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Thursday, 19 May 2022
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Commissioner seeking detainee welfare volunteers
Commissioner seeking detainee welfare volunteers
Are you interested in ensuring the welfare of people in custody and transparency within the police? Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire, John Dwyer, is currently looking for Independent Custody Visitors (ICVs) to help scrutinise the way Cheshire Constabulary ensures the welfare of detainees.
All Police and Crime Commissioners are required to operate an ICV scheme, which provides an independent oversight of how people are treated when in police custody.
There are currently three custody suites operated by Cheshire Police in Blacon (Chester), Runcorn and Middlewich. ICVs make unannounced visits and speak with detainees, ensuring that they have received access to things they are entitled to including food and drink, solicitors and appropriate adults, and phone calls.
As well as speaking to people in custody, ICVs speak to staff at the custody suite and health care professionals in order to ensure the overall environment is suitable to ensure detainee welfare.
John Dwyer, Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire said:
“It’s my role to ensure that the Constabulary is providing an effective and efficient police service for people in Cheshire, and I can’t do that without ICVs. They carry out a crucial role in ensuring the welfare of detainees and contribute hugely towards improving police transparency and processes.
“I can’t recommend this role highly enough and I am grateful for all the work that our volunteers do. If you are interested in a new challenge then apply to become an ICV as soon as you can. This is your chance to make a difference in policing.”
As a result of their observations on custody suite visits, ICVs are able to make recommendations which require the police to improve their detainee welfare processes and standards. They are in a unique position to influence the way Cheshire Constabulary operates and assist the Commissioner in holding the police to account.
Visits are always conducted in pairs on a rota basis, meaning ICVs will carry out visits with different people. They can be arranged at the convenience of the ICVs carrying out the visit and will typically take an hour to complete. Initial training is provided, as well as any follow-up training an ICV feels they may need.
Ian Berry, Independent Custody Visitor, said:
“When I retired, I wanted to remain mentally active and be involved in something different from the work I had done in my career I also recognised that interaction with people had been an important and enjoyable feature in my life and volunteering presented an opportunity for me to maintain this.
“This is a great opportunity to do something different, interesting and rewarding. If you work, it will give you a change from the day to day work. If you don’t work it will provide an activity to enhance your life, using your valuable skills and experience. I would encourage anyone to give it a try!”
To find out more about the role of an ICV and to apply, please visit www.cheshire-pcc.gov.uk/get-involved/volunteering/independent-custody-visitor
If you would like an informal chat about becoming an ICV you can contact Karolina Kardas, Research and Volunteer Support Officer, at karolina.kardas@cheshire.police.uk
Cheshire East Council’s fostering service makes vital appeal
Cheshire East Council has launched an urgent appeal for more local people to consider fostering at the start of a national fortnight celebrating the work of foster carers across the borough today.
Organised by leading fostering charity, The Fostering Network, Foster Care Fortnight runs from 9 to 22 May and is the UK’s largest foster care awareness raising campaign.
The theme this year is ‘fostering communities’ and the campaign will shine a light on the many ways people across the fostering community work together and support each other.
Throughout the fortnight, the council will be running a series of events, sharing content on social media channels and generating as much interest as possible about the transformative power of foster care. The aim is to increase the number of foster carers who provide loving homes for cared for children and young people.
With more than 500 children and young people in the care of the local authority, the council is once again reaching out to residents to ask if they can become Cheshire East Council foster carers.
Councillor Kathryn Flavell, lead member for children and families at Cheshire East Council, said: “Whether you’re a foster carer, a social worker, young person or supporter of foster care, you are part of a community making a real difference to the lives of young people, and we want to celebrate the impact everyone makes.
“Our foster carers are amazing! Each one an everyday hero, but all are ordinary people from all walks of life, doing extraordinary things day in and day out, for the children they care for.
“Whatever your age, gender or personal circumstances, you can do this if you have room in your home to look after a child, can make them feel comfortable in their surroundings and give them a sense of their true potential for as long as they are in your care.
“It’s not just babies and young children who need foster homes – many older children and teenagers, brothers and sisters and children with additional needs looked after by the council, need loving, caring and safe homes too.”
To celebrate Foster Care Fortnight and in honour of foster carers, Cheshire East Council’s fostering service has committed to planting a tree for every foster carer household. Further trees will be planted for every new household approved over the next five years, as the council grows its foster carer family to secure a future for those vulnerable children and young people who need a safe home.
This initiative will also help support the council’s green agenda and help towards meeting its carbon neutral targets. Tree-planting will start towards the end of the year when ground and weather conditions are more favourable.
If you would like to know more about becoming a foster carer for Cheshire East Council, then please visit the dedicated website www.togetherforfostering.com or alternatively telephone 0300 123 3223.
Burglary Alert
Burglary Alert
Dear Resident
BURGLARY ALERT Between 20/04 and 04/05 two burglaries have occurred at properties on Frank Bott Avenue in Crewe. Between 20/04-27/04 a shed was broken into and items taken from inside. The second property was entered via an insecure window between 03/05 - 04/05 and items were stolen from inside.
I would like to take this opportunity to point out that Crewe Local Policing Unit, which covers both the town centre and the large rural area surrounding it, experiences low number of domestic house burglaries.
In an effort to ensure it is an isolated incident we would ask you to review your home security and take sensible precautions like checking all premises and outbuildings are secure, house alarms set and vehicle keys stored away etc.
For more information on how to keep your property safe please follow the link below
Crime prevention advice | Cheshire Constabulary
If you have any information regarding these incidents please contact us on 101.
Resident's voice | Cheshire Constabulary –Have your say on Policing in your area….Take the Survey
Thank you for your time
Crewe LPU
Council launches community equipment amnesty
Cheshire East Council is calling on residents across the borough to return loaned equipment like walking frames, crutches, beds, mattresses and hoists when no longer needed.
The equipment is provided usually following a fall, hospital discharge or other situation, and could be reused by another person in the community in need of support.
Reuse of equipment is more environmentally friendly and helps resources to be invested in other health and social care services.
Councillor Jill Rhodes, Cheshire East Council adults and health committee chair, said: "Some of this equipment may only be used when a person is recovering from illness or injury and can end up stored around the home, surplus to requirements.
“Putting back into circulation items that are no longer needed, means we can continue to provide the vital equipment that people need in the timescales required.”
Anyone with equipment which is no longer needed is invited to call 01606 655560 or email: CES@rosscare.co.uk to arrange collection.
Collections can also be requested using this link https://rosscare.co.uk/pages/cheshire-integrated-community-equipment-service.
The equipment will then be picked up by a Ross Care engineer within five working days, free of charge. Alternatively, it can be dropped off by prior arrangement at:
Unit 7 Artis Park
Winsford Industrial Estate
Winsford
CW7 3QE
Monday, 25 April 2022
Thursday, 21 April 2022
Council urges spring booster jab take up
Cheshire East Council is urging older and more vulnerable residents to take up the offer of a further Covid-19 booster vaccine.
The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), as part of its latest review of the UK vaccination programme, has recommended an additional spring booster dose for our most vulnerable individuals.
People aged 75 years and older, residents in care homes for older people, and those individuals aged 12 and over with weakened immune systems, will be offered a spring booster of coronavirus (Covid-19) vaccine.
These groups of people are at higher risk of developing severe Covid-19. Protection from the vaccine may be lower and may decline more quickly in these people. If the number of infections increases over the summer, this booster should help to reduce their risk of developing serious illness and being admitted to hospital with Covid-19.
Professor Rod Thomson, public health consultant at Cheshire East Council, said: “The pandemic isn’t over and with Covid-19 case numbers still high across all age groups, it is really important that those eligible for this booster come forward as soon as they are invited.
“We know the vaccine is safe, effective and provides the best protection against serious illness from Covid-19.”
Those eligible for the spring booster will be contacted by the NHS when it is their turn to receive the vaccine. Once invited, they will be able to book their appointment online via NHS or by calling 119. Anyone in these groups will only be able to book an appointment for six months from the date of their last vaccination.
For details of local walk-in Covid-19 vaccination clinics, offering first, second and booster jabs, please visit the NHS website at: www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-vaccination/. Residents can also book an appointment via the NHS website or by calling 119.
A vaccine programme has also started for healthy 5 to 11-year-old children. Parents will receive information offering them the chance to make an appointment for their child to be vaccinated. These appointments will be available from April over the Easter holidays and further slots will become available later.
For all the latest information on Covid-19 testing, vaccinations, support, and guidance, please go to the council’s web pages at: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/covid19
Funding available for domestic abuse and sexual violence support groups
Funding available for domestic abuse and sexual violence support groups
Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire, John Dwyer, is calling for expressions of interest in funding from groups and organisations who support victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence.
The Ministry of Justice has extended funding for domestic abuse and sexual violence services in communities, meaning Police and Crime Commissioners are able to commission local organisations to deliver services for victims.
In order to distribute the funding effectively, Commissioners are required to advertise this opportunity widely and complete a needs assessment so they have the most up to date picture of local needs.
John Dwyer, Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire said:
“I’m really pleased that we’ll have this funding available to us. Protecting vulnerable and at-risk people and delivering justice for victims are priorities in my Police and Crime Plan.
“With input from local organisations with specialist knowledge we’ll be able to more effectively target support towards vulnerable victims, helping them on the road to recovery and breaking the cycle of domestic abuse and sexual violence.
“If you are an organisation in Cheshire who fits the bill here, even if you haven’t worked with the Commissioner’s Office before, I want to hear from you. Please do get in touch with my team as soon as you can.”
Interested organisations do not need to be a registered charity, a charitable incorporated organisation, or a social enterprise to be eligible for the funding. However, they must be able to demonstrate a proven track record of supporting victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence, including male victims, disabled people, and people from the LGBT+ and BAME communities.
Organisations bidding for funds will have to show evidence of the need for additional funds and go through a due diligence process. Successful applicants will have to feed back on how the funding has enhanced their work with victims to the Commissioner’s office and the Ministry of Justice.
Needs assessment forms must be completed by 5pm on Friday 22 April and are available upon an expression of interest to the Commissioner’s commissioning team:
Andy Southcott – andrew.southcott@cheshire.police.uk
Sarah Tilling – sarah.tilling@cheshire.police.uk
Bike Marking Date
Bike Marking Date
Good Morning Residents
Apologies *** Date 30/4/22
Due to the increase in bike thefts in the Crewe Central area, can we make you aware of a future free bike marking event in various locations in Crewe.
Queens Park outside cafe - 11am - 12pm
Tesco Vernon Way - 1pm - 2pm
Leighton Brook Park - 3pm - 4pm
Look forward to seeing you.
Pcso Penny Probin - Crewe Central
Tuesday, 29 March 2022
Wednesday, 23 March 2022
Council warns the pandemic isn’t over as cases rise again
Cheshire East Council is warning residents the pandemic isn’t over following a sharp rise in Covid-19 cases recently.
Latest figures released on the official UK government website (21 March) show the rate of positive cases in Cheshire East has risen to 843 per 100,000 population. The rate per
100,000 population in the North West is 642 and 780 in England.
The current estimate for the ‘R number’ in the North West is 1.1 – 1.4 (19 March 2022). This means that, on average, 10 infected people will transmit the infection to 11 to 14 other people.
81.3 per cent of all positive Covid-19 cases are of the new BA.2 Omicron variant, which is shown to be far more transmissible.
Dr Matt Tyrer, director of public health at Cheshire East Council, said: “The rise in positive Covid-19 cases recently not only in Cheshire East but in neighbouring areas, is worrying, although not wholly surprising since restrictions have ended in England.
“Looking at the recent surge in cases across the borough in all age groups, it is clear the pandemic is far from over.
“Sadly, we are also seeing an increase in hospitalisations for people with Covid-19, which is creating additional pressures, especially in our local hospitals.
“Residents should continue to follow the latest Covid-19 safety advice including self-isolating if you develop covid symptoms or test positive, washing your hands regularly for at least 20 seconds, and unless exempt, wearing a face mask in busy, crowded indoor places, especially in healthcare settings.”
Councillor Sam Corcoran, leader of Cheshire East Council, said: “Positive Covid-19 cases were falling right up until the beginning of this month.
“Over the period 15 to 21 March we have seen a 46.7 per cent rise in cases – that’s an increase of 1,145 residents testing positive in Cheshire East over the past seven days.
“I am also concerned about government funding not being renewed for the Covid Zoe project run by King’s College London, as well as a reduction of £440m for test & trace programmes and public health teams which have been working so effectively on infection control. These cuts do not appear to have come at a good time.
“We look after each other by staying safe and it really is in our hands to do all we can to reduce this latest rise of Covid-19 cases.”
Residents can continue to take the following five steps to help reduce the rate of infection and for those around them:
- Get vaccinated to reduce the risk of becoming seriously ill and to protect others;
- Wear a face covering in crowded and indoor places – unless exempt;
- Let in fresh air when you meet others indoors, especially if they’re at high risk from Covid-19;
- Wash your hands regularly for at least 20 seconds and use hand sanitiser; and
- Stay at home and get tested if you have Covid-19 symptoms.
For all the latest information on Covid-19 testing, vaccinations, support, and guidance, please go to the council’s webpages at: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/covid19
Dog Safety In Your Vehicle
Dog Safety In Your Vehicle
The safest way a dog to ride in the car is secured in a crate or with a dog seat belt and harness Combination.
No matter the method you use, your dog shouldn't sit in the front seat under any circumstances.
Securing them in the cargo area or back seat behind a front seat is safer.
Weather its a trip to the vets or a visit to the beach, most owners will take their dog in the car at some stage.
It's almost goes without saying, however that cars can be dangerous for dogs if care and common sense are not applied.
Remember also that the Highway Code states motorists need to ensure dogs are " suitably restrained " while travelling in the car.
Residents asked to have their say on new Dementia Strategy
Cheshire East Council has (today) opened a public consultation to help shape a new Cheshire East Dementia Strategy.
This strategy was developed by the council in partnership with the people who use services, their family and carers, local providers, and NHS Cheshire Clinical Commissioning Group (Cheshire CCG).
Utilising the NHS England Well Pathway for Dementia, the strategy consultation aims to ensure the voices of people with dementia, and their carers, shape how resources are used most effectively to enable good quality of life for people with dementia, and to ensure dementia services are accessible to everyone who needs them.
Councillor Jill Rhodes, Cheshire East Council’s committee chair for adults and health, said: “Dementia is such a debilitating disease that has a profound effect on the people living with the disease and their families.
“People have told us that they want more personalised and integrated care and support for those affected by dementia.
“We want to hear from as many of our residents as possible, including those with dementia and their carers or relatives, about what services work well, but also if there are gaps in the range of support which could be improved, so the wellbeing and quality of life for every person with dementia is the best it can be.”
Other stakeholders involved in developing the strategy included: dementia friendly community members, individuals living with dementia and their carers, Body Positive, care community members, local health and social care providers, and voluntary organisations.
The council wishes to thank everyone involved for taking the time to support this important work.
Residents can take part in the dementia strategy consultation or find out more about it on the council consultations web page:
https://surveys.cheshireeast.gov.uk/s/Dementiaconsultation/
There is also an easy read version of the consultation available: https://surveys.cheshireeast.gov.uk/s/EasyReadDementiaPlan/
The dementia strategy consultation closes on: 15 June 2022.
Wednesday, 9 March 2022
SCAM WARNING: COVID text messages
SCAM WARNING: COVID text messages
Watch out for fake text messages pretending to be from the NHS. Since Jan 1st, 412 victims have reported losses totalling more than £531,000. Please use the following links if you would like to see an example of the fake NHS messages reported to Action Fraud:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/actionfrauduk/status/1498945958427594752?s=20&t=RL99N7i-yXmXcqU2xUbiiw
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/actionfraud/photos/a.411244602226592/7380075412010108/
What you need to look out for:
How to report scam messages:
For information on NHS coronavirus testing, visit: www.nhs.uk
Cheshire East smokers urged to quit on No Smoking Day
Smokers across Cheshire East are being urged to quit the habit on No Smoking Day (Wednesday 9 March), in a nationwide initiative to encourage smokers to give up for good.
The pressures of the Covid-19 pandemic have resulted in a rise in stress and concern about health. And whilst in the past year the chances of smokers successfully quitting have been high, smokers who are experiencing stress and mental distress are likely to be smoking even more.
Currently, over 40,000 adults still smoke in Cheshire East and the council is tackling this issue by providing help through One You Cheshire East, which provides expert support and advice about quitting the deadly habit.
Dr Matt Tyrer, director of public health at Cheshire East Council, said: “Stopping smoking is one of the best things you can do for your physical health but also is proven to boost your mental health and wellbeing.
“Quitting can improve your mood, and help relieve stress, anxiety and depression. It can save you a lot of money as well.
“Giving up smoking completely may take several attempts, and that’s normal, but every time people quit smoking, they’re a step closer to success.”
Helen, a former smoker from Alderley Edge, said: “The benefit of joining the One You programme was the support I received. I simply couldn't have got through it without support and information I got along with the expert knowledge from Karolina my One You health coach.
“I would absolutely recommend this programme to others. The amount of people I've talked to about it is unreal. I couldn’t have done it on my own and there's no two ways about it. The support I received has been phenomenal and I would recommend it to the world.”
In order to speak to someone at One You Cheshire East about quitting smoking, freephone 0808 1643 202, or visit the One You website at: www.oneyoucheshireeast.org
Alternatively, NHS telephone and online support is available and can also be accessed through an NHS app. Visit the NHS website for more information at: www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/
Cheshire East Council hosts panel Q&A session with inspirational females for International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day takes place today - a global celebration of the social, economic, political, and cultural achievements of women.
This year’s theme is ‘break the bias’, promoting the importance of gender equality to help create a world that is diverse, inclusive, and free of bias.
To mark this event, Cheshire East Council has held a recorded Q&A panel session with influential females in the borough, hosted by Chief Officer of the Cheshire Association of Local Councils, Jackie Weaver.
Panel members from the Council include Dr Lorraine O’Donnell, chief executive of Cheshire East Council, who recounts her story of joining the council during the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, Kay Mcintyre MBE, Cheshire East Council’s area manager for the borough’s Youth Support Service, and Jasmine Ward, a member of Youth Parliament for Cheshire East who has helped to lead a mental health conference for young people and run a campaign against sexual harassment.
Partners on the panel were Katy O’Reegan, a former BBC radio presenter and youth worker who is now an entrepreneur running a community magazine delivered free to 32,000 homes, Guyanese Cheshire East Councillor and former Midwife Alift Harewood, Saskia Lightburn-Richie - chief executive of My CWA who works with families who are affected by domestic abuse, and Sally Probert-Hill, chief executive of Body Positive, a sexual health and LGBT+ charity for Cheshire.
During the session panel members were asked a series of questions around their professional experiences and personal achievements, while sharing their views on key topics such as imposter syndrome, the importance of male allies, creating workplace cultures to attract and retain female leaders, and the importance of celebrating International Women’s Day.
“Today is not only a day to reflect on the progress that has been made in our fight for equality, but how far we have yet to go to tackle discrimination and stereotyping.
“At the council we have strong females represented in a variety of roles across all our services, all of whom are committed to achieving the best outcomes for the people of Cheshire East, and this is something I am immensely proud to be part of.”
Councillor Marilyn Houston, Cheshire East Council equality, diversity and inclusion member champion, said: “With another International Women’s Day upon us once again, I find myself in awe of the achievements of so many strong female leaders, not only within the council across different services, but across the borough and the world.
“This panel session is just a snapshot of some of the key female representatives we have in Cheshire East, and offers some amazing insights from strong females from different backgrounds, cultures and ages.
“We hope that by taking the time to celebrate this hugely important date in the calendar, more women will rejoice, come together and speak out to help break the bias and work with us as we look to creating a more gender-equal world.”
The Q&A session can be viewed via this link on the Cheshire East Council YouTube channel.
A transcript of this event can also be found here (MS Word, 59KB).
Residents are also encouraged to join in with the national International Women’s Day campaign by following the hashtag #InternationalWomensDay22 on Twitter, sharing their stories across social media, and taking a photograph of themselves posing in the ‘crossed arms’ campaign pose, showing solidarity for the rights of women.