Your Norfolk Summer 2013

YourNorfolk 1Norfolk County Council

YourNorfolk

Meet us at the Royal Norfolk Show

Free early years places for two-year-olds... see page two

Your Norfolk County Councillors

What’s on where you live

www.norfolk.gov.uk Norfolk County Council www.norfolk.gov.uk

Issue 41 Summer 2013

Norfolk County Council’s magazine for all residentsNominate a Star ofNorfolk

With summer days approaching, residents can look forward to a

whole range of activities and events across the county, from the Royal Norfolk Show to the annual summer reading challenge in all of Norfolk’s libraries, plus many free activities and events in our museums.

If you are planning to visit the Royal Norfolk Show this year (26/27June), why not come along and see us? We will be at stand 244, where you can find out how to get more involved in the life of the county and what Norfolk County Council has on offer to help individuals and communities become safer and healthier.

Following the 2 May elections, there is a whole new council, with many new elected Members. For details about who will be representing you and your area for the next four years, turn to pages 11 to 14. You can see more about Members’ roles and responsibilities on our website, at www.norfolk.gov.uk/councillors

Also in this issue, we focus in on services which aim to improve everyone’s chances of leading safe and independent lives – such as the Trusted Trader scheme driving out rogue traders, the Norfolk First Response service for more vulnerable people wanting to remain in their own homes, and adoption services which continue to seek people who are interested in offering Norfolk children loving, local families.

In our Autumn edition, we will be giving all households in the county the opportunity to help shape the council’s spending plans over the next few years, so turn to page four to see what has happened already as a result of your input into the 2010 Big Conversation.

Don’t forget you can sign up to receive a copy of Your Norfolk online – or receive a monthly Your Norfolk Extra email, keeping you in touch with council developments, offers and opportunities. Go to www.norfolk.gov.uk/yournorfolk to find out how to sign up.

2 YourNorfolk Norfolk County Council

YourNorfolkWelcome...

Early learning and childcare gives children a great start in life, so they can have fun, learn through play, make new friends, experience new activities and get a good start in education.

If your family is eligible for free school meals (see page six for details) you may also be entitled to up to 15 hours of free early learning and childcare for your two-year-old, funded by Norfolk County Council.

Is my child entitled to free childcare?To be eligible for free childcare, your child should be two years old (or will be by the time they take up the place) and your family should be in receipt of certain benefits.

To find out if you’re eligible, call the Family Information Service (FIS) on 0344 800 8020,

email [email protected] or visit www.norfolk.gov.uk/take2.

How do I find a childcare place?Details of childcare providers offering free early learning and childcare for two-year-olds – including playgroups, pre-schools, day nurseries and childminders – can be found in the Family Service Directory (FSD) at www.norfolk.gov.uk/fsd. You can also ask at your local children’s centre or contact the Family Information Service.

Pictured above left: Kaleb and Elise enjoying hand painting with nursery educator Jo at Earlham Early Years Centre’s day nursery in Norwich.

Free early learning for two-year-olds

www.norfolk.gov.uk/take2

0344 800 8020

[email protected]

Find out more

Norfolk County Council

YourNorfolkContents

Norfolk County Council’s magazine for all residents

Contact us...Email [email protected] or call 0344 800 8020

If you need this magazine in large print, or in an alternative version, please contact Norfolk County Council on 0344 800 8020.

Your Norfolk is printed and distributed three or four times a year at a cost of about 14p per copy. It is printed on chlorine-free paper from managed forests.

The next edition of Your Norfolk will be out at the end of October 2013.

Norfolk County Council is the local authority for the whole of Norfolk. We provide vital public services for people who live, work, do business or visit here. They include children’s services (including schools), adult social care, highway maintenance, waste disposal, libraries, museums, fire and rescue, economic development and trading standards.

For more details, visit www.norfolk.gov.uk

®

Page

Making your money go further 4

Can your child claim free school meals? 6

Keeping Norfolk healthy and well 10

Meet your Norfolk County Councillors 11-14

Community enterprise success 16

Helping you to stay 21 independent and well

What’s on 22 this summer

Norfolk County Counci

l

Va l

u e f o r Mon

eyvfm

YourNorfolk 3

Nominate a Star ofNorfolk


Making your money go furtherPlanning for 2014 -17In 2010, more than 9,000 of you took part in the Norfolk-wide consultation we called ‘The Big Conversation’ to have your say on the future role of the County Council.

As part of this, we asked for your views on our proposed three-year financial strategy and savings plan to help us save the £148m necessary because of rising demand for our services, cost increases and a large reduction in our government grant.

At the time, among other things, you told us you would like us to: • create a smaller council • continue to speak up for Norfolk, and • protect services for the most

vulnerable

Since then we’ve been working hard to achieve these things. We are on track to deliver what we said we would by March 2014. We have transformed or reorganised many services.

We have cut our costs and streamlined the council and we continue to work hard to become even more efficient.

However, we know the economic outlook for the UK and for Norfolk remains tough – and that our grant funding from government is set to reduce even more. So we are planning now to help save more, find new ways of making sure people get the services they need and value, and to raise more money ourselves to achieve this.

We are currently reviewing every area of our service to make sure the County Council is well placed to meet the challenges ahead on your behalf.

Get involved...This autumn we will be inviting you to have your say again through another county-wide consultation. In the meantime, you can find out more about this year’s Budget on our website, or visit our stand at the Royal Norfolk Show this month and ask questions or raise issues.

You can also stay up-to-date by visiting the Have Your Say pages on the Norfolk County Council website www.norfolk.gov.uk or by reading about how and when to take part, in the next edition of Your Norfolk, in October.

If you want to get involved in our consultations and have your say on other local issues, you can join Your Voice online at www.yourvoicenorfolk.co.uk or call 0344 800 8020 and ask for a Your Voice membership form.

Nor folk County Counc

il

Va

lu

e f o r M oney

vfm


In Norfolk alone, the waste market is worth around £100m a year, of which the County Council’s responsibility for dealing with household waste costs £30m.

That’s why we’ve launched a new initiative, Enterprise in Waste, so we can work with businesses to encourage new and innovative ways of dealing with waste in Norfolk.

By being more entrepreneurial and adopting new technology, we can handle waste even more efficiently, make financial savings for tax payers and create new opportunities for local businesses.

We have recently held a number of

workshops and events – including our first Enterprise in Waste Summit – to help get new schemes up and running. Projects being considered so far include: • A Reuse Network for Norfolk – jointly run

and supported by voluntary organisations and businesses, to reuse more waste and divert it from landfill

• An advice forum – giving better information and support to businesses about dealing with waste in the right way

• A buying collective for businesses – to help them negotiate better terms for waste management contracts.

Get involved in future discussions and workshops... www.norfolk.gov.uk/

enterpriseinwaste

0344 800 8020

Find out more

Enterprising waste solutionsWaste is an important issue for all of us – and a major cost.

www.norfolk.gov.uk/economicdevelopment

Find out more

When it comes to social and economic wellbeing, Norwich has been named as the UK’s sixth best city in which to live and work, in an independent national report by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC).The Good Growth for Cities report measures the public’s feeling of wellbeing based on three key things that influence their life: jobs, income and health.

Norfolk County Council is already doing lots of things to support local jobs and boost the economy, including:• Promoting apprenticeships• Working with schools to develop a skilled

workforce for the future• Promoting the Norwich Research Park• Improving our transport network in Norwich

and across the county • Better broadband for Norfolk

Together with local councils and business leaders, we are looking at how we can use PwC’s report to support further growth for Norwich and the rest of the county.

We think the report will help us attract more investment, recruit good staff into the area and support our bid to central government for a City Deal for Norwich which aims to:• Give cities the power to drive local economic

growth• Unlock projects to boost our economy• Strengthen local

governance.

Report names Norwich as growth city

Norfolk County Council6 YourNorfolk

All County Council maintained schools have to meet high national nutritional standards for their lunches. This means that menus are carefully balanced to meet

children’s nutritional needs.

Not only do schools across Norfolk provide a wide variety of healthy and balanced meals, but they are also free for many families.

Your child will be entitled to free school meals if you receive one of the following benefits:• Income Support

• Employment Support Allowance (Income Related)

• Income Based Job Seekers Allowance• Guaranteed Pension Credit• Child Tax Credit and your income (as

Free school mealsWhen children eat better, they do better. That’s because nutritious, balanced meals are not only key to a child’s healthy development, they also provide vital nutrients to boost their energy and concentration during the school day.

calculated by the Inland Revenue) is less than £16,190

• 28 Day Working Tax Credit run on• Receiving support under Part VI of the

Immigration and Asylum Act of 1999.

Even if you do not wish your child to have a free school meal, you should still apply if you are entitled, as your child’s school receives more funding, £900 per pupil, to offer eligible children more support.

So, if you think your child may be entitled to a free school meal, please complete an application form. These are available from your child’s school or from our website, below.

Did you know?Free school meals

can save parents up to £400 a

year per child

Schools get an extra £900 for

every child who registers for free

school meals

www.norfolk.gov.uk/schoolmeals

0344 800 8020

Find out more

Support your child to live wellWe all want to help our children to grow up to be healthy, happy adults. But sometimes it’s hard to know what to do for the best.

But you don’t have to do it alone – to find out about local services available to help you and your family eat well, be more active and live longer, visit www.norfolkslivingwell.org.uk/my-childs-health

Norfolk County Council YourNorfolk 7

To find out how to get a passport, sign up to the scheme or become an approved learning activity, contact Paul Wickens.

www.norfolk.gov.uk/childrensuniversity

01603 218714

[email protected]

Find out more

Anyone aged five to 14 can join. The idea is very simple: you get a Passport to Learning in which you collect stamps for the hours spent doing learning activities outside your normal school day.

Participating schools run activities – many of them free – with more learning activities on offer at places like museums, libraries, sports clubs and dance studios. Each approved activity gets a passport stamp.

Students celebrate their achievement at an annual Graduation Ceremony, held at

the University of East Anglia, where they explore the campus, discover the benefits of life-long learning, and don caps and gowns – like real university graduates!

Set up in 2010, more than 50 schools are already taking part in the Children’s University with over 6,000 five to 14-year-olds signed up to learn.

Howard Junior aims higherHoward Junior School in King’s Lynn is just one of the schools taking part in the Children’s University. Their recent Ofsted report mentioned the pride that pupils felt about being part of the Children’s University.

Headteacher Greg Hill said: “The Children’s University has had a profound impact on self esteem and makes extra learning fun and enjoyable, which helps to improve educational attainment in school.”

Children’s University offers support to schools Children all over Norfolk are being encouraged to learn more in

their spare time by taking part in Norfolk County Council’s Children’s University scheme.

Weddings with extra OOH factor…Following a change in the law, Norfolk Registrars are now offering ‘OOH’ (out of hours) wedding ceremonies at 7pm. They will also consider special requests for other times.

First off the mark to marry at an evening wedding ceremony on 27 April were Christopher Wightman and Agata Czapiewska. Pictured with registrars Barbara Davis and Hilary Youngs, they were married at Elm Farm Country House, Horsham St Faith.

Photo by SKE’S Photography

wwww.norfolk.gov.uk/registrationservices

Find out more


Our theme for this year is ‘Your Norfolk’, looking at how we’re supporting individual and community action.

In the learning zone, be inspired by the fantastic experiences on offer through our schools, in our libraries and museums and through our arts and adult education services. See what your child could gain from registering at a local Sure Start Children’s Centre, where they can take part in fun and interesting activities and you can get information on family support for children under five.

Visit the transport zone to discover more about car sharing, cycle plans, community transport schemes and our

ambitions for Norfolk’s road network. Find out how we’re improving bus services and transport options to make it easier for you to get from place to place.

Norfolk is one of the safest places to live in the UK. In the safety zone, find out how you can do your bit to make local roads even safer. Get advice from our Trading Standards team on how to protect yourself against scams and rogue traders by using our Trusted Trader scheme and meet firefighters with a full working fire engine.

Local communities are our key to tackling public health challenges like smoking, alcohol and obesity. In the health and wellbeing zone you can get tips on keeping you and your family fit and healthy. Find out too about

Norfolk County Council at the Royal Norfolk Show

Wednesday 26 and Thursday 27 June 2013Stand 244

A v e n u e 9

If you’re heading for the Royal Norfolk Show this summer, be sure to visit Norfolk County Council’s marquee – where you can take part in fun activities and find out how we are working together with local people to build strong, vibrant communities.


Norfolk First Response – a new service which makes it easier for vulnerable people to remain independent in their own home (see page 21 for details).

In the enterprise zone, meet some of our apprentices and find out how our Backing Apprenticeships initiative is bringing new jobs and opportunities to Norfolk. Got a great business idea but need some help? Meet the Enterprise Norfolk team who can give you expert advice and introduce you to support teams working in your local area.

Building strong communities is at the heart of our work and we will be showcasing Norfolk Community Champions, an initiative – in conjunction with the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association and Norfolk Community Foundation – that

Trail offers family funFor families visiting this year’s show, there’s a free Family Trail with each child taking part receiving a special Royal Norfolk Show medal. Pick up the Family Trail on the day from the Norfolk County Council stand, where we will be promoting the new Norfolk Trails – www.norfolk.gov.uk/trails – or buy a Show Guide, which includes the trail, available at each entrance gate.

highlights the great community work in our county.

Outside the marquee, you’ll find the eco zone, where you can get great ideas about composting, recycling and growing fruit and vegetables. Children will love to see the animals from Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse, as well as learning more about the world of fish in the fascinating fish tank from the Eastern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority. www.eastern-ifca.gov.uk

On the outdoor stage, Norfolk Music Service will deliver a packed programme of entertainment with performances from Norfolk school children, teachers and local organisations.

You will find us at Stand 244, on Avenue 9.

Ticket pricesAdult £19 advance, £22 on the dayChild (5 to 16) £7 advance, £9. Under 5s FREEFamily ticket £50 advance, £62 on the daySenior Citizen (65+) £17, £20www.royalnorfolkshow.co.uk

Get involved...Take part in our interactive budget game, learn how the County Council spends its budget to keep costs down and discover how you can have your say on plans for 2014-17.

Nor folk County Counc

il

Va

lu

e f o r M oney

vfm


Keeping Norfolk healthy and wellEarlier this year, Norfolk County Council took over responsibility for public health services from the NHS.

Join HealthwatchEvery voice counts when it comes to shaping the future of health and social care in Norfolk. That’s why Healthwatch Norfolk – which has been launched to champion the interests of ordinary people in health and social care services – needs your help.

Healthwatch Norfolk needs new members, from all walks of life,

whose voice and experience can help influence and develop local services, as well as its future plans and priorities.

Get involvedJoin Healthwatch Norfolk or

find out more... 01603 813904www.healthwatchnorfolk.co.uk

One of the main roles of public health is to help people to stay healthy and avoid getting ill, covering a wide range of issues such as obesity, immunisation, smoking and alcohol, drugs recovery, sexual health, pregnancy and children’s health.

You can find out more about the services and support available from public health in Norfolk – including its free NHS Health Checks service – by visiting its website, www.norfolkslivingwell.org.uk

Public Health Norfolk already works closely with many County Council services to promote health and wellbeing, prevent disease and help people live well for longer. It also provides advice and support to schools, businesses and local groups who want to help improve health and wellbeing in their communities.

Get involvedGet support and advice on how you, your family or your community can become healthier and more activewww.norfolkslivingwell.org.uk0344 800 8029

Tick TockAged 40-74?Keep your

body running like clockwork

Read more about health and wellbeing in Norfolk... www.norfolk.gov.uk/

health_and_wellbeing

Find out more

www.norfolkslivingwell.org.uk

0344 800 8029

Find out more

Free NHS Health ChecksMake your wellbeing a priority by booking in for a free NHS Health Check.

If you are aged between 40-74 and living in Norfolk, you may be entitled* to a free 30-minute check with participating GPs and pharmacies across the county. It’s the best defence against early signs of heart

disease, stroke, diabetes and kidney disease.

*See website (above) for details

2013-2017 • 2

013-2017 • 2013-2017 •


In May 2013 the following people were elected to serve Norfolk’s divisions – representing you on Norfolk County Council for the next four years.

Continued overleaf...

AttleboroughAlec Byrne01953 860315

AcleBrian Iles 01493 394181

AylshamDavid Harrison01263 735316

Blofield and BrundallAndrew Proctor01603 715659

ClaveringMargaret Somerville 07827 271296

BreydonAlan Grey 01493 601591

Caister-on-SeaPat Hacon 01493 720917

Catton GroveSteve Morphew 07557 634897

BowthorpeMike Sands 07557 634894

CostesseyTim East01603 743241

Clenchwarton and King’s Lynn SouthAlexandra Kemp 07920 286636

CromeGeorge Nobbs 01603 611406

CromerHilary Cox 07920 286624

Dereham NorthWilliam Richmond 07717 868067

How the council works Norfolk County Council has 84 elected Members each representing an electoral division.Divisions have up to 10,000 voters each.Every four years the people of each division elect one councillor to be a member of the County Council.

The political makeup of the County Council is: Conservative ■ 40UKIP ■ 15Labour ■ 14 Liberal Democrat ■ 10Green ■ 4Independent ■ 1

The Chairman for 2013/14 Councillor Hilary Cox,

Member for Cromer

Your four page guide to...Norfolk County Council’s councillors 2013-17

2013-2017 • 20

13-2017 • 2013-2017 •

For the latest information,

including Member roles and

responsibilities, please go

to www.norfolk.gov.uk/

councillors or call

0344 800 8020.


HensteadRoger Smith01508 538225

Hevingham and SpixworthDaniel Roper 07920 441970

HinghamMargaret Dewsbury 01603 759693

Diss and RoydonJenny Chamberlin 01379 642740

Downham Market Tony White 01366 502133

FakenhamTom FitzPatrick07803 166293

FeltwellMartin Storey 07557 634896

DockingMichael Chenery of Horsbrugh07920 286638

FinchamBrian Long 07920 286601

ForehoeColin Foulger 01953 605920

Freebridge LynnJason Law 01485 524217

Drayton and HorsfordTony Adams01603 405367

East DepwadeMartin Wilby01379 741504

East FleggJonathon Childs 01493 731877 (For texts only: 07899 037719)

EatonBrian Watkins 01603 259306

Elmham and MattishallBill Borrett01362 860200

Your guide to Norfolk County Council’s councillors 2013-17

GuiltcrossStephen Askew 07990 531771

HellesdonShelagh Gurney 01603 403122

Gaywood SouthMargaret Wilkinson 01553 766531

Gorleston St AndrewsMatthew Smith 07581 333980

Gayton and Nar ValleyRichard Coke 07717 881289

Dereham SouthPaul Gilmour 07717 868093

DersinghamJohn Dobson01485 534989

Gaywood North and CentralJim Perkins 01553 765185


LakenhamSusan Whitaker 01603 620957

Long StrattonAlison Thomas07920 286603

LoddonAdrian Gunson 01508 482543

LothinglandColin Aldred07919 386862

MagdalenColleen Walker01493 782272

North CoastRichard Bird 01485 532565

MancroftRichard Bearman01603 504124

HoltMichael Baker 01263 822803

Marshland NorthStephen Agnew 07748 945493

Marshland SouthHarry Humphrey 01945 430539

North Walsham West and ErpinghamJohn Timewell 07717 881857

North Walsham EastEdward Foss 07717 881842

Old CattonJudy Leggett 01603 429986

ReephamJames Joyce01263 587212


Continued overleaf...

Hoveton and StalhamNigel Dixon01603 783885

MundesleyWyndham Northam 01263 721599

Necton and LaunditchMark Kiddle-Morris01328 701370

NelsonAndrew Boswell 01603 613798

HumbleyardJudith Virgo 01603 454578

King’s Lynn North and CentralDavid Collis 01553 673509

Mile CrossDeborah Gihawi 07717 881579

Melton ConstableDavid Ramsbotham01263 577418

SewellJulie Brociek-Coulton 07717 881933

SheringhamBrian Hannah01263 823791


Thorpe HamletAdrian Dearnley 07717 882369

Thorpe St AndrewIan Mackie01603 454122

WroxhamTom Garrod 07515 356821

Town CloseEmma Corlett 07557 634891

WymondhamJoe Mooney01953 604482

UniversityBert Bremner01603 471134

Yare and All SaintsCliff Jordan01362 820422

WattonStan Hebborn 07557 634892

Yarmouth Nelson and SouthtownRex Parkinson-Hare01493 652270

WellsMarie Strong07920 286597

Yarmouth North and CentralMick Castle 07966 798928

WensumElizabeth Morgan 07557 634290

Thetford EastDenis Crawford 07717 882119

The BrecksIan Monson 01366 328296

West DepwadeBeverley Spratt07887 633253

Thetford WestPeter Georgiou 07717 882315

West FleggMichael Carttiss01493 368238

What’s my division?Not sure which division you are in? Go to www.norfolk.gov.uk and click on ‘where I live’ on the left. Put in your postcode, and it’ll tell you who your councillor is and lots of other useful information about services in your local area. Alternatively, call 0344 800 8020.

WoodsideNigel Shaw01603 435839


South SmallburghDavid Thomas 01692 404100

SprowstonJohn Ward01603 431146

SwaffhamPaul Smyth 07733 431358

TaverhamStuart Clancy01603 754148


www.norfolk.gov.uk/adoption

01603 638343

Find out more

It’s changed their lives, as it has for hundreds of adoptive parents across the county – in the last year alone 55 people in Norfolk adopted a child. But there are still lots of children in the county needing adoptive parents to give them a loving, caring family.

Mark and Helen began their adoption process in October 2011 and it was less than a year before they brought their daughter home.

Helen said: “We have had an amazing journey and have learnt a lot about ourselves along the way, with the ongoing support we have received from our social workers.

“For us our adoption pathway has been a fantastic experience and has transformed our life for the better with the arrival of our beautiful daughter.”

Have you considered adoption?Mark and Helen* recently became parents to a one-year-old girl after approaching Norfolk Adoption Service.

Children awaiting adoption range in age from babies to six-year-olds and many of them will have had a difficult start in life. Adopting a child can be challenging but ultimately, hugely rewarding.

Through our campaign, launched this summer, we are asking for people from all walks of life to consider adoption. It’s a huge step, but the friendly and professional staff at Norfolk Adoption Service are there to help you through the process.

Last year 55 people in Norfolk adopted a child.

You can tooFor more information call 01603 638343,

visit www.norfolk.gov.uk/adoption or email [email protected]

People like David and Amy... ...Trevor and Adam, Charlotte, Bruce and Lucy, Jason and Sue, Anne and Helen...

Informal consultations have already been held along the route, and we have listened to people’s views and made changes to the proposals. The latest exhibitions will display these latest proposals ahead of a formal application for development consent.

The NDR plans feature a 20km dual carriageway linking the A1067 Fakenham Road near Attlebridge, to the A47 at Postwick. We hope to make an early start on the Postwick Hub junction improvement, depending on the outcome of a public inquiry.

Forming a key part of the Transport for Norwich

plans, the NDR is designed to take traffic off unsuitable routes around the north east of Norwich, reduce congestion in Norwich, and free up road space for Bus Rapid Transit and better facilities for cyclists and pedestrians.

It would also help to boost the Norfolk economy – attracting up to £1.3bn of inward investment – while making sure unavoidable housing growth does not add to existing problems. The Government has already allocated £86.5m to the scheme.

Keeping Norfolk moving...The Norwich Northern Distributor Road (NDR) – which would help boost the local economy and relieve traffic congestion – reaches a new stage this summer with a series of exhibitions in June and July.

www.norfolk.gov.uk/tfn Dates and venues of exhibitions will be posted on the website.

Find out more

An initiative from

*Names have been changed.

www.norfolkindustries.co.uk

Orderline 01603 667957

Find out more


Norfolk Industries for Disabled People, which is supported by Norfolk County Council, has been relaunched and remodelled to focus its core

business on supplying recycled pet bedding for small animals.

With a turnover of £285,000, the firm employs eight staff and supports a further 20 volunteers, many of whom have a disability.

After previously relying on £200,000 a year funding from Norfolk County Council, the business is now on course to become self sufficient and commercially viable after winning a national contract to supply its ‘Snooze

Flakes’ animal bedding in hamster starter kits.

This has been achieved through streamlining the business, rebranding, actively pursuing contracts and raising its profile within the pet sector internationally, as well as locally.

Although the firm has shifted from operating as a voluntary organisation to becoming a commercial enterprise, Norfolk Industries still provides voluntary placements to help people gain work experience.

Norfolk County Council, which owns the Community Hubs, is encouraging local groups to make good use of them. The Hubs, which used to be known as day centres and were only used to provide day services, can now be used for a wide variety of activities and by different community groups.

The Hubs are still being used for day services, but there are times of the day when rooms can be made available to other community groups, like

clubs, societies and informal groups, such as carer support groups.

They’re a great way for groups to meet in a safe environment, or to find out what activities and events are available through your local Hub.

Based in Attleborough, Caister, Cromer, Dereham, Fakenham, Gorleston, Great Yarmouth, Holt, King’s Lynn, Norwich, Swaffham and Thetford, most Hubs are open each daytime, with selected spaces available during the day and evening.

Get involved at your local hubIs your club or group looking for a new place to meet? Or are you looking for new activities in your community? Then why not go along to you local Community Hub to see what’s on offer?

For more information about Community Hubs, contact Matthew Hodder... [email protected]

0344 800 8020

Find out more

Success for new-look enterpriseA Norfolk firm which supports people with disabilities is on target to break even after winning new business with Argos.

www.norfolk.gov.uk/libraries

0344 800 8020

Find out more

01603 660945 Find out more


Creepy House challengeYoung readers are set for a spine-tingling challenge this summer at Norfolk libraries.

Did you know?Research

shows that children who

keep reading throughout

the holidays do much better when they go back to school.

This year’s Summer Reading Challenge has a ‘Creepy House’ theme and children of all ages and reading abilities can join in at their local library… if they dare!

To sign up, just head for your local library at the beginning of the summer holidays – it’s completely free. Pick up a pack and explore the Creepy House, discover its secrets and meet some of the hair-raising residents.

Read six books to collect stickers that reveal the creepy residents of the house – and get a medal and certificate to celebrate your achievement.

Look out too for the Mungler Top Trumps cards to collect and swap with family and friends.

Children can choose any books they like: fact books, stories, joke books or picture books. Audio books and e-books count as well, so long as they are borrowed from the library.

Library services – closer to homeYour local library has something for everyone and it’s free to join. But if you can’t come to us to borrow books, we’ll come to you!

Mobile library serviceOur mobile library service covers over 2,000 stops across the county and stocks a range of children’s and adults’ books, large print books, audio books and DVDs.

Books can be borrowed from any mobile library, and then returned to any branch library or mobile library in Norfolk.

You can choose from the van – all of which have lifts for wheelchair users or people with mobility problems – or reserve online for collection from your local mobile.

Home library serviceIf you love reading and can’t get to your nearest branch or mobile library due to age, disability or mobility, why not call the home library service?

Run in partnership with the WRVS, the service is delivered by volunteers to help older people stay independent and get more out of life.

www.norfolk.gov.uk/libraries

0344 800 8020

Find out more

18 YourNorfolk

What can I do for you?My role as Police and Crime Commissioner is to hold the Chief Constable to account on your behalf to ensure an efficient and effective police service. However, I feel my remit is broader than that; it is also to encourage public authorities and the voluntary sector to work in a more ‘joined up’ way to tackle crime, prevent criminal activity in the first place and reduce demand on police. We have already had useful meetings and hope discussions continue in this positive way.

Together with my deputy, Jenny, I aim to provide leadership and focus for all those involved in community safety and criminal justice. We will also remove unnecessarily complicated processes to get funding and resources directly to vulnerable people – where they can be most effective.

Having previously worked with Chief Constable Phil Gormley and his chief officer team, I feel we had a ‘head start’ – we already had a high level of shared understanding of the challenges for Norfolk. I will meet with senior officers on a regular basis to ensure the objectives in the Police & Crime Plan are being delivered against.

To ensure Norfolk remains a safe and secure county, I need your help. Jenny and I rely on your input and support and look forward to meeting as many individuals, groups and organisations as possible. Do get in touch and give us your views on policing in Norfolk. In turn, I will keep you updated as to our progress.

Keeping Norfolk safe and secure...

Welcome to this update on my first seven months as elected Police & Crime Commissioner for Norfolk.

Both my deputy, Jenny McKibben, and I have been out and about in the county meeting and listening to communities, businesses, police and partner organisations. As well as finding out how they work, I’ve received really useful feedback which has informed my future plans to keep Norfolk a safe and secure county.

I have developed and published my Police & Crime Plan for Norfolk 2013-17 – a strategic document that sets out the main objectives for policing and criminal justice.

I have also agreed the policing budget and the council tax requirement for this year.

In these two pages, I would like to give you a flavour of what I am intending to do on your behalf as Norfolk’s first Police & Crime Commissioner. I would very much welcome your views. Stephen Bett

Website: www.norfolk-pcc.gov.ukEmail: [email protected]

Phone: 01953 424455

YourNorfolk 19

My Ten Point PledgeDuring last year’s election campaign for Police & Crime Commissioner, I made a pledge of ten points that I wanted to achieve, should I be elected:

• KEEP Norfolk one of the lowest crime counties in the country

• FIGHT serious and organised crime

• SUPPORT victims of crime, vulnerable and elderly people

• PROTECT the frontline in the face of cuts

• PROTECT local policing from privatisation

• USE targeting and prevention to reduce demand on police

• WORK with young people to stay clear of crime

• LISTEN carefully to the community, reaching out to minority communities and the disengaged to ensure policing is fair and equitable

• REJECT party politics and work with other Independents to provide a national voice

• USE restorative justice to achieve long-lasting solutions.

My pledge is now woven into the Police & Crime Plan. If you want to see the progress against the pledge and judge how well I am doing, please visit my website. www.norfolk-pcc.gov.uk

My Police & Crime Plan 2013-17 The Plan contains three broad objectives:• Reduce crime

and disorder in Norfolk

• Reduce priority crime, anti-social behaviour (ASB) and re-offending

• Reduce vulnerability, promote equality and support victims.

I have also set specific objectives for policing by which you can judge the success of the Constabulary:• Reduce the number of priority

crimes (i.e. burglary, robbery, theft of, and from, motor vehicles, serious violence and arson) by 18%

• Increase serious sexual detection rates to 35%

• Increase serious violence detection rates to 68%

• Reduce the number of collisions in which people are killed or seriously injured on Norfolk’s roads to no more than 320 in the year 2015/16

• Increase public satisfaction to 80%

• Reduce the impact of ASB by reducing incidents by 40%

• Increase the detection rate for incidents of domestic abuse to 55%

• Reduce re-offending of the most prolific offenders

• Reduce violent and sexual crime within night-time economy areas.

How can you get involved?Receive updates and share your views on police and crime issues affecting your community. Email: [email protected]

Join us on Twitter:The office account @norfolkpccMy personal account @thesafebett


Got an opinion on services for young people? Want to have a say on what happens in Norfolk? Interested in getting involved and making decisions?

If you’re aged between 13 and 16 you can join our new Your Voice Get Involved Facebook group and have a say on the things that matter to you.

In the group we’ll be posting opportunities to get involved in decision-making, including running surveys, focus groups and even volunteering opportunities. We’ll be running polls, having discussions and asking you to post your ideas on what’s important to you.

Our Facebook Group is part of Your Voice. Your Voice is a Norfolk-wide scheme to involve local people in decision-making and is run by local councils and NHS organisations. This means if you are part of the group you’ll get the chance to get involved in a large range of issues ranging from sports and leisure and employment through to transport and health issues.

So go on, get involved at... www.facebook.com/groups/YourVoiceGetInvolved

Your Voice Get Involved Facebook group Are you between 13 and 16? Have your say on our Facebook group.

See the ‘Curriculum to Prepare Us for Life’ film at... www.norfolk.gov.uk/curriculumforlifeVisit the Norfolk MYP’s facebook page at...

www.facebook.com/ukypnorfolk

Find out more

Calling all parents, carers and grandparents...If you’re not under 16 yourself but know someone who is then do tell them about the group. Not only does involving young people help us provide better services, it also benefits the young people themselves. Being involved gives young people new skills, opens their eyes to fresh interests and potential careers, improves their confidence and gives them an opportunity to meet new people.

Have your say on citizenship...Members of the Youth Parliament (MYPs) in Norfolk are backing a national campaign to review the way citizenship is taught in schools. Norfolk MYP Annie Baldwin explains how young people can get involved and have their say.‘I’m one of nine Members of Youth Parliament currently elected to represent Norfolk, working to voice the opinions of young people.

‘The Youth Parliament’s current national campaign is ‘A Curriculum to Prepare Us for Life’. The campaign aims to have a youth-led review of citizenship education, alongside the target of getting topics such as political education, sex and relationships education and finance skills written into the National Curriculum.

‘We are now creating a short film that explains what the campaign is about, why it is necessary and how people can get involved from there. Get involved by tweeting #LESSONS4LIFE, followed by what you want to be taught about in your citizenship lessons.

‘Other options include writing a letter to your local MP, Secretary of State for Education, or the Party Leaders. By doing this you can make a difference and help create changes for young people across the whole country. For

more information about making a change, visit the UK Youth Parliament Norfolk Facebook Page.’

Norfolk First Support

0344 800 8020 Norfolk Swift Response

01603 222334

Find out more


Norfolk First Response brings together two highly successful services – First Support and Swift Response – helping people to remain as independent as possible in their own home.

You can access the service if you are an older person, have a physical illness or disability, or have learning difficulties or mental health problems.

First Support can provide intensive support at home for up to six weeks. Swift Response is a 24-hour service for urgent, unplanned social care needs which don’t require the emergency services.

Our trained, friendly staff can help with short or long term care, provide advice and information, and arrange onward referrals to other services, so you get the right support to meet your needs.

Looking for a trader you can trust?Norfolk County Council’s Trusted Trader directory only lists tradespeople who have been checked by Trading Standards and recommended by customers. There are hundreds of local traders listed, including builders, garage services, electricians, retailers, decorators, gardeners, appliance repairers and locksmiths.

For people arranging and paying for their own care, the directory now

includes services like home care,

cleaning, night sitting, respite care, bathing and personal care.

All personal or health care

providers listed as

a Trusted Trader must have Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) procedures (formerly known as Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) checks) in place.

The directory also features community meal providers, making it easier for you to find a reliable service in your area. Providers all have a Food Safety Rating of three stars or above.

Search online to find a trader and check their customer feedback. All Trusted Traders have been checked by Trading Standards for public liability insurance, solvency and trading history.

Search the online directory...

www.norfolk.gov.uk/trustedtrader Don’t have access to the internet? Call us on... 0344 800 8020

Find out more

NorfolkTrusted Trader

Norfolk First Response serviceA new service has been launched making it easier for vulnerable people to get support when they need it most.


What’s onA small selection of what’s on at our museums and The Archive Centre.

Until Sunday 8 September Alfred Wallis – Works from the Kettle’s Yard Collection. Exhibition of paintings by Cornish mariner Alfred Wallis at Time and Tide, Great Yarmouth. From 9.30am to 4.30pm. Included in admission price. 01493 743930.

Until Sunday 8 September

Shortcuts & Digressions: Contemporary Sculpture from the Arts Council Collection. Curated by sculptor Brian Griffiths, this exhibition at Norwich Castle contains work by leading British artists, and explores many of the ideas which characterise his own work. 01603 495897.

Saturday 29 JuneMake ready for the Feast! Be a fly on the wall as the Sotherton Family of Strangers’ Hall prepares for a great Tudor feast. See food being cooked in the courtyard garden, help dress the table and practice your dance steps. From 10am to 4pm. Included in admission price. 01603 493625.

Wednesday 24 JulySeahenge: Discovery and Display, Lynn Museum. Join Robin Hanley for a talk on A Festival of British Archaeology, at Lynn Museum, from 2.30 to 3.30pm. Advance booking essential. 01553 775001.

Adam Chodzko, Untitled Stile (teenage version), 1992

Arts Council Collection, Southbank Centre, London

© the artist

Saturday 13 JulyBridewell Big Birthday Bash. The new-look Bridewell celebrates its first birthday. Music, games and cake! Included in admission price. From 10am to 4.30pm. 01603 629127.

Saturday 27 July Norwich’s fifth Pride weekend in support of Norfolk’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans community. Norwich Pride is a celebration for everyone, with events including a parade, a picnic in Chapelfield Gardens and a Pride Show at the Forum. www.norwichpride.org.uk

Thursday 1 AugustVictorian Day

– with Punch and Judy.

Meet Victorian characters, find out what life was

like in a fisherman’s cottage, try traditional crafts

and watch a Punch and Judy show, at Cromer Museum. From 10.30am to 12.30pm and 1 to 3pm. Included in admission price. 01263 513543.

Sunday 25 & Bank Holiday Monday 26 AugustVillage at War. Experience what it was like to grow up during the Second World War and its impact on family life, at Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse. From 10am to 5pm. Included in admission price. 01362 860563.

Thursday 12 SeptemberTracing the History of your House. A Norfolk Record Office workshop at The Archive Centre, Norwich, from 2pm to 3.30pm. Book (from Monday 5 August) online at www.heritagecity.org or visit Norwich HEART in The Guildhall, Norwich.


Archant Norfolk, in partnership with Norfolk CountyCouncil, has revealed exciting details of a celebration of thereal heroes of our community.

In conjunction with its sister titles in every corner of Norfolk,and in partnership with Norfolk County Council, the EasternDaily Press has launched a search for nominationsrecognising those people in the county who make a specialcontribution across a wide range of areas.

There are 17 Award categories: Carer of the Year, YoungPerson of the Year, Outstanding Sporting Achievement of theYear, Community Group or Champion of the Year,Outstanding Bravery of the Year, Hospital/AmbulancePerson of the Year, Team of the Year, Search & RescuePerson of the Year, Fire Service Person of the Year, Volunteerof the Year, Armed Services Award of the Year, PolicePerson of the Year, Small Business Community Support ofthe Year and Unsung Hero of the Year.

Judges will be selected from the sponsors of the awards,and they will select the overall winner, plus the winners ofthe outstanding achievement awards.

Why does the person or group that you are nominating deserveto receive recognition? (No more that 50 words)

...........................................................................................

...........................................................................................

...........................................................................................

...........................................................................................

Why is this person/group an exception to what might otherwisebe expected in terms of their courage, commitment ordedication? (No more that 50 words)

...........................................................................................

...........................................................................................

...........................................................................................

...........................................................................................

If you could summarise this person/group in one paragraph,what would you say? (No more than 20 words)

...........................................................................................

...........................................................................................

...........................................................................................

Signature of Nominator .........................................................

Date…………………

About you

Name ..........................................................................

Address........................................................................

...................................................................................

Email ...........................................................................

Tel. ..............................................................................

Mobile .........................................................................

Award category

Your Star of Norfolk

Name....................................................................

Address .................................................................

.............................................................................

Email .....................................................................

Tel. ........................................................................

Mobile...................................................................

Nomination form

in partnership with

Postcode

Postcode

NORFOLKAWARDS 2013

Each award is sponsored and the whole evening willbe a spectacular recognition of the wonderful work thatgoes on in our county, often carried out by unsungheroes who might not otherwise be thanked for theiroften selfless acts of courage, kindness, commitmentand dedication.

The closing date for entries is Monday 30 September2013, with the glittering awards evening being heldon Friday 18 October 2013.

Complete the form below to nominate someone youknow for a Stars of Norfolk Award 2013.

Please send your completed form to: Stars of NorfolkAwards, Room 501, Norfolk County Council, CountyHall, Martineau Lane, Norwich, NR1 2DH.

www.norfolk.gov.uk Norfolk County Council

Contacting Norfolk County Council

1590

CB

Other useful contacts: Automated library services such as book renewals 0344 800 8006 www.norfolk.gov.uk/libraries

Street light fault reporting 0344 800 8008 www.norfolk.gov.uk/streetlighting

Trading Standards consumer advice 08454 04 05 06 www.norfolk.gov.uk/consumeradvice

Norfolk Police non-emergency number 101www.norfolk.police.ukIn an emergency always dial 999

Public transport (Traveline) 0871 200 22 33www.traveline.info

It’s easy to get in touch with us – whichever way you choose...

Visit – www.norfolk.gov.uk Email – [email protected] – 0344 800 8020

Do it onlineYou can find out about our services, report problems or apply for courses, school places and more, at www.norfolk.gov.uk – here are just a few examples:Improving your home? Find a trusted trader at www.norfolk.gov.uk/trustedtraderWhat is ‘right up your street’? Search for local clubs, activities and services at www.norfolk.gov.uk/communityservicesdirectoryStarting a new school? Find your child’s catchment school or apply for a place at www.norfolk.gov.uk/admissionsWant to check for local roadworks? www.norfolk.gov.uk/roadworksHas your concessionary bus pass been lost or stolen? Pay for a replacement at www.norfolk.gov.uk/concessionarytravelDoes your child need transport to school? Find out if you are eligible and apply online for a pass at www.norfolk.gov.uk/schooltransportNeed to apply or reapply for a Blue Badge parking permit? www.norfolk.gov.uk/bluebadgeWant to buy a Park and Ride season ticket? Apply and pay for it online at www.norfolk.gov.uk/parkandrideFound an Adult Education course you like? Apply and pay for it online at www.norfolk.gov.uk/adulteducation

Our servicesNorfolk County Council provides a wide range of services for people who live, work, do business or visit here. They include education, social services, highway maintenance, waste disposal, libraries, museums, fire and rescue, economic development and trading standards. For further details visit: www.norfolk.gov.uk

Twitter @NorfolkCCFacebook www.facebook.com/NorfolkccText 07767 647670Fax 0344 800 8012Post Norfolk County Council, County Hall, Martineau Lane, Norwich, NR1 2DH

0344 numbers are charged for just like 01 and 02.Information and access to all our customer services is also available at all our libraries through council @ your library

✆

Documents

Your Norfolk Summer 2013