THE MAGAZINE FOR PARKWOOD EMPLOYEES, CLIENTS AND SHAREHOLDERS TAKING CARE OF TOMORROW

PARKWOODNEWSwww.parkwood-holdings.co.uk Summer 2017

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF PARKWOOD HEALTHCARE

page 14

New leisure centre for Rushcliffe Arenapage 6

Glendale Golflaunches new era of golf membership page 4

Trio of housing contract wins for Glendale page 2

Parkwood Outdoors welcomes Rufford Abbey to its portfoliopage 9

EPD helps shape economic growth in Dorset page 12

Parkwood Leisure backs CIMSPA’s employee partner scheme page 6

2 | Parkwood News Summer 2017

Parkwood News

Glendale

WelcomeT

he weather this spring and early summer has been exceptional; dry for

much of the time with good spells of sunshine, and temperatures reaching 30ºC in the north of England on Friday 26th May. Much of our business is weather dependent, and good weather is good for business, so at the end of May we are running ahead of budget in terms of sales and profi tability. Let’s hope this continues for the rest of the year.

Parkwood Leisure has a new managing director as Peter Fitzboyden joined the company on 26th June 2017. Peter, aged 39, is a sports science graduate of Loughborough University and joins Parkwood Leisure from London Sport where he has been the chief executive. He has signifi cant experience in the football sector, and will lead the company as it diversifi es into activities and areas that complement the existing leisure management business. I give special thanks to Giles Rawlinson who has stood in as interim managing director since September 2015.

Parkwood Outdoors, the outdoor activities business of Parkwood Leisure, has been awarded a major 15-year contract by Nottinghamshire County Council, to manage and operate Rufford Abbey Country Park in the Dukeries area of north Nottinghamshire. Now, for the fi rst time, the Group operates a major wedding venue and has opened its fi rst farm shop and delicatessen. Parkwood Outdoors also acquired its fi rst sea-based activity, ‘Girls for Sail’, a specialist sailing business for women.

Parkwood Theatres has taken on the interim management of two theatres in Barnstaple and Ilfracombe, North Devon, whilst also establishing a separate pantomime production department.

The core business of Glendale has recovered well from the challenging Midlands-based contract with WPD that it exited in 2016, and has won a number of new housing association clients. The site that Glendale Civic Trees occupied near Watford, Hertfordshire, was sold in December 2016, and the company has temporarily moved to Glendale’s Waltham Abbey-based depot until a new, permanent home can be found.

Glendale Horticulture has had a buoyant spring and internal sales to Glendale are expected to exceed £600,000 this year. The number of rounds played at the seven golf courses operated by Glendale Golf has also exceeded expectations.

A recent restructure in the Parkwood Consultancy division has led to the Group’s newly formed Building and Property Service company, BPS, becoming more independent. This company will be moving to new premises near Bromsgrove in the summer.

Meanwhile, the rebranded Environment, Planning and Design (EPD) consultancy company have moved from Stoneleigh Park to Worcester, where the project management business (PPM) is also based. BSW, the civil and structural engineering consultancy, remains in Exeter led by its director, Julian Ruddick, who takes over from retiring founder directors, Sarah Buck and Ian Jolley.

Parkwood Healthcare had another successful year in 2016 but faces a challenge in 2017 winning new business to replace the Healthwatch customers that have now come to an end.

Parkwood, with over 6,000 full and part time employees, is responding to the Government’s apprenticeship levy by taking on over 200 apprentices this year. Our workforce training programme is robust and we recognise and celebrate good performance. These continue to be exciting times, for which we are grateful, and I would like to thank everyone for the pride and passion they show that makes Parkwood such a successful, community-based organisation.

Glendale has scored a hat-trick of new client wins within the housing industry, with a total annual value of over three quarters of a million pounds.

The national green services specialist will provide grounds maintenance services to Stockport Homes, Equity Housing Group and Acis, as it expands its presence in the housing sector.

For Stockport Homes, Glendale will continue to keep gardens green for properties managed by the social housing provider for the next fi ve-years. The organisation has been working in partnership with Stockport Homes since 2007.

The Equity Housing Group

contract covers properties in north west England and Yorkshire, providing a range of services including grass cutting, hedge trimming and shrub bed maintenance. The contract lasts for four-years.

In south Yorkshire and north Midlands, the four-year partnership with Acis has social value and community interest at the heart of its delivery.

Simon Smith, regional manager at Glendale, said: “These contract wins are fantastic news for Glendale as we continue to grow our presence in the housing sector. What makes these contracts so special is that they represent a union between

organisations with two key values that are at the core of the work Glendale does. Firstly, enhancing outdoor spaces for people to enjoy, and secondly, providing jobs for local people.

“We’re relishing the opportunity to create local career opportunities, particularly aimed at the younger generations looking for a chance to get on the career ladder, and supporting our clients in delivering green spaces that residents can be proud of. There are a vast amount of benefi ts to be had from enjoying time outdoors, and we’re pleased to be part of helping residents across the north of England do so.”

Trio of housing contract wins for Glendale

Simon Smith, regional manager for Glendale

Tony HewittExecutive Chairman

Summer 2017 Parkwood News | 3

Glendale

Glendale has announced its headline sponsorship of Pro

Landscaper Magazine’s annual mark of recognition for the next generation of green space professionals - 30 under 30: The Next Generation.

Alex Paterson, operations director at Glendale, said: “We’re delighted to sponsor Pro Landscaper’s 30 under 30: The Next Generation, in 2017. We are passionate about this accolade, which aims to highlight the achievements of 30 inspiring young people in our industry who have demonstrated passion, imagination, innovation and expertise in their chosen fields, in such a way that enhances their careers and provides opportunities for advancement.

“It’s well known that many sectors across our industry are under threat as fewer talented young experts choose to start careers in the field. As a result it’s more important than ever to embrace

opportunities like this that support and motivate the younger members of our teams who have shown dynamism and entrepreneurial spirit. It goes without saying that they are the individuals who will go on to shape the future of our industry and we need to invest in them in order to retain its heritage and move it forward.

“30 under 30 is an initiative that sits close to our hearts because it reflects so many of our own internal award schemes at Glendale that recognise the hard working individuals we employ who have shown great potential for the future.”

The event was launched in summer 2017. Nominations for the 30 green space professionals under 30-years-old will be put before an expert panel, before being officially announced at the sixth annual FutureScape 2017 event in November at Sandown Park Racecourse.

A team from national tree relocation, supply and planting specialist Glendale Civic Trees was called upon when three large trees needed relocating to enable a new railway bridge to be installed.

Using the largest tractor mounted tree spade in the UK, three Sequoiadendron giganteum Wellingtonia were moved so infrastructure specialist J.Murphy & Sons Limited (Murphy) could replace the bridge near Mauldeth Road Station in Manchester.

The trees were situated in Ladybarn Park, in the exact spot where a crane needed to be positioned to remove the old bridge and install its replacement.

Glendale’s new north west-based arboriculture enterprise was originally approached to relocate the trees, estimated to be between 15 and 20-years-old, but due to their size, semi-mature tree specialist Civic Trees, was brought on-board to move them to the other side of the park.

Once the relocation was complete the crane was able to lift the old bridge, which had reached the end of its useable life, and replace it with a new one.

Marc Greenaway, operations manager at Glendale Civic Trees, said: “The time constraints of the project meant we needed to act quickly to relocate the trees, which combined

with wet ground and rather tight site-access, meant somewhat challenging conditions. In the end it took our team just two-days to relocate the three trees.

“Tree pads were placed around the relocation site by the Murphy team to prevent the tree spade churning up the ground, and the team also ensured

surrounding paths were cleared and the ground was reinstated.

“It was important to take good care of the trees throughout the process, particularly as they’re an interesting species with a lot of history, having first been brought into the UK from California in the 1850s by plant collector William Lobb.”

Glendale sponsors the next generation

Tree team bridges the gap for Manchester railway project

One of three Sequoiadendron giganteum Wellingtonia is relocated to its new position in Ladybarn Park, Manchester by large tree specialist, Glendale Civic Trees

4 | Parkwood News Summer 2017 Summer 2017 Parkwood News | 5

Glendale Glendale

A new era of low-commitment golf membership, offering the maximum in affordability and fl exibility, has begun at Glendale Golf, operator of seven quality golf centres across the UK.

At the core of the change is one membership - LoyalTee - which offers three distinct categories to suit a variety of playing habits, plus a choice of payment options, all under the tagline “Golf membership… your way.”

LoyalTee 1 Month, is a month-long golf membership, which can be cancelled at any time. It offers unlimited golf at a Glendale Golf venue up to seven-days a week, plus rewards, special offers and golf events to play in.

The one-month product is designed to be a stepping-stone into a full membership for those looking to join a Glendale Golf centre for the fi rst time. It also suits the fair-weather golfer seeking maximum value for money during the summer months.

Two other products - LoyalTee 12 Month and LoyalTee Pay & Play - have been launched at the same time, and there are also new LoyalTee Junior and LoyalTee Intermediate options available for younger golfers.

All of the new LoyalTee memberships offer an optional upgrade, which gives access to club competitions and handicaps,

enabling pay & play golfers to feel more like club members without an up-front commitment.

Casual green fee golfers at Glendale Golf venues will be offered LoyalTee Pay & Play membership for free, receiving 5 percent off all standard green fees (10 percent when booking online), plus guaranteed lowest rates and access to LoyalTee promotional offers throughout the year.

Golfers can also choose a LoyalTee 12 Month membership for maximum value with all the benefi ts of LoyalTee 1 Month, but at a lower monthly price - and with the huge additional benefi t of free golf at all Glendale Golf venues around the UK on either a fi ve or seven-day basis. Twelve-month membership also includes a free LoyalTee Junior membership for one family member.

Tom Brooke, managing director of Glendale Golf, said: “We’re making golf as affordable and accessible as possible, whilst still offering a high-quality experience. That’s what Glendale Golf stands for.

“The LoyalTee launch confi rms Glendale Golf’s fundamental aim, to make all customers feel like members. We’re truly committed to integration, to long-term customer relationships and to opening up the sport to everybody - and we believe that LoyalTee is the membership for golf’s future.”

Forest management and consultancy specialist Treelands has completed a

30 acre woodland creation project at Dairy Hills, part of the Lulworth Estate in south Dorset.

Twenty-four thousand Douglas fi r transplants and 2,500 native broadleaved trees, including oak, beech, lime, wild cherry, maples and rowans, added the fi nal touch to the project which started at the end of 2016.

The initial stages of the project involved bands being sprayed-off to knock-back the grass which would compete with the young trees for moisture and nutrients. The bands provided planting lines to ensure even spacing between the planted trees.

In early January 2017, professional fencing contractor,

Nick Green, upgraded the existing stock fencing on-site to a deer-fence specifi cation.

A maintenance regime, including spot-weeding around the base of the young trees and mowing the network of grass rides, will be introduced. The mown rides will provide a habitat for butterfl ies and other fl ora and fauna, and the maintenance schedule will ensure that the trees thrive in their new environment.

David Adam, forest manager at Treelands, said: “The Douglas fi r will, in time, provide a commercial woodland at the Dairy Hill site, which will be thinned out regularly from approximately 20-years of age, with a full rotation length of 50-years.

“Douglas fi r grows well in our soils and is one of the main commercial

species on the estate. It’s a ‘redwood’ in terms of its timber qualities, and is in high demand for construction timber because it has an excellent strength-to-weight ratio. It’s also used extensively for fencing, gates and agricultural buildings.

“The broadleaves that we have planted will provide biodiversity and conservation value, and although it does take time for a ‘fi eld of trees’ to mature into a proper woodland, it’s a fascinating process to watch the woodland evolve over time and see other species become introduced naturally to the site.”

Treelands manages approximately 1,000 acres of woodland on the 12,000 acre Lulworth Estate. The iconic Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door are part of the estate. For more information on the estate visit www.Lulworth.com

Glendale Horticulture has launched its new, long awaited, Directory of

Plants. Targeted at the garden

design and amenity market, this comprehensive guide of plants is an overhaul of the previous Coblands directory.

Daniel Slinger, marketing manager at Glendale Horticulture, said: “A lot of work has gone into putting this directory together and reviewing the content. I’d like to thank Lewis N o r m a n d a n d

Lorraine Hartley for their input. I’m really pleased with the end result and it’s a great way to kick-off the season ahead.”

Glendale Golf launches new era of golf membership New plant directory for Glendale HorticultureLoyalTee: one membership for all - Glendale Golf

launches a new era of golf memberships

National green service provider Glendale has announced the winner of its annual Chairman’s Award for 2016.

The accolade went to Nick Darwell in recognition of his hard work and efforts throughout the year.

Nick has recently been promoted from the position of management accountant to senior tenders manager, and has been with the organisation for the past nine years.

He has demonstrated a high level of commitment, competence and exceptional technical ability working on a challenging project in 2016, and played a pivotal role in achieving a successful conclusion.

Five nominees were also recognised from across the business: James Shipman, landscape supervisor, Mark McKinnon, company engineer, Sebastian Sanchez-Cabello, arborist, Wayne Hingston, grounds

maintenance operative and Zach Allanson, contract supervisor.

Ericka Oates, fi nance director at Glendale, said: “The Chairman’s Award is a prestigious honour and an acknowledgement of an individual’s outstanding efforts. It’s the culmination of a year of endeavour and represents the ultimate recognition from the Glendale board and our founder and chairman, Tony Hewitt.

“Nick has performed above and beyond the expectations of his role, and is an asset to the business.”

Nick comments: “I would’ve been hugely pleased just to be nominated, let alone win the award. It came as a complete surprise, but I’m very proud and grateful to those who recognised my efforts, as well as everyone who helped me with my work over the past 12 months, particularly those in the

fi nance team.”Glendale’s annual Chairman’s

Award is one of several employee focused initiatives organised by the company, including Glendale’s

30 under 30 and the Long Service Recognition Award, which aim to recognise and celebrate the talent and achievements of employees across the organisation.

Glendale’s fi nest honoured with Chairman’s Award

Forestry specialists plant a new woodland at renowned Dorset estate

Treelands plant a new 30 acre woodland at the

Lulworth Estate in Dorset

L-R Glendale’s founder and chairman, Tony Hewitt

presents Nick Darwell with the Chairman’s Award

To request your copy please emailLewis Normand lewis.normand@glendale-horticulture.co.uk or Lorraine Hartley lorraine.hartley@glendale-horticulture.co.uk

Glendale Horticulture’s new Directory of Plants is now available

6 | Parkwood News Summer 2017 Summer 2017 Parkwood News | 7

Parkwood Leisure Parkwood Leisure

New Leisure Centre for Rushcliffe Arena

Exercise instructor commended for her contribution to the local community

Parkwood Leisure backs CIMSPA’semployer partner scheme

Walking for health in the Staffordshire MoorlandsParkwood Leisure, who manage

Rushcliffe Arena, opened it’s brand new doors on 3rd January 2017.

The new facility, located in West Bridgford, Nottingham, includes a 25-metre main pool, a family, beach-themed fun pool, a six-lane, indoor bowls rink, a sports hall, squash courts and a state-of-the-art health and fitness suite.

The facility is also home to Rushcliffe Borough Council employees. The staff and councillors moved into a suite of purpose built offices, located

above the leisure centre, in December 2016, after 34-years at the Civic Centre.

Luke Colaluca, centre manager at Rushcliffe Arena, is delighted with the new centre, he said: “This is a fantastic leisure facility and we’re confident that it’ll be well utilised by the local community. We experienced a fantastic start to the year this year, with over 50,000 visits through the door and customers trying out the new products and services. The centre has been long awaited and we’re delighted to finally be here.”

Jo Rickwood, a specialist health and exercise instructor at Hutton Moor Leisure

Centre, has been recognised for her exceptional work in the local community with the leisure centre’s pioneering Energise Cancer Rehabilitation Programme and GP referral scheme.

She received the ‘Making a Difference’ award at the Weston Business Awards in February. The awards, organised by the Weston-super-Mare Chamber of Commerce, are designed to reward excellence and celebrate achievement in the local business community.

The highly successful Energise Cancer Rehabilitation Programme,

is designed to improve the health of former cancer patients through a programme of exercise classes specifically tailored for individuals whose quality of life can be maintained or improved by taking part in regular, supervised exercise sessions, with specially-qualified fitness instructors.

Hutton Moor Leisure Centre is a member of the Weston-super-Mare Chamber of Commerce, a network of local businesses that creates great pathways for partnerships with other local businesses and the corporate promotion of health and wellbeing.

Jo was nominated for the accolade by her colleagues and members at Hutton Moor Leisure Centre.

Parkwood Leisure has become the latest leisure operator to join the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity’s (CIMSPA) employer partner scheme.

The agreement with the professional body for the UK’s sport and physical activity sector, represents Parkwood Leisure’s commitment to developing its workforce through an accredited training programme.

The partnership encompasses all levels of the organisation, including receptionists, personal trainers and site managers. Employees can join

at either an affiliate or a practitioner membership level, and fitness professionals can also benefit by being listed on the CIMSPA exercise and fitness directory.

As an employee partner, Parkwood Leisure will support and encourage its workforce to take up CIMSPA’s exercise and fitness membership over the next 12-months.

Joanne Martin, sales and marketing director at Parkwood Leisure, comments: “As a forward-thinking employer, we’re proud to support CIMSPA’s employer partner scheme and make our contribution to this new and robust skills landscape.”

Parkwood Leisure’s three Staffordshire Moorlands-based leisure centres,

Biddulph Valley, Brough Park and South Moorlands, have launched an initiative to get more people active through walking.

The fitness facilities in Biddulph, Leek and Cheadle have joined ‘Walking for Health’, England’s largest network of health walks, which currently has over 400 active schemes.

In England, half of all adults are not active enough to benefit their health. This means that they are at risk of developing serious

illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer. But, it doesn’t have to be this way.

The Walking for Health development around the Staffordshire Moorlands area has seen the establishment of a weekly community walk from each leisure centre. The short walks are delivered by a member of staff, as well as local volunteers, and last between 10 and 60 minutes, making them ideal for beginners and those recovering from illness, as well as anyone who is looking to socialise and get some fresh air.

Parkwood Community Leisure

is also working in partnership with Staffordshire Moorlands District Council to deliver a walks programme for those with more experience. These walks will provide more competent ramblers with routes approximately five to 10 miles in length, and will cover the array of beautiful landscapes the local area has to offer, exploring the countryside of the Staffordshire Moorlands, Peak District, and the Derbyshire and Cheshire borders.

Rushcliffe Arena opened its doorsin January 2017

L-R: Joanne Martin, sales and marketing director for Parkwood Leisure and Tara Dillon, CEO of CIMSPA

L-R: Andy Dockrell, fitness manager, Jo Rickwood, specialist health and exercise instruction, local MP John Penrose and Dido Harding, chief executive of Talktalk

Parkwood Leisure launches an initiative to get residents in Biddulph, Leek and Cheadle walking for health

Northcroft Leisure Centre are pleased to announce that they have offered Junior World Championship badminton player, Max Flynn, a year’s free membership to support him on his journey to become a senior England badminton player.

Berkshire-based Max is 19-years-old and has been playing badminton for England since the age of 13. A three-time national champion in doubles and mixed at the U17 and U19 English National Badminton Championships, Max has also competed in two BWF (Badminton World Federation) World Junior Championships and won over 30 international medals.

More recently he has competed in the U19 European Junior Championships in France, securing a Bronze medal with partner Callum Hemming.

Max completed his A Levels last year and has been in training full-time since June 2016 with the aim of becoming a senior England badminton player. In addition, the rising star has been completing his badminton coaching badges and Level 2 Coaching Award, which will

allow him to deliver one-to-one and group training sessions.

The road to success has not been an easy one for budding badminton champions like Max, particularly when UK Sport withdrew its funding

for six sports, including badminton, in recent years.

With the cuts making the organisation of badminton and gym training sessions increasingly challenging, Northcroft Leisure

Centre’s generous donation of a year’s membership will support the young player in his pursuit of senior championship success. The team is looking forward to watching him progress.

Northcroft Leisure Centre supports Junior World Championship badminton player

Parkwood Leisure are proud to support Junior World Championship badminton player Max Flynn

20% staff discount at Dolygaer

Dolygaer Activity Centre is a fantastic place for families

to visit with accommodation to suit. Staff are entitled to a fantastic 20 percent off weekend accommodation, as

well as the amazing range of activities. Why not try caving, gorge adventures or rock climbing? The choice is yours. To book onto a fun filled activity break call 01685 848 309 .

8 | Parkwood News Summer 2017 Summer 2017 Parkwood News | 9

Parkwood Leisure Parkwood Leisure

Final phase of development for Woodgreen Leisure Centre

Parkwood Theatres update...

Legacy Leisure, a not for profi t, charitable organisation that works as a partner with Parkwood Leisure, has completed the last phase of development for an Oxfordshire-based leisure centre.

After a competitive tendering process, Legacy Leisure was awarded the contract to redevelop Woodgreen Leisure Centre in Banbury in May 2016, following a £1.2 million investment by Cherwell District Council. The two-phase upgrade has resulted in signifi cant refurbishment of its dry-side facilities.

The redevelopment programme includes the creation of a purpose-built reception area and meeting room, with an integrated cafe and library operated by Oxfordshire County Council, which will act as a gateway to the centre. Parkwood

Leisure also supported the investment with new IT equipment and indoor bikes from Star Trac.

Woodgreen Leisure Centre’s existing sports hall has been converted into a two-storey, 50-station, health and fi tness suite with a mezzanine fl oor, featuring ‘best in class’ equipment from suppliers Precor and Wattbike. Continuing the activity offering, there is also a functional training room kitted out with equipment from Escape Fitness, plus two studios for dance and indoor cycling classes.

Eva Holmes, chair of Legacy Leisure, comments: “The exciting redevelopment project for Woodgreen Leisure Centre has set the standard for future fi tness provision in Oxfordshire, and our key aim is to improve the health and

wellbeing of residents in Banbury. The affordable and accessible facilities at Woodgreen Leisure Centre offer something for everyone in the community, regardless of age, ability or fi tness level.”

Ian Davies, interim joint chief executive of Cherwell District and South Northamptonshire Councils, said: “Legacy Leisure has a successful track record in bringing high quality leisure facilities to a wide range of people within local communities. The redevelopment of Woodgreen Leisure Centre has been a tremendous success and we are pleased to be working with them as part of a long-term partnership.”

PPM (Parkwood Project Management), part of Parkwood Consultancy Services, acted as Employer’s Agent (EA) throughout the construction period of the project.

Parkwood Outdoors has secured the commercial operations at the grand and

historic Rufford Abbey Country Park. The park, which is owned by Nottinghamshire County Council, will be managed by Parkwood Outdoors as part of a 15-year agreement.

The agreement, which has been in place since February 2017, will see Parkwood Outdoors responsible for managing the day-to-day commercial operations including the cafe, restaurant and shops.

PPM (Parkwood Project Management) and EPD (Environment, Planning and Design), part of Parkwood Consultancy Services, have been providing project management assistance, as well as landscape, planning and listed building advice, to Parkwood Outdoors in support of a series of capital improvements being undertaken to enhance the facilities on offer.

During the short time that the arrangement has been in place the estate has seen some fantastic new developments, including the relocation of the Outdoor Living Centre to the main part of the Abbey, providing visitors with a selection of the most up-to-date lifestyle items.

A new addition to the estate is the

Coach House Deli, offering a selection of local produce, including meats, oils and cheeses. The existing Coach House Restaurant has received a culinary makeover and improvements have also been made to Rufford Mill Tea Shop, Savile Restaurant and the Craft Shop.

A new mini golf course, development of the children’s adventure play facilities, and the introduction of boating activities on the lake, are also in the pipeline for future development.

Chris True, head of Parkwood Outdoors, said: “Maintaining the integrity of Rufford Abbey Country Park was a primary focus and we wanted to introduce a more modern and attractive offer for visitors without detracting from the heritage and natural appeal of the site. We’ve already established a positive working relationship with Nottinghamshire County Council, and we’re looking forward to delivering a fantastic visitor experience here at Rufford Abbey Country Park.”

Rufford Abbey Country Park is one of Nottinghamshire’s most popular tourist attractions and visitors enjoy its unique combination of fascinating history and heritage, and its stunning countryside.

2017 has already been a hugely successful year for Parkwood Theatres with

new additions to the team, including commercial director, Stuart Shanks, and pantomime producer, Lee Waddingham. Both individuals bring a wealth of experience to the organisation - Stuart has previously worked with HQ Theatres and Disney, whilst Lee has crafted some of the best pantomimes on stage, including Cinderella, starring the late Cilla Black, at Liverpool’s Empire Theatre.

Parkwood Theatres are poised to sign the contract to take over the management of the Queen’s Theatre in Barnstaple, taking the number of venues in the portfolio to four. The new addition, which seats 700, was built in 1834 and is the premier venue in North Devon. It features an exciting and diverse programme of shows, including the spectacular family pantomime Beauty and the Beast, from September 2017.

Beauty and the Beast will be Parkwood Theatre’s third in-house

production this Christmas, and will join Cinderella at the Hazlitt in Maidstone, and Aladdin at The Playhouse in Weston-super-Mare. Work has already begun on creating these show stopping productions with lavish scenery, dazzling costumes and spectacular special effects.

Tony Doherty, managing director of Parkwood Theatres said: “Pantomime

is the highlight of many people’s festive seasons, we’re sure that these productions will entertain and amaze the thousands of people who pass through the door.

“The theatres are going through an exciting period of growth and we’re looking forward to expanding the portfolio and welcoming new venues into the mix.”

Impression of Woodgreen Leisure Centre[Image courtesy of architects Burke Richards]

Parkwood Outdoors have secured the commercial operations at Rufford Abbey Country Park

Parkwood Outdoors welcomes Ruff ord Abbey to its portfolio

Parkwood Outdoors gains a new contract in Wales

Parkwood Outdoors offi cially took over the management of Heath Park

in Cardiff from November 2016, as part of the council’s plans to reduce

its budget by selling its assets. The park boasts three fl oodlit,

full-sized tennis courts, two more full-sized courts without fl oodlights, four ‘mini red’ tennis courts for fi ve to nine-year-olds, plus a nine-hole pitch and putt course and an on-site cafe. Heath Park is the seventh site to be added to Parkwood Outdoor’s growing portfolio.

Chris True, head of Parkwood Outdoors, said: “It’s a great site to add to our portfolio, and it has a diverse range of opportunities for its development. We’re working in partnership with the local authority to provide a new programme of activities for the residents using the strength of our brand.”

The acquisition has protected the site in Cardiff, allowing the services to continue to grow and meet the changing needs of the local community and beyond, as well as creating job opportunities as the site expands its offering.

Chris continues: “We can now get started on our exciting plans for the future. As well as expanding the current tennis programme, we’re looking to introduce Footgolf and Rugbygolf to the current offering, and improving the cafe area for users.”

To fi nd out more about Parkwood Outdoors’ sites visit: www.parkwoodoutdoors.co.uk.

Heath Park is the latest site added to Parkwood Outdoors’ portfolio

10 | Parkwood News Summer 2017 Summer 2017 Parkwood News | 11

Parkwood Leisure Parkwood Leisure

Introducing Girls for Sail

Girls for Sail is the latest business venture for Parkwood Outdoors and

was acquired in February 2017. The company is well known as

the UK’s only sailing school for women, and has been running Royal Yachting Association sailing courses, adventures of a lifetime, and world class sailing and racing events for women in the UK, the Caribbean, and everywhere in between since 1999. They deliver a number of bespoke racing events and training

courses for women only.Chris True, head of Parkwood

Outdoors, said: “Girls for Sail offers a fantastic range of outdoor activities, and we will continue to deliver the fantastic programme that is already established. There’s a skilled operational team who bring a wealth of experience and knowledge with them, and the team will continue to deliver an exceptional service.”

To find out more visit: www.girlsforsail.com

Swimmers at Windsor Leisure Centre have benefitted from a brand

new changing village which opened in January 2017.

The £400,000 refurbishment was financed by the council’s 2016/17 capital programme, and was approved by the council in September 2016.

The poolside changing facilities have been completely transformed with new changing rooms, floor and wall tiles, and a new hair-drying area. The changing village also

includes seven family changing rooms and additional, larger lockers. A brand new buggy park and shoe removal area at the entrance to the new facilities have

also been created. The revamp was managed by

Legacy Leisure, and area general manager Mark Camp-Overy, said: “Windsor is a flagship leisure

centre and its usage is increasing. The new changing area was much needed and we’ll continue to work to provide great facilities that residents enjoy using.”

MP James Brokenshire, the secretary of state for Northern Island, took time out of his busy schedule to visit Crook Log Leisure Centre on 16th February 2017.

The aim of his trip was to further understand the centre’s Steps to Health scheme, and how it is benefiting the lives of residents in Bexley. He was impressed by the number of people taking part in the scheme, at a time where the benefits of healthier living and a healthy lifestyle are becoming more evident.

The Steps to Health scheme is an exercise referral programme which provides a safe, supervised and enjoyable introduction to physical activity within a controlled environment. It provides patients who are not regularly active, or who have health problems, with the opportunity to improve their health and well-being, regardless of age, ability or experience. The Steps to Health scheme also creates a broader social environment for people with serious medical conditions which could result in them becoming increasingly isolated.

Speaking about the programme, Mr Brokenshire said: “I was pleased to learn more about this exciting programme helping people in Bexley with medical conditions increase their levels of physical activity and improve their health. Steps to Health is leading the way in demonstrating

the benefits of exercise for conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer and dementia.

“Testimonials from a number of participants describe the positive benefits they feel, and the difference the programme has made to their well-being. The innovative scheme

builds on a strong partnership between Parkwood Leisure, the National Health Service (NHS) and Bexley Council, and is showing real potential. I look forward to hearing of its continued progress and the outcomes it is achieving.”

Leisure Centre’s Steps to Health scheme impresses MP

L-R: Ian King, general manager of Parkwood Leisure’s Bexley contract, Kenny Oliver, centre manager at Crook Log Leisure Centre, Rt Hon James Brokenshire, MP for Old Bexley and Sidcup, Debbie Brown, Healthy Living manager and Richard Kay, Parkwood Leisure’s contract manager for the London Borough of Bexley

Parkwood Community Leisure is proud to launch the Reactive8 Project

Parkwood Community Leisure are proud to announce the launch of the Reactiv8 Project

in partnership with Nottinghamshire County Council and Rushcliffe Borough Council.

The Reactiv8 Project is a new sport and physical activity programme for people aged 16+ with a newly acquired disability. Participants who are referred onto the programme are able to access weekly multi-sport and gym sessions for a period of 10-weeks, with support from an appropriately qualified activity leader.

Justin Palfrey, general manager at Parkwood Community Leisure, comments: “We’re pleased to be working in partnership with Nottinghamshire County Council who have funded this fantastic, new pioneer project, open to those with a range of disabilities. Come along and try the range of activities on offer at the centre for a reduced rate, all you need to do is follow the referral pathway to find out more details, and to see if you qualify.”

Sessions cost four pounds and provide participants with a number of social and physical benefits, including improved fitness levels and weight

management. The sessions also help reduce stress and improve confidence and self-esteem.

Participants can be referred by a medical professional or carer, or by self-referral - simply complete and return a Reactiv8 referral form. The Reactiv8 Project is available in the Rushcliffe area at Cotgrave Leisure Centre, Rushcliffe Arena, Keyworth Leisure Centre and Bingham Leisure Centre.

Reactiv8

New and improved facilities at Windsor Leisure Centre

Expansion plans for Legacy Leisure

A £2.5 million expansion scheme has started at Hutton Moor Leisure Centre in Weston-super-Mare, in partnership with North Somerset Council.

The scheme will see a two-storey extension added to the rear of the existing building to house a new fitness suite. This will enable the existing gym to be extended in order to meet increasing demand and provide two new, multi-use

studio spaces. One of the three squash courts

will be converted into a new reception for the gym, and a second court will be converted into a fixed-cycle workout room. The final court will remain to service the demand for squash, a sport which has seen a decline in recent years. The currently underutilised bar area will be converted into a dedicated dance studio.

Work begins on a £2.5m expansion scheme at Hutton Moor Leisure Centre

A £400,000 investment from the council pays fora new changing village at Windsor Leisure Centre

12 | Parkwood News Summer 2017 Summer 2017 Parkwood News | 13

Parkwood Consultancy Services Parkwood Consultancy Services

In 2015, Val and Burt Hills, a couple from Lincolnshire, left Lincolnshire Police a bequest.

Chief Constable Neil Rhodes wanted to ensure that their generosity was remembered, and the force decided to build a new, bespoke memorial garden that would stand the test of time, and ensure that those from the policing family, who died during service, would be remembered with reverence.

Lincolnshire Police held a national competition to design and implement the garden which would serve as a place of contemplation, and be in-keeping with its setting at Lincolnshire Police HQ. Parkwood Consultancy Services, and its EPD (Environment Planning and Design) team, entered the competition with a simple, strong design concept, and in mid-2016 were awarded the commission.

The garden was opened in January 2017 by the Bishop of Lincoln, the Rt Revd Christopher Lowson, and the ribbon was cut by Lord Lieutenant for Lincolnshire, Tony Dennis, with Chief Constable Neil Rhodes.

The garden itself features nine pillars, each with a single word illustrating one of Sir Robert Peel’s Principles of Policing: Prevention, Approval, Cooperation, Proportionate, Impartiality, Restorative, Relationships, Humility and Integrity.

The sculpture symbolises the community working as one. This is represented by steel rods running up through the centre of the sculpture embodying the public cooperation and social cohesion that Sir Robert Peel believed should underpin ethical policing.

To make the memorial more accessible to the wider public, EPD crown-lifted some of the trees at the entrance, allowing passing views into the garden. The central feature was supported by the simplistic planting of 21 yew trees, one for each century in the Gregorian calendar.

It was important that the project refl ected the local landscape, and the design makes use of the underlying symbolism to add to the sense of restfulness and stillness the garden creates.

Much of the design is based on the ‘golden ratio’ of 1:618, which is often found in the natural world - at 1.2 metres in width and 1.9 metres in height, the walls of the garden refl ect this rule. Furthermore, the material used in the construction of the walls and surfaces were all sourced and purchased locally. Being indigenous to the area, they become part of the fabric of the landscape, further contributing to a sense of harmony and belonging. A

s of 2017, EPD has started delivering accredited energy performance rating services

for commercial buildings, such as Energy Performance Certifi cates (EPC) and Display Energy Certifi cates (DEC).

These are compulsory for specifi c types of buildings under the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, which the UK is integrating in its own legislation as part of the Brexit

transition. They come with an associated Advisory Report which lists the recommended energy saving measures as identifi ed during the site visit which, if implemented, can save money.

During a project completed at a leisure centre in early 2017 by senior energy consultant and head of department, Steve Anzarouth, the Operational Rating, known as the DEC rating, which refl ects the

energy effi ciency of the building and the services installed, as well as the practices of its users, has been improved to achieve an Operational Rating of D. The rating had previously been reported as G, which equates as very poor.

This great improvement has given much better accuracy and visibility of the good environment and energy management practices in place at this leisure centre, improving its image with

its members and other stakeholders involved with the centre.

Building and Property Services (BPS) Ltd, has successfully achieved NICEIC registration. This ensures their electrical team meet defi ned technical and safety standards, codes of practice and rules, giving customers confi dence and peace of mind. Additionally, the NICEIC registration means BPS’s electricians are able to self-certify, saving customers time and money.

Ricki Goode, managing director at BPS, explained: “This achievement is a real positive for our electrical team, and compliments our other accreditations

in safety such as OHSAS 18001. We are continuing to grow

the electrical division of our business on the back of this a c h i eve m e n t

and are already carrying out extensive testing, energy saving i m p r ove m e n t s and other works for clients across the country.”

In the past few months, BPS has also grown the air conditioning division of the business, providing reactive and planned air conditioning maintenance, as well as installations, across the country. BPS’s engineer has achieved a number of qualifi cations, including Air Conditioning and Refrigeration

level 2, a City and Guilds level 2 award in F Gas, and ODS Regulations: Cat 1.

To enquire about using BPS’s services contact one of the project team on 01905 388550 or email enquiry@bps-parkwood.co.uk

EPD, working in partnership with SQW and Three Dragons, on behalf of Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), has been working on an independent study into future housing provision in Dorset, which was offi cially launched in February.

The study, which was released at the same time as the government announced its ambitious proposals to help fi x the UK’s housing market, investigates housing provision, key issues and future options from a local

perspective. The study outlines a number of

recommendations to help accelerate housing delivery across Dorset, including greater public intervention, promoting the private rented sector, and increasing the capacity of the construction industry.

Commenting on the study, Mark Felgate, regional head of planning at EPD, stated: “This report provides direction and impetus for the LEP and its partners, to secure a step

change in delivering housing to meet economic growth aspirations in a challenging environment.

“Dorset has fallen behind in delivery and needs to take forward actions on increasing development on public sector owned land, improving skills in both the construction industry and within local authorities, and encouraging different approaches to delivery. By doing so, this will improve the speed and quality of construction.”

It’s a hard life at BSW! One of the key services the civil and structural engineering consultancy fi rm carries out is structural surveys of buildings and structures. But sometimes you fall lucky.

On a perfect day in April, Sarah Buck and Alex Bailey spent their time going out in a boat to inspect the harbour at Mullion on the Lizard in Cornwall. Having completed the boat

inspection they negotiated their way through a dark, rock and water fi lled tunnel to emerge on an idyllic beach to inspect the harbour wall at close quarters.

The purpose of the survey was to ensure the owners of the harbour, The National Trust, are aware of the maintenance requirements ensuring that the 125-year-old harbour lasts as long as possible for people to enjoy.

EPD has produced two white papers, one focusing on sustainability rating schemes for buildings, and the second looking at housing density.

To read the white papers visit the news section of our website:epd-parkwood.co.uk/news

Following an investment of £4.5 million from South Northamptonshire District Council, Brackley Leisure Centre, managed by Parkwood Leisure, is set to receive new wet-side facilities as part of a programme of improvements.

Highlights of the investment include a 25 metre, six-lane swimming pool, learner pool and wet changing village, a new reception and cafe, refurbished dry-side changing facilities, bespoke spinning studio and a new 100-station health and fi tness suite.

The construction period for this project is 52-weeks and is due to be completed in 2018. Throughout the construction period, PPM are performing the role of Employer’s Agent (EA) which includes monitoring the construction programme, compliance by the

Building Contractor with its obligations under the Building Contract, and compliance with planning regulations

and building control procedures. The EA is also responsible for monitoring the quality of the works, and providing

progress updates at regular intervals to the client.

Improvements programme confi rmed for a Northamptonshire leisure centre

EPD helps shape economic growth in Dorset

Read our latest white papers

BPS achieve NICEIC electrical certifi cation and expand the air conditioning service

A lasting legacy It’s a hard life at Mullion

Improving energy performance and saving money

The Lincolnshire Policememorial garden

Impression of Brackley Leisure Centre[Image courtesy of architects Burke Richards]

Example of a Display Energy

Certifi cate (DEC) operational rating

chart refl ecting energy effi ciency.

Specialists at BSW inspect the harbour at Mullion in Cornwall

Summer 2017 Parkwood News | L-R: Harriet Lacey, business manager, Ricki Goode, managing director and Zak Robinson, graduate project manager

14 | Parkwood News Summer 2017 Summer 2017 Parkwood News | 15

Parkwood Healthcare Parkwood Healthcare

As Parkwood Healthcare celebrates 20-years of delivering professional

healthcare solutions, Claire Moffett, senior branch manager, shares her experiences of the developments that have shaped the organisation in the nursing agency sector:

“I was recruited in July 1998 as branch manager at the London Offi ce. Over the year’s we’ve experienced enormous changes in the recruitment market that have transformed how agencies work.

“Let’s rewind to 1997 when the recruitment process consisted of a very quick interview. Applicants would often be in work a couple of days later, and there was a minimal amount of time spent on compliance.

“We had competitors of course, but tendering for business was unheard of - there were no frameworks or preferred supplier lists. There was also minimal paperwork, and everything was conducted by telephone. We didn’t even have a website!

“Fast forward to 2017, and gradually competition has increased, saturating the market. We now have hundreds of competitors, many of whom are large organisations supplying to multiple industries on

a nationwide basis. On the current London Procurement Partnership Framework for example, there are 295 agencies approved to supply staff to the National Health Service, and it’s unusual to be able to supply to any organisation without undergoing a detailed tender process. Preferred supplier lists remain in place for many years, so opportunities are scarce and competition is fi erce, which has resulted in lower profi t margins.

“There have also been changes to the recruitment process. As well as the basic requirements we adhered to in 1997, we now have many additional requirements which have resulted in a lengthy process. Twenty-years have now passed, and the industry and agencies have changed beyond recognition, but one thing has always remained - the need for good quality agency workers.

“In order to thrive in this competitive and challenging market, our dedicated team must continue to be fl exible and adaptable. Our commitment has resulted in loyal nurses and clients, with many of our agency workers returning to us time and again. One nurse who joined us in 2000 still works for us 17-years

Parkwood Healthcare is pleased to announced that the Lifestyle Referral Hub team in Leicester have been awarded an extension to the current contract as a result of their dedication, including the support of all the volunteers.

The Lifestyle Referral Hub is a telephone-based referral service and manages the referrals of adults who live in the city of Leicester to relevant health improvement services.

Residents in need of support to address lifestyle risk factors, such as smoking, poor diet, physical inactivity and alcohol misuse, are referred to the hub by their GP, practice nurse, healthcare assistant or other health and social care professional. Parkwood Healthcare’s dedicated hub staff then holistically assess the individual’s needs, with respect to

their lifestyle risk factors and their readiness to change, and identify the improvement services appropriate to their needs and preferences.

Since April 2015 over 12,000 referrals have been made to health improvement services via Leicester’s Lifestyle Referral Hub.

There is also a dedicated team of community and workplace development offi cers as part of the hub, who have dedicated many hours to engaging with the local community and health and social care professionals. Since April 2015 they have attended and participated in over 270 community engagement events.

The Lifestyle Referral Hub contract has been extended until the end of March 2018.

Parkwood Healthcare’s highly skilled Get Healthy coaches have been busy supporting hundreds of clients over the past 12-months.

The Get Healthy coaches provide a one-to-one service that specifi cally works with hard-to-reach and disadvantaged groups within the community, encouraging healthy behaviours and supporting individuals to improve their health and wellbeing by setting small,

manageable and achievable goals. Individuals are encouraged to

set their own goals, and Parkwood Healthcare’s coaches support them in achieving these by applying behaviour change theory models. As a result of the fantastic work carried out by the Get Healthy coaches, a staggering 918 kilograms of weight has been lost by the individuals the team have supported over the last 12-months!

The Get Healthy coaches in Buckinghamshire saw 296 new referrals to the service in quarter four, this is the highest number of referrals to-date. The launch of the Live Well Stay Well Single Point of Access (SPA) has made a signifi cant difference to these numbers.

The Get Healthy coaching service is the second highest recipient of referrals from the SPA, with the highest numbers going to tier-2 weight management services, such as Weight Watchers and Slimming World. Thirty-two percent of all patients screened are benefi ting from the one-to-one support offered by the highly skilled Get Healthy coaches. The team have also been engaging with communities and partners in the local area to encourage referrals.

Quarter four has also seen the highest number of clients achieving

at least one of their healthy lifestyle goals set in partnership with the Get Healthy coaches. The set target for the team was 56 clients meeting a goal, and an impressive 127 were achieved.

Get Healthy coaches set goals to motivate their clients to make healthy lifestyle changes, for example: one client lost two stone and three pounds in 17 weeks by introducing changes to his diet and focusing on portion control. His fruit and vegetable intake increased to the recommended fi ve portions-a-day and his consumption of high-fat dairy products reduced from one portion fi ve-days a week, to one portion on just three-days in the week. His unhealthy snack intake was also reduced from one portion seven-days-a-week, to one portion fi ve-days-a-week. The snack sizes have also been reduced.

later, and some of our original clients from 1997 still request staff from us every week.

“Our refusal to compromise on standards has earned us a reputation

for excellence. As a team, we continue to work together to learn from our experiences and expand the nursing agencies, building on our success of the last 20-years.”

2017 marks the 20th anniversary of Parkwood Healthcare Ltd. Since 1997 the organisation has provided a variety of specialist healthcare services to public, private and third sector clients.

Today, the healthcare solutions provider works with local authorities and clinical commissioning groups in Leicester, Buckinghamshire, Bexley, Torbay and Rushcliffe, to deliver healthy lifestyle services to their respective residents.

Parkwood Healthcare also

provides nursing staff to a number of private and National Health Service (NHS) organisations throughout London and the south east through its nursing agencies.

Mark Lambourne, general manager of Parkwood Healthcare, comments: “The challenges presented by changes within the recruitment market, and the continuing pressure on local authority budgets has meant that, more than ever, we’ve been required to demonstrate flexibility, and an ability to respond to the needs of our

clients with innovative ideas and fresh thinking. The key to this has been our “Get Healthy” referral management software, which has helped over 30,000 people make positive, long-term changes to their lifestyles over the last two years.

“Looking to the future, we’ll continue to expand our presence in the public health market and widen the reach of our nursing agencies across the country to ensure that the next 20-years of Parkwood Healthcare builds on our current success.”

Twenty-years of Parkwood Healthcare

Twenty-years of Parkwood Healthcare’s nursing agencies

Get Healthy coaches encourage Buckinghamshire to live well

Contract extension for Leicester’s Lifestyle Referral Hub

Weight loss success for Leicester’s Get Healthy coaches

Claire Moffettsenior branch manager

Get Health coach, Louise Stone, prepares to see a client in Leicester

L-R Jessica Goddard, hub advisor and Rifat Khan, community and workplace development offi cer, at the Leicester Lifestyle Referral Hub

Parkwood Consultancy ServicesAttwood HouseJohn Comyn DriveWorcester, WR3 7NS

www.pcs-parkwood.co.ukT: 01789 450 085E: enquiry@pcs-parkwood.co.uk

GlendaleThe Coach HouseDuxbury Hall RoadDuxbury ParkChorley, PR7 4AT

www.glendale-services.co.ukT: 01257 460 461E: info@glendale-services.co.uk

Parkwood Leisure

Attwood HouseJohn Comyn DriveWorcester, WR3 7NS

www.parkwoodleisure.co.ukT: 01299 253 400E: mail@parkwood-leisure.co.uk

Parkwood HealthcareUnit 20Warren Park WayEnderbyLeicestershire, LE19 4SAwww.parkwoodhealthcare.co.ukT: 0116 243 7392E: info@parkwoodhealthcare.co.uk

Parkwood News

ACROSS

1. A good diet and plenty of exercise helps keep you body in what sort of condition? [7]

3. The colour of fresh snow [5]

8. Theatrical production, typically performed around Christmas-time [9]

9. Alexander Graham Bell is best known for inventing which communications device? [9]

11. The name of the conservation charity that works to preserve the nation’s heritage [8_5]

13. The word used to describe a variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat [12]

15. Historic county in northern England home to a famous set of Dales [9]

17. City that is known as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution [10]

18. The word used to describe a date on which a notable event took place [11]

19. A district in the county of Nottinghamshire that historically contained four ducal seats [8]

DOWN

2. Another word for humbleness or modesty [8]

3. Dry, calm, stormy, clear and cloudy are all types of what? [7]

4. The common name for a group of people living in the same place or having particular characteristics in common [9]

5. Someone who arranges the features of a landscape or garden attractively [10]

6. A code word used in radio communication to represent the letter G [4]

7. Largest tree in the world by trunk volume [14]

10. The collective name for a widespread group of animals that are part of the reptile family and are descended from dinosaurs [6]

12. The lowest rank of police offi cer in the UK [9]

14. When making a bucket list, what recreational activity do people normally want to undertake with dolphins [4]

16. Another name for a marriage ceremony and its associated celebrations [7]

Parkwood News Summer Crossword

ACROSS

WIN A

£50 GIFT

VOUCHER

All of the answers to this crossword can be found in this edition’s stories.

We also have a £50 gift voucher up for grabs for the lucky winner.

To enter, simply send a picture of your completed crossword to:glendale.marketing@glendale-services.co.uk

A winner will be drawn at random on29th September 2017.

Congratulations to last edition’s winner Marcia Whyte

1 2 3

4

5 6

7 8

9

1 0 1 1

1 2

1 3 1 4

1 5 1 6

1 7

1 8

1 9