest news and updates across all our newsletters:

FREE Swimming Lessons on offer at Wombourne Leisure Centre!!

 

 

 

 

 

Weekly News 363

We need your help!📢

Would you like to help us celebrate and recognise an individual, group or organisation who continuously goes above and beyond for their community?

Please nominate them before the extended deadline of Friday, 13th September for one of the awards at our upcoming 50th Anniversary Celebration Evening.

Click below to download the form ⬇️🏆

Nomination Form

 

Register today!

 

South Staffordshire Community Lottery is a weekly lottery that directly supports local good causes and community initiatives.

Lotteries are a fun and effective way for causes to raise much-needed funds in these difficult times.

By getting more people on board, they don’t just raise funds, they also raise awareness.

When you play South Staffordshire Community Lottery you know that 60% of your ticket price goes to good causes (more than DOUBLE what the National Lottery gives) and the money raised is going to good causes that benefit your local community.

Proceeds generated go into a general good cause fund, administered by South Staffordshire Council, which will be spent on providing vital support to a wide range of local organisations and community initiatives which have a beneficial impact on the local community.

Here’s why you should register

  • 50 ticket sales can secure an annual income of £1,300
  • An online fundraising solution that puts the ‘fun’ into fundraising
  • It’s a simply and easy way of boosting your fundraising
  • Year-round, free, marketing materials and support to help you raise funds
  • 50p from every £1 ticket sale goes directly to your cause with an additional 10p going to the central fund used to further support local good causes
  • Join today – it’s simple, free and easy

To find out how the council allocate grants to local good causes via their website, click on the link below ⬇️

 

Support the community fund

Buy a ticket and support your local community

Funding approved to upgrade the boardwalk at Perton’s Upper Lake

 

We are pleased to announce that work to upgrade the boardwalk around Perton’s Upper Lake will commence from Monday, 9th September.

Whilst the work is completed, the adjacent areas will be closed to the public.

We anticipate that the boardwalk will reopen from Monday, 16th September if the work goes to plan.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

For more information, please visit our website below ⬇️

 

Perton Upper Lake boardwalk upgrade

 

Chairman raised over £2000 for local charities

 

Chairman of South Staffordshire, Councillor Dan Kinsey BEM, completed his charity sky dive on 10th August.

Money raised will be distributed to local charities: Papyrus, Staffordshire Blood Bikes and West Midlands First Responders.

In total so far, the Chairman has raised over £2000 on Just Giving.

Cllr Dan Kinsey commented: “The work Papyrus do to support mental health is vital, it means so much to me as I work with some amazing young people at the University of Wolverhampton – some of whom have terrible personal experiences or pressures, and I want to support them and their experiences.

Staffordshire Blood Bikes and South Staffordshire First Responders fulfil a vital voluntary role – supporting the people of South Staffordshire, with the First responders based at Wombourne Fire Station are at the heart of the community I serve.

I hope you will be able to support me in raising money for these genuinely wonderful charities this year.”

It’s been a great honour to use my platform to raise awareness of these great charities. I hope funding will go some way to helping the wonderful charities continue the fantastic work they do in our communities.’

If anyone would like to donate, please follow this link ⬇️

 

Click here to donate

 

Job vacancies
  • Planning Solicitor, open closing date
  • Relief Leisure Assistant, Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre, closing date September 18th

All vacancies can be viewed in full and applied for on our recruitment site:

Find a job | South Staffordshire District Council (sstaffs.gov.uk)

 

Partnership Updates

 

Pension awareness week

 

Are you aged 66+ and on a low income?

Would you welcome extra money and support with heating costs?

Pension Credit is worth, on average, £3,900 per year and unlocks additional support including Winter Fuel Payment, help with council tax, NHS dental care and for those over 75, a free TV licence.

Thanks to the Pension Credit backdating rules, it is possible to apply for Pension Credit and have the claim backdated by up to 3 months – so long as there is entitlement during that time.

This means that the latest date to apply and still qualify for a Winter Fuel Payment is 21st December 2024.

How can you help?

  • Start a conversation with someone and signpost them to www.gov.uk/pensioncredit
  • Share an official DWP social media post @DWP (Facebook) @DWPgovuk (X.)
  • Request a quantity of A5 leaflets and A4 posters by emailing chiltonmannionjobshare@dwp.gov.uk (available on a first come, first served basis). Please note that these will arrive after the Pension Credit Week of Action.

Pension Credit campaign assets are attached and there will be a stakeholder toolkit on GOV.UK shortly.

Dates to remember 📅

Pension Credit Week of Action (2nd-6th September)

Pension Awareness Week (9th-15th September)

 

VCSE Grants – Supportive Communities &

Better Health Staffordshire

 

Staffordshire County Council is keen to support the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector in Staffordshire.

They are keen to assist with public health priorities to improve healthy lifestyles promote independence, self-care and reablement by providing a range of one-off grants.

Community Foundation Staffordshire (CFS) are administering the grants.

The funds are intended to help organisations to

  • Support, sustain and/or build on Supportive Communities outcomes (thematic)
  • Support, sustain and/or build on Better Health Staffordshire outcomes (thematic)
  • Building skills, knowledge, and confidence around self-help or in finding help with mental and emotional wellbeing
  • To support costs that are associated with the above outcomes but not limited to: training, equipment, promotional activity, venue hire, staffing or volunteer expenses

We are looking for projects that:

  • Prevent ill health & promote self-care to enable individuals to be independent and live in their own homes for as long as possible
  • Reduce loneliness and social isolation
  • Supporting healthy aging
  • Increase access to affordable healthy, nutritious food
  • Increase access to opportunities for people to ‘move more’
  • Enabling mental wellbeing and promoting healthy lifestyles as the norm

Grants are available between £3,000 and £8,000.

This programme is for over 18’s and families.

📅  Timetable

2nd September – Round two to be launched

30th September – Closing date for applications to be submitted

w/c 4th November – Successful applicants informed/funds distributed

31st March, 2025 – All projects to be concluded and awarded funds spent

Further details and the application form to the VSCE (Supportive Communities and Better Health Staffordshire) grants can be found here: VCSE Grants – Supportive Communities & Better Health Staffordshire – Community Foundation for Staffordshire and Shropshire

 

Monkeypox health alert ⚠️

 

The World Health Organisation (WHO) declared a public health emergency of international concern caused by a rapid spread of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox).

Mpox is a viral infection that spreads through close person-to-person contact. The virus has started in the Democratic Republic of the Congo last year, and there is a potential for the virus to spread further across countries in Africa and outside the continent.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is working with the NHS, councils, and other government departments to ensure we are ready to respond to any cases we see in the UK and help prevent transmission.

It has published a blog post which includes information about what mpox is, the different clades, the key symptoms and how UKHSA is working with partners to respond to the outbreak. It has also produced a toolkit and resources to help councils share information which will be updated as the situation develops.

For more information please click on the following link ⬇️

 

Mpox outbreak declared a public health emergency

 

Leisure Updates

 

Time for a health reset ❤️‍🩹

Everyone Health are delivering a wide range of services both virtually via phone, and in face to face settings. Everyone Health provide advice and support to improve your health.

  • Free Health Checks
  • Stop Smoking support
  • Weight Management

For more information about what’s on offer, click here.

Enjoy 10% off with our Leisure Advantage Card

 

Children and adults can enjoy 10% off full-price leisure centre activities such as swimming, gyms, exercise classes, toning suites and more. 

Sign up at your nearest leisure centre and start saving now!

To find out more, click below ⬇️

 

Leisure Advantage Card

 

As the kids go back, let’s get on track!

 

With the kids back in school, there’s no better time to re-set and get your health back on track. 

Find out below about services and schemes available to help you get back to it and improve your health and wellbeing.

  

 

 

Exercise classes

South Staffordshire Council’s leisure centres offer a wide range of exercise classes for all ages and fitness levels.

Cheslyn Hay have recently launched several new classes.

Click below to view timetables ⬇️

Cheslyn Hay exercise class timetable

Codsall exercise class timetable

Penkridge exercise class timetable

Wombourne exercise class timetable
Leisure Centre Gyms

Gyms are equipped with a variety of cardio machines and weights. People aged 16+ can use gyms independently, at any time. Young people aged 13+ can use gyms during specific supervised ‘Active Youth’ times or any time when accompanied by a participating parent/guardian.

For more info click on the links below ⬇️

Cheslyn Hay gym

Codsall gym

Penkridge gym

Wombourne gym
Term-time swimming programmes

Some leisure centres swimming timetables will change slightly from September as children return back to school.

To view the updated term-time swimming programmes and for further info, please click on the links below ⬇️

Cheslyn Hay swimming

Codsall swimming

Penkridge swimming

Wombourne swimming

 

 

 

 

Weekly News 362

Please note that our weekly updates will be suspended from Friday, August 2nd until Friday, September 6th for the summer break. Other forms of communication will continue as normal. 

Council and district news

Help us celebrate our 50th anniversary!

Have you got a special memory of South Staffordshire? It could be of a particular place, view or building that you love and feel should be celebrated?

2024 marks the 50th anniversary of South Staffordshire Council and we’re seeking memories, stories, thoughts and photographs from all Parish Council’s in the district.

We’d love to see your photographs of the district (past and present), community events, awards ceremonies, milestones or favourite areas in your particular Parish, which may be included as part of the celebration event. 

Your contributions may be shared as part of a celebratory event and community awards ceremony which will be held in October. 

As a thank you for completing the survey, you have the chance to be entered into a prize draw to win a £25.00 One4All shopping voucher. 

Please complete the survey by Friday August 30th. If you have any photographs, please email them to comms@sstaffs.gov.uk by the same date. 

Please click on the link to fill in our survey

👉 Parish Survey celebrating 50 years

Reminder: Free childcare application deadline – August 31st

 

The Department for Education (DfE) is reminding eligible working parents in England making childcare arrangements for September that they need to apply by 31 August for:

  • 15 hours childcare for their child aged 9 months old until they turn 3 years old
  • 30 hours childcare for their 3 or 4 year old

Parents should visit gov.uk to get their code for a place in September and then share it with their childcare provider. Parents are encouraged to speak to their provider to find out more about their arrangements.

They will have to renew their code every three months through their gov.​uk childcare account to continue to receive the government support.

To find out more and check their eligibility, parents should visit the Childcare Choices website

DfE has provided key messaging and resources in the newly revised Childcare Choices toolkit

 

Vacancies
  • Leisure Assistant, Codsall Leisure Centre, closing August 11th
  • Planning Solicitor, open closing date
  • Waste Management & Customer Support Officer, closing September 1st
  • Waste Contracts Manager, closing September 1st

All vacancies can be viewed in full and applied for on our recruitment site: https://www.sstaffs.gov.uk/vacancies.

STOP PRESS – Funding Update

 

South Staffordshire Council are excited to tell you about the success of the initial stage of awarding funding to a wide range of worthwhile projects here in South Staffordshire.

A wide range of project ideas have been funded and those that could demonstrate how their project could measure the achievable outcomes of making a significant difference to health equalities scored highly.

Some of the projects funded through the Health Inequalities Fund are:

Bee Well

At the heart of this project is to give young children the resilience to support them through the ups and downs of their young lives and beyond. The organisation will work with primary schools to deliver age-appropriate workshops to equip them for the future.

 

Elders and Explorers

There’s been a lot of research on the benefits of bringing together the older generation with young children. Codsall Community nursery have received funding to do just this. Over the course of the next year, this multi-generational project will be delivering workshops that will allow older people to interact with young children through arts, crafts, reading and just talking!

 

Ageing Well

This is a hot topic at the heart of so many of our communities  and one that is relevant to all our residents. The organisation will work with community groups to identify bespoke workshops to ensure that residents are able to enjoy their later years healthily and prosperously.

  

 

Sound Mind

There’s plenty of evidence to suggest that following Covid and the lockdown, young people were very much affected and referrals to mental health services are at an all-time high.  This organisation will work alongside family support services and schools to offer counselling services to young people.

 

Up-cycle

This organisation will be renovating donated bicycles which will then be offered to residents who need them to get to work, shopping and improve their health.

Through the West Midlands Interchange (WMI) fund. we have funded public benches, speed signs, village gateway signage and many more. This funding is restricted to the areas surrounding the WMI.

All the projects are in the initial stages of delivery – we can’t wait to see them in action!

In September and the following months, we will be bringing you more information on the progress of the projects.

 

Street Scene environmental maintenance work

 

Elected Members have recently had the opportunity to request environmental maintenance enhancements for their wards, which are in addition to the regular grounds maintenance schedule. 

This work will be carried out by our Street Scene team throughout the district over the next two years.

We’ll be sharing regular updates and before and after photographs to show the work that’s being carried out.

 

WATCH📹 : How we’re helping South Staffordshire communities enhance their areas

Our new video explains how we as a council divide the district into five localities and how our Locality Enablers work with our communities.

Over the next few weeks, we will be sharing further updates across our X, Facebook, and LinkedIn accounts.

Watch the full video on YouTube here:

👉How we’re helping South Staffordshire communities enhance their areas).

Partnership updates

Discover South Staffordshire at Wild Zoo! 🦕

The Wild Zoological Park is located at Halfpenny Green Vineyards in Bobbington.

It offers a memorable, hands-on experience to educate guests about animals. You’ll find animals from around the world in its 5 themed lands: Reptiles Unleashed, Wild Australia, Amazon, Asia, and Africa.

After the success of the half term experience ‘Jurassic Encounter’ Wild Zoo have launched a full length park show called ‘Wild World of Dinosaurs!’

The new show follows the resident palaeontologist as he explores life through the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods.

There are lots of impressive special effects and elements during the show as well as the The Flight Bird Show The Wild Wonder’s Animal Show!

The dinosaur show runs on weekends and school holidays.

To find out more click here 👉Wild Zoological Park / Wild Destinations

Enjoy Staffordshire’s #30under30pounds budget days out

Each of these suggested attractions are either free admission, or cost no more than £30 for a family of four to enter, so start planning your family summer days out in Staffordshire now!

Get ready for an unforgettable summer experience to explore Staffordshire’s hidden treasures.

Find out more here 👉 https://bit.ly/3Wttie2.

Book now for Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme

The Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme enables local authorities in England to deliver inclusive, enriching activities including a hot meal over the school holidays. For the summer holidays, eligible children can book 16 free places, up to four hours a day.

It’s funded for children and young people aged 5 – 16 years who receive benefit related free school meals. For a full overview, please watch this video.

How to book?

All parents to eligible children should have received an email or a letter from Staffordshire County Council with their child’s individual HAF code. The schools will also be requested to share information and booking details with all eligible children.

  1. Parents will see the ‘Book Now’ button on our HAF page on the county council website.
  2. Parents/carers can register an account via our booking platform on our website
  3. Parents will need their HAF code to hand to book the activities of their choice

To avoid disappointment, parents/carers should book as soon as possible at: www.staffordshire.gov.uk/holidayactivities. 

Staffordshire & Stoke-on-Trent Tourism Awards 2025: Celebrating Excellence in Local Tourism

This years Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Tourism Awards are now open for applicants. The closing date is Monday, September 2nd.

This prestigious event aims to celebrate the best in local tourism, recognising the dedication and innovation of businesses and individuals who contribute to making this area a premier destination for visitors.

Categories for this years awards include Small and Large Visitor Attraction of the Year, Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year, Pub of the Year and many more! The gold winners in each category will also receive the prestigious opportunity to represent VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2025.

With 19 categories and a free submission, don’t miss the chance to be a part of this exciting evening that promises to inspire and uplift.

For more information on how to apply here 👉click here.

Striving to improve local NHS emergency services

 

The NHS Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Integrated Care Board (ICB) have been working closely with our hospital trust providers and other partners to review our current urgent and emergency care services against the nationally mandated principles and standards for urgent treatment centres (UTCs).

UTCs are designed to offer care to people with minor illnesses or injuries, whose needs are urgent (same day) but not life-or limb-threatening.

We want to tackle these challenges and help everyone get to the right place, first time for the right advice or treatment.

We want to hear from patients and the public across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent through an online survey about people’s experiences of using UEC, and we’ll be holding meetings from August to early October.

Read more on our website: https://staffsstoke.icb.nhs.uk/improving-urgent-and-emergency-care/our-strategy/

Get involved

For the survey, details of meetings, and information you can download, go to our NHS Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent ICB webpage: https://staffsstoke.icb.nhs.uk/uec-get-involved

Get in touch

Phone: 0333 150 3069

Email: mlcsu.involvement@nhs.net

 

Event Management Safety

 

The Environmental Health and Licensing Team have been working with event organisers throughout the year to support them in delivering safe events across the district. 

Last year an estimated 130,000 visitors to South Staffordshire who attended events within the district.

The team work in partnership with other responsible bodies as the police, fire and rescue service, highways and medical services alongside the event organiser to form a safety advisory group (SAG) to advise and guide good practice.

As a council we encourage event organisers to take ownership of their event by providing an event management plan to ensure a safe event is being delivered and key areas are addressed such as health and safety, food safety, traffic management, first aid, fire safety and welfare provision.

Over the past year the team have worked with a variety of events from smaller music festivals and bonfire nights and larger events such as Camp Bestival which attracts around 20,000 visitors.

The team will work with organisers and provide the necessary advice and guidance and have carried out meetings, onsite nighttime and weekend visits and undertake enforcement where necessary .

This year an abatement notice has been served in relation to a statutory nuisance and objections made to license conditions that had not being met. For two events the safety advisory group have advised the organisers that their plans were insufficient, or objections were made to licence applications on the grounds of safety, this has prevented two potentially unsafe events from going ahead.

 

Leisure updates

Codsall Leisure Centre is recruiting

 

Codsall Leisure Centre is looking for a part-time leisure assistant.

The closing date for applications is August 11th.

Find out more here👉 https://www.sstaffs.gov.uk/findajob

Codsall Leisure Centre is looking for a part-time leisure assistant.

The closing date for applications is August 11th.

Find out more here👉 https://www.sstaffs.gov.uk/findajob

Swimmers wanted!

 

Codsall Leisure Centre is looking for children that are able to help out with our new teachers who are gaining their teaching qualification.

Children must be able to:

  • Swim 50m
  • Tread water for at least 1 minute unaided
  • Be 16 years old or under
  • Be STA Angelfish level or above or Swim England Level 7 or above

Swimmers needed from Tuesday, August 6th to Friday, August 9th.

Swimmers can join one or several of our classes and can come for one day or the whole week – completely free of charge!

Spaces available:

  • 1pm everyday
  • 1.30pm everyday
  • 2pm everyday

Please help us get our teachers through their qualification!

Call 01902 844032 to book a place or pop into the leisure centre.

Thank you for your support!

 

Summer holiday activities for children and young people

 

South Staffordshire Council’s leisure centres are offering a range of activities for children and young people to take part in this summer.

Here’s a quick run-down of what’s on offer:

  • Summer holiday swimming sessions
  • The Space Scheme discounts (8-17 year olds)
  • Active Youth – supervised gym sessions for 13 years+
  • Aspire Active Camps (5-14 year olds)
  • Wolves Soccer Schools
  • Training courses
  • Save 10% on full-price activities with the Leisure Advantage card
  • Student and apprentice memberships

Find out what’s on offer this summer here 👉sports-and-fitness/activities

 

In case you missed it

 

Catch up on our latest news and updates across all of our newsletters:

Read South Staffordshire Council’s leisure centres – Summer holiday activities newsletter.

Read Summer School Holiday Activities are here!

 

 

 

Weekly News 361

Please note that our weekly updates will be suspended from Friday, August 2nd until Friday, September 6th for the summer break. Other forms of communication will continue as normal. 

Council and district news

Waste and recycling feedback workshops: Volunteers required

 

Following the launch of our Waste Collection Survey, we are hosting in-person workshops to provide an opportunity for you to discuss your thoughts and opinions in more detail.  

We value your feedback and invite you to our in-person workshop sessions to discuss your ideas further. Your participation will help shape how we deliver our services.

Workshop Schedule:

Please note that places are limited, so prebooking is required. All in-person workshops run from 6:00pm to 7:30pm.

You can book your spot for any of these workshops using this link: Join Our In-Person Workshop Sessions (sstaffs.gov.uk).  

  • Codsall Community Hub: Tuesday, July 30th
  • Essington WMC: Wednesday, July 31st
  • Wombourne Civic Centre: Thursday, August 1st
  • Penkridge Haling Dene Centre: Tuesday, August 6th
  • Brewood Jubilee Hall: Wednesday, August 7th

We hope that you can attend one of our in-person events. However, if you are unable to join us in person, we are also hosting an online workshop:

  • Virtual online: Thursday, August 8th, 11:00am – 12:30pm

As a thank you for your support, one lucky winner from each in-person workshop will win a £50 voucher prize. We look forward to seeing you there. 

 

Vacancies
  • Leisure Assistant, Codsall Leisure Centre, closing August 11th
  • Planning Solicitor, open closing date

All vacancies can be viewed in full and applied for on our recruitment site: https://www.sstaffs.gov.uk/vacancies.

Huntington Family Fun Day success

Last Sunday, the Huntington Family Fun Day, hosted by the Huntington Parish Council, turned out to be a resounding success, surpassing the turnout of previous years. Our team was honoured to be a part of this special community event and received heartfelt thanks for our contributions.

One of the highlights was the stationary giveaway, featuring recycled items from the recent election. This eco-friendly initiative received numerous compliments from attendees, many of whom appreciated the support in preparing their families for the upcoming school year.

The event also featured a popular raffle, with the leisure centre prize significantly boosting ticket sales. Additionally, over 1,500 free doggy poo bags were distributed, a thoughtful gesture that was well-received by pet owners.

Attendees also had access to free advice on benefit and financial management and support into employment. These interactions led to meaningful conversations with local residents, addressing their concerns and providing valuable information.

Such a successful event required a tremendous team effort from colleagues across all teams in South Staffordshire. A big thank you to everyone involved in making the Huntington Family Fun Day an unforgettable community gathering!

Partnership updates

Enjoy Staffordshire’s #30under30pounds budget days out

Each of these suggested attractions are either free admission, or cost no more than £30 for a family of four to enter, so start planning your family summer days out in Staffordshire now!

Get ready for an unforgettable summer experience to explore Staffordshire’s hidden treasures.

Find out more here 👉 https://bit.ly/3Wttie2.

Book now for Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme

The Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme enables local authorities in England to deliver inclusive, enriching activities including a hot meal over the school holidays. For the summer holidays, eligible children can book 16 free places, up to four hours a day.

It’s funded for children and young people aged 5 – 16 years who receive benefit related free school meals. For a full overview, please watch this video.

How to book?

All parents to eligible children should have received an email or a letter from Staffordshire County Council with their child’s individual HAF code. The schools will also be requested to share information and booking details with all eligible children.

  1. Parents will see the ‘Book Now’ button on our HAF page on the county council website.
  2. Parents/carers can register an account via our booking platform on our website
  3. Parents will need their HAF code to hand to book the activities of their choice

To avoid disappointment, parents/carers should book as soon as possible at: www.staffordshire.gov.uk/holidayactivities. 

National Respiratory Syncytial Virus vaccination programme announced

 

The Department for Health and Social Care has announced a national programme that uses the same vaccine to protect both newborns and older adults against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), a major cause of respiratory illness, particularly dangerous for infants and the elderly.

The rollout, which will start from September 1st, includes a vaccine for pregnant women over 28 weeks to help protect their newborn babies, a routine programme for those over 75, and a one-off campaign for people aged 75 to 79. These are the groups at the greatest risk from RSV, based on advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation.

 

Leisure updates

New exercise classes launched at Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre

Fourteen brand-new classes launched this week at Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre offering additional classes for Yoga, Pilates, Vibe Cycle, Legs, bums and tums and more!

View the new programme on our website.

Health checks available at Penkridge Leisure Centre

 

Everyone Health will be returning to Penkridge Leisure Centre on Monday July 29th, and Tuesday, July 30th to offer NHS health checks to Staffordshire residents.

The NHS Health Check is designed to spot the early signs of stroke, heart attack and type 2 diabetes. It is available to anyone aged 40-74 who lives in Staffordshire and is not under the care of a GP for pre-existing conditions such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol.

To find out more, please visit: https://staffordshire.everyonehealth.co.uk/nhs-health-check-roadshow/.

 

Health and wellbeing in the community

 

South Staffordshire Council offer community-based programmes consisting of instructor-led community walks and gentle exercise classes.

The activities take place every week and run from various locations around the district.

To find out more visit: https://www.sstaffs.gov.uk/sports-and-fitness/health-and-wellbeing-community.

 

Summer holiday activities for children and young people

 

This summer South Staffordshire Council’s leisure centres are offering a range of activities for children and young people to take part in. 

Here’s a quick run-down of what’s on offer:

  • Summer holiday swimming sessions
  • The Space Scheme discounts (8-17 year olds)
  • Active Youth – supervised gym sessions for 13 years+
  • Aspire Active Camps (5-14 year olds)
  • Wolves Soccer Schools
  • Training courses
  • Save 10% on full-price activities with the Leisure Advantage card
  • Student and apprentice memberships

 

In case you missed it

 

Catch up on our latest news and updates across all of our newsletters:

Read South Staffordshire Council’s leisure centres – Summer holiday activities newsletter.

Read Summer School Holiday Activities are here!

 

 

Weekly News 359

Council and district news

Some General Election statistics 🗳️

 

On Thursday, July 4th the Parliamentary Election was held to elect a Member of Parliament for Kingswinford & South Staffordshire and Stone, Great Wyrley and Penkridge.

Here are a few statistics below which gives an overview of the scale of the event:

  

 

  • 618 people supported the delivery of the election.
  • 137 Presiding Officers and 261 Poll Clerks worked at our polling stations.
  • 129 Counting Assistants counted the ballot papers until the early hours of the morning – 88,836 ballot papers were counted.
  • We issued 24,033 postal voting packs and the Postal Voting team opened and processed 20,150 of returned postal voting packs.
  • This is the largest cross-boundary election we have ever run – taking on thousands of electors from both Dudley MBC and Stafford BC.

 

Celebrating 50 years!

We are officially on countdown with just under twelve weeks to go for our 50-year anniversary celebration!

As we prepare to commemorate this significant milestone, we will be sending out a survey shortly and are asking residents of South Staffordshire to send in their stories, photographs and memories of our borough to record our history.

It’s a great chance to celebrate:

  • 50 years of our borough
  • our communities
  • our borough’s wonderful achievements and to look forward to the next chapter

Have you got a special memory of South Staffordshire? It could be of a particular place, view or building that you love and feel should be celebrated?

We would love to hear and see your photos of South Staffs in the last 50 years. Whether its a favourite spot or a special or unusual event, please share your memory with us to: Comms@sstaffs.gov.uk.

Councillor Roger Lees commented on this momentous occasion:

‘It’s a huge honour to mark the start of the 50th anniversary of South Staffordshire Council and it has been an honour to serve our community.’

Climate Action Fund to help local communities

 

Staffordshire County Council is dedicated to cutting greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change and acknowledges the necessity of adapting to our evolving climate.

Working together to reduce climate change impacts across Staffordshire is a top priority.

The Climate Change Action Fund offers financial assistance to local communities to build resilience and reduce Staffordshire’s contributions to climate change.

For more info please click on the link below ⬇️

Climate Action Fund – Staffordshire County Council

 

South Staffordshire shop front grant

 

South Staffordshire council is committed to supporting the district’s business community.

We are targeting a portion of our UKSPF allocation to support our local business, with a focus on those operating in the village centres

We have established a ‘shop front’ grant scheme to support and sustain existing businesses in the village centres, this grant will help to improve the look and feel of our village centres, making those shops more attractive to passing visitors and local residents increasing trade and footfall.

The Shop Front Grant is available to independent retail and hospitality businesses and property owners in South Staffordshire’s village centres to improve their shop front or to bring vacant premises back into use.

The objective of the grant is to support traders and the local economy as well as improving the retail environment for shoppers, residents, and visitors.

For further information, please visit here.

 

Huntington Summer fete

 

South Staffordshire Council will be offering advice on benefits, energy efficiency, dementia support, as well as a back-to-school stationery giveaway and much more – this event is not to be missed!
  • Get your children school ready for the new term, stationery give away to support those in need.
  • Looking for ways to create a warmer home at a fraction of the price this winter? Pop along and meet our Community Homes Solutions team and see how we can help you.
  • Do you look after someone with dementia? Do you know someone who does and is struggling? Pop along to our stand today, we will have support materials on hand.
  • Creating brighter futures – Are you out of work and looking to launch a career but need the training?
  • Free doggy poo bags, courtesy of our Street Scene cleansing team. Help us to keep community play areas and streets clean.

 

➡️➡️Village Green, Huntington

📅 July, 21st

⏲️10am – 3pm

 

Chairman’s Charity fundraiser

Message from Councillor Dan Kinsey, Chairman of South Staffordshire – 

You may, or may not, be aware that my Chairman’s Charity this year is actually three – Papyrus, Staffordshire Blood Bikes, and South Staffordshire First Responders.

I will be putting on a number of charity fundraisers across the year, but already in the diary is a Sky Dive I will undertake in August (hoping it doesn’t get delayed by the weather…). So for this, you don’t need to purchase tickets, get dressed up, come to an event or anything like that – just make a donation to some very worthy causes!

Please see the link here to my JustGiving page, and please share this as far and as wide as you feel is appropriate.

https://www.justgiving.com/team/sstaffschairmancouncillordankinseyskydive

If anyone would like a sponsorship form to help me in this endeavour, please let us know, and we’ll get something to you.

I hope you can help me in this exciting challenge.

-Councillor Dan Kinsey

Vacancies

 
  • Street Scene Operative Level 4 (12 month fixed term), closing on July 16th
  • Assistant Manager (Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre), closing on July 15th
  • Planning Solicitor, open closing date

All vacancies can be viewed in full and applied for on our recruitment site: https://www.sstaffs.gov.uk/vacancies.

Leisure latest

Carbon Bubble is coming to Cheslyn Hay

 

Chez Fest Family Fun Day is a family event to highlight healthy lifestyle choices and wellbeing within the community.

The event is being organised by Cheslyn Hay & Great Wyrley Running Club to help promote healthy lifestyles and exercise with lots of local companies on hand throughout the day to share their knowledge and experience.  South Staffordshire Council will be on hand to tell you all about their leisure offer, Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre and the opportunities for resident to get involved .

Also attending the event will be Staffordshire County Council and their ’Carbon Bubble’ which is an interactive way for us all to think about climate change issues and get handy tips for reducing our carbon footprint.

This is being led by Staffordshire County Council in partnership with Staffordshire’s eight district and borough councils and all part of plans to help the county reduce its carbon footprint and get to net zero by 2050.

There will be live music, entertainment along with cake and food stalls and something for all of the family.

Please do come along and say hello, we’d love to see you!

🏘️: Cheslyn Hay Park, Rosemary Road

📅 Saturday, 13th July

⏲️ 11am – 5pm

 

Get 10% off leisure centre activities with the ‘Leisure Advantage Card’

 

Adults and children can now sign up to a new ‘Leisure Advantage Card’ offering discounts of up to 10% off individual leisure centre activities including exercise classes, swimming and the gym.  

Pop into your nearest leisure centre to get your card activated and start saving NOW.

Find out more here.

 

New exercise classes launch at Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre

 

Several brand-new classes are being introduced at Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre with the extended programme launching on Monday, July 15th.

The programme will offer additional classes for Yoga, Pilates, Vibe Cycle, Legs, bums n tums and more!

To view the new programme go to ⬇️

CHLC NEW Exercise class timetable 2024

 

Summer holiday swimming timetables

 

The daytime swimming programmes will change slightly during the summer school holiday to offer more daytime swimming between Monday, July 22nd to Friday, August 30th.   

For the summer holiday swimming timetables, click on the links below:

Cheslyn Hay summer swimming times

Codsall summer swimming times

Penkridge summer swimming times

Wombourne summer swimming times

 

The Space Scheme – summer discounts for young people

 

From Monday, July 29th to Friday, August 30th, young people aged 8-17 years, living in South Staffordshire can enjoy discounts on swimming, gym sessions and 3G pitch hire thanks to funding from the Office of Police and Crime Commissioner.

  • Swim for £1
  • Gym for £1
  • 3G pitch hire for £10.

For full details, click here.

  

Weekly News 356

Council and district news

Final reminder to register to vote!

 

Have you registered to vote yet?

If you have previously registered, then please wait for your polling card to arrive with further details.

If you have moved address, recently turned 18, never voted before or changed your name then you will need to register to vote online using your national insurance number.

Please use this link to register to vote.

Below are some handy links to any questions that you may have regarding the upcoming general election on Thursday, July 4th.

Still have questions? 🤔

Visit our elections and voting webpage or contact our elections team.

 

Landywood Station car park closed 10th-17th June

 

The car park which closed on Sunday, June 9th is anticipated to reopen on Monday, June 17th. 

A full resurface and relining of Landywood Station Car Park is in progress. Access to platform 1 is maintained throughout the work via a temporary footpath.

Thank you for your cooperation during this time.

 

Stay safe this summer!

 

Enjoy this year’s summer festivals and days out to their fullest by carrying one of our FREE personal safety alarms with you.

You can collect your alarm from Codsall Community Hub between now and Friday, August 30th, from 9am to 5pm (or contact your local parish council).

 

Vacancies

 
  • Street Scene Operative Level 5 (Tree Surgeon) – closing June 14th
  • Waste Contracts Manager – closing June 16th
  • Assistant Managers, at Codsall, Cheslyn Hay and Penkridge Leisure Centres (full & part-time vacancies) – closing June 16th
  • Fitness Instructor at Wombourne Leisure Centre  – closing June 16th

All vacancies can be viewed in full and applied for on our recruitment site: https://www.sstaffs.gov.uk/vacancies

This month’s Business Support newsletter

 

Click the below link to read the latest Business Support newsletter featuring a range of topics. 

Read the latest Business Support newsletter.

  

 

 

Leisure latest

Join our leisure management team

Cheslyn Hay, Codsall and Penkridge Leisure Centres are seeking enthusiastic individuals for the roles of Assistant Managers to assist with the operational management of the leisure centres.

For full details click here. Closing Date: Sunday, June 16th 2024.

Summer Pool Lifeguard and Swimming Teacher Courses

 

South Staffordshire Council’s leisure centres are running courses to train people to become qualified lifeguards, swimming teachers and aquatic helpers. 

Week-long and day-long courses are running throughout July and August available to people aged 14+ and 16+. Limited spaces – reserve your place NOW!

Candidates attending the pool lifeguard courses can also now claim UCAS points for completing the course.

For more information click here.

 

Get 10% off leisure centre activities with the ‘Leisure Advantage Card’

 

Adults and children can now sign up to a new ‘Leisure Advantage Card’ offering discounts of up to 10% off individual leisure centre activities including exercise classes, swimming and the gym.  

Pop into your nearest leisure centre to get your card activated and start saving NOW.

Find out more here.

 

Summer holiday Active Camps

 

We are now taking bookings for children’s summer holiday activity camps running at Codsall and Wombourne leisure centres.

Book now for the best price

  

 

 

Exercise class attendance

 

Just a polite request – if you are unable to attend a class you have booked, please ensure to cancel your place as soon as possible.

Unfortunately, we are experiencing a high number of fully booked classes with only half the attendees showing up.  By cancelling your spot, you can help make space for each other.

Community exercise classes and walks on offer across the district

 

South Staffordshire Council want to encourage healthy aging and an active retirement!

Did you know that we provide a weekly programme of free instructor-led wellbeing walks; plus gentle exercise classes all of which take place from various locations around the district.

Find out more and view the programmes of classes and walks by clicking on the links below:

South Staffordshire Walking Programme

Exercise Classes in the Community

  

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