press release                            July 3 2008

Award winners pick up more honours

Brighton & Hove’s trailblazing talking bus stops for the blind and visually impaired have scooped another top national award.

The project won the Telecomms innovation category of the Good Communications Awards in a ceremony at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium.

The success follows two other innovation awards for the bus stops, provided by Brighton & Hove City Council, which provide spoken information on services for blind and visually impaired people.

The city became the first area in the country to introduce talking bus stops last year.Twenty two talking bus stops have been installed across the city and are used by visually impaired people to hear which bus stop they are at, which buses are coming and when they will arrive, meaning they no longer need to rely on fellow passengers for help.

Councillor Geoffrey Theobald, the city council’s cabinet member for the environment, said: “The bus stops are making a real, practical difference to the lives of blind and visually impaired people.

“We are delighted at the impact they are making locally, and at the national recognition they have received.”

The city council has also been shortlisted for another national award for improvements to New Road in the heart of the city’s new cultural quarter, by the Transport Practioners Meeting.

The street has been re-designed as a ‘shared space’, giving priority to pedestrians over vehicles. The New Road scheme has already won awards from the Institute for Highways and Transportation and the Local Government News.

press release                July 3 2008

Pirates at the Goldstone

Pirates and princesses will be taking over Hove Park playground on Saturday July 5.

Youngsters have been asked to dress up as pirates and princesses to celebrate the opening of the refurbished children’s playground.

The £165,000 playground has been designed following consultation with park users and now includes some exciting new equipment, including an aerial runway, basket swing, sandpits and accessible roundabouts. There’s also more room to play games and to enjoy a picnic.

The playground will be opened at 10.30am by Brighton & Hove Mayor Councillor Garry Peltzer Dunn, who will choose one lucky pirate and princess to win a prize.

The playground redevelopment was funded through section 106 money provided by the City Park development which replaced the Alliance and Leicester building next to the park.

The opening of the new playground in Hove Park will be followed by the refurbishment of Hollingbury Park playground that is due to re-open in the summer holidays.

Councillor Geoffrey Theobald, Cabinet member for Environment said: “We are delighted to be able to open this wonderful new playground just in time for the school summer holidays.”

Councillors and officers are working on a programme of further refurbishment for other playgrounds in the city.

Press release                        Tuesday 1 July 2008

Come along and book your place at Library Court

More Extra Care Housing in the city

Library Court, six brand new self-contained Extra Care flats in Coldean, will be open for prospective residents to view this Friday 4 July.  The one bedroom flats are situated above the equally new library, an integral part of this exciting £700,000 development built by Hanover Housing, the Housing Corporation and Brighton & Hove City Council.  

The accommodation has been built for shared ownership and is aimed at people over 55 who would benefit from extra-care facilities. Residents will be able to enjoy all the facilities of the award winning extra-care scheme, New Larchwood, which is directly opposite.  These include a café, a restaurant, entertainment room and community GP surgery. 

Ken Norman, City Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care & Health, said,
“Extra Care is one of the most popular life style choices these days for older people, because it offers independence when you want it and 24 hour care when you need it.

"It also ensures that older people, especially if they are living on their own, do not become too isolated. One of the absolute pluses about Library Court is its close connection with New Larchwood and all it has to offer, ensuring that new residents settle in and feel part of their new community very quickly.”

Maria Caulfield, City Cabinet Member for Housing, added,
“Brighton & Hove has an expanding older population, which is why extra-care schemes such as Library Court and New Larchwood are welcomed with such enthusiasm; we are looking forward to the completion of Patching Lodge, a 76 one bedroom development in Kemptown, which will provide extra-care 76 flats next spring. 

"All these schemes have been delivered through partnership working with one of the foremost housing associations for older people, Hanover Housing, and in the case of Library Court, with funding from the Housing Corporation under the National Affordable Housing Programme.  I am committed to a programme of continued good practice and partnership working to bring more and more homes of this standard to our older community.” 

Library Court is an extension of the successful extra-care development at New Larchwood which will provide care and support from the on-site team. All flats have wheelchair access.

Should Friday 4 July prove inconvenient for viewing, anyone interested in a flat at Library Court can call Hanover Housing’s National Sales Enquiry Team on 0870 600 3074.

Related information

Press release                            Friday 20 June 2008

Looking ahead - a conference for Brighton & Hove's headteachers and principals

Brighton & Hove's Children and Young People's Trust welcomes local headteachers and principals to its leadership conference this week.

'Looking Ahead - creating your future today', on Friday 20 June at the Metropole Hotel, is aimed at Brighton & Hove's school and college leaders and gives them the opportunity to hear from nationally recognised experts on the latest developments in leadership skills and strategies.

They will network with other education leaders across the city, share best practice and review how they can make their leadership even better for the city's children & young people.

Ofsted inspectors have already recognised how strong overall school leadership is in the city. The Children and Young People's Trust believes that investing in professional development will improve it even more and also help attract more high quality headteachers to apply for any future vacancies.

Councillor Vanessa Brown Cabinet Member for Children and Young People said: "I'm pleased to welcome headteachers, principals and deputy heads from schools across the city to our 'Looking Ahead' conference.

"It is an ideal opportunity for very busy, committed, people to have time away from their schools to listen to nationally recognised experts and share experiences and best practice with their colleagues."

press release               27 June 2008

Have your say on the future of Brighton & Hove

Now is the time to have your say on the future of Brighton & Hove as part of the latest stage of consultation on a major planning document for the city.

Brighton & Hove City Council wants to hear people’s views on the Local Development Framework Core Strategy, which sets out the authority’s planning vision for the city up to 2026.

The strategy focuses on city priorities which affect everyone, including housing, the economy, transport, community safety, leisure and regeneration.

Since 2005 residents, businesses, local groups and other stakeholders have contributed their views on the strategy.  This feedback has been important and the strategy has been revised to take into account the views received.

Now the revised strategy will be open for further public consultation from 27 June until 8 August.

Brighton & Hove City Council leader, Councillor Mary Mears, said: “The Local Development Framework will play a major role in taking the city forward over the next two decades, so it is extremely important that residents give us their views.

”The strategy  sets out how the council will respond to local priorities, such as the need for more affordable family housing, creating new jobs, and protecting the environment.”

She added: “It is all about taking a co-ordinated approach as we look ahead, focussing on a whole range of things that can affect people’s quality of life.”

In response to feedback, the revised strategy sets out how the city will accommodate new development in the limited space available and says major new building must support the regeneration of the city whilst being environmentally friendly and sustainable - helping to reduce the city’s carbon footprint. The strategy will direct future development into seven broad areas, where there are potential opportunities for change or regeneration:

• Brighton Centre and Churchill Square area
• Brighton Marina and Black Rock
• Lewes Road
• New England Quarter and London Road
• Eastern Road and Edward Street
• Hove Station area
• Shoreham Harbour and South Portslade

Other revisions include improving Valley Gardens to create an attractive park in the heart of the city; enhancing central Brighton’s regional role as a shopping, tourism, cultural and commercial centre; and increased emphasis on providing more family homes.

The Core Strategy - Revised Preferred Options document can be viewed or downloaded from the council’s website Local Development Framework  and viewed at the city’s libraries and Citydirect Centres at Hove Town Hall, Bartholomew House, Brighton and Victoria Road, Portslade.

For further information and how to obtain a copy of the document contact the Local Development Framework Team on (01273) 292505.

Press Release              Monday 30 June 2008

Personnel award for Finance & Resources

The council’s Finance & Resources department, which supplies vital support for front line public services, has gained the prestigious Investors In People accreditation for its commitment to training and developing its staff.

The department provides financial and auditing services, management of the council’s substantial property estate and major IT systems, and a number of key services for residents such as electoral services, bereavement services, the registry of births, marriages and deaths, and council tax collection and benefit payments.

To obtain IIP accreditation the department has had to demonstrate good practice in the performance management of staff and managers. Regular performance and development reviews and appraisals are held to make sure staff and managers are clear about the objectives of the service and how they contribute towards achieving them.

The training commitment is there to help staff and managers develop new skills and lead important changes to new and existing services.

The department has also demonstrated that it plans and prioritises service delivery well and communicates these plans widely. For example, all staff and managers are clear that helping services to make better use of public money is the number one priority for the department.

The council’s cabinet member for finance, Councillor Jan Young, said: “This is about creating a happier workforce that knows what is expected of them and is given the skills to deliver it. It’s an important part of our efforts to improve performance and retain our staff."

press release                June 26 2008

Setting the standard for sustainable design

Brighton & Hove is leading the way in encouraging environmentally-friendly buildings.

New guidelines have been drawn up by Brighton & Hove City Council setting out standards for sustainable building design across the city.

The Sustainable Building Design supplementary planning document – believed to be the first in the country to combine a comprehensive range of best practice recommendations - aims to ensure that future development in the city helps reduce carbon emissions and make better use of resources.

The document covers everything from efficient use of energy and water to sustainable building materials.

Local architects and planners, builders, developers, community groups, environmental organisations and other interested parties have been consulted on the document and their feedback has helped to shape the final version.

The guidelines are advisory but, with Brighton & Hove’s reputation for forward looking design and interest in environmental issues, the council hopes developers will be encouraged to work to the new standards.

For example there are already a growing number of ‘eco-homes’ in the city, where individual home owners and builders have taken steps to reduce energy, cut water use and help the environment, with measures such solar heating, insulation made from sheep’s wool, recycled, and ‘green’ roofs planted with sedum.

Sustainable design has also been a key factor in new public buildings, such as Brighton’s award winning Jubilee Library. The library is one of the most energy efficient public buildings in the country, taking advantage of natural energy provided by the sun and sea breezes for heating and lighting. Rainwater is collected from the roof of the building is used to flush the toilets.

Brighton & Hove City Council leader, Councillor Mary Mears, said: “Everyone can play a part in reducing the city’s ecological footprint and we want to see developments achieve the highest possible standards of sustainable building design.

“There is already considerable interest in sustainable design in Brighton & Hove – as the city’s forthcoming Eco Open Houses event demonstrates – and we are grateful to everyone who has taken part in consultation and given us feedback on these new guidelines.”

She added: “The document provides clear guidelines as to the minimum sustainable design standards the council recommends, but it is flexible and will take into account other factors. For example, there may be technology or economic constraints on some sites which need to be taken into consideration.”

The document was adopted by the council this month and the guidelines will come into effect from August 1.

Many residents already living in environmentally-friendly homes will be opening their doors to the public as part of the city’s first Eco Open Houses event, being held on June 28 and 29 and July 5 and 6 www.ecoopenhouses.org. 

Related information

Sustainable Building Design Supplementary Planning Document - see agenda item 15

Jubilee library sustainable design

Press release                           Thursday 26 June 2008

Friday night is football night

Free Friday night football sessions for 12-19 year olds are starting in Easthill Park next month.

The sessions, organised by Brighton & Hove’s sports development team, Brighton and Hove Albion and local PCSOs will be running from 4 July to 8 August, 7.30-9pm.

All abilities are welcome. Just drop in.

For more details, call Julie on 07795 336150.

Related information

press release                          June 26 2008

Changing lives through art

An art exhibition with a difference opens in Brighton this week.

‘Temporarily Now’, being staged at St Paul’s Church in West Street, Brighton, showcases a range of artwork and photography created by people recovering from drug and alcohol problems.

Art therapy is used by a number of local organisations in their work with people getting over substance misuse problems and the exhibition is an opportunity for the artists to display their work.

The exhibition has been organised by Brighton & Hove City Council’s  Communities Against Drugs team – part of the city’s Drug and Alcohol Action Team.

The exhibition will run from now until August 30 and, being in a central location close to Brighton seafront, it is expected to be visited by thousands of people over the course of the summer. It will move on to other venues in the autumn.

Organisations taking part include ru-ok?, the young people’s substance misuse service; Equinox Alcohol Outreach Service; the Youth Offending Team; Foyer Sanctuary Housing; Recovery On/Off Addictive Drugs, a voluntary service user group; and Creative Futures.

Cllr Dee Simson, the council's cabinet member for community affairs and inclusion, said: “People taking part in art therapy at drug and alcohol projects in the city have produced some really creative work.

“The exhibition will help to bring their art to the attention of a wider audience and highlight the work of organisations working with people recovering from substance misuse. We hope as many people as possible will take the time to visit the exhibition during the summer.”

The exhibition will be open at the following times: June 26 to 30: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sat: 10.30am-12 noon, Weds 10.30am-3pm. July and August – Mon to Sat: 10.30am-3pm.

The Brighton and Hove Drug and Alcohol Action Team (DAAT) is made up of a wide range of services and agencies, all working together in partnership, including the Sussex Partnership NHS Trust, Brighton & Hove Primary Care Trust, Brighton & Hove police, Brighton & Hove City Council, voluntary sector organisations, such as Crime Reduction Initiatives and St John Ambulance, and the probation service. 

Press Release        Wednesday 25 June 2008

Bring a bear for Paddington charity party

Acorn Nursery in Portslade is celebrating Paddington Bear’s 50th anniversary by holding a ‘Bring Your Bear’ day to raise funds for Paddington’s favourite charity, Action Medical Research, on Thursday June 26.

‘Bring Your Bear’ is a fun and educational event that raises vital funds for the charity’s Touching Tiny Lives Campaign to help sick and vulnerable babies. Children pay £1 to bring their teddy and take part in lots of fun activities and learn about the vital research that they are raising funds for.

Lisa Parker, Acting Nursery Manager said, “This is a wonderful opportunity for all of our local families and friends to get together and to be involved in a fun filled day with Paddington Bear. This fantastic day will help to raise valuable funds for Action Medical Research.”
 
Lizzy Chapman, Bring Your Bear Event Manager at Action Medical Research, said, “This year we’re aiming to raise more money than ever before, so we hope as many children as possible will join in.

"Last year’s event raised more than £86,000, which is funding work to help prevent life-threatening pregnancy complications and reduce premature births.”

Press Release         Wednesday 25 June 2008

Top author pushes family reading

Acclaimed local children's writer Hilda Offen visits Fairlight primary school this week to encourage parents and children to enjoy books and reading together.

Hilda who has won the Smarties prize and published over 30 books, including the 'Rita the Rescuer' series, will be visiting the Family Learning group at the school on Wednesday June 25. She will also produce one of her huge 'superhero' drawings with the parents and children.

She regularly visits Family Learning groups which are run in primary schools and pre-school settings across the city by the Adult Skills and Learning team of the city's Children and Young People’s Trust (CYPT).

Courses are run to support parents with their own learning (they can take national Open College Progression Awards and/or the National Certificate for Literacy and Numeracy) whilst they learn how to support their children's learning. Parents and children attend together once a week for a term. 

The CYPT currently runs over 60 courses a year for about 600 families. The course at Fairlight is taught by two of the Family Learning team, primary teacher Judith Ledger and Margaret Allen, adult tutor.

This event is part of the National Year of Reading.

Press Release       Wednesday 25 June 2008

Council raises the rainbow flag

The council is raising the Rainbow Flag today (Wednesday 25 June) at Hove Town Hall and at its headquarters at King’s House, Grand Avenue, Hove to mark the thirtieth anniversary of when the flag was used for the first time.

The rainbow flag was first used on June 25 1978 at the San Francisco Gay and Lesbian Freedom Day Parade. It is now an international symbol of solidarity with lesbian, gay, bisexual and transsexual people.

Councillor Dee Simson, cabinet member for community affairs, inclusion and internal relations (pictured holding the flag), said: “Our international reputation for celebrating the diversity of our residents is at the very heart of why Brighton & Hove is such a great place to live. We are proud to be raising the rainbow flag today.”

Press release                      Tuesday 24 June 2008

Hot new library for Coldean

Coldean’s brand new library opens on June 28.

Around twice the size of the old building, the new facility in Beatty Avenue boasts free internet, over 20 computers in a plush IT suite and a bigger collection of books and DVDs.

There are also hi-tech self-service terminals like those at Jubilee and Hove libraries, a special children’s area and meeting rooms.

A launch event on the day between 10am-4pm will have free goody bags for the first 20 customers, Baby Boogie music and rhyme sessions for babies and toddlers and a hip-hop display by Coldean Youth project. 

Actress Peta Taylor will read from Val McDermid’s A Place of Execution.

There will also be face painting, book group enrolment and displays from residents.

The library is part of a £700,000 development which was built by Hanover Housing and which was developed in partnership between Hanover Housing, the Housing Corporation and Brighton & Hove City Council.

On the ground floor is the library, with six new extra care flats above.  The flats are being sold as shared ownership homes aimed at people over 55 who would benefit from living in extra care housing. 

The accommodation is opposite the New Larchwood extra care development for older people and the flats’ occupants will be able to use its facilities, which include a range of community facilities as well as an on-site care and support team.

Cabinet member for culture Councillor David Smith said:  “One of our priorities is getting everyone included in the benefits we’re bringing to the city. This is a superb facility that will become a centre of learning, entertainment and social activity for the people of Coldean.”

Opening hours will be Monday 9-1 and 2-5, Thursday 9-1 and 2-7; Saturday 10-1.  Enquiries (01273) 29 6902.

Related information

press release                            24 June 2008

Bandstand restoration given go ahead

Work to restore the historic Brighton & Hove seafront bandstand will soon be underway.

Planning permission has been granted by Brighton & Hove City Council, for restoration of the Grade 11 listed building back to its former glory. The architects DRP of Brighton, will be carrying out the project on behalf of the council.

The application includes change of use of the ground floor and basement from public conveniences and storage, to a café.

The top part of the bandstand will be sympathetically restored to stage concerts and other events and the adjoining area improved and enhanced.

The work will be funded by the city council and is expected to cost around £850,000. Income will be generated by renting out the café premises.

Councillor Geoffrey Theobald, cabinet member for Environment, said: “We were very impressed with the planning application submitted by DRP which included a state of the art three-dimensional survey. Our officers demanded the highest possible standards and the survey has helped produce an excellent scheme.

“Restoration of the bandstand is a priority for this council so it’s wonderful news the application has now been approved which will move the project onto the next stage.

“The bandstand is of historic and cultural importance to our city and much loved by our residents, so we are looking forward to returning this ‘jewel in the seafront crown’ back to its former glory.”

Tenders to carry out the restoration are now being submitted and work is expected to start later this year and completed by summer next year.

Press release                        Friday 20 June 2008

Hollingdean call for runners

Joggers and walkers are wanted to take part in a five-kilometre Family Fun Run in Hollingdean on July 6.

The event, starting at Hollingdean Park, Brentwood Road, at 11am is open to all ages and aims to get people taking exercise and enjoying nearby downland.  Funds raised will buy sports equipment for local schools.

Local volunteers are also needed as marshals and stewards.

The council’s Active For Life team are supporting the Hollingdean Running Sisters who are organising the event as part of the TakePART International Festival of Sport and Hollingdean Festival.

Cabinet member for recreation Councillor David Smith said:  “It’s never too late to improve your fitness so I’d urge people to have a go.”

Information and application forms: Alix Mercer-Ress 07747 803761.

Related information

Search for sports, clubs and activities on our Active for Life website

Find out more about the sports development team

Press release                         Friday 20 June 2008

Eighty years supporting deafblind people

Deafblind Awareness Week (23-29 June) is highlighting the work of the service provided to deafblind people in Brighton & Hove.

The national organisation Deafblind UK, which works in partnership with Brighton & Hove’s adult social care teams, is also celebrating its 80th year of supporting deafblind people.

The partnership provides specialist services to deafblind people in the city.

Many of those receiving services locally are older people with an age related combined sight and hearing loss.

Councillor Ken Norman, cabinet member for adult social care, said: “Losing both sight and hearing affects communication, access to information and mobility. Many people often feel very socially isolated because of these difficulties, so the service is an important practical link in enabling people to take back control of their lives.”

The service’s one to one support offers free and confidential communication and guiding support for medical appointments, helping deafblind people to access clear and accurate information.

Services include:

• Free membership, practical advice and information about deafblindness
• Ongoing support, social and self help support groups
• Volunteer befriending

The council’s sensory services also offer information and advice on specialist equipment for people with dual sight and hearing loss such as TV aids, door alerts, loop systems and help with using the telephone.

If you are interested in becoming volunteer or communicator guide, or would like more information about local services, contact the Deafblind UK Regional Development Officer at Nikola.Fieldhouse@brighton-hove.go.uk or through the Deafblind UK Helpline  number on 0800 132 320 (Tel/Minicom).

Related information

Find out more about support for deafblind people

Find out more about support offered by our sensory services team

Press release                        Friday 20 June 2008

Council reducing numbers in temporary accommodation

Brighton & Hove has made considerable progress in reducing the number of people housed in temporary accommodation.

In 2006/07 the city had 587 households in temporary accommodation, most of which were self-contained flats and houses; but the latest figures ending March, 2008, show that this had reduced to 498, a reduction of 15%.

The percentage is above the national average drop of 11% reported by the government last week.

Councillor Maria Caulfield, cabinet member for housing in Brighton & Hove said: “There has been a fantastic effort from our housing teams and we are being recognised nationally for our strong track record in preventing homelessness and developing long-term housing options.

“The council has been getting involved much earlier with people who are at risk of becoming homeless and this gives us the time to intervene and prevent someone losing their home.

“We know there is still more to be done, but we have an excellent basis on which to build. We’ll be continuing to work with our partners to tackle the issues at source and meet the housing, health and wellbeing needs of vulnerable residents.”

For every household accepted as homeless, a further seven have resolved their problems with advice from the council’s housing options service. Housing advice is complemented by a range of support designed to prevent homelessness from life skills courses to a rent deposit scheme.

The Community Legal Services Commission has awarded Brighton & Hove’s Housing Advice and Tenancy Relations Service a top Quality Mark.

If you are worried about becoming homeless, call the housing options team on (01273) 293111.

Related information

City celebrates Veterans Day on June 27

New war memorial to be unveiled

New Road and Pavilion Gardens in central Brighton will be a place of celebration on Friday June 27 from noon to 5pm for the first ever Veterans Day.

The event is to celebrate the contribution veterans make to the community after they have left the armed forces.

The Mayor, Councillor Garry Peltzer Dunn, will open the event at noon, and at 2pm he will present Veterans Badges to a small group of former service people.

Visitors will be able to enjoy music and entertainment as well as a range of vintage motor bikes and military vehicles. There will also be displays from the Territorial Army, Tangmere Aviation Museum, Newhaven Fort, Red Cross, forces careers offices and a number of veterans support agencies.

At 1pm a new war memorial is being unveiled by the Mayor at the Old Steine to commemorate all those who have died in service since the Second World War.

Joining the Mayor for the ceremony will be deputy council leader Vanessa Brown, Councillor Steve Harmer-Strange, who served in the Falklands War, and senior representatives of all three sections of the armed forces.

Council leader Mary Mears said: “We’re proud to be celebrating not only the bravery of our armed forces, but also the tremendous contribution veterans make to society after they leave the services. I hope that this event will become a regular fixture in the city’s calendar in future.”

See here for further information about Veterans Day.

Press release                          Wednesday 18 June 2008

Noisy neighbour has music equipment seized

A haul of music and electrical equipment, keyboards, a guitar, CDs, and DVDs were seized from a noisy neighbour who kept other residents awake with late night parties.

Nicholas Barnett, 18, of Saltdean Court, Longridge Avenue, Saltdean, Brighton, admitted two breaches of noise abatement notices when he appeared before Brighton magistrates yesterday (June 17).

Len Batten, prosecuting for Brighton & Hove City Council, told the court there had been a series of complaints about noise from the flat and noise abatement notices were served on Nicholas Barnett and his father, Terence, in April.

Problems continued after the notices were served, culminating in a late night parties on April 30 and May 2, one of which went on until 9am the following day. Neighbours in the quiet residential neighbourhood were subjected to loud music, noise from computer games, shouting and singing, Mr Batten told the court.

Magistrates were told that Mr Barnett senior was out of the country at the time of the offences on April 30 and May 2.

Staff from the council’s environmental health and licensing team seized a range of equipment which had been causing noise problems from the flat, including two keyboards, an acoustic guitar,  a combined radio/CD player, laptop computer, television, DVD player, tuner DVDs, videos and computer games.

Nicholas Barnett apologised to the court and to his neighbours and was given a conditional discharge for nine months. Magistrates ordered that seized equipment should be forfeited and it will be given to charity.

Councillor Geoffrey Theobald, Brighton & Hove City Council’s cabinet member for environment, said: “We are making it clear this sort of noise nuisance, which makes other people’s lives a misery, will not be tolerated.

“Seizing equipment is always a last resort but in this case all other advice and warnings to reduce the noise had failed.”

Related information

Press release                        Wednesday 18 June 2008

Brighton and Hove Youth Council produces anti-bullying DVD

Brighton and Hove’s Youth Council has produced an anti-bullying DVD for use in local secondary schools.

The Youth Council organised an anti-bullying drama workshop at Varndean School earlier this year and filmed the activities for use in the DVD which will complement existing anti-bullying teaching resources.

The workshop introduced the Department for Education and Skills’ initiative ‘Bullying: A Charter for Action’ and encouraged young people to address bullying in their communities. 

Twenty students (aged 11-14) took part in the workshop and devised short performances addressing racist and homophobic bullying.

Caitlin Stubbs and Rhian James from the Youth Council helped facilitate the workshop alongside Edgar Taljaard, Varndean’s Head of Drama.

Rhian James said, "It was a great experience. I'm sure everybody enjoyed it, I know I did!"

Edgar Taljaard, Head of Drama at Varndean School said, “The Varndean Drama department were very pleased to support the city's youngsters who were so keen on 'doing it for themselves'. Such projects highlight the positive side of Brighton and Hove's teenagers.”

If you like to know more about the Brighton and Hove Youth Council contact Rob Scoble on (01273) 295464 or info@bhyap.org.uk.

Press release                          Friday 13 June 2008

Easthill Park adventure

Escape to Easthill Park in Portslade next week and you’ll find a climbing tower, football, rugby and Tai Chi.

These are just some of the activities on offer for Easthill Park’s community event – Picnic and Play – on Thursday, 19 June, 3-7pm. The event has been organised by the Easthill Park users group and the Portslade Community Project.

Brighton & Hove City Council’s Active for Life project will be running three sessions – rugby, with an RFU community rugby coach, Brighton & Hove Albion football and Tai Chi.

The council’s sports development team is also funding a climbing tower.

Councillor David Smith, cabinet member for recreation, said: “This is a big family event and attracted around 900 people last year. There are plenty of opportunities to get active, enjoy the open air and have fun.”

As well as physical activities, there’ll be food stalls, bouncy castles, pot decorating, workshops and help with bike maintenance.

Related information

Find out more about sports development

View our parks and open spaces

press release                  June 13 2008

Dogs on beaches - we've listened to your views

Dog owners can continue to walk their pets on some city beaches this summer.

Following extensive consultation, Brighton & Hove City Council has agreed that the current mix of dog free and friendly beaches best meets the needs of both residents and visitors.

Councillor Geoffrey Theobald, the council’s cabinet member for the environment, said: ”We wanted to hear people’s views on this issue and we are delighted so many people responded.

“The council has listened to people and, as a result, we have decided to keep the existing system of allowing dogs on some of our beaches between May and September. However, our most central and busiest beaches will remain dog free throughout the summer months.”

Consultation carried out by the council attracted around 460 public responses, a 2,500 signed petition and 823 comments from the citizen’s panel.

The new dog control orders also include keeping dogs on leads on the promenade.

Councillor Theobald added: “We want everyone to enjoy our beaches and we hope dog owners, who responded so strongly to the consultation, will play their part by clearly sticking to the dog friendly beaches and clearing up any mess.”

Note to editors:
Dog friendly beaches during the summer are as follows
· the beach between Longridge Avenue, Saltdean and the city border
· beaches between Chailey Avenue and Arundel Drive West, Rottingdean
· beaches between Brighton Marina and Rottingdean slope
· beaches between Brighton Marina and the Volks railways station opposite New Steine
· the beach in front and to the east of the Meeting Place Cafe
· the beach to the east of the Lawns Café, at the bottom of St John’s Road, Hove
· the beach in front of the King Alfred car park.
· the beach to the east of Hove Lagoon.

During the winter dogs are permitted on all beaches

press release                            11 June 2008

Meals on two wheels

Hundreds of people in Brighton & Hove will get a free breakfast if they cycle to work for Bike Week, 16 to 20 June.

The council’s JourneyOn campaign has teamed up with local businesses to offer hungry office workers a free breakfast and musical entertainment if they get to work on two wheels.

On Monday, (16th) anyone cycling past the Level can pick up a pastry, a piece of fruit and a cup of coffee for free from the Meals on Two Wheels breakfast stand.

On Wednesday, (18^th) June, cycling staff from Brighton & Hove City Council and the Primary Care Trust will get free breakfasts. There will also be a free bike doctor service and lots of cycling freebies being given away.

The Meals on Wheels stand moves to Hove on Thursday (19^th) when cyclists can stop off at the Peace Statue on Hove seafront to pick up their free bike breakfasts and enjoy musical entertainment.

Banjo and ukelele player Jimmy McGee will bringing entertaining the cyclists and bringing a little musical fun to each of the events. “I’ll be entertaining the breakfasters with a selection of ukulele swing jazz, old blues and original and tunes on banjo ukulele, melodica, recorder and accordion” he said. “Breakfast will never have been finer since ham and eggs in Carolina.”

The scheme, called Meals on Two Wheels has been organised for national Bike Week by JourneyOn, the city council’s campaign to promote sustainable transport, www.journeyon.co.uk

Councillor Geoffrey Theobald, cabinet member for environment, said: “Brighton & Hove is a fantastic city to cycle in, especially in the summer. I hope these free breakfasts will encourage people who don’t normally cycle to get on their bikes and have a go.”

There are many benefits to riding a bike. Cycling is good for your health. Regular cycling can halve the risk of heart disease, reduce blood pressure and lower stress levels.

Research shows people who cycle on a regular basis have the same fitness levels as people ten years younger. They also live an average of two years longer.

For more info see www.journeyon.co.uk or visit www.bikeweek.org.uk

Contact: Katherine Travis 07828503952

press release                            11 June 2008

Stray dogs

 Stray dogs found by residents in Brighton & Hove will now be collected by council animal welfare officers.

From April 2008, government legislation ended the police responsibility for strays and now the council has the full time task of collecting and kennelling stray dogs.

Stray dogs found and reported by residents, will be picked up by council officers and owners will be charged for every day the animal is kept in kennels. If it is unclaimed after 7 days the dog will become council property and will be re-homed.

Last year the council picked up 260 stray dogs and officials believe that this year the figure could be as high as 500 due to the new legislation.

Dog owners have a legal requirement ensure their pet wears a collar with an identification tag attached, giving their name and address. Failure to comply with this could result in prosecution with a maximum penalty of £5,000.

Councillor Geoffrey Theobald, cabinet member for environment said: “It’s in everyone’s interest to make sure that dogs are kept under control. Stray dogs can cause road traffic accidents, injuring people and the animal. 

“Ensuring that your dog is tagged with your details means that the person that finds it can return your pet to you quickly and will prevent the need for the council to become involved, saving you expensive kennelling fees.”

Brighton & Hove City Council is asking the public not to take any stray dogs found to their local police station.

If you find a stray during office hours Monday to Friday 9am-5pm the Council’s Animal Welfare Team will collect and kennel the dog until claimed by the owner. This service can be contacted on Tel 292929

For stray dogs found outside these hours the Councils operates a limited collection and kennelling service and this can be contacted on Tel. 292229 The out of hours service will only collect from residents who have the stray dog in their possession.

Press release                       Tuesday 10 June 2008

The height of home improvements

Residents in the Albion Hill area of Brighton are celebrating the completion of a £3 million refurbishment project to improve their homes.

Improvements have been carried out to flats in seven high rise and seven low rise blocks, including the installation of 201 new kitchens, fitting modernised electric wiring in 215 flats and rejuvenating 128 bathrooms.

The year and a half contract with the Apollo Group also included new roofs and cold water storage tanks to seven high rise blocks.

In addition the council’s contractors have replaced 163 old gas boilers with new energy efficient condensing boilers.

Councillor Maria Caulfield, cabinet member for housing, said: “The project involved planned maintenance work to homes on Albion Hill and is part of our commitment to providing high quality housing services for tenants and leaseholders .

“The residents’ involvement has been of great value on this scheme and we are grateful for their contribution in helping to ensure the work progressed smoothly.

“Building a strong working relationship with tenants and leaseholders on all aspects of housing management is something we intend to develop and improve over the coming months.”

Residents of the high rise blocks were involved from the start, with a small group of tenants liaising between them and Apollo on the selection of designs and to iron out any problems.

Related information

press release                            10 June 2008

More homes to get binvelopes

A trial of ‘binvelopes’ refuse boxes is to be extended in the Hanover area of Brighton, in response to feedback from residents.

The binvelopes are special boxes that residents can used to contain rubbish bags on the street and prevent them being ripped open by seagulls. They are particularly useful in narrow streets with terraced houses, where there is no space for other types of bins. The binvelopes can be folded up for easy storage when not in use

At last week’s Environment Cabinet Member Meeting, Cabinet Member Councillor Geoffrey Theobald said Brighton & Hove City Council planned to extend the trial.

The move follows representations from residents in the area, including a petition which was presented by ward councillor Georgia Wrighton at the meeting.

Councillor Theobald said: “We have listened to residents, our staff have been working with ward councillors and, as a result,  we will be rolling out binvelopes on a larger scale in Hanover.”

Councillor Wrighton added:  "I am delighted that residents in these Hanover  streets will benefit from binvelopes to help protect the cleanliness and environment of their street.

“Split bin bags and litter spread over narrow pavements is a problem in the area, with the resulting harmful effect on quality of life, amenity, health and safety.

“Finding an acceptable solution for Hanover is challenging because of the area's characteristics, densely packed housing arranged in narrow streets. Residents' involvement will be key towards establishing a suitable approach for the area."

The binvelopes scheme will be extended later this year and residents in the area will be kept fully informed.

press release                            10 June 2008

Health MOTs for men at work

Refuse collectors, recyclers and street sweepers working for Cityclean will be among the first to benefit from new workplace health MOTs.

The council and Brighton & Hove PCT are launching a major new health initiative for men as part of National Men’s Health Care week.

The ‘Health, Work and Wellbeing initiative’ is being offered to local businesses to help improve the health of male staff.

The council has employed a nurse who will carry out men’s health MOTs and provide healthcare advice for local businesses on how to help staff adapt healthier lifestyles, reduce the risk of chronic diseases and improve fitness and quality of life.

The health MOT’s will include checking weight, blood pressure and lung function and calculating the risk of heart disease.

The council and Primary Care Trust are offering this service to encourage employers in the city to raise awareness of the importance of men’s health in the workplace.

Businesses which actively promote staff health and wellbeing benefit by reduced sickness absence, improved morale, productivity and profitability. The scheme also aims to encourage men in Brighton & Hove to take better care of their health and to make more use of health services.

Research shows that many men die prematurely, often because of problems linked to being overweight. Men are often also reluctant to visit their doctor until health problems have become serious and harder to treat.

Councillor Geoffrey Theobald, Cabinet member for environment said: “Research shows that most men don’t look after their health as well as they could and often avoid going to the doctor. We are delighted to be working in partnership with the PCT to take health professionals into the work place, to provide vital information and health checks and improve the health, well being and quality of life for staff.

“This initiative is a fantastic way of getting the message across that a simple check-up could result in a longer life.”

PCT spokesperson said: “Because men are often reluctant to visit a doctor we’ve decided to take this new service to them. It’s convenient, it’s free, it’s quick and it’s completely confidential. We hope that this will help raise awareness with both local employers and local men about health issues.”

The initiative in Brighton & Hove is one of hundreds taking place throughout the country during National Men’s Health Week. The Week is organised by the Men’s Health Forum, a charity that promotes men’s health, and is backed by a wide range of other health organisations and charities.

Notes to editors

For more information on what support is available for businesses in Brighton & Hove to help promote and protect staff health and wellbeing and find out about the local health MOT service visit: www.workwellbrightonhove.nhs.uk or contact your local healthy workplace adviser on: louise.sigfrid@brighton-hove.gov.uk tel: 01273 294557

The Men’s Health Forum, the organisation leading National Men’s Health Week, can be contacted on 020 7388 4449.

National Men’s Health Week runs from 9-15 June. It aims to raise the profile of men’s health, encourage men’s health initiatives and increase men’s awareness of their own health. This year, the main focus is men’s health at work.

Men wanting health information can visit the Men’s Health Forum’s website, www.malehealth.co.uk