Enrolment for community learning programme

The community learning team will be welcoming people to enrolment sessions next week, ready for the summer term.
If you’d like to learn a new skill, improve on an old one, or work towards a qualification, there is something for you in the new programme, delivered by the council.
The new programme includes courses in ESOL, Functional Skills English and Maths, Digital Skills, Employability, Community and Wellbeing courses.

Residents can talk to staff about courses and enrolment by visiting The Curve on specified days.

The course guide and enrolments are also available online - www.slough.gov.uk/community-learning-skills/course-information/2

Simon Crossley, from the community learning and skills service, said: “We always have lots of interest in our courses. The best way to find the right course and the right level for you, is to contact the team and book onto an enrolment session where you can discuss your requirements further. We look forward to welcoming residents along to an enrolment session soon.”

You can register your course query on the online WebEnrol platform - www.webenrol.com/ebclass/ or attend an enrolment session on the following dates.

• Wednesday 19 April - 9.30am-2pm
• Thursday 20 April – 2-4pm
• Monday 24 April – 10am-4pm
• Tuesday 25 April – 10am-3pm and 4.30-7pm.

Anyone wanting more information and an assessment date can call the Community Learning team on 01753 476611 or email lifelonglearning@slough.gov.uk.

New library opening hours

Libraries in Slough will be operating on a newly revised opening schedule, which includes at least one library being open every Saturday.

The council’s Cabinet agreed in February to make some changes in a bid to make savings and streamline the service offered.

They agreed to a predominantly self-service library service from The Curve, Langley, Britwell and Cippenham, with amended opening hours, and maintaining a publications budget of £90,000.

The new opening hours are in place from 1 April, as below.

The Curve (library staff and self-service)
• Monday 9am-5pm
• Tuesday 10am-6pm
• Wednesday - Friday 9am-5pm
• Saturday 10am-5pm

Britwell
• Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm (self-service only)
• Saturday, last Saturday of the month only - 10am-4pm (library staff and self service).

Cippenham (library staff and self-service)
• Mon - closed
• Tues - Thurs 10am-5pm
• Fri - closed
• Saturday, first and second week of the month only - 10am-4pm.

Langley (library staff and self-service)
• Mon - Wed 10am-5pm
• Thurs - closed
• Fri 10am-4pm
• Saturday, third and fourth week of the month only - 10am-4pm.

The Saturday openings for April are as follows:
• 1st - Curve 10am -5pm / Cippenham 10am-4pm
• 8th - Curve 10am-5pm / Cippenham 10am-4pm
• 15th - Curve 10am-5pm / Langley 10am-4pm
• 22nd - Curve 10am-5pm / Langley 10am-4pm
• 29th - Curve 10am-5pm / Britwell 10am-4pm

Liz McMillan, locality hubs and library services manager, said: “The new times enable us to continue operating at all four libraries and keep some of the main activities going.

“Having at least one library open each Saturday enables families or individuals to come when they may otherwise be unable to during the week. We hope people soon get used to the new hours and continue to enjoy reading and exploring other services available at the libraries.

“We are particularly excited about our new books for adults which have just arrived in Slough libraries. With just under 3,000 new fiction and non-fiction books, there are lots to choose from. The new books include the latest titles from popular authors such as Richard Osman, Katie Fforde, James Patterson Josephine Cox and many more. There are biographies, and new travel, health and lifestyle, history, gardening, cookery and how to books.”

Posters advising of the new times of opening will be up in each library.

Visit www.slough.gov.uk/libraries for further information.

Community learning and Skills online portal enrolment form and course access


Get ahead with a new skill!

Would you like to learn something new or gain a qualification? Then the adult learning courses delivered by the council could be for you.
We can help with your next step in your career progression by finding the right course for you.
The new Community Learning programmes for summer 2023 term include both face to face and online courses in ESOL, Functional Skills English and Maths, Digital Skills, Employability, Community and Wellbeing courses.

Residents can talk to staff about courses and enrolment by visiting The Curve on specified days.

The course guide and enrolments are also available online - https://www.slough.gov.uk/community-learning-skills/course-information/2

Simon Crossley, from the community learning and skills service, said: “There is a varied range of courses on offer – some can help people gain employment; in work progression and some are just for fun.

“I would encourage everyone to take a look and discover how enjoyable it is to learn something new and be a lifelong learner.”

We are enrolling for the summer term. You may either register your course query on our online WebEnrol platform (https://www.webenrol.com/ebclass/) or attend an enrolment session on the following dates.

Please call 01753 476611 and speak to a member of the team.

Wednesday 19 April - 9.30am-2pm
Thursday 20 April – 2-4pm
Monday 24 April – 10am-4pm
Tuesday 25 April – 10am-3pm and 4.30-7pm.

At these sessions, the team will discuss your needs and direct you to the relevant course level.

Anyone wanting more information and an assessment date can call the Community Learning team on 01753 476611 or email lifelonglearning@slough.gov.uk.

Bus route changes
There will be several changes and improvements to bus routes in Slough from Sunday 2 April, particularly affecting the Cippenham and Upton areas.

In some cases, new links will be provided, new bus stops added, and buses will start running earlier in the morning and finish later in the evening. A small number of bus stops will no longer be served, and fewer buses will run on parts of two routes (with alternative stops a short distance away).

There will be routing and timetable changes to routes 2, 4, 5 and 6, also route 12 (evening and Sunday service), along with timetable changes on Sundays to routes 3 and X74 and an increase in frequency on route 7 on Mondays to Fridays.

Details of the changes are available at www.slough.gov.uk/buses .

Most bus routes in Slough are operated by commercial bus operators with no council support, although some are also supported by funding from other sources such as Heathrow Airport and (currently) central government.

Until now, the council has also financially supported parts of a small number of bus routes (routes 4, 5, 6, 12, 63 and 68) which would otherwise not run as they are not currently commercially viable.

In order to achieve financial savings, the council decided on 14 December last year to withdraw revenue funding from most bus services supported by the council from 1 April 2023 (routes 4, 5, 6, 63 and 68). However, thanks to new funding from Heathrow Airport (as part of its Sustainable Travel Zone) and Buckinghamshire Council, and the co-operation of bus operators First and Thames Valley Buses, most of the existing level of service on these part-supported routes will be retained from 2 April, also with some improvements to routes 4, 5 and 12.

There are no changes in April to routes 63, 68, although Buckinghamshire Council who fund these routes may review them later in 2023, which may lead to some changes.

From 2 April the only Slough Borough Council supported service will be route 12 (evening and Sunday service), which is funded by a specific central government grant and will continue until March 2024. A decision will be made nearer that time on the future of this service.

Most of Slough’s bus operators are taking part in the government’s £2 maximum single fare cap which has been extended until 30 June 2023, keeping travel costs down and encouraging more people to use buses.

Cllr Mohammed Nazir, cabinet member for transport and the local environment, said: “I am delighted that, despite the need to save money, we have managed to ensure that most existing bus services will be retained or improved. In the small number of locations where buses will no longer run there are alternatives nearby. I am particularly grateful to Heathrow Airport and Buckinghamshire Council for the additional funding they are providing, ensuring that our communities can continue to access jobs and services that are vital to the growth of the town, and to First and Thames Valley Buses for their co-operation.”

Restaurant prosecuted for dumping waste

A restaurant which repeatedly dumped their waste unlawfully has been prosecuted.
In April 2022, the council’s enforcement team was investigating ongoing issues of commercial and domestic waste being unlawfully deposited in Buckingham Gardens, Slough.
Issues began in May, when despite warnings, bins belonging to Swagath restaurant in Slough High Street, were left on the public highway without authority. The unlawful storage of the commercial bins in the area was having a detrimental impact on the area, resulting in flytipping, overflowing bins onto the public highway and it was attracting pests.
The council’s environmental waste team were forced to attend the area almost daily to clear excess waste and overspill from bins which had been overfilled.
When the commercial waste bins belonging to the restaurant were collected, the excess waste from these bins was not cleared by the restaurant’s waste contractors, which was left for the council to address.
Council officers engaged with businesses in the area and gave restaurants time to make new arrangements for the collection of their waste, but when this didn’t happen, they were told immediate action was now required to remove the bins from the public highway to resolve the ongoing issues.
On 7 June, the company which owned the bins and emptied them on behalf of the restaurant, were ordered to remove them after being contacted by the council and told of the ongoing issues.
On 8 June, when no bins were present and the area was clear of waste, a sign was installed saying dumping rubbish in the area was an offence under the Environmental Protection Act 1990.
Following the removal of Swagath bins, council officers again contacted the restaurant explaining the council’s actions and reiterated that no further waste could be disposed of on the public highway.
On an unrelated visit to the area on 9 June, council officers again found waste deposited in the area. An investigation found evidence tracing back to Swagath in the same place and directly underneath the sign saying enforcement action could be taken.
Representatives from Swagath restaurant attended Reading Magistrates’ Court on Friday 17 March to answer two counts of flytipping and one count of failure in their Duty of Care.
In court, the restaurant was fined £500 for each offence, a victim surcharge of £600 and costs of £800, a total of £2,900.
Councillor Balvinder Bains, cabinet member for public protection, regulation and enforcement, said: “If only this restaurant had taken note of how they could properly dispose of their waste, it would have saved them time and money. Please let this be a warning that we take such offences seriously and we will bring prosecutions where necessary.”

Ofsted report published for children’s services in Slough
Following a recent three-week long inspection, the latest Ofsted report published today has seen children’s services in Slough awarded an overall rating of ‘requires improvement to be good’, the same grading as 2019. With one area - the impact of leaders on social work practice with children and families - rated ‘inadequate’.

The leadership teams at both Slough Children First (SCF) and the council are working together to produce robust plans to ensure we respond to areas highlighted in the report.

The inspection, which took place between 23 January and 3 February, found the support received by children in Slough who need help, care, and protection continues to require improvement.

The company (SCF) was praised for its early help services which make “a significant and positive difference to children’s lives.” Some recommendations were made to speed up the access to these services which managers are already working on.

The company’s Virtual School, which works to ensure Slough’s children in care reach their potential, was highlighted as a success, with inspectors praising the hard work of staff which has resulted in children making better academic progress than their peers in care nationally.

Care leavers were reported to benefit from the dedication of their personal advisers (PAs) and the support they have received when needed.

The report also recognises the challenges the council and company has faced since the pandemic, including the councils’ financial issues and changes in workforce and leadership.

Tony Hunter, Chair of the SCF board, said: “Our Ofsted findings show we still have a lot to do at practice, operational management and strategic leadership levels to ensure consistent quality and impact in the care and support we provide for Slough’s children and families. However, there are a number of areas of good practice that have been highlighted, and I have seen for myself the energy and determination by our staff at all roles and levels. I remain proud to be chair of the SCF board, and look forward to working with everyone in SCF, the council and wider partners to achieve our improvement ambitions.”

Councillor Christine Hulme, lead member for children’s services, lifelong learning, and skills, said: “The overall Ofsted rating for children’s services has remained the same and we have clear direction on what work needs to be undertaken, and is already underway to achieve a ‘good’ rating. It’s important to recognise the hard work and dedication of all of our staff within children’s services, who often are dealing with very difficult circumstances, who try their very best for the children and young people of our borough.”

Sue Butcher, Executive Director People (Children's) and Chief Executive of
Slough Children First, said: “Thank you to the whole staff group for their passion in working to improve outcomes for Slough's vulnerable children and their families. I am confident that we will make improvements with pace over the coming months.”

The company and council will continue to work together, alongside other partners, to continue to develop its children’s services.

The full report can be seen on Ofsted’s website at: https://reports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/44/80553

Ends

Dedicated Schools Grant ‘Safety Valve’ Agreement: Slough

As part of its financial recovery programme the council has been extensively reviewing and improving its financial and management practices, and this has included considerable work on its use of the Dedicated Schools Grant.

The council has been working closely with the Department for Education (DfE) and has agreed a contract with them that will see the DfE providing £27m of additional support to Slough, which will allow the council to fund all of its historic deficit in this area.

The improvements the council has brought about and on which the payment of the £27m is dependent, includes improvements in practise in managing the cost and arrangements for:

• Independent Non-Maintained Special School (INMSS)
• Post-16 placements
• Alternative Education Proposals
• Additional provisions for children and young people with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) as well as the EHCPs
• Additionally Resourced Provisions.

The outcome of this work will see much better value for money for schools and the council and much better use of resources to ensure the best outcomes for children and young people.

Councillor Christine Hulme, lead member for children’s services, lifelong learning, and skills, said: “I’m very pleased the council’s plan to improve its work in this area has been approved by the Department for Education, allowing the council’s education services to continue to improve and grow to meet the varying needs of children and young people in the borough.

“The agreement involves a comprehensive plan that will help our education services meet new targets with the aim of improving education across Slough and doing so in a way that ensures best value for the schools, the council and residents.”

Commissioners Max Caller and Margaret Lee to depart Slough Borough Council

Slough Borough Council has thanked Lead Commissioner Max Caller CBE and Lead Finance Commissioner Margaret Lee following the announcement they are to end their work within the organisation.
Max, who also led the best value inspections at Northamptonshire and Liverpool Councils and was a commissioner at Tower Hamlets, was appointed Lead Commissioner in December 2021 by the then Local Government Minister Kemi Badenoch. Since that time, he has worked with Slough Borough Council members and officers, to help the council in its aim to come back to high-quality local government delivering best value for all their residents. After more than 50 years in public service, Max has decided to step back from public life.
Margaret previously worked at Essex County Council where she held the post of executive director for corporate and customer services. As well as holding senior finance roles, including that of the statutory S151, she was responsible for other support services such as legal and assurance services, procurement and the transformation support team. Margaret is leaving for personal reasons and has also stepped down from her role as finance lead on the Improvement and Assurance Panel for the London Borough of Croydon.
Leader of the Council, James Swindlehurst said: “We thank Max and Margaret for all their efforts working with our Council on its improvement and recovery journey, and for the detailed reports they have submitted to government concerning the best value intervention. We wish them both all the best for the future.
“We are committed to continuing the work we have already done working towards financial recovery and furthering the significant progress which has already been made.”

Slough Borough Council accepts second report

Government-appointed Commissioners, appointed to Slough Borough Council following its financial and other challenges, provided a second report on the Council’s progress in the three months to December 2022. The report has now been published on the government’s website and accepted by the Council.
The written ministerial statement presented to Parliament this morning expresses concerns that there has been inadequate ownership of the situation by council leadership. However, the report reflects the position in late autumn 2022 last year when it was drafted by the lead commissioner, but leading up to and since then, the council has made a number of considerable improvements.
Some of this progress was reflected in the report itself, which noted that in the months prior to December 2022, the Council had started to recognise what needs to be done. It further noted that the December Improvement and Recovery Board was the first time that a comprehensive set of action plans linked to every Direction apart from recruitment was presented and considered. The Commissioners felt this demonstrated where individual elements of the response to the intervention were being worked on and showed it was possible for individuals to make progress and commended those involved for their efforts.
Leader of the Council, James Swindlehurst said; “We thank the Commissioners for their work within our Council and in developing this detailed report. We recognise and fully acknowledge that we have a long way ahead on our recovery journey.
"I was briefed by the Commissioners' about the contents of their report when it was sent to government in December. The new corporate Leadership team have since become embedded, and they and I have worked hard in the period since then to further drive improvement, to develop a programme of organisational change and generate significant receipts from asset sales.
“In the three months since the report was submitted, the Council has continued to work at pace and now has a complete, permanent executive team dedicated to our Council, and to leading and modelling corporate improvement. A transformation team has been formed and recently strengthened to ensure the right capability and capacity exists to drive our recovery journey.
“Furthermore, we have made significant progress in addressing our well-documented financial challenges and the financial recovery strategy has seen total asset sales of over £170m to date this financial year, with plans to raise this to over £200m by the end of the year with a further £200m of sales being targeted in 2023/24.
“In addition, very good progress has been made on balancing its previous overspend in the dedicated schools grant and in identifying sufficient proposals to balance its 2023/24 budget, among many other matters. We are also delighted to announce today that the council has today been awarded £27m of additional support from the Department of Education (DfE), which will allow the council to fund all its historic deficit in this area and which demonstrates the DfE’s confidence in the plan the Council has developed and submitted to them. (This will be subject to a separate press release).
He added: “Our financial position remains challenging. But we are all committed to Slough, our town and its residents and we will now continue to work towards financial recovery, furthering the significant progress which has already been made.”
“As a council we are well aware of the journey ahead and are committed to the recovery of the council.”

9 March 2023

Final days of children’s centres consultation

Hundreds of residents have already responded to the children’s centres consultation, but there is still time to have your say.

Since the consultation opened on 3 February, there have been more than 290 responses.

The consultation is open to all Slough residents and all families that use or have used the centres, whether or not you live in Slough. It is important to hear your views about the key issues the council should consider when designing the borough’s future children’s centre service.

If you have recently filled in a petition regarding the proposed changes, we would encourage you to fill in the consultation as well. You can take part in this consultation whether you agree with an option or not, we would like to hear all views.

There are three proposed options:

Option 1: (Recommended option)

To create a new three centre model by closing seven of the existing 10 children’s centres to establish a new model of delivery serviced by the existing centres at Penn Road, Chalvey Grove and Romsey Close.

This option would see the three retained centres operate on a north, south and east locality basis. This option would include the maintenance of directly delivered early education and childcare from Chalvey Grove and Romsey Close. Stand-alone early education and childcare would also be maintained at Yew Tree Road.

Option 2:

To create a new two centre model by closing eight of the existing 10 children’s centres to establish a north and south locality model serviced by the existing centres at Penn Road and Chalvey Grove, respectively. This option would include the maintenance of directly delivered early education and childcare from Chalvey Grove. Stand-alone early education and childcare would also be maintained at Yew Tree Road.

Option 3:

To create a new single centre model by closing nine of the existing 10 children’s centres to establish a boroughwide model at Chalvey Grove.

Residents and service users are invited to read the full consultation pack before filling in the consultation survey. Visit: https://democracy.slough.gov.uk/ieIssueDetails.aspx?IId=43743&PlanId=0&Opt=3#AI45631 More information is also available at: www.slough.gov.uk/childrenscentreconsultation

The children’s centres team have already hosted three drop-in sessions to talk to residents and service users about the consultation, with another two next week:

• Wednesday 15 March, 9-10.30am - Monksfield Way Children’s Centre, Monksfield Way, SL2 1QX.

• Wednesday 15 March, 4-6pm, - Yew Tree Road Children’s Centre, St Marys School, Yew Tree Road, SL1 2AR.

Councillor Christine Hulme, lead member for children’s services, lifelong learning and skills, said: “A big thank you to everyone who has responded to the consultation so far. It’s important to get as many people’s views as possible so we would encourage you to take part in the consultation even if you currently don’t use the children’s centre service.

“The consultation ends on 17 March, then all responses will be reviewed and form part of a report to Cabinet with clear recommendations.”

To read more on the consultation and to have your say, visit the consultation webpage or complete the survey online. https://slough.citizenspace.com/corporate/childrens-centres-consultation/

Any queries can be sent to: Childrens.Centres@slough.gov.uk

Traffic light improvement works

The latest in a series of traffic light improvement works has been completed, after the council bid and won £0.5m funding from the Department for Transport.

Over the last 18 months, the council, supported by their partners Yunex Traffic, Atkins and 4way Consulting, have been working to design, procure, install and commission a number of renewed and enhanced traffic signals across Slough.

Four signal-controlled pedestrian crossings were replaced with new at:
• High Street/Spackmans Way
• Farnham Road/Gloucester Avenue
• Elliman Avenue/Shackleton Road
• Parlaunt Road/Thames Road.

A fifth crossing will be replaced in late March at Albert Street/Kenilworth Close.

Two sets of ‘shuttle working’ signals, which alternate flows of traffic on a one-way section of road, have been replaced and upgraded, at:
• Huntercombe Lane North rail bridge
• St Mary’s Road rail bridge (switched on 24 February).

Both of the ‘shuttle’ sites will shortly be fitted with advanced radar vehicle detection and intelligent signal control software called MOVA, which will be used together to give better control of the signals, reducing congestion and delays.

The junction of Uxbridge Road and Goodman Park has also been upgraded and MOVA control will be made operational here, as soon as possible.

Councillor Mohammed Nazir, cabinet member for transport and the local environment, said: “All the sites upgraded were chosen based on both the level of need and deliverability. Either the original signals were old, obsolete, becoming unreliable, or difficult or impossible to maintain. Unfortunately, £0.5m doesn’t go far when upgrading signals and we tried to get as many sites delivered as we possibly could.”

Programmes to help local businesses

The council has received £1million to help support a programme of activities for start-up and established businesses in Slough.
The funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund is spread across three years until 2025.
As part of this, a new local start-up programme has been created, and is being delivered by the Berkshire Growth Hub. It has been launched to nurture emerging new businesses across Slough – taking them from entrepreneur to ‘enterprise ready’.
If you’re in work and looking to branch out on your own, or are newly established, the five-week Start-up programme could help.
This will offer support on how to build and grow your business idea and turn it into a reality.
Each workshop is run by experienced leaders who are specialists in their field and there is a chance to network with other business owners after each workshop.
Those eligible to apply for the free workshops include those based in Berkshire, with a firm idea of a business, in the early stages of trading or plan to start soon, and with a turnover (if any) of less than £10,000.
The next start-up programme begins on 26 April. The closing date for applications is 12 April.
The High Growth Programme is also being run by the Berkshire Growth Hub and is designed to support small business owners who are ready to seize opportunities to grow.
The programme is fully funded, providing up to 12 hours of intensive support, through 1-2-1 sessions and access to a series of 3-hour online Masterclasses covering key business topics delivered by subject specialists.
As a high growth business owner, you may be looking at emerging opportunities such as generating more customers and turnover, scaling up, and bringing new products/services to market.
The aim of the programme is for businesses to reach and exceed their goals by putting ideas into action.
The High Growth Programme is open for applications now and Masterclasses run throughout the year.
Councillor James Swindlehurst, leader of the council and cabinet member for economic development, said: “We are delighted to have received this funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. We have amazing long-established businesses in Slough but these programmes give a chance to the smaller and newly established businesses, who will hopefully go on to great success.”
Apply for the Start-Up programme (https://berkshiregrowthhub.co.uk/start-up-programme/), the High Growth Programme (https://berkshiregrowthhub.co.uk/high-growth-programme/), or find out about Masterclasses.
Email info@berkshiregrowthhub.co.uk to speak to a business adviser, visit the council’s business webpage (https://www.slough.gov.uk/business-support-advice/business-support-programmes), or the Berkshire Growth Hub website (https://berkshiregrowthhub.co.uk/) and register to access tailored support resources.

Health and wellbeing kitemark awards presented

It is paramount for children and young people to have a foundation of good health from an early age, that will continue throughout their life. This can be very challenging for families, and with the covid pandemic seeing an increase in obesity, dental decay, physical inactivity, and emotional and mental instability in under 5s, families are struggling to achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Many early years settings in the borough have risen to the challenge and signed up to the early year’s health and wellbeing accreditation run by the council. The initiative supports early years settings to establish and develop the best health and wellbeing practices. These embedded practices benefit the whole family, and settings can showcase the great work they are doing.

The scheme has four levels of achievement; Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum, and settings are encouraged to work through each level of the accreditation at a sustainable pace, with support and guidance given from the moment of engagement, and throughout.

Five settings recently received their award. Four children’s centres, Penn Road, Monksfield Way, Chalvey Grove and Romsey Close achieved Platinum level and were presented their plaques by Councillor Christine Hulme, Lead Member for Children’s Services, Lifelong Learning and Skills.

Councillor Hulme said: “I am extremely proud to be here today presenting these awards to four of our children’s centres and one of our childminders here in Slough. We have fantastic early years settings throughout the borough, and the dedication of everyone who works in the sector always shines through especially on days like today.”

Marie-Claire Avis, Children’s Centre and Family Hubs Interim Group Manager, said:
“The Platinum Award was achieved through the hard work and dedication of all the staff, who continually aspire to ensure high standards and key messages for the health and wellbeing of the children and families accessing our children’s centres and across Slough”

Kathy Szpur, a local childminder of 23 years was also presented with her framed certificate for achieving Silver. She said: “Working through the different areas of the accreditation has enabled us as a setting to add routines which our families and their children can use in the setting, and at home, which promotes health and wellbeing. Parents and children are very engaged. We’re also on our third round of certificates for a healthy lifestyle certification where the children get stickers for going to see a dentist, going for a family walk or trying new fruit or vegetables.”

If you are a parent/carer and would like to know more about the accreditation, please speak to your child’s early years setting.

If you are an early year’s provider and would like more information, please contact Jacqui Shadrache, Senior Health improvement Officer on 07889304302 or Jacqui.shadrache@slough.gov.uk

Children’s centres consultation – have your say

A consultation regarding proposed changes to children’s centre services in Slough is running until 17 March.

The consultation is open to all Slough residents and service users and the council welcomes responses both from those who use the children’s centre service and those who currently do not. It is important to hear your views about the key issues the council should consider when designing the borough’s future children’s centre service.

If you have recently filled in a petition regarding the proposed changes, we would encourage you to fill in the consultation as well. You can take part in this consultation whether you agree with an option or not, we would like to hear all views.

There are three proposed options:

Option 1: (Recommended option)

To create a new three centre model by closing seven of the existing 10 children’s centres to establish a new model of delivery serviced by the existing centres at Penn Road, Chalvey Grove and Romsey Close.

This option would see the three retained centres operate on a north, south and east locality basis. This option would include the maintenance of directly delivered early education and childcare from Chalvey Grove and Romsey Close. Stand-alone early education and childcare would also be maintained at Yew Tree Road.

Option 2:

To create a new two centre model by closing eight of the existing 10 children’s centres to establish a north and south locality model serviced by the existing centres at Penn Road and Chalvey Grove, respectively. This option would include the maintenance of directly delivered early education and childcare from Chalvey Grove. Stand-alone early education and childcare would also be maintained at Yew Tree Road.

Option 3:

To create a new single centre model by closing nine of the existing 10 children’s centres to establish a boroughwide model at Chalvey Grove.

Residents are invited to read the full consultation pack before filling in the consultation survey. Visit: https://democracy.slough.gov.uk/ieIssueDetails.aspx?IId=43743&PlanId=0&Opt=3#AI45631
More information is also available at: www.slough.gov.uk/childrenscentreconsultation

• Fill in the survey online at: https://slough.citizenspace.com/corporate/childrens-centres-consultation
• Email Childrens.Centres@slough.gov.uk if you have any questions.
• Visit a drop-in session.

Councillor Christine Hulme, lead member for children’s services, lifelong learning, and skills, said: “We want to hear from as many residents as possible, even if you don’t agree with any of the options proposed. It’s very important for us here at the council to make sure we can take into account as many residents’ views as possible, as we look at designing the new children’s centre service.

“Please do attend a drop-in session if you would like to ask more questions about the proposals, there are two in March, and if you don’t have access to the internet or need help completing the survey you can visit your local children’s centre where the staff will be happy to assist.”

The children’s centre team will be hosting drop-in sessions where residents can ask questions and get help filling in the online survey if they need it.

The dates for the drop-in sessions are:

Monday 6 March, Vicarage Way Children’s Centre, 12noon-2pm, Vicarage Way, Colnbrook, SL3 0JY.

Wednesday 15 March, Yew Tree Road Children’s Centre, 4-6pm, St Marys School, Yew Tree Road, SL1 2AR

If you cannot access the internet at home or need help to complete the survey, you can visit your local children’s centre for a paper copy.

Responses will be analysed, and an outcomes report will go to Cabinet later in 2023.

Library changes set to be decided

Cabinet is being asked to agree a new plan for library services, which could bring savings of £276,000 per year.

There are three suggested options, with the recommendation being for Option B.

• Option A - To provide library services from The Curve, Langley, Britwell and Cippenham, largely attended by dedicated library staff. There would be no 2023/24 library savings.
• Option B - To deliver a predominantly self-service library service from The Curve, Langley, Britwell and Cippenham, with amended opening hours. Maintain a publications budget of £90,000. Volunteers will complement the outreach programme (especially the Library at Home service) and the building-based offer. This option would save £276,000.
• Option C – Close Cippenham Library but otherwise adopt Option B. There would be more than £40,000 in staff and building management savings. Cippenham Library has been identified as a building which may be attractive to the property market and could be sold, but there are currently no plans to sell the building in 2023/24.

Library services provide access to books, online resources, computers with Wi-Fi and internet, as well as a programme of events and activities for adults and children.
In a population of 158,500, there are 40,000 library members, of which 21,000 are active users. The main age group of active members is 18-59, followed by 0-10. Those over 60 make up 3.6 per cent of the active users.
The council did a 12-week consultation into library use in 2021/22 to inform the 2022-27 library service plan. The results showed people valued having a library within walking distance, more than 80 per cent of transactions were through self-serve kiosks, 70 per cent of all resources borrowed were from the children’s library, and respondents liked the idea of co-locating other council services within the current library buildings.
In 2019/20 more than 100,000 e-resources were borrowed from Slough library service, 66,000 hours of computer time were booked by library users and 67,000 visits were made to attend an event or activity.
Although the preferred proposal means library buildings will open on slightly reduced hours, all the libraries will be kept open at the most popular times, allowing for the main activities to continue. There will always be at least two libraries open on Saturdays, one being The Curve each week.
There will always be a 24/7 online offer, which exists currently, where books can be renewed and e-resources can be accessed, and there will be efforts to extend the Library at Home service, where volunteers take library books to the homes of people unable to come to a library themselves.
Councillor Christine Hulme, cabinet member for children’s services, lifelong learning and skills, said: “I am a passionate champion for our library service in Slough. I believe this service has a vital role to play in improving the lives of our residents over the next five years.
“Our library service is at the heart of our communities, whether that be in a building or via our online library. We want both offers to be welcoming and inviting, inclusive and accessible, providing space for people to study, to attend creative clubs, to meet authors, to play and relax.
“We need to make sure our future library service is modern, vibrant, and sustainable. I want us to find ways to provide library services within our localities and to develop our excellent partnership with organisations across Slough to keep bringing good services to you.”

Another service aim is for library staff to work with community partners to deliver a programme of literacy-based outreach events and activities such as Rhyme-time, storytelling, poetry clubs, book clubs and Summer Reading Challenge, and to build up a volunteer team to support with events, the Library at Home service and the day-to-day library service.

The savings from Option B will come from not recruiting to vacant library officer posts; there will be no redundancies.

In six months, another report will come to Cabinet to review and provide further recommendations on delivering library services.

The Cabinet meeting is on 27 February and the papers can be found on the council’s website (https://democracy.slough.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=109&MId=7092), including the suggested opening hours for each library, in paragraph 2.16.

For anyone interested in becoming a library volunteer, there are a range of opportunities to use existing skills and develop new ones. Volunteers can help residents to make the most of their local library service.

Visit www.slough.gov.uk/libraries and complete an application form or email Libraries.CultureVolunteering@slough.gov.uk for further information.

CCTV set to move to TVP from 2024

Cabinet is set to discuss a proposal for Thames Valley Police to take on responsibility for the town’s CCTV from 1 January 2024.

The move will support the Police and Crime Commissioner’s ambition to bring together all of the Thames Valley area’s CCTV coverage under one roof providing comprehensive coverage of both Slough and the rest of the Thames Valley region.

Discussions with the police have been on-going for several months, with the proposal, including the date of transfer meeting both organisations’ timelines.

The Careline push button response alarm system, currently covered by the CCTV staff will be transferred to an alternative private supplier with each client under social care being assisted with the transfer.

Councillor Balvinder Bains, lead member for public protection, regulation and enforcement, said: “It makes absolute sense for CCTV to be a police responsibility; they are both the biggest users of the system and already run systems in other areas of the region.

“The safety of the public is our priority and the benefits to the area and for the police directly are clear.

“By using a joint timeline for transfer we can ensure there is no break in service for residents.”

He added: “The transfer of residents who currently use our Careline system is also fundamental for us to get right and our adult social care and Careline teams will be working closely with anyone affected.”

A paper detailing the proposal will be going before Cabinet at their meeting on 27 February. The agenda and papers for the meeting will be published on 17 February on the council’s website.

Launch of domestic abuse survey

Slough Borough Council’s community safety team is launching an online survey asking for views about domestic abuse and wider VAWG (Violence Against Women & Girls).

They are also keen to hear from male victims/survivors and respondents, whether in a personal or professional capacity. The survey is running until 20 March.

The survey aims to find out people’s experience of domestic abuse support in Slough to help shape the council’s local strategy and services provided.

The survey is not only for those directly affected by domestic abuse but also residents that have views on what should be offered in the Slough area. All responses are confidential and there will be no identifying details requested.

Councillor Balvinder Bains, cabinet member for public protection, regulation and enforcement, said: “The survey is for professionals, victims, and survivors of violence, including men and boys, residents who care about this topic and members of local groups and organisations.

“If we are going to improve services around domestic abuse, including violence, coercive control and so called ‘honour based’ abuse and forced marriage, it is essential we listen to residents and hear their experiences.

“We understand writing about personal experiences can bring up difficult memories, so please only complete the survey if you feel ready and able.”

Responses will be split into the following categories:

• I am a partner/ professional agency (i.e.. Police, Probation, Drug Services etc)
• I am (or have been) a victim/ survivor of violence against women and girls (including men and boys)
• I am a resident of Slough and care about this topic
• I am a member of a local group or organisation and see the effects of domestic abuse.

The survey can be accessed at https://forms.office.com/r/tRzguURRu4

Please remember if anyone is in immediate danger, call 999, or for support during working hours, call Hestia on 01753 477352.

The National Domestic Abuse helpline is available 24/7 on 0808 2000 247 or www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk.

Knife Angel vigil – a strong message of unity

The Slough community came together in a show of unity against knife and violent crime.

A candlelit vigil at the Knife Angel, a sculpture against violence and aggression, was held at Arbour Park last night (26 January).

There were speakers from Thames Valley Police, local faith leaders, a young volunteer and families of those who died as a result of knife crime.

Chief Inspector Ashley Smith, from Thames Valley Police, said: “This is just the start of what we are doing in Slough, and we cannot do it alone. Seeing how many people are here shows the commitment.

“Together with our partners, and community, we can make a difference and prevent further acts of violence on our streets. Slough stands together against all forms of violence.”

Reverend Sue Lepp, police chaplain, had a powerful message for everyone.

She said: “Angels are messengers. We need to be angels. To be messengers of warning and peace. To the young people, be angels of influence. To the adults, be angels of example. Knife crime and violence have no part in this community.”

Umar Ansari, the father of Abdul Aziz Ansari, 18, who was murdered in Langley in May 2022, spoke of the need to take a stand together.

He said: “Last year was a devastating year for us; we had three separate murders. Is this the type of identity we want for Slough? A place that is unsafe for our children and ourselves?

“We have had to go through the whole painful experience of being told he is no longer with us. The impact has not gone away. The pain and grief is now within our DNA.

“Slough is growing. We can’t allow ourselves to sleepwalk into a town that becomes less safe for our generation and the generation to follow. It is time for us to reclaim Slough. We need to be cohesive. We need to stand together. If you hear of any anti-knife crime campaigns, please support them.”

Stuart and Amanda Stephens, the parents of Olly Stephens, 13, who was murdered in Reading in January 2021, both spoke.

About three years ago Olly had known about the Knife Angel and fallen in love with the design, but sadly he never got to see it in person.

Stuart said: “Too many young lives have already been lost to the cancer of knife crime. Our children are being sold lies through their phones. It is up to our families and community to inspire change to our youths’ behaviour towards each other. We start at home by talking to our children.

“It is shameful to pick up a knife. It is just plain stupid to actually use one. Please have these conversations, no matter how awkward.”

Amanda said: “Children killed our son. Our children are our future. We need to protect them.”

She read a poem about the Knife Angel, written by Theresa Redmond.

“As I stand so strong and tall
I symbolise life, now lost, so cruel
I’m made of knives used by gangs, a structure of hate, caused by man
An Angel made, from sadness and gloom
That stands in hope of getting through
To all these gangs in senseless need
Of taking life
With needless greed
These murderous youths can’t comprehend
The misery caused with no real end
A sentence passed
A life’s long pain
Made with knives
To no ones gain.”

Dr Osman Latif, from Jamia Masjid & Islamic Centre, Slough, said: “You are our hope in this town. You have to be the beacons of light in every place you are living to make this a place to live in peace, comfort and harmony.”

Pastor Cecil Boyd, from Church of God of Prophecy, Britwell, said: “We stand against violence and aggression of all sorts. When we work together, we can make a change. We can stem this violence in our community. Our children are the future of this town, they need us. Let’s work together to bring this to an end.”

Naresh Saraswat, a Priest from Slough Hindu Temple, said: “Together we can do a lot of change. I wish Slough has a very nice, peaceful future. We can hope, we can wish that this is the end of knife crime in our town.”

Eisa Mohammad, a volunteer with Together as One (Aik Saath), spoke about a project the youth did to discuss what they would do if they could ‘change one thing’.

He said: “We are thinking a great deal about how we can support families. In the name of those who are fallen, we must do more to bring the youth together and remove them from harmful influences. Make them a beacon of change for future generations.”

Since the Knife Angel arrived in Slough on 10 January, more than 5,500 people have attended and liaised with officers and volunteers, there are more than 700 tags with key messages around stopping violence and by the end of March, more than 3,000 young people in Slough will have been educated about knife crime.

The Knife Angel was brought to Slough in partnership with Thames Valley Police, the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley and Slough Borough Council.

The last full day the Knife Angel is in Slough is Monday 30 January. It will head off to the next location in Gloucester on Tuesday 31 January.

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Slough’s Great Winter Get Together
Community groups and organisations will be joining forces for a Great Winter Get Together (GWGT).
The Slough events aim to give residents access to information and support to help them through the cost-of-living challenges. This includes information and support relating to several other services across the town, including fostering and support on how to keep well for longer.
There will be a chance to chat to services, organisations and charities providing support with debt and welfare, benefits, household and energy bills, plus information on health and wellbeing.
The timing and location of the events have been organised to give people who work in the week, work shifts or cannot always get into the town centre, a chance to access these organisations.
The events will be at The Centre in Farnham Road, on Friday 27 January, from 4-8pm and Saturday 28 January, from 9am-12noon.
Councillor Sabia Akram, cabinet member for leisure, culture and community empowerment, said: “This will be a great opportunity for anyone looking for help and advice, because so many great organisations will be in one place together. The cost-of-living situation is tough for many people but by talking to these organisations, you may find sources of support you didn’t know existed. I hope as many people as possible attend the Great Winter Get Together.”
Organisations attending on Friday 27 January, subject to change, include:
• Department for Work and Pensions (benefits, careers, skills and training)
• Everyone Active (fitness, sport and exercise)
• Slough Borough Council Environmental Services (green bins)
• SBC Community Development Team (information and advice on Household Support Fund, energy bills savings and other SBC services)
• Active Slough (fitness, sport and exercise)
• Turning Point (Recovery and advice)
• The Slough Hub (Jobs, training and skills)
• Fostering for Slough
• HAF Programme (Holiday Activities and Food)
• Community Learning and Skills Service (CLaSS) (Training, education, learning and skills)
• Berkshire Healthcare Wellbeing Service (Health and wellbeing, plus support with budgeting, debt advice and more)
• Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service wellbeing team
• Talking Therapies (Mental health and counselling)
• Residents’ Association (Community support)
• Solutions 4 Health (Health check-ups, smoking cessation and more health advice)
• Warm Spaces Slough
• The Cowshed (clothes and essentials)
• SBC Sustainable and Active Travel (bike training and travel options)

Attending on Saturday 28 January, subject to change, will be:
• Department for Work and Pensions
• Everyone Active
• SBC Community Development Team
• Active Slough
• Osborne (Housing support)
• Artful Hub (Mental health and art support)
• Community Learning and Skills Service (CLaSS)
• Berkshire Healthcare Wellbeing Service
• Xyla Health and Wellbeing (Diabetes support and weight management)
• Slough Libraries
• Talking Therapies
• Solutions 4 Health
• Warm Spaces Slough
• Slough 50 Plus Forum (support for adults)

Residents can pop-in at any point that suits them while the events are on. They have been arranged in partnership with the council, DWP and Everyone Active.

The Great Winter Get Together events happen nationally, inspired by murdered MP Jo Cox.

Exhibitors welcomed for Wedding Fair

If you’re in the business of love and romance and would like to attract potential new customers, a new Wedding Fair may be just what you need.
The council’s registrars’ team have teamed up with Baylis House to host the fair on Sunday 19 February, and they are looking for exhibitors to be there on the day.
If you have a flair for hair, are brilliant at beauty, perfect at pictures, or can bring flower power, contact the team to find out more about the fair, which will run from 10.30am-4.30pm.
The following businesses are examples of who the team would like to have a stall at the event.
• Wedding cakes
• DJs
• Jewellery
• Wedding outfits
• Photographers
• Videographers
• Cars
• Caterers
• Musicians
• Hair & Makeup
• Mehndi artists
• Stationery/Wedding cards
• Photo booths
• Beauticians

Councillor Balvinder Bains, cabinet member with responsibility for registrar services, said: “Weddings are such joyous occasions, and each couple has different preferences for how their day looks. If we can get a variety of local businesses all in a room together, it gives couples a real flavour of what is out there. Please contact the team to find out more.”
Baylis House is located on Stoke Poges Lane.
To get involved, or to find out more, contact:
• Tajinder.bahia@slough.gov.uk / 07985 192089
• Lorna.woods@slough.gov.uk / 07818 244739

Review of polling districts and polling stations

Residents are invited to give their views in a consultation about polling districts and polling stations.

The Local Government Boundary Commission for England (LGBCE) reviewed the number of wards in Slough, increasing them from 15 to 21. All ward boundaries will change, and new wards will come into effect for the May 2023 local elections.

As a result of these changes, new polling districts will have to be created within each of the new wards. For each of the 45 polling districts, a suitable location for a polling station has to be identified.

The consultation into these polling districts is open until 18 January.

Councillor James Swindlehurst, leader of the council, said: “The LGBCE review has created new wards and we want to ensure everyone can access a polling station within a short distance of their homes.

“We would like residents to get involved to help shape the future polling district boundaries and polling places in the borough. Please have a read through the proposals and give your feedback to help us plan.”

To view the proposals for suitable polling districts and polling places for all the new wards, visit https://www.slough.gov.uk/voting-elections/polling-districts-and-places-review

Responses to the consultation can be made in writing, either by email to ballotbox@slough.gov.uk or by post to: Polling Review, Electoral Services, Observatory House, 25 Windsor Road, Slough SL1 2EL

Final proposals will be considered for approval at the full council meeting on 26 January, with the revised register and new polling scheme published in early February.

Full details of the Boundary Commission’s ward boundary changes for Slough can be viewed on the LGBCE website - https://www.lgbce.org.uk/all-reviews/south-east/berkshire/slough

Christmas bins and recycling

The Christmas period brings lots of fun and celebrations, but with that comes extra empty cardboard packaging and a few more bottles clinking into the recycling bin.

A reminder to everyone that bin collection days will change in Slough over the Christmas and New Year period. They will be emptied between two and four days later than normal between 26 December and 13 January, due to bank holidays.

Residents are encouraged to recycle as much as they can over the holidays - the red bin is for cardboard, newspapers and magazines, drinks cans and food tins, glass jars and bottles and bottle shaped plastic only.

We can accept Christmas cards without embellishments and wrapping paper, as long as there is no glitter and if it passes the scrunch test. This means if you can scrunch it and it stays in a ball without springing back, it can be recycled. If it doesn’t stay in a ball, it can’t be recycled.

If you have too much recycling or rubbish that won’t fit into your normal bin, it can be taken to Chalvey Household Waste and Recycling Centre (HWRC), which will be open from 9am-5pm every day except for Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

The council cannot collect side waste, so please break down all boxes before putting them in the red bin. The council does offer a bulky waste collection service, for a fee.

Councillor Mohammed Nazir, Cabinet member for transport and the local environment, said: “Residents have done a great job recycling throughout the year and we would like to see this continue. There can sometimes be an increase in flytipping over the festive period, however, there is no need to dump waste when the recycling centre will be open on most days.

“There is no charge to dump normal household waste, so I would encourage those who have too much for their home bins, to bring it to a household waste recycling site to dispose of it responsibly.

“We hope everyone has a fantastic Christmas and New Year with their friends and families.”

For those enrolled on the paid for garden waste scheme, they can dispose of their real Christmas trees in there, if they cut them up and ensure the bin lid shuts.

Anyone not enrolled can dispose of their tree, for free, at Chalvey HWRC.

For the full list of Bank Holiday bin dates, visit https://www.slough.gov.uk/household-waste-collection/bank-holiday-collection-dates

For more details on what can be recycled, visit www.slough.gov.uk/recycling

Warm Space project welcomes new sites

A project aimed at giving people a warm space to go to sit, socialise and have a cuppa is running in Slough.

The partnership is between the council, Slough Council for Voluntary Services, Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN), community groups, charities and organisations across the borough.

Warm Spaces are open to anyone and to provide one, your space must be warm, have a toilet for visitors, be able to provide hot drinks and have somewhere to sit.

In Slough, the team is looking for more places to sign up as a Warm Space.

Free starter packs of tea, coffee, sugar and biscuits, sponsored by SSEN, will be distributed to all groups who sign up to Warm Spaces Slough.

Councillor Natasa Pantelic, cabinet member for social care and public health, said: “This is a brilliant national initiative, and I would love it to be a great success in Slough. If you have a space in your building or office which you think would fit the bill, please register on the One Slough directory and you’ll soon be welcoming people in and providing a valuable community service. Thank you to those already signed up.”

Vicki Atherton, Director of Operations at Slough CVS, said: "Slough CVS has teamed up with SBC to support places and groups offering warm spaces across Slough as the cold spell hits. We are all experiencing the cost-of-living crisis and Warm Spaces Slough offers a safe and welcoming place for everyone, to enjoy a free hot drink and a chat."

Mohammed Kamraiz, SSEN Customer and Community Advisor, said: “We are delighted to be able to help the community in Slough to stay warm this winter through a donation to the costs of running this hub.

“The cost of living crisis is affecting many people and at SSEN we know and value the importance of safe, warm spaces for communities to share this winter.

“We are offering advice to our customers in the event of a power cut and additional support is available for those who are more vulnerable, and I would encourage all customers to visit our website to find out more - https://www.ssen.co.uk/power-cuts-emergencies/electricity-supply-emergency-code-esec/”

The list of current Warm Spaces, operating now or soon to be, is below.

• Slough Baptist Church, Windsor Road
- Mondays 3-5pm starting on 9 January
- Wednesdays 11am-2pm starting on 4 January

• Slough Community Support Café, St John’s Church, Stoke Poges Lane
- Tuesdays 5-9pm

• Slough Community Support Café, St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Stoke Poges Lane
- Thursdays 3.30-8pm

• Cippenham Carers Group, Cippenham Baptist Church, Elmshott Lane
- Third Wednesday of the month from 1-3pm

• Ujala Foundation, Manor Park Pavillion, Villiers Road,
- Tuesdays 10am-2pm and Thursdays 12noon-2pm.

• Home Slough is offering a warm space during their WOW Slough winter programme. All events will be held at The Curve. For dates and times visit HOME Slough - Creative arts in your community - https://www.homeslough.org.uk/

The Slough community support café is for all ages to have a simple meal, coffee, read newspapers or have a chat and there is space for children to play or complete homework. For more information, email office@communitycafe.uk or call Mark on 07817 829393.

If anyone is already running a Warm Space, or wants to register, submit a listing to detail what you can offer - https://sloughhealth.org/submit-listing/

For local health and wellbeing activities, visit Slough’s health and wellbeing directory - https://sloughhealth.org/

Keep an eye out for the Warm Spaces Slough logo on posters and in windows of more spaces as they sign up.

To find out more about the scheme and requirements, contact community.development@slough.gov.uk

Remodelling of children’s centres consultation

The council is set to discuss a consultation into how Slough children’s centres will look in the future.

The council currently has 10 children’s centres across the borough; however, change is being proposed because a recent review has highlighted the capacity to identify and target those most in need of support is limited, and whilst the core functions and offer are maintained, they are spread thinly and unevenly across the range of centres and associated localities.

The consultation will last for six weeks and will launch the week beginning 9 January 2023, if Cabinet give the go-ahead.

During the consultation residents will be asked to give their views on the key issues the council should consider regarding the borough’s future children’s centre model.

1. There are four proposed options, listed below, which residents will be invited to comment on. To create a new 3 centre model by closing 7 of the existing 10 children’s centres to establish a new model of delivery serviced by the existing centres at Penn Road, Chalvey Grove and Romsey Close. This option would see the 3 retained centres operate on a north, south and east locality basis. This option would include the maintenance of directly delivered early education and childcare from Chalvey Grove and Romsey Close. Stand-alone early education and childcare would also be maintained at Yew Tree Road. (Recommended).

2. To create a new 2 centre model by closing 8 of the existing 10 children’s centres to establish a north and south locality model serviced by the existing centres at Penn Road and Chalvey Grove respectively. This option would include the maintenance of directly delivered early education and childcare from Chalvey Grove. Stand-alone early education and childcare would also be maintained at Yew Tree Road.

3. To create a new 1 centre model by closing 9 of the existing 10 children’s centres to establish a boroughwide model at Chalvey Grove. This option would see the discontinuation of all early education and childcare currently delivered by SBC.

4. To continue with the current provision of 10 centres or to have less of a reduction of centres than proposed above.

Councillor Christine Hulme, lead member children’s services, lifelong learning and skills, said: “We are very proud of all our children’s centres and staff, and this review has been undertaken to see how we can identify and work with those residents most in need of support while making sure the service remains sustainable.

“It’s important that our residents have their say about the changes proposed for our children’s centres, so please engage with the consultation and the drop-in sessions that will be on offer, so we can take your suggestions, priorities and views and use them to help shape the service provided.”

When the consultation launches, there will be an online survey, drop-in sessions at children’s centres and online sessions for residents to share their views.

The Cabinet meeting is on Monday 19 December. More information on the consultation can be found in the Cabinet papers.

Conviction for man dumping raw meat

A man who repeatedly dumped piles of raw meat was caught out after being captured on CCTV.

The bizarre situation began in December 2021 when the council’s environmental services waste crews were finding raw meat and waste carcasses dumped over numerous days in Farm Lane, Slough.

This continued through to January 2022 and an investigation was carried out by the council’s resilience and enforcement team, using a covert deployable CCTV camera.

The offender, Naveed Ahmed, of Oatlands Drive, was caught on camera and invited for interview under caution at the council.

The team presented him with the evidence, and he admitted he was responsible for the dumped waste.

Due to the public health hazard created by the repeated dumping of waste meat and carcasses, a prosecution was sought, and this was heard at Reading Magistrates’ Court on 25 November.

Mr Ahmed did not attend, so magistrates heard the case in his absence, and found him guilty of four offences.

He was fined £2,640 for each offence, ordered to pay a £190 victim surcharge, as well as £2,872 towards court costs, bringing the total to £13,622.

Councillor Balvinder Bains, cabinet member for public protection, regulation and enforcement, said: “Any flytipping is a crime and is unacceptable, but to happen upon piles of rotting meat in a public place was particularly disgusting for our crews. In the CCTV footage you can see the offender bring the meat to the site in a plastic bag to dump. This could easily have been put in his home waste bin, where he could have avoided a criminal conviction and a large fine.

“We hope this discourages other people from dumping waste products of any kind. Thank you to our resilience and enforcement and legal teams for their efforts in bringing this to court.”

To report flytipping, use the council’s online form at https://www.slough.gov.uk/xfp/form/229

Time to show domestic abuse the red card

Slough Borough Council is launching a campaign to show there is never any excuse for domestic abuse.

Historically, when there are major sporting events, like the World Cup, there is an increase in the number of domestic abuse incidents where a woman is the victim.

The council, in collaboration with the Safer Slough Partnership and Slough Children First, has created a series of posters aimed at perpetrators, victims and children. They offer details of support and information services, both locally and nationally.

One of the messages is ‘Don’t lose it all for football’.

Rachel Axtell, the council’s domestic abuse partnership officer, will be running training sessions and speaking to local groups during the period of the World Cup and the 16 days of activism against male violence towards women, which starts on 25 November, on White Ribbon Day.

She said: “Slough Borough Council is working with a number of organisations to co-ordinate the response to domestic abuse and as a partnership we recognise there is more to be done. Events such as the World Cup remind us of this challenge. We need to remember that domestic abuse isn’t only physical, it can involve mental abuse, sexual abuse and coercive control. There is a lot of help out there so if someone is in an abusive relationship, or you know someone who is in an abusive relationship, please try to reach out to someone for support. Don’t suffer alone.”

Councillor Balvinder Bains, cabinet member for public protection, regulation and enforcement, said: “The start of the World Cup is a timely occasion to raise awareness about domestic abuse and remind everyone that violence, in any form, is never the answer. Enjoy the football but win or lose, don’t take it out on anyone else.”

Carol Douch, Operations Director from Slough Children First, said: “Every child and adult has the right to feel safe in their own home. Working together we can ensure zero tolerance of domestic abuse. If you feel that you or someone you know is at risk, then please speak up and ask for support.”

Local support services for domestic abuse include Hestia, Slough, who can be contacted on 01753 477352 and The Dash Charity, Windsor and Maidenhead, on 01753 549865.

Nationally, help is available via the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247 and the Men’s Advice Line on 0808 8010 327.

Report seeks Cabinet approval to re-commission voluntary and community sector services

A report going to Cabinet on 21 November is seeking approval to re-commission two services for the delivery of a voluntary and community sector support service and an advice and information service, to replace existing provision when current contracts expire in June 2023.

These services are to:

provide support to community groups to help them develop, including volunteer support, whilst making these groups more easily available to residents, as well as health, care, and support staff, and
continue to develop advice and information services to support residents across Slough.
These services will be part of the preventative work undertaken across Slough to enable people to get help closer to home and continue to be active members of their community.

Part of the Cabinet paper seeks approval to bring the Carers service, that is currently provided by Slough CVS, back in-house when the contract expires in June.

The suggestion is that carers assessments and some activities run currently by Slough CVS will be undertaken by a Carers Co-ordinator who will be part of the adult social care team in the council. As well linking in with carers support groups and supporting access to carers groups and activities within the community.

Any changes in the service will be co-designed with carers and the wider voluntary and community sector.

Marc Gadsby, executive director people (adults), said: “For any current users of Slough Carers Support, we don’t want you to worry about these suggested changes. If approved by Cabinet, bringing on board a Carers Co-ordinator to run the service as part of our team will mean we will continue to help and support our carers throughout Slough, building on the great work that Slough Carers Support have done.”

Suspension of e-scooter trial

The trial of e-scooters that has run since June 2020 across Slough is coming to an end on 30 November.

The e-scooters are operated by Neuron Mobility UK, and the trial has been extended several times but as the contract with Neuron was coming to an end, the council was unable to extend the contract without opening it up to tender.

The transport team will be evaluating the scheme and providing a report to Cabinet in February 2023 with the possibility of restarting the scheme subject to procurement and Cabinet approval in June 2023.

This does mean however that from the end of this month, the e-scooters will be removed from Slough for now. The scheme has proved very successful and popular with residents and commuters alike.

Councillor Mohammed Nazir, cabinet member for transport and the local environment, said: “This is a chance to pause and evaluate the trial, whilst we undertake more work and preparation for an expected DfT decision on permanent schemes once the national trials have completed.

“It has been great working with Neuron Mobility UK throughout this successful trial, and seeing our residents and commuters enjoy scooting around the borough. I look forward to seeing the transport team’s report at Cabinet early next year.”

Sustainable Warmth scheme to help fund energy-saving improvements

The Sustainable Warmth scheme aims to upgrade energy inefficient homes of low-income households, helping people to save money on their energy bills whilst also reducing carbon emissions.

Delivery of the scheme is through the Greater South East Net Zero Hub. Slough Borough Council is supporting the scheme and encouraging eligible residents to apply.

The scheme incorporates two areas of funding, targeting households with a combined gross household income of less than £30,000 and living in energy inefficient homes.

The energy efficiency criteria is determined by the EPC rating of the property.

Funding is available to households heated by a gas boiler connected to the mains gas grid (on-gas), but the council is particularly keen to encourage households heated by alternative fuels including electricity, oil, liquid propane gas, and solid fuels (off-gas), to apply.

A managing agent, City Energy, will guide customers through the application journey, helping them understand and establish eligibility for the scheme. If eligible, the installer will identify which improvements for the home will provide the greatest benefits and arrange any necessary surveys and installations.

The funding allows £10,000 per property to provide a range of energy and cost saving upgrades, depending on the specific circumstances, such as the fuel source, energy efficiency and EPC rating of the home, with up to £25,000 available for the least efficient homes heated by the most polluting fuel sources.

Councillor Mohammed Nazir, lead member for transport and the local environment, said: “With costs rising all the time, this is a real opportunity for those in energy-inefficient homes to make improvements, which will save them money in the long-term and help to reduce carbon emissions.

“If residents fit the eligibility criteria, it’s worth them applying and speaking to the experts to see if there are any measures suitable for their home.”

The council’s community development team and housing regulation team will also be contacting residents they work with who they think would be eligible for the scheme.

Applications must be made by 31 December, with the works completed by March 2023.

For more on the scheme, visit the council's website - www.slough.gov.uk/sustainablewarmth and visit the Berkshire website to apply -
https://berkshire-applications.co.uk/

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Household Support Fund applications open

The Household Support Fund (HSF) grant has been extended again to support those most in need.

The grant helps families and vulnerable individuals who struggle to pay for basic living costs, such as:
• food
• energy
• water bills
• essential goods.

The £1,177,691.53 grant is funded by the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP).

Applications are open until 31 March 2023 or whenever the funds are exhausted, whichever is earlier.

Councillor Zaffar Ajaib, lead member for customer services, procurement and performance, said: “The grants will be welcomed at this time of rising costs and they are particularly for those households who are most vulnerable to help them through exceptional hardship. We would encourage people to check the eligibility criteria online and apply before the March deadline to benefit from this support.”

As with earlier tranches, more than half of the funding will be used to provide £15 per week, per child, in food vouchers to households in receipt of Free School Meals for the October 2022 half term, Christmas holidays, and February 2023 half term break. There are currently 7,100 eligible for Free School Meals.

It will also provide a fund for the direct provision of support to care leavers and other vulnerable families known to the relevant teams.

The remaining fund will provide support to individuals and families who are eligible for assistance through the existing discretionary application process.

The scheme is open to all, but applications are encouraged from those groups that have missed out on other Government support packages. This may include but is not limited to:
• people who have fuel costs but who cannot access the £400 of energy support from the Energy Bill Support Scheme
• those who receive non-means tested benefits and missed out on the cost-of-living payments
• disabled people with increases in utility bills due to the usage of equipment or transport costs
• those in receipt of housing benefit only, for example, those living in houses in multiple occupation and paying for fuel through meters etc
• people who are entitled to but not claiming qualifying benefits
• groups vulnerable to rising prices.

The grants will be issued on a first come, first served basis, providing the criteria is met.

Claim forms and more details about the Household Support Fund and discretionary schemes are available at https://www.slough.gov.uk/hsf

Council accepts findings of Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman public interest report

Slough Borough Council has apologised and made a payment of £3,550 to a resident for failing to provide a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) in a timely manner, to enable a chair lift to be installed at her property. This failure meant the resident was unable to access the first floor of her property independently for more than a year.

An investigation by the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman (LGSCO), after a complaint by the resident, led to the council being found to have caused an injustice to the resident. This failure was caused by the operation of a waiting list to submit applications for DFGs which is at odds with the guidance - “Home adaptations for disabled people: a detailed guide to related legislation, guidance and good practice,” published by the Homes Adaptations Consortium in 2013, which prohibits the use of priority systems to manage demand.

The LGSCO took the unusual step of issuing a public interest report due to the significant fault and injustice caused and a concern that there was a systemic problem with wider learning required.

The LGSCO have made the following recommendations which have been accepted in full by the council, as well as apologising to the resident and paying her £3,550.

• Immediately end the DFG minor works waiting list and process applications for all those on the waiting list in line with the statutory timeframes.
• Complete its review of the DFG policy, taking account of new non-statutory guidance "Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) delivery: Guidance for local authorities in England.”
• The Council should ensure any future policies do not include any local priority systems intended to, or with the effect of, managing demand or creating waiting times beyond the statutory timescales. It should also ensure any future policies are approved by Cabinet, having been through legal and financial officer clearance.
• Review its arrangements with local housing associations to ensure that works undertaken to these properties can be undertaken in a cost effective and timely manner.

The council has reviewed its policies and will also be formally reporting on these and the Public Interest Report at its Cabinet meeting on 21 November 2022. The reports to this meeting ask elected members to agree the lessons learned and action taken in response. The council’s People Scrutiny Panel has also agreed to set up a task and finish group to review the council’s complaints procedures against the LGSCO’s best practice guidance.

Marc Gadsby, Executive Director, People (Adults), said: “We welcome the report from the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman and have put in place the recommendations detailed within it. As part of those recommendations a change in policy is being implemented regarding the way Disabilities Facilities Grants applications are assessed, to ensure they are processed in a timely manner, helping our residents receive the adaptations needed for them to live independently, as soon as possible.”

Councillor Natasa Pantelic, cabinet member for social care and public health, said: “On behalf of Slough Borough Council, I would like to apologise unreservedly to this resident. Our staff work extremely hard to make sure everyone receives the help they need, but in this case, we did not get it right. Our focus now is on taking the recommendations from the LGSCO and improving our policy and service to ensure this doesn’t happen again. We will continue to work with this resident to make sure her needs are being met."

Ends

School Street launch - Holy Family Catholic School

A road leading to a school which suffers from huge congestion issues will be almost car free at the beginning and end of each day from 1 November.

Moveable barriers will be placed in Langley High Street (slip road) for 45 minutes each morning and afternoon as a new School Street launches at Holy Family Catholic School in Langley.

The barriers will be manned by volunteer marshals from the school and motorists who use the road to take and pick up their children from school are being encouraged to either walk, bike, scoot, use public transport or park and walk.

Sara Benn, headteacher at Holy Family School, and her senior staff have worked with the council’s active travel (Better by) team to take part in the scheme. The aim is to encourage some children and their parents and carers to make their trip to and from school differently.

Langley High Street (slip road) will be closed to school and through traffic, from adjacent to number 17 Langley High Street to the existing closure point of Langley High Street and Trelawney Avenue, between 8.15am and 9am and again as school finishes between 3pm and 3.45pm.

However, the road will not be entirely vehicle free, so children, parents and carers are urged to be mindful of the few permitted cars, bicycles and scooters using the road.

Residents of Langley High Street whose properties fall within the closure area, will still be able to come and go as they please, through the manned barriers by displaying the permits the council has provided.

Councillor Mohammed Nazir, cabinet member for transport and the local environment, said: “This is a really exciting pilot with the school to address the problem of too many cars in this road at peak hours.

“We have seen similar schemes work in other places and if more parents and children walk, cycle or scoot to school, the result will be a safer, healthier and more pleasant environment for everyone around the school.

“If parents have no choice but to drive their children to school, they are being encouraged to use the car park at The Toby, who have kindly offered one hour’s parking in the morning and afternoon, for parents dropping off and collecting children. Parents are asked not to use private parking areas provided for residents or block residents’ access.”

School Streets have been successfully set up in Europe and London and are beginning to be trialled in different areas of the UK.

The Holy Family School Street trial is the third in Slough and the Transport Planning team is working with other schools to increase the number of School Streets.

House of Commons visit for Slough representative

A member of Slough’s Youth Parliament has been invited to the House of Commons to take part in a national discussion on important issues for young people.

Arjan Dhillon, UK Member of Youth Parliament for Slough and Langley Grammar representative, will visit the House of Commons on 4 November.

Earlier in the year, students across Slough schools, and nationally, voted in the Make Your Mark ballot. This raised health and wellbeing as the top issues they were concerned about, so this has been the main focus of UK Youth Parliament work since March.

In Slough there were two youth-led focus groups which have fed into the health and wellbeing report, soon to be published by the British Youth Council. Nationally, there were 190 focus groups, with 2,858 young people consulted and sharing their experiences on health and wellbeing issues.

Education was a reason 85% gave for having an impact on their health and wellbeing, while other reasons included resources, accessibility, discrimination, and online safety.

The House of Commons session will allow greater discussion on young people’s concerns.

Arjan may be chosen by the Speaker on the day to talk, but either way, he will be able to vote on the topics of the day and this will decide what the national Youth Parliament campaign will be, led by the British Youth Council.

Arjan said: “I am excited, but nervous. So far, I felt that mental health and the cost-of-living crisis have impacted us the most.

“I feel they are also linked, as many people will feel more anxious as interest rates and taxes are increasing. I am not sure about how to tackle them though, so will be good to discuss with others.”

Councillor Christine Hulme, lead member for children’s services, lifelong learning and skills, said: “It is a fantastic opportunity to get to go to the House of Commons and potentially speak on behalf of Slough’s young people.

“As a council, we are very proud of our youth and the work they do to understand what their peers need and what we can do to help.”

National Anti-Slavery Day

Modern slavery is closer than you think.

To mark national Anti-Slavery Day tomorrow (18 October), the Safer Slough Partnership is reminding everyone of what modern slavery is and what it can look like.

Modern slavery is the illegal exploitation of people for personal or commercial gain. Adult and child victims are trapped in servitude, which they were deceived or coerced into, and they feel they cannot leave.

Modern slavery includes sexual exploitation, criminal exploitation, forced labour and domestic servitude. It happens across the world and UK. It is also happening in Slough. Victims can come from any country. They can also be British citizens.

Councillor Balvinder Bains, lead member for public protection, regulation and enforcement, said: “The Safer Slough Partnership has run an awareness campaign about modern slavery for many years, including an award-winning campaign in 2018. This involved putting posters in public spaces in English, Polish, Romanian, Urdu and Punjabi, to inform residents this could be happening on their doorstep.

“Very sadly, this issue is one which hasn’t gone away. There are still people living and working in poor conditions, being exploited, and threatened if they try to leave.

“We want people to have a voice and to report their concerns so we can stop this happening to more people. If you think you know of someone who may be a victim of modern slavery, or believe you are a victim yourself, report it now – there is help available.”

Help is available through the Modern Slavery helpline. You can report concerns or ask for help by calling 0800 0121 700.

For further information visit https://www.unseenuk.org/

Sustainable Travel Grant for schools and businesses

Applications for a Sustainable Travel Grant (STG) to support and encourage the development and implementation of travel action plans are invited.

The STG scheme provides financial assistance to organisations investing in measures aimed at encouraging sustainable travel, such as increasing travel to school or work by public transport, cycling, walking and scooting.

Sustainable Travel Grants (STGs) could include, but are not limited to:

• secure cycle parking
• shower/changing facilities
• a survey to develop a travel action plan
• cycle training, biker’s breakfasts, cycling promotion event
• walking initiative.

Grants can range up to £2,000 and will normally be up to 50% of any proposal, although in exceptional circumstances higher awards may be made. The applicant would be required to secure the remaining 50% match funding amount.

Councillor Mohammed Nazir, lead member for transport and the local environment, said: “The council is committed to encouraging more sustainable modes of transport for people travelling to school or work.

“Schemes such as this are a great opportunity to get some funding towards a project which will have environmental and health benefits.

“We encourage schools and businesses to apply, provided they can give the match funding required.”

Grant applications will be assessed on several factors including a travel plan being in place, or actively being developed in partnership with the council’s Better by…sustainable transport team.

Applications close on 18 November.

For full guidance notes before application, visit www.slough.gov.uk/stg

Cost of living resource pack

'Fighting the cost of living' is a resource pack full of information and contact details to support residents.

There is information on how to get help with energy bills, heat your home and support with debt and welfare.

Details of organisations working in Slough to support residents with food, furniture and clothing are included plus general links for employment, health and council support.

Find the resource pack at https://www.slough.gov.uk/benefits-support/cost-living and please share it with those who would find it useful.

If you would like a hard copy, please get in touch with the community development team via community.development@slough.gov.uk

Community survey launched

A survey asking for residents’ views about how to make their neighbourhoods healthier and more attractive is running until 16 October.

The council’s community development team has been working with health and community partners to create Stronger, Healthier and more Attractive Neighbourhoods (SHAN).

They have already completed plans for Chalvey, Colnbrook, Britwell and Baylis and Stoke, with actions being put in place.

Now, they have launched a survey to hear from residents in the following areas:
Cippenham Green
Cippenham Meadows
Central
Upton
Elliman
Wexham
Foxborough
Langley Kedermister
Langley St Mary’s

Councillor Sabia Akram, lead member for leisure, culture and community empowerment, said: “The work in the other areas has really helped to see where there are gaps in services residents need and where we can use existing resources. We are working with partners to empower residents to do more for themselves in supporting their health and wellbeing needs.

“The results of the survey will help us to identify key issues and areas for opportunity and improvement around health and wellbeing in each community. Please complete the survey when you get a moment.”

The survey closes on 16 October and only takes five minutes to complete. Residents, organisations and businesses are all invited to complete it.

Complete the survey online - https://forms.office.com/r/VEhri0jtch

Death of HM The Queen: Civic remembrance service

The Mayor of Slough, Councillor Dilbagh Parmar will be hosting a civic service of remembrance for Her Majesty The Queen Elizabeth II on Sunday 18 September 2022.

The service will be held at 2pm at St Mary’s Church, Church Street, Slough and led by the Reverend Scott Lamb from St Mary’s and Father Darcy Chesterfield-Terry the Mayor’s Chaplain.

The service will include prayers, hymns and readings – including a reading from the Mayor of Slough from the book of Revelation, chapter 21, verses one to seven.

Attendees will include current councillors, former Mayors and senior officers from the local emergency services and key organisations.

Residents are welcome to attend though space is limited due to the size of the church.

Short notice, but as SBC haven't posted this tweet here...

"The Slough Proclamation, marking the beginning of the reign of His Majesty King Charles III, will take place today (Sunday 11 September) in the Town Square, High Street, Slough at 2pm.
Residents are welcome to join us for the Proclamation by the Mayor of Slough. "

https://twitter.com/SloughCouncil/status/1568888702935437312?t=3YuyALVPmSoaPMVmmSPaag&s=19

Death of HM the Queen: Books of condolence available

Residents wishing to express their condolences following the death of Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth II, can now use one of six physical books of condolence the council has provided across the town.

The books have been opened and are available during normal opening hours at:
• The Curve
• Cippenham Library
• Langley Library
• The Britwell Centre
• The Chalvey Hub
• The council’s headquarters, Observatory House (also open on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 September from 9am to 5pm)
From today until the day after the funeral.

The Royal Family has also opened an online book of condolence: https://www.royal.uk/send-message-condolence

The book of condolence at Observatory House was signed first by Deputy Mayor of Slough, Councillor Haqeeq Dar this morning (9 September).

An area behind the large metal sign outside The Curve has also been allocated as the place where residents can lay flowers if they wish.

Any flowers laid will be collected regularly by the council and transported to The Long Walk in Windsor on behalf of residents.

Government responds to Commissioners’ request

A request to the government from the council’s Commissioners for further powers has been agreed.

Commissioners, who have been brought in following the council issuing a Section 114 notice, had asked to expand the current Directions to include the structure and recruitment for tiers two and three staff, without following the usual council procedures.

This was so they can get the right people in place, quickly, to help with the council’s recovery programme.

A letter sent to the Commissioners, dated 28 July, said the Secretary of State was ‘minded to approve’ the request and a consultation period followed.

No representations were received that did not support the proposed expansion to the intervention package.

The powers have now been approved and confirmed in a new report from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, issued on 1 September.

The report, said: “The Secretary of State, having considered the representations made…considers it necessary and expedient, in accordance with his powers under section 15(5) and (6) of the 1999 Act, to expand the intervention package in order to secure the Authority’s future and sustainable compliance with its best value duty.”

Councillor James Swindlehurst, leader of the council, said: “We accept the previous restructure and S114 have left staff vacancies. There is an urgent task to fill the staff structure and have proper teams to do the jobs needed by the council. To get us to the place to be a functional organisation again we have accepted the Commissioners may need the powers to get this sorted and we are cooperating.

“This is short-term while we are trying to get into a better place. We all agree we want an appropriately skilled workforce which can represent the diverse community of Slough. We hope the Commissioners hold these new powers in reserve and use them only if they feel we cannot make sound decisions ourselves.”

Chief Operating Officer, Stephen Brown, said: “We know there is more to do on the officer structure, and we welcome the decision to grant the Commissioners further powers to help us tackle this issue. We are committed to the pace of change needed and want to retain our dedicated and competent staff to see us through these next challenges and to best serve our residents.”

The new Directions will be in force until 30 November 2024, unless the Secretary of State considers it appropriate to amend or revoke them at an earlier date.

The report can be found on the government’s website -
https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/intervention-at-slough-borough-council