Summer Citizen - the edition is now online at https://citizen.slough.gov.uk - see our councillor gallery, info on the Urban Forest project, what's on in the community, info for carers, parents and children, and much more.

Covid vaccination drop-in sessions this week. You must live or work in Slough and leave 8 weeks between doses, or risk being turned away. Further updates at www.slough.gov.uk/coronavirus/surge-testing/3

***Date for the diary***

Job Fairs Ltd is holding a public event on Wednesday 18 August from 10am to 1pm at The Copthorne Hotel., Cippenham Lane.

Book a stall or plan to look for another role.

For further details about the event click here: https://www.thejobfairs.co.uk/network/jobseeker/event-guides/slough

Both carriageways of the M4 will be closed between junctions 7, Slough west, and 6, Slough, from 8pm on Friday 9 July until 6am on Monday 12 July.

Both carriageways of the M4 will be closed between junctions 6, Slough, and 5, Langley, between 9pm until 6am the following morning on Monday 5, Tuesday 6, Wednesday 7 and Thursday 8.

The eastbound entry slip road will also be closed on Monday 5 and Tuesday 6 from 9pm until 6am the following mornings.

Closures are for Highways England Smart motorway project.

Has anyone tried this online quiz? Found when looking for tours but cant seem to get the link to work?
https://www.webrew.co.uk/events/

The planning applications which have been decided upon and submitted in the past week - can all be viewed here - http://www2.slough.gov.uk/swiftlg/apas/run/Wchweeklylist.displayPlanningLists

Today (2 July), Slough Borough Council has announced it will be pausing non-essential spending, in response to a report by the Director of Finance into the state of the council’s finances, known as a Section 114 Notice.

In addition, the council has formally notified the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) of the Section 114 Notice and will be seeking financial support from the Ministry.

The move follows months of action by the council to gain a full understanding of, and begin to tackle, the financial challenges it is facing, and detailed discussions on moves to match council resources with demand for services.

Josie Wragg, chief executive said: “Residents should be reassured this notice does not mean any immediate change to services; we will still be collecting your bins next week, safeguarding the most vulnerable in our town, maintaining the roads and supporting schools, to list just some of the services we know are important to you.

“Slough’s financial problems result from a range of challenging financial issues that have grown in scale over a number of years, and as a new team we are committed to changing the way the council operates to match our resources.

“The section 114 notice is one step in what has been, and will continue to be, an on-going programme of improvement to our financial footing, which began with our new financial and executive management team.”

Over the past year, Slough Borough Council has dedicated substantial resources, including management time, to mitigating the worst effects of the COVID-19 pandemic including a compassionate approach to council tax and business rate collection.

Over the coming months the council will be taking action to improve the current financial situation including reviewing land and other assets – including those outside the borough – and changes to internal structures and staffing levels. The council is also looking closely at senior grades and how services can be more efficient and provide better value for money.

Josie Wragg added: “There is no quick fix. This will be a long process. We were on the wrong path financially, but we are committed to making the changes needed and as officers, working with the political leadership and government to reduce disruption as much as is possible.”

The Director of Finance, Steven Mair – who is responsible for the council’s finances – today wrote to all councillors advising them of the Section 114 notice and the formal steps now required.

The formal steps outlined in the procedure are:

• a letter from the Section 151 officer (the Director of Finance) to all councillors advising them of the Section 114 notice

• a response from the Chief Executive

• a council meeting to be held within three weeks (July 22) to discuss the notice, response and actions being taken to meet the financial challenges.

Councillor James Swindlehurst, leader of the council, said: “The process of repairing council finances continues and our commitment to the provision of essential services remains unchanged: bins will still be collected, potholes still filled, care still provided to our most vulnerable.

“We have had a team forensically scouring our financial statements and processes. To back up the commitment to better financial management, at the May council meeting, I took on the portfolio as part of cabinet and involved all the lead members in discussions to secure our financial future.

“Some of the issues being found go back several years, but this cabinet, appointed in May, will make the decisions required and put the council on a sustainable footing.

“The journey we have been undertaking with the transformation and restructure has helped us identify priorities for our communities and concentrate on what is required for Slough residents, businesses and the town as a whole.

“We will continue to engage all residents and other stakeholders in the ongoing improvements to our council finances.”

Current vacancies, including in the borough's schools and with Slough Children First , can be viewed here - https://www.slough.gov.uk/general-vacancies

Chalvey families are invited to join in with our Chalvey Can programme. There are still some slots available for our summer timetable, so get in touch to book soon.

The sessions available are:

Monday - Tennis 3.30-4.40pm ( 2 spaces left) & 4.30-5.30pm (1 space left)

Strength & Stretch 5.30-6.00pm (3 spaces left)

Tuesday – Football 5.00-6.00pm (2 spaces) & 6.00-7.00pm (1 spaces left)

Wednesday – Tennis 6.00-7.00pm (Full) & 7.00-8.00pm (2 spaces left)

Thursday – Pilates 09.30-10.30 (15 spaces available)

Friday – Bootcamp 4.30-5.30pm (3 spaces left)

Saturday – Football 10.00-11.00am (2 spaces left) & 11.00am-12.00 noon (2 spaces left).

Have a look at https://www.slough.gov.uk/chalveycan

Yoyo the sniffer dog found hundreds of packets of illegal, smuggled or counterfeit tobacco hidden in the ceiling of a shop toilet during a visit to Slough shops.

The spaniel was part of the team which was commissioned by the council’s trading standards and licensing teams to investigate six stores in the borough.

Each had been highlighted as a possible store of concern for selling the illegal tobacco.

Yoyo, who works with BWY Canine, was employed with a handler to sniff around six shops, finding illegal hauls in two.

In one, 1,000 packets were found in a secret compartment discovered in a toilet ceiling and in the other shop 400 hidden packets were discovered.

The tobacco included illegal cigarettes, hand rolling and smokeless tobacco. No duty would have been paid on any of the packets, which would be sold cheaply at the shops.

Offences committed when selling illegal tobacco products falls under the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations 2016 and Standardised Packaging of Tobacco Regulations 2015. This is due to the lack of plain packaging with non-English or non-statutory health warnings, or the lack of pictorial statutory warnings.

In addition, counterfeit tobacco products can be illegal under the Trade Marks Act 1994.

Dean Cooke, the council’s principal trading standards officer, said: “It was vitally important to carry out this enforcement work, after many months of restrictions due to the pandemic.

“We thank the traders which are still complying with tobacco control legislation and we continue to support them by working to eliminate any unfair competition from businesses that are flouting the law.

“Any intelligence available about non-compliant businesses is very gratefully appreciated by Trading Standards, and please continue to report these contraventions.”

Councillor Balvinder Bains, cabinet member for regulation and public protection, said: “Selling cheap and potentially dangerous tobacco products is wrong.

“Not only can they cause more problems for those using the tobacco, but such shops are not competing in a level market in the borough, putting other law-abiding shops at a disadvantage.”

Cases are in the process of being prepared for appropriate enforcement action against the two premises.

Last chance! The Colnbrook with Poyle survey asking what you would like to see in the area closes tomorrow (Friday). Gives us your thoughts at https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/Colnbrook

Here are some details on this week's drop-in vaccination sessions for people who live and work in Slough. Please leave 8 weeks between first and second doses. Further sessions will be added to https://www.slough.gov.uk/coronavirus/surge-testing/3 when they become available.

Apply now! Businesses need to get their funding applications in by tomorrow. Visit https://slough.gov.uk/business-rates/coronavirus-and-business-rates/3 to see the full eligibility criteria and an application form.

Both carriageways of the M4 will be closed between junction 5, Langley, and 4b, the M25, from 8pm on Friday 2 July until 6am on Monday 5 July.

The westbound carriageway between junctions 5, Langley, and 6 Slough, and the eastbound carriageway between 5, Langley, and 4b, the M25, will be closed from 9pm on Monday 28 and Tuesday 29 June until 6am the following mornings.

The eastbound entry slip road at junction 6, Slough, will be closed from 9pm on Wednesday 30 June, Thursday 1 July and Friday 2 July until 6am the following mornings.

All work for Highways England Smart motorway project.

Planning applications which have been submitted and decided upon in the past week, can all be viewed here -
http://www2.slough.gov.uk/swiftlg/apas/run/Wchweeklylist.displayPlanningLists

Thank you to the four volunteers from the Slough Anti-Litter Society and to Cllr Grewal and Cllr Bains for taking part in a clean up at Lascelles park yesterday. They collected 16 bags of rubbish, making the park nicer for everyone. We appreciate your efforts!

@BerkshireGrowthHub is running a second #PeerNetworks programme for #buiness #leaders in #Berkshire. If you missed the first programme, this is your chance to join other #businesses to discuss challenges & build a support network. Find out more & register your interest: https://bit.ly/3gJd2QX

There are roles at Slough Children's First and local schools which can be viewed here -

https://www.slough.gov.uk/council-jobs

School holidays can be particularly difficult for some families because of increased costs, such as food and childcare, and reduced incomes.

The length of the summer holidays can cause more complexities for some families.

This summer, free holiday clubs will be available to help with this issue. Evidence suggests they can have a positive impact on children and young people, and they work best when they provide consistent and easily accessible activities, for more than just breakfast or lunch, and when they involve children (and parents) in food preparation.

The theme for the holiday clubs is Summer 4-4-4, eligible children across the borough can access four-hour sessions, four days a week, for four weeks at no cost to parents/guardians (children are eligible if they receive a free school meal). This programme is funded by the Department for Education.

The holiday clubs are also available to any children not eligible for free school meals, who can pay to attend.

Slough Borough Council is working with a range of providers (private, voluntary, independent, and charities) to offer places where children will be able to eat more healthily over the school holidays; be more active and be safe and have fun. Our providers for the summer programme are: Get Active, Art Classes, Slough Music Service, Antz Kidz, Kidz Enterprise Ltd, Arc Pre holiday programme, TreeTops Holiday Clubs team, Sports Collective, Aik Saath, and Fit for Sports. See our webpage for activities offered by each provider as this information is being updated daily: https://www.slough.gov.uk/HAF

Michael Jarrett, Associate Director, Children and Families, said: “The past year has been difficult for families, with many people’s employment affected by the pandemic. Slough children have not been able to participate in as full a range of fun activities outside of their homes. The council and voluntary organisation partners are organising a variety of sessions, including healthy food and activities over the summer through the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme.

Summer 4-4-4 is free for children who receive benefits-related free school meals. Eligible children can choose to attend a range of activities in different venues across the town and places are also available for paying parents too!”

Councillor Christine Hulme, lead member for children’s services, lifelong learning and skills, said: “There are some great activities available across lots of different holiday clubs this summer depending on your child’s interests, with Summer 4-4-4 which is free for children who receive benefits-related free school meals. There is something for everyone from Aik Saath who will be teaching young people how to cook with their friends to Fit for Sports, all providing a healthy meal and lots of fun for children.

“The past year and throughout the pandemic have been a challenge for a lot of families in the borough and we hope that through the Summer Holiday Activities and Food programme cost will stop being a barrier to eating well and having fun. Of course, children who aren’t entitled to free school meals can pay to attend and join in the exciting activities offered.”

For more information visit: https://www.slough.gov.uk/HAF or please call Slough Family Information Service on 01753 476589.

A famous face will help launch this year’s Summer Reading Challenge in Slough’s libraries.

Author and presenter Konnie Huq will be part of a ‘Save the Planet Party’ at The Curve on Saturday 3 July, to launch this year’s challenge.

The theme this year is Wild World Heroes, celebrating nature, wildlife and taking care of the environment in partnership with World Wildlife Fund (WWF)

Slough libraries are calling for children aged 4-11 to sign up to borrow and read any six library books over the summer as part of the Summer Reading Challenge.

Children will explore Wilderville, an exciting town which is suffering from some serious environmental problems. With the help of the Wild World Heroes, there’s plenty of ways to make the town better for the people and animals that live there.

Young readers will help Wilderville fix their environmental problems while having lots of fun and exploring nature along the way as they progress through the Summer Reading Challenge.

Participating children will receive lots of fantastic prizes such as a bookmark, Frisbee, colouring pencils, joke book, and lots of stickers, including some special smelly stickers. Children who complete all six books will also receive their very own medal and certificate to celebrate their achievements.

Councillor Christine Hulme, lead member for children’s services, lifelong learning and skills, said: “Reading opens up a whole world of imagination and exploration. This challenge is a wonderful opportunity for children to read different styles of books and complete activities along the way.

“The whole family can get involved and enjoy some quiet reading time together and hopefully fuel a lifelong love of reading. Our libraries staff look forward to welcoming eager readers into our libraries this summer and beyond.”

To take part in Wild World Heroes, all children need to do is sign up at their local library in Britwell, Cippenham, Langley or The Curve, where they will be given a collector folder to keep a record of their Summer Reading Challenge journey.

Non-members can sign up for a library membership at the same time to get access to a fantastic collection of books in our physical and digital libraries.

The challenge, created by The Reading Agency, will be running throughout the summer until Saturday 17 September.

There’s a whole programme of events and activities planned at Slough libraries for families over the summer to celebrate the Summer Reading Challenge.

Starting with the ‘Save the Planet Party’ with Konnie Huq, there will be a reading from her “Cookie” series, live draw-along, brain-busting quiz and lots of eco-friendly top tips.

This will be followed by online author events with our Summer Reading Challenge Ambassadors Saleha Latif, Fiona Barker and Tina Stubbs, for a fun mixture of reading, writing and activities celebrating nature and our beautiful planet.

There will also be a Wild World Heroes Club, Gardening Club, Reading Crew and craft sessions alongside our regular programme of events, themed around nature and the environment.

Pick up the special Summer Reading Challenge leaflet, contact your local library or go to www.slough.gov.uk/libraries to find out how to take part.

There are just a few days left to give your views about what you'd like to see in Colnbrook - the survey is open until 25 June.

Complete it at http://surveymonkey.co.uk/r/Colnbrook

Both carriageways of the M4 motorway will be closed between junctions 6, Slough, and 5, Langley, from 8pm on Friday 25 June until 6am on Monday 28 June.

The eastbound carriageway will be closed between junctions 6 Slough and 8/9, Maidenhead, from 9pm on Tuesday 22 June until 6am the following morning.

The westbound carriageway will be closed between junctions 5, Langley, and 6, Slough, from 9pm on Wednesday 23 and Thursday 24 June, until 6am the following mornings.

The eastbound entry slip road at junction 6, Slough, will be closed on Monday 21, Tuesday 22, Wednesday 23 and Thursday 24 from 9pm until 6am the following mornings.

All closures for Highways England Smart Motorway work.

The planning applications which have been submitted and decided upon in the last week can be viewed here -

http://www2.slough.gov.uk/swiftlg/apas/run/Wchweeklylist.displayPlanningLists

Work can offer a lifeline to people experiencing domestic abuse.

Would your business know how to handle such a sensitive disclosure?

Hestia can give help and advice and are offering a webinar ⤵️

A landlord who fly-tipped the contents of a flat so another tenant could move in has been ordered to pay thousands of pounds by magistrates.

Navdeep Sira hired a van and an employee to help with the flat clearance.

Whilst he took some of the rubbish to Chalvey Household Waste and Recycling Centre and paid to dispose of some of it, he took the rest to a communal bin area and fly-tipped dozens of full black bin bags.

A concerned resident discovered the multiple bags and it was reported to the council’s neighbourhood and enforcement team.

Nearby CCTV caught the van Mr Sira had hired and the man he employed for the day unloading the bags and leaving them next to the bins intended for resident use. The van hire was then traced back to Mr Sira.

Mr Sira, 39, admitted two offences committed on 9 May 2019 under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 that he knowingly allowed the deposit of controlled waste on land that did not have a permit, and being in charge of a motor vehicle whilst controlled waste was deposited from it.

Justices of the Peace sitting at Reading Magistrates’ Court on 4 June this year were told Mr Sira is part owner of Letee Ltd which rents out properties and clears up after a tenant leaves to make it ready for the new tenant.

He was requested to clear out the property by the co-owner and rented a van in his name with his own credit card which is registered to his home address.

Mr Sira had also employed a man on a cash-in-hand basis to help with the job. After clearing the property and paying £27 for some to be legally disposed of, there was still half the rubbish left. He then drove to a communal bin area in Trawlaney Avenue and the rest was dumped.

The court was told although he did not get out of the vehicle or move any of the bags, he took full responsibility for instructing his employee. It was added he had learnt a valuable lesson and the situation would never happen again.

Magistrates fined Mr Sira, of The Close, Cippenham, £3,500 and ordered him to pay the council’s full costs of £1903.80 and a victim surcharge of £170.

Councillor Balvinder Bains, cabinet member for regulation and public protection, said: “The council will pursue residents and businesses who avoid disposing of their waste in a legal way.

“There are additional costs to collecting fly-tipping and then disposing of it when it can easily be taken to Chalvey Household Waste and Recycling Centre.

“This is great work by the council’s resilience and enforcement team and for recouping all the costs involved from the defendant.”

Officers are requesting help to identify the driver of a van who was seen in an area where fly-tipping was discovered.

A man was captured on CCTV at the crack of dawn near to where a mattress was left in Clarendon Court, Wexham, at 4.47am on Friday 4 June.

The man was seen to get behind the wheel of a large plain white transit van and drive away.

Unfortunately, the CCTV did not capture the registration plate and the council’s resilience and enforcement team are appealing for assistance from anyone who has employed the man pictured for waste clearance.

Residents who employ a man with a van should check online if their credentials are current and make sure they have the relevant waste carrier’s licence as residents can also be prosecuted for fly-tipping.

The contractor residents choose to take the waste, should leave them with a receipt detailing the waste and including the information of the contractor and where the waste was taken to.

Fly-tipping is a criminal offence which can attract a Fixed Penalty Notice of £200. However, there is the option of a formal prosecution which can result with a maximum fine of £50,000 and more serious offences are dealt with at the Crown Court which has powers to issue an unlimited fine and five years in prison.

If you have any information, please email ResilienceandEnforcementTeam@slough.gov.uk.

Two hand car washes in Slough have become the first in the country to be accredited in a new government initiative - the Responsible Car Wash Scheme.

Waves Car Wash and Pro Touch Valeting applied for accreditation following a visit in May as part of a Home Office funded pilot to test licensing for all hand car washes.

Both sites, in Wellington Street, will now display the scheme’s sticker and banner assuring customers they are using a business which has met strict criteria.

Businesses have been assessed to make sure its employees receive a fair wage, have the correct planning permissions and insurances, and pay business rates and take environmental precautions.

Customers wanting their car cleaned and valeted are being urged to use accredited premises, to have a clear conscience when handing over cash as workers at hand car washes are at risk of exploitation with low wages as well as poor and unhygienic working conditions.

Some operate from unsuitable locations which could lead to pollution with discharge ending up in water courses.

Twenty hand car washes in the borough were initially visited by staff from the scheme, the council’s trading standards and planning officers and Thames Valley Police in May. Those who applied to be accredited were revisited and officially assessed.

Waves Car Wash in the car park of Tesco, Wellington Street, was given the coveted number one accreditation sticker.

Akbar Mirza, the director and a franchisee of nationwide company, said: “This scheme is the right thing to be involved in for our workers and our customers.”

Joanna Graham, the CEO of the Waves Group, said: “We fully support the scheme and were very keen to gain accreditation as soon as possible.

“We are very excited to have the first accredited premises and look forward to it being rolled out nationwide.

“We hope this scheme encourages other car washes in the area to ensure they comply with the law and helps customers to make an informed choice about where they get their car cleaned.”

Pro Touch Valeting is a purpose-built site where customers sit in their cars and pass along the sections getting their cars cleaned inside and out.

Manager Deler Jamal said the site had ensured it had the relevant permissions from the council and had a safe site for customers and staff where a lot of the mechanics of the operation was under the floor.

He said: “It shows you can abide by all the rules and have a successful and busy car wash, and we hope more people will be now encouraged to come and use us.”

Councillor Balvinder Bains, lead member for regulation and public protection, said: “Slough is the first in the country to have accredited premises which is good and this is set to grow across the country.

“Those getting a car wash can now think about where they want to use and take this into consideration.

“Slough is leading the way in protecting those who are sometimes in the most vulnerable positions and can be in roles which are exploitative, not a safe workplace and one which can do harm to the environment.

“Car washes can now strive to achieve the accreditation and be a beacon of good practice in Slough for the rest of the country.”

The council and scheme partnership is offering an initial period of membership for free to encourage those who obey the rules to get on board. In future the cost to the business will be £250.

Teresa Sayers, managing director of the Responsible Car Wash Scheme, said: “These accreditations are a landmark in our goal to see car washes across the UK offer a fair wash for all – fair to their workers, their customers and to the environment.

“Both of these car washes have proven to be adhering to the code of practice in full and meeting their employment, environmental and premises obligations. Businesses in Slough have been very receptive to the scheme and we have other applications coming through, so I am sure these will be the first of many accreditations.”

The hand car wash sector has consistently been identified as an industry where workers are at risk of exploitation ranging from poor working conditions to modern day slavery. Legitimate businesses are often undercut by those breaking the law, creating an unfair competitive landscape.

The Responsible Car Wash Scheme is an initiative by the Home Office in conjunction with the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority. Businesses complying with labour, environmental and planning laws will be able to display accreditation indicating they are a trusted provider.

The Responsible Car Wash Scheme accreditation requires the operator to meet and abide by the Code of Practice in full. It is

• consent to trade and trading standards

• financial transparency and corporate governance

• providing safe and hygienic working conditions

• protecting the environment

• compliant and ethical employment practices and prevention of worker exploitation.

More information about the scheme is available at – https://rcws.org.uk/

ENDS

Pictures show

1 - Waves in the car park of Tesco, Wellington Street, with Slough franchise director Akbar Mirza, Joanna Graham, the CEO of the Waves Group, and Cllr Balvinder Bains

2 – Pro Touch Valeting manager Deler Jamal receiving accreditation by Cllr Balvinder Bains

Langley footbridges will be closed to pedestrians from 10pm on Friday 18 June until 4am the following morning.

This is for further repair work to be carried out.

More information about the work is here - https://www.slough.gov.uk/news/article/80/repairs-to-langley-footbridges-to-begin

We apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused.

Both carriageways of the M4 motorway will be closed between junctions 6, Slough, and 5, Langley, from 8pm Friday 18 June until 6am Monday 21 June.

The westbound carriageway between the same junctions will also be closed between 9pm and 6am the following morning on Wednesday 16 and Thursday 17 June.

Both carriageways between junction 7, Slough west, and 8/9 Maidenhead, are closed from 9pm Tuesday 15 June until 6am the following morning.

The eastbound carriageway between the same junctions is closed on Wednesday 16 and Thursday 17 June.

The closure is for Highways England Smart Motorway project work.

The list of the planning applications which have been submitted and decided upon in the past week can be viewed here - http://www2.slough.gov.uk/swiftlg/apas/run/Wchweeklylist.displayPlanningLists

Slough Borough Council will be launching covid surge testing on 16 June following an increase in cases in the town.

The special testing arrangements, approved by government today (11 June), will offer free covid PCR testing to all residents in three main postcode areas of the town:

• SL1 3

• SL2 1

• SL2 5

as well as targeting businesses in the areas and all schools and colleges across the town.

Residents in the target areas can expect to have special teams knocking on their doors to explain the surge testing from next Wednesday (16 June) and offering a series of ways to do the PCR tests:

• at home

• at local mobile testing units

• with assistance if required

Business will also have tests dropped off for them which they can return to mobile testing unit – or, depending on the size of the business a specific mobile testing unit will be arranged.

All schools across the town will have tests delivered with secondary schools asked to test all staff and pupils and primary schools asked to test all staff only; with schools with outbreaks offered a specific mobile testing unit.

The mobile testing sites are expected to be at:

• The Centre, Farnham Road

• JMIC, Stoke Poges Lane

• Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Sheehy Way

• Ramgarhia Sikh Gurdwara, Woodland Avenue.

Exact dates and times are still to be confirmed.

Residents in the target areas will also get a postcard through their doors informing them of the surge testing and that council teams will be visiting. It also gives advice on the safety of the visits with teams having strong ID, specific lanyards and being in pairs.

Sue Foley, Slough Borough Council’s consultant in public health, said: “Residents in the target areas do not need to do anything differently right now – just be aware we will be visiting soon, knocking on the door to have a chat about the testing.

“No one in the area needs to order testing kits as we be providing everything they need and offering specific assistance to anyone who needs it.

“Slough’s current case rates are not as high as other areas, but we want to make sure it stays that way in the face of this new Delta variant and our residents are well tested, well informed and well protected.”

Slough’s current rate per 100,000 of population across all ages is 73.6 but is substantially higher among the school-age population at 182 for 11-16 year olds, 142 for 17 and 18 year olds and 109 in five-10 year olds.

The Delta variant is now dominant in the town.

Residents across the borough are encouraged to get their vaccinations as soon as possible – booking first doses or bringing forward second doses if possible.

Councillor Natasa Pantelic, lead member for social care and public health, said: “Having a vaccine is the best way to protect yourself from the, potentially, serious consequences of catching coronavirus.

“It is obvious from what we are seeing in other parts of the country, the vaccine is protecting people from the Delta variant, meaning if they catch the coronavirus, they are far less likely to require hospitalisation.

I encourage everyone to get their vaccine as soon as possible and I am delighted our local health colleagues are beginning to provide drop in vaccination sessions where local people don’t need an appointment.”

The first drop-in vaccination session is taking place at Salt Hill Park vaccination centre on Saturday 12 June from 9am to 8pm with both AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccines available.

As there are no appointment times, residents are advised to bring a drink and be prepared to wait.

Tell us your views! The Colnbrook survey has been extended, so please take some time to answer the questions and set out what you'd like to see in Colnbrook.

The survey is open until 25 June.

Complete it at https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/Colnbrook

Both carriageways of the M4 between junctions 5, Langley, and 4b, the M25, will be closed from 8pm on Friday 11 June, until 6am on Monday 14 June.

The eastbound entry slip road at junction 6, Slough, will be closed on Monday 7 and Tuesday 8 June from 9pm until 6am the following morning.

The eastbound carriageway between junctions 5, Langley, and 6 Slough, and the westbound carriageway between 5, Langley and 7, Slough west, will be closed between 9pm and 6am the following morning on Wednesday 9 and Thursday 10 June.

The latest planning applications which have been submitted and decided upon in the past week, can be viewed here -http://www2.slough.gov.uk/swiftlg/apas/run/Wchweeklylist.displayPlanningLists

This Carers Week (7-13 June) the council and NHS East Berkshire Clinical Commissioning Group is working alongside Slough Carers Support to recognise and celebrate our carers in Slough.

The theme for the week is “Make Caring Visible and Valued.” There is a packed virtual timetable for the week with many online events and workshops. From online resources to social groups, news, discounts and wellbeing support, there are many forms of support you can access if you’re a carer in Slough. For more information about the virtual events including details about how to book please visit: www.sloughcarerssupport.co.uk

Carers UK estimate 6.5 million people living in the UK today are carers. That is one in eight adults who are caring, unpaid, for family or friends: around 12,000 carers living in Slough alone.

This could be a relative, partner or friend who is ill, frail, disabled or is affected by mental health or substance misuse. It includes young people under 18 who may be caring at home. Providing care for another person can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. But there can also be times when people who care find themselves struggling.

Mike Woolridge, Integration Delivery Lead, NHS Frimley Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “We recognise that for many carers this has been a particularly tough year and many more may have become carers, or taken on providing additional support to help and support loved ones through the pandemic. We want them to know that there is support out there for them, and also connect them together with a really great programme of events and activities running throughout Carers Week.”

Councillor Natasa Pantelic, cabinet member for social care and public health, said: “Throughout the pandemic a spotlight has been shone on the valuable work unpaid carers do looking after their families, friends and neighbours every day. National Carers Week is a wonderful opportunity to recognise and celebrate the amazing contribution carers make to our community here in Slough. The online events and activities scheduled for this Carers Week will give our carers a chance to socialise, have fun and take a well-deserved break from their caring roles.”

Kinder Bassi, Carers Lead, Slough Carers Support said: “We listened to what carers’ groups in Slough said and have responded by providing a regularly updated information resource and a dedicated telephone number for carers to get in touch. The pandemic has led to many more people taking on caring responsibilities with many not aware they are carers, let alone of the help available in the community. We are often their first point of contact and from there we can signpost to local carers’ groups and help them to access legal and financial support and provide Carers Discount Card. Unpaid carers are also invited to sign up to a monthly e-newsletter providing updates and news to keep them informed — it also includes events and training to support their day to day lives.”

Many people who carry out caring responsibilities do not recognise themselves as carers but may benefit from some support and could be unaware of the help available to them. Many may feel they are simply carrying out ordinary responsibilities as a friend or family member.

For more information:

Slough Carers Support is a free service that believes being a carer should not be a barrier to leading a fulfilling life. Being a carer is often a juggling act between work and other demands; you might find you don’t have time for yourself, or your own health is suffering as a result. Whatever your situation, they are here to support you on your journey. Register now at: www.sloughcarerssupport.co.uk

Alternatively, if you require extra support or guidance please call:

• If you’re caring for an adult, contact Slough Borough Council Adult Social Care on 01753 475111 Option 1

• If you’re caring for a disabled child, please contact Slough Children First on Telephone: 01753 875362.

• If you’re a young person providing care, please contact Early Help Hub: Telephone: 01753 476589

• If you are caring for a person with mental health problems telephone the Community Mental Health Team: 01753 690950 or Older People’s Mental Health Team for a person with dementia telephone: 01753 635220

A new round of grant funding for businesses has opened up under the Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG).

ARG is to support businesses that are severely impacted by the pandemic and requiring support in local areas.

To qualify for the grant, you must have been trading before 1 April 2021.

The scheme is open until 23 June, though the council reserves the right to close the scheme earlier if funds are exhausted.

Anyone who has applied in the past and has not received an automatic award is eligible to apply.

We encourage applications as soon as possible.

For the full eligibility criteria and an application form, visit www.slough.gov.uk/business-rates/coronavirus-and-business-rates/3?documentId=142&categoryId=20043

There are a number of roles available with Slough Children First, local schools and a violence reduction officer at Aik Saath. Take a look here - https://www.slough.gov.uk/council-jobs

Colnbrook with Poyle residents - what community services would you like? What are your views on anti-social behaviour locally? How would you improve the area?

Please tell us by completing our survey at http://surveymonkey.co.uk/r/Colnbrook

Thank you!

Thames Valley Police has warned of an increase in residential burglaries where properties with uPVC and composite front doors which are not double locked, are being targeted.

The majority of burglaries in recent weeks have involved this method of entry.

CCTV and camera doorbell footage shows offenders who have been defeated by a fully secured door just moved on to neighbouring properties where they have succeeded because the door was not properly secured.

uPVC doors can be easily opened from the outside if they are not locked with the key. Simply lifting the handle does not completely secure the door. Burglars have also been known to put their arm through a letterbox or cat flap and use a tool to push the handle and gain entry to homes.

Take just few simple home security steps to thwart thieves

•Deadlock your door with the key - do not just lift the handle

•Keep house and car keys upstairs or store them somewhere safe.

•Use all door and window locks fitted to your home

There is no motorway closure this Bank holiday weekend on the M4.

Overnight closures

Both carriageways of the M4 will be closed between junctions 5, Langley, and 4b, the M25, between 9pm and 6am the following morning on Tuesday 25, Wednesday 26 and Thursday 27 May.

The eastbound entry slip road at junction 6, Slough, will be closed from 9pm until 6am the following morning on Tuesday 25, Wednesday 26 and Thursday 27 May.

The bin collection dates are slightly different next week due to the Bank holiday weekend ⤵️

A list of the latest planning applications submitted and decided upon in the past week can be viewed here -

http://www2.slough.gov.uk/swiftlg/apas/run/Wchweeklylist.displayPlanningLists

Take a look at the roles available at Slough Children's First and our other partners like Osborne Property Services Ltd here - https://www.slough.gov.uk/council-jobs

In partnership with organisations across Slough, a new hoarding protocol and toolkit has been launched. The aim of this document is to provide information and practical guidance to professionals that work with people that hoard.

Hoarding refers to someone who finds it difficult to remove items from their home and will continue to bring more belongings into it. Hoarding UK states that only 5% of hoarders will come to the attention of professionals (Singh 2012).

In recognition that cases are often complex and involve many agencies, the toolkit includes resources as well as an assessment tool to manage risks effectively. It details how professionals can use the multi agency risk tool to mitigate risks and work with colleagues effectively.

Mike Wooldridge, Integration Delivery Lead, NHS East Berkshire Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “At the CCG we have been working with the council to improve the way in which we work together in supporting people who hoard. The reasons why people hoard are varied and often complex so it’s important we communicate and coordinate between the various agencies involved so we can better support that person as well as help manage the impact of the clutter. We hope the protocol will be a valuable resource for anyone who is in contact or working directly with someone who hoards.”

Councillor Natasa Pantelic, cabinet member for social care and public health, said: “This is a great example of partnership working focusing on keeping our residents who may be vulnerable safe and well. This protocol and toolkit provides clarity on roles and responsibilities, with the aim of professionals having the right information to manage risks and a way to work with partners in complex cases.”

One of the benefits of this work is the link established with Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service. There is free training available for professionals through the ‘Adults at Risk Programme’ - https://www.rbfrs.co.uk/your-safety/adults-at-risk-programme/

The protocol can be found on the Slough Borough Council website at: www.slough.gov.uk/hoarding

Although this protocol is for use by professional agencies, if you are concerned about yourself, a family member or friend there are several suggestions to get support.

1. Contact your GP.

2. You can also get more information about Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service’s Safe and Well provision on their website at www.rbfrs.co.uk

3. Visit Hoarding UK’s website – www.hoardinguk.org Hoarding UK is a UK-wide charity dedicated to supporting people affected by hoarding behaviours.

Reminder -

A section of Langley Road and all of Kenyon Way and Layton Crescent, Langley, have a new bin collection day of Friday. All have been notified.

To check your waste/recycling/green bin day, use the the 'find my bin day' function on the website - https://www.slough.gov.uk/directory/15/find-bin-collection-days

Both carriageways of the M4 will be closed between junctions 6, Slough, and 8/9, Maidenhead, from 8pm on Friday 21 May until 6am on Monday 24 May.

The westbound carriageway and associated slip roads will be closed between junctions 4b, the M25, and 5, Langley, tonight, Monday 17, Tuesday 18, Wednesday 19 and Thursday 20 May from 9pm until 6am the following morning.

The eastbound entry slip road will be closed Tuesday 18, Wednesday 19 and Thursday 20 May from 8pm until 6am the following morning.

E-scooter riders will be able to test and learn more about the electric vehicles and their safety features during UN Global Road Safety week.

An education campaign will see council officers; Neuron Mobility staff and Thames Valley Police assist e-scooter riders in the safety aspects of riding on the roads in the borough as well as the relevant road traffic laws.

A section of the former Thames Valley University site will be turned into a mock road area for e-scooter riders to use while receiving tips about how to ride safely and be considerate to other road users. This includes wearing the helmet provided to protect riders, or using their own.

The ScootSafe session will be held from 12pm until 5pm on Friday 21 May, at the former Thames Valley University car park, Stoke Road.

Neuron safety ambassadors will be engaging with riders in a socially distanced and safe way.

The current rules allow more people to meet outside. Measures will be taken to keep numbers within a safe limit and if too many people are on site others may have a short wait.

There will also be the opportunity to complete a short safety course created by Neuron and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, RoSPA. Those who complete the course will be offered free credits on their e-scooter account.

There is also the launch this week of the Slough specific rider quiz designed to promote safe riding, and educates riders of the specific rules of the road in the borough. Participants will also receive credits.

Other Neuron safety innovations include the ‘helmet selfie’ which awards riders free credits if they take a picture of themselves wearing the helmet, and an in-app reaction test which promotes self reflection and helps riders assess whether they should be riding an e-scooter or not which only appears for any journey after 6pm.

Thames Valley Police officers will also be talking to e-scooter riders they encounter and remind users of their legal responsibilities which could affect their driving licence.

Councillor Rob Anderson, lead member for sustainable transport and the environment, said: “As the country comes out of lock down e-scooters are another tool to get around the borough sustainably and quickly.

“They can be used in the on road bus and cycle lanes as well as on the roads.

“But they must be used safely for the rider and other road users, as well as being parked up so they don’t block pavements for pedestrians.

“This is an excellent chance for residents interested in the e-scooter who may need a bit of advice or support to get involved as well as those who already ride but want to know more.”

George Symes, expansion manager at Neuron Mobility, said: “It is great to be partnering with Slough Borough Council and Thames Valley Police during UN Global Road Safety Week.

“The vast majority of riders in Slough have behaved responsibly, but we want to take this opportunity to reinforce the rules as well as our safety guidelines.

“Ultimately, we’re committed to providing a safe, convenient and environmentally-friendly service for our users but also for the general public.”

Police Constable Marcus Audoin, of the Thames Valley Police and Hampshire Constabulary joint operations unit, said: “E-scooters are growing in popularity with many taking advantage of rental schemes across the UK and our priority is to ensure that those seeking to use e-scooters within Slough are doing so safely.

“The rapid increase in popularity has led to some confusion around how and where they can be used so events such as these are vital in ensuring everyone feels informed.

“Private e-scooters are not permitted on public roads and pathways as they are classed as vehicles and fall under road traffic legislation. This also means that using a mobile phone whilst riding one or using one under the influence of alcohol are criminal offences and could lead to points on your driving licence.”

Rule breakers should be reported to Neuron’s 24/7 customer service centre with the exact time, location and licence plate number by emailing sloughsupport@neuron.sg or calling 01753 981188.

Journeys begin and end with the simple scanning of a QR code. For single trips it costs £1 to unlock the e-scooter and 18 pence per minute thereafter. More frequent users have the option to purchase Neuron passes on a subscription service, available for three days a week at a cost of £15, weekly at £22 and monthly at £36.

The e-scooters have a top speed of 15.5mph for experienced riders and a 9mph top speed for beginners.

Privately-owned electric scooters remain outlawed for use on any public path and road.

The Neuron e-scooter app can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play where driving licence details and a payment card will be required before being allowed to ride an e-scooter.

The latest planning applications which have been submitted and decided upon, can be viewed here -

http://www2.slough.gov.uk/swiftlg/apas/run/Wchweeklylist.displayPlanningLists

This year’s Slough in Bloom competition has launched!

Entries close on 3 July with judging taking place from 12 July, anyone can enter and there are 11 different categories to choose from:

• Residential front garden

• Residential hanging baskets, window boxes and containers (front of property)

• Community project

• Business/ commercial/hospital

• Student project

• Public house/restaurant/hotel

• Sponsored roundabouts and roadside planting

• Best allotment plot

• Best allotment newcomer

And for Slough Borough Council tenants:

• Front garden including hanging baskets

• Communal garden.

Bruce Hicks, parks and open space officer, said: “We have been working with Slough in Bloom for 28 years, and are proud to support them again this year and can’t wait to see your gardens, allotments, and hanging baskets entries brightening up our town. As well as making your own entries we would encourage you to think about any communal areas or garden and allotment projects you want to nominate.

“This competition was cancelled last year because of Covid and this is a chance for everyone to show what great community spirit we have here in Slough, how proud our residents are to live here, and what pride they take in their local areas.”

Margaret Inniss, Chairman of Slough in Bloom, said: "I want to encourage everyone who has a garden or tubs and hanging baskets on their premises to enter the competition and let us recognise your contribution to brightening up our town. In addition to the splash of colour you add to the townscape, you will also be providing vital corridors for insects and other wildlife. We look forward to receiving a bumper crop of entries this year, from established and new gardeners alike.”

Entry forms are now available in libraries and community hubs and from all allotment sites. Forms are also available via email: Sloughinbloom@gmail.com or phone 01753 595838. The downloadable form is also available on Slough Borough Council’s website. Entries close on 3 July with judging taking place from 12 July. The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in August.