Queen’s Green Canopy trees planted by Mayor

As part of a tree planting initiative to celebrate Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee, Slough Mayor Cllr Mohammed Nazir planted a Cherry tree on Friday 11 March at Langley Memorial Recreation Ground joined by Cllr Satpal Parmar.

The Queen’s Green Canopy (QGC) has invited people across the whole of the UK to “Plant a Tree for the Jubilee.” The Cherry tree planted on Friday is part of two rows of Cherries that are forming an avenue alongside the existing path. They are a non-fruiting variety so will not produce any debris on the path but were chosen for their colour in the spring when they blossom.

There is also a line of Lime trees being planted by the park edge. The Lime trees will take 20-30 years to reach maturity but could live for more than 100 years, fitting for celebrating reign as long as our Queen’s. The Cherries are quicker growing but shorter lived and will take about 10 years to reach maturity but will probably only live for about 50 years.

Slough Mayor Councillor Mohammed Nazir said: “It’s my absolute pleasure to be here today to plant this tree in celebration of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and as part of the Queen’s Green Canopy.
“The avenue of Cherry trees planted here will create a lovely physical environment and as they blossom in the spring, a beautiful splash of colour commemorating the long reign of our Queen.”

Ends

Photo 1: L-R - Cllr Satpal Parmar, Gerald Pleace - Senior Parks Improvements Officer, Slough Mayor Cllr Mohammed Nazir and Bruce Hicks - Senior Parks Improvements Officer.
Photo 2: L-R - Cllr Satpal Parmar and Slough Mayor Cllr Mohammed Nazir.
Photo 3: Slough Mayor Cllr Mohammed Nazir.

Homeowner fined for renting out illegal side extension

A homeowner who built a side and rear extension without planning permission, was refused planning permission, and then failed to demolish the extension which was being rented out as an independent self-contained unit has been ordered to pay tens of thousands of pounds by Reading Crown Court.

On 26 October 2018, Saghir Malik, 53, of Mortimer Road, Slough was served with a planning enforcement notice under section 171a of The Town and Country Planning Act 1990. The proprietor was required to cease the unauthorised use of the land as 2 separate dwellings and demolish the unauthorised extension. Mr Malik appealed to the Secretary of State, but his appeal was dismissed meaning the enforcement notice had to be complied with.

A site inspection was conducted and it was noted that the requirements of the planning enforcement notice had not been complied with and therefore a criminal offence had occurred (namely, failure to comply with a statutory notice).

On 12 March 2021, Mr Malik pleaded guilty at Reading Magistrates’ Court to an offence under S.179(2) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, having failed to comply with the requirements of the Planning Enforcement Notice.

Mr Malik had subsequently derived a criminal benefit through renting out the unauthorised extension (self-contained unit).

Following a thorough investigation, Saghir Malik was sentenced on Friday 4 March 2022 by HHJ Burgess QC at Reading Crown Court as follows; Confiscation Order under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 of £31,914.35 (given three months to pay or face 12 months imprisonment if he fails to do so), issued a fine of £6,000 and ordered to pay £4,000 costs (given six months to pay or face three months imprisonment).

Cllr Pavitar K. Mann, deputy leader of the council and cabinet member for transport, planning & place, said: “This resident has not only ignored the planning permission process and enforcement notice, he has also illegally rented out the annexe that he was required to demolish.

“This has cost him tens of thousands of pounds and council staff will continue to monitor what is being developed in the borough.”

Tobacco detection operation

Two tobacco detection dogs were involved in a trading standards operation to check if shops were stocking/supplying illegal tobacco products.

Cooper and Yo-Yo, along with Stuart Phillips of BWY Canine, a Detection Dog handler, visited several Slough premises on 22 February to make checks.

The businesses had been included on the list of shops to visit for the operation after intelligence had been received that the shops were selling illegal tobacco.

During the exercise, eight premises were visited, and two seizures of illegal tobacco were made. Both from retail premises, and one aided by Yo-Yo.

Overall more than 400 illegal tobacco products were found and removed from the market.

With potential offences for:
(i) Non-English health warnings
(ii) Non-statutory health warnings
(iii) Non-plain packaging
(iv) Counterfeit tobacco products
(v) Lack of pictorial health warnings
(vi) The sale of single cigarettes
(vii) Possession for sale of packs of 10 cigarettes (which were banned in the UK from May 2017).

Some of the seized items were sent off to trademark holders, to see if they were also counterfeit.

Councillor Beni Bains, lead member for regulation and public protection, said “Trading standards operations like this ensure the public are buying goods that comply with British law, which ultimately guarantees they are safe, good quality and come from reputable suppliers.

“I hope these operations send out a warning to those retailers looking to cut corners and costs by buying and selling tobacco that is not fit for the British market.”

Man given indefinite ban on keeping animals

A man who kept his dog in unsuitable conditions in an overgrown garden has been convicted under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

A search of a property in Upton Court Road was made on 22 May 2019 after concerns for the welfare of a Mastiff type dog were raised.

The council’s Resilience and Enforcement Officers, accompanied by Thames Valley Police, entered the property and found the conditions the dog was being kept in breached Section 9 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006, which was the duty of care to ensure welfare.

The male dog named Skrappa was seized by the council who sought permanent possession via Reading Magistrates’ Court. This was granted on 28 June 2019 and the dog is now in a loving home with someone who can meet his needs.

Due to Covid related delays, on 23 December 2021 Mr Arshad Khaliq of Martin Road, Slough attended Reading Magistrates’ Court where he was found guilty of the charges.

He was sentenced at the same court on Tuesday 8 March, where he was banned indefinitely from keeping, owning, or dealing in animals. He cannot appeal for the ban to be lifted for 10 years.

Mr Khaliq was sentenced to a community order where he must undertake 250 hours of unpaid work and have 10 days of rehabilitation. The council was awarded full costs.

Councillor Beni Bains, lead member for regulation and public protection, said: “Residents will rightly be disgusted with the treatment of this dog as pets are usually seen as part of the family. If you cannot keep an animal in the conditions it deserves, then you shouldn’t get one as a pet.

“I’m pleased the court has given this ban and hope other owners will take note and ensure their animals are being properly looked after, with adequate shelter, warmth, food and water.”

Digital survey for residents and businesses

The Berkshire Digital Infrastructure Group, that represents all six Local Authorities in the region, has launched its first digital survey.

The short survey - https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/BerksDIG - which launched on 7 March and will run for five weeks, is aimed at looking at digital infrastructure, such as broadband and mobile, and how it is used across the region.

The DIG wants to know what you use the internet for, how does what you do at home and work differ, or what challenges you have when using digital technology.

Once you have completed the survey, they are asking you to #Tell10 others – friends, businesses, family members – to do the same.

If you want to find out more follow the @BerksDIG social media channels

Tonight (Monday) at 7pm, many religious places of worship across Slough will be holding a coordinated Prayer for Peace to prevail in Ukraine and throughout the world. They ask you to light a candle as a sign of solidarity, placing the candle in a safe and visible place from 7-8pm. If you would like to attend a service, please contact your place of worship.

Scam awareness sessions. One for businesses (8 March) and one for everyone (10 March). Book a spot for either event at https://bucksandsurreytradingstandards.eventbrite.com/

Dogs dumped at Shamrocks

Slough Borough Council is appealing for information after two dogs were dumped at The Shamrocks Public House.

The two dogs were found by a member of the public tied up outside The Shamrocks Public House in Slough on Saturday 19 February, at approximately 4.10pm. They were both very thin and underweight. The tan Jack Russell type dog had a bad skin condition.

The kindly resident took the dogs home and called the council’s stray dog warden who came out and collected both dogs and noted their poor condition.

It was later viewed on CCTV from The Shamrocks that at 2.44pm an adult male and boy had been captured tethering two dogs up on the posts with bungee ties, and then leaving them behind and did not return for them.

Neither dog is microchipped and no one has come forward to claim the dogs as theirs. We are appealing for anyone who recognises the adult male or the boy from the CCTV images to contact us as soon as possible. Or indeed if you recognise the dogs.

The dogs were taken to a local vet for health checks. The vet confirmed they have not got mange but a bad flea and mite condition. They have provided treatment for both dogs, as well as Melaseb for the Jack Russell as her skin was worse. Both underweight, the female grey bulldog cross is around two years old and the female tan Jack Russell around six years old. The dogs are being cared for in kennels.

Ian Blake, neighbourhood manager, said: “These poor dogs were in a neglected state and heartlessly left on their own in a pub car park.

“Thanks to the quick action of a local resident the dogs are now doing well in kennels, their skin conditions are being managed and they have started to gain weight as they were very thin.

“We are appealing for anyone who knows these dogs or the adult male or the boy from the CCTV images to contact us as soon as possible.”

Councillor Beni Bains, lead member for regulation and public protection, said: “It’s great to hear the dogs are improving in our care, as these dogs were completely abandoned in a poor state. This is not only inhumane, it is illegal.

“Please help us find out who did this because we can and will take action against them for their heartless behaviour. Deliberately abandoning an animal in this way is a breach of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 for which a person responsible can be prosecuted, fined and banned from owning animals in the future.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Ian Blake on 07917 092909 or email Ian.Blake@slough.gov.uk All information will be handled in the strictest confidence.

The key points in this are:

• the seriousness of the council’s financial position cannot be understated. It faces a financial deficit of £223m up to the end of the current financial year and a further estimated £84m for 2022/23 – a total of deficit of £307m.

• the council therefore requires extraordinary support from central government by way of a capitalisation direction for the £307m. This means the council will have to borrow or sell assets to meet the deficit and enable it to provide key services. The council will have to pay this back over the next 20 years.

• the current estimates for 2022/23 show that the budget requirement is 78 per cent greater than the normal sources of funding. It is only with confirmation of significant financial support for the council from the Department for Levelling Up, Communities and Housing (DLUCH) the budget can be agreed

• the council will have to identify and deliver up to £600m of asset disposals

• the budget papers propose a series of savings for the coming year including the deletion of some vacant posts within the council, changes to internal structures and an increase in some income, fees and charges; with the total savings proposed being more than £20m

• to deliver the council’s policy priorities and a balanced budget in each future year up to 2028/29, further significant savings in the order of £20m will be required per year in addition to further capitalisation directions

• the council tax is a 2.99 percent increase and is made up of 1.99 percent increase in base council tax rate and a one percent increase ringfenced for adult social care, known as the social care precept.
The 2.99 percent increase raises the Band D council tax yearly amount to £1,534.86 for the financial year 2022/23 which is an increase of £44.56 on the current amount.
Together with the Police and Fire precepts, but not including parishes, the total Band D proposal is £1,850.09. It will be more for residents who live in Parish Council areas, depending on the increase in their parish council tax.

These and many other issues are part of the council’s comprehensive budget reports which will be considered by Cabinet on 9 March before being proposed to Full Council on 10 March.

They will also be discussed by the Scrutiny Committee at their meeting on 8 March.

Councillor Rob Anderson, lead member for financial oversight, council assets and performance, said: “The council fully acknowledges the position it finds itself in as a consequence of its previous decisions, culture and approach and is determined to address this very serious situation.

“It is tackling the historic issues it is facing by focusing on producing its accounts, preparing proper budgets, reviewing its financial processes in all their aspects, preparing for the sale of a large element of its assets and addressing staffing shortages among many other matters.

“Taken as a whole the budget papers put forward a comprehensive, detailed and robust budget proposal for the council for the coming financial year 2022/23.”

He added: “There has been a huge effort by new staff to put this budget together. I’m confident residents can now see we will setting more realistic targets for dealing with the financial mistakes which have been made by the council in the past by putting our house in order, prioritising services which mean the most to local people and moving forward with a robust, transparent and, most importantly, achievable budget.

“For residents, the budget not only proposes a lower than inflation council tax increase but also lays out all the ways we will be helping residents who are financially struggling; including through our council tax support scheme which is one of the best in the county.”

The council’s expenditure in 2022/23 will be around £67m for children’s and adults’ services with another £39m spent on universal services such as waste management, road maintenance, leisure and library services, the council's carbon management and climate change work as well as administration costs for the council.

The capital programme, which is spent on projects to improve and maintain the borough’s infrastructure, for 2021/22 to 2026/27 is £219m.

£202m of the programme will be funded from grants and other sources leaving only £17m to be a cost to the council to be met from borrowing.

The rest will be funded by Housing Revenue Account, external grants and contributions.

It includes £29m of funding for new highways schemes, a £20.7m loan to enable the recladding of Nova House and £105m on the council’s housing stock.

£11m is being spent in children’s services including the schools’ modernisation programme and the expansion of the special schools’ provision, mostly from grants.

It also includes £6m for improvements in IT.

The full budget papers can be found here: Agenda for Cabinet on Wednesday, 9th March, 2022, 6.30 pm (slough.gov.uk) - https://democracy.slough.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=109&MId=7021

The M4 westbound will be closed overnight (roughly 9pm-6am) between j5 & j6 on Mon 28 Feb, Tues 1 and Wed 2 March.

The M4 eastbound will be closed overnight between j5 & 4b (M25 interchange) on Wed 2 March.

The M4 eastbound will be closed overnight between j6 & j5 on Thurs 3 March.

The M4 j7 eastbound and westbound entry slip roads will be closed overnight on Tues 1 March.

The M4 junction 5 eastbound entry slip road will be closed overnight on Wed 2 March.

The M4 and associated slip roads will be closed in both directions between j5 (Langley) and 6 (Slough-Windsor). The closure will start after 8pm Fri 4 March and the motorway will reopen by 6am on Mon 7 March.

Safe Places Scheme launched in Chalvey

A scheme designed to offer vulnerable people a safe place to go when they need help has launched in Chalvey.

The Safer Slough Partnership and the Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley secured Home Office funding for projects which help improve feelings of safety in public spaces, with a particular focus on women and girls.

The funding has enabled the launch of the Safe Places Scheme in Chalvey, which is an initiative that aims to provide help and support to anyone who may feel unsafe and vulnerable when they are out and about in their local community. This includes women and girls, those who have learning disabilities, are elderly, have a physical disability, or have a mental health problem.

The council has been working with Chalvey Community Partnership as a key partner, Thames Valley Police and other local community groups to get the scheme up and running in Chalvey.

Local businesses are encouraged to sign up to the scheme and display a Safe Places sticker in their window which shows it is a place where a vulnerable person can go in an emergency.

Staff at the businesses will be trained on what to do and can offer a temporary safe haven or make a call to a carer or safe contact on the person’s behalf.

Councillor Beni Bains, lead member for regulation and public protection, said: “I’m pleased to see this scheme being launched in Chalvey and hope many businesses will sign up to help. We don’t expect they will have to make a lot of calls, but just having them be available to support someone vulnerable is a great display of community spirit.”

Matthew Barber, Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley, said: “I am delighted to welcome the launch of the Safe Places scheme in Chalvey, which will provide essential support to those who may feel vulnerable when they are out in their local community.

“I would encourage businesses to sign up to the scheme, where they will receive training on what to do and how they can offer a temporary safe haven, or make a call to a carer or safe contact on the individual’s behalf.”

The Curve, Arbour Park and all other council buildings are already part of the Safe Places Scheme.

If businesses are interested in finding out more, or taking part, please email communitysafety@slough.gov.uk

A full list of businesses signed up will be listed on the council’s website and on Chalvey Community Partnership’s social media - http://www.slough.gov.uk/safeplace

Read more about the Safe Places initiative nationally - https://www.safeplaces.org.uk/

Booking bulky waste collections

Bulky waste collections can now be booked and paid for online.

Rather than phoning the call centre and being in a queue to speak to someone, residents can fill in the form on the council’s website at any time and make payment straight away.

The charge for a bulky waste collection is £10 per item, with a minimum charge of £30. Seven is the maximum number of items which can be collected.

Items such as fridges, freezers and fridge freezers are charged at £20 per item.

Councillor Martin Carter, lead member for housing and environment, said: “Our bulky waste collection service is a popular one, so being able to instantly book and pay for a collection without having to ring up and be on hold is brilliant.

“Collections are made on the household’s normal bin day, so they can leave the items outside with their refuse bin.”

For households where the only occupants are pensioners or the only occupants are registered disabled, you can book a free collection service, which is limited to two per year.

To book a collection, residents can register and use the bulky waste booking form - https://www.slough.gov.uk/xfp/form/318

They will get a confirmation email and items will be collected on the date booked.

For those who are unable to book online, they can still call environmental services on 01753 475111, option 4.

Residents can also take their own items to Chalvey Household Waste and Recycling Centre for disposal. Find out more about what is accepted at the site - https://www.slough.gov.uk/bins-waste-recycling/household-waste-recycling-centres/3

Couple in second ban for keeping animals

A couple who were banned from keeping animals were caught out breaking the order by having at least two dogs.

Rajeshwari Cameron, 56, and her husband Adrian Cameron, 62, were convicted of causing unnecessary suffering to their pet dog Lucy by the RSPCA in June 2009. As a result, they were banned on conviction under section 34 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 from owning or having any control of any animal for 10 years.

However, in September 2020 council officers were investigating Mr and Mrs Cameron, who now lived at Reddington Drive, Slough, in relation to complaints the council had received about their care and treatment of their then current dog Lila.

As a result of that investigation the council became aware and confirmed via witness statements and veterinary records that Mr and Mrs Cameron had owned at least two other dogs during the period of the ban they had received in 2009.

Between March 2018 and June 2019 both Mr and Mrs Cameron had owned a dog named Latte which was put to sleep by a vet for undetermined causes, and a dog named Archie, which they subsequently sold. Ownership of both these dogs during this period clearly breached the 2009 ban.

Both Mr and Mrs Cameron appeared at Reading Magistrates’ Court on 21 February. They had previously pleaded guilty, on 6 January, to two charges each of breaching a disqualification order relating to Latte and Archie contrary to section 34(9) of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

During sentencing, District Judge Goozee stated he was satisfied that both Mr and Mrs Cameron fully understood the terms of their original 2009 ban and that both of them had control and responsibility for Latte and Archie during the period they were banned from owning or having control of animals, and gave acknowledgement for their early guilty plea.

The couple were sentenced to a conditional discharge for three years, disqualified from keeping any animals for eight years, charged costs of £140 each and a £20 victim surcharge each.

Councillor Beni Bains, lead member for regulation and public protection, said: “Banning orders are put in place for a reason, in this case to protect the welfare of animals. It is disappointing the couple broke the initial order, but hopefully this time they will understand the gravity of the situation and abide by the law. Well done to the team involved, neighbours for reporting concerns and to the police for their help.”

Their current dog, Lila, which had been in the care of the council since September 2020, was awarded to the council and has been safely rehomed.

Baylis & Stoke consultation

A survey has been launched today so residents in Baylis & Stoke can give their views on their neighbourhood.

Slough Borough Council is working in partnership with Public Health Slough, East Berkshire NHS Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) health partners and One Slough to create stronger healthier and more attractive neighbourhoods.

The survey is a chance for residents to share their views on the local area, with some of the topics in the survey including Covid 19 impact, health and wellbeing of residents and the local area.

Councillor Sabia Akram, lead member for leisure, culture and communities, said: “We have run similar surveys in Chalvey, Colnbrook and Britwell and it has really helped to create a picture of the area and what needs to be done, while working with the local communities and partnership groups.

“Residents know day-to-day what issues affect them. I would encourage Baylis & Stoke residents to fill in the short survey to make their views known.”

The results of this survey will identify key issues, concerns and areas for opportunity and improvement.

The survey, which is part of the council’s plans to develop strong, healthy and attractive neighbourhoods, is open from 9am on Thursday 17 February until 5pm on 4 March.

The survey is available online at https://eu.surveymonkey.com/r/Baylisandstoke

Paper copies can be returned to the following locations.
Manor Park Community Centre, Villiers Road, SL2 1NP
Baylis Court Nursery School, Oatlands Dr, SL1 3HS

For help filling in the survey, please call 01753 542153, Monday to Friday between 9.30am-4pm.

For more information on the Creating Stronger Neighbourhoods initiative, please email community.development@slough.gov.uk or call Aqeel Akram (Community Development Officer) on 07523 935995 for further assistance.

Sent on behalf of Slough CVS

A new project will be reaching far and wide in Slough to encourage those who have yet to have the vaccine to protect themselves and families against COVID-19 and get our lives back to normal.

The town’s voluntary sector will harness its networks, volunteers and community leaders to positively engage with communities and residents who have chosen not to take the jab or haven’t received sufficient information to give them confidence.

As part of this, a team of “Community Wellbeing Champions” will be building trust in vulnerable and isolated communities, where barriers such as language and misinformation have made residents less likely to take up the offer of a vaccine.

The Champions will use a range of approaches to make inroads in communities including: social media, face-to-face conversations, and multilingual messaging – with the goal of leading residents to take a jab.

As a result of this project, Slough CVS has a range of exciting new fixed term contract opportunities from February-July 2022:
• Community Wellbeing Champions Manager FT 35 hours a week
• Community Wellbeing Champions Co-ordinator FT 35 hours a week
• Community Wellbeing Champions (12 positions available) PT up to 18 hours a week.
The closing date for applications has been extended to midnight on Sunday 20 February.

For full job descriptions and to apply for any of these roles, please visit the Slough CVS website. https://sloughcvs.org/current-vacancies/

Are You Ready for Pregnancy campaign launched

Slough Public Health has launched an awareness campaign to encourage women in Slough to get healthy and fit before they try for a baby.

The #ReadyforPregnancy campaign https://www.slough.gov.uk/leisure-wellbeing-health/ready-pregnancy aims to raise awareness of how women’s health when they get pregnant affects them and their baby not only throughout pregnancy but also at birth.

The campaign focuses on encouraging healthy behaviours for the best possible start in life for the woman and her baby such as:

• starting pregnancy at a healthy weight*
• taking folic acid to prepare for the pregnancy
• eating a nutritious and healthy diet
• checking their vaccinations are up to date
• taking regular exercise
• stopping smoking
• cutting out alcohol
• looking after your mental health
• helping your fertility
• learning more about breastfeeding
• learning more about pregnancy, birth and parenting
• understanding the implications of existing health conditions, such as diabetes.

Councillor Natasa Pantelic, cabinet member for social care & public health, said: “We’re excited to be launching the #ReadyforPregnancy campaign in Slough which will help raise awareness of things that women can do before conception to improve fertility, pregnancy health and their babies’ future health. It’s particularly important because we know that women often don’t consult a health professional before becoming pregnant and we want all women to have the best support during this time and during pregnancy.”

In Slough, 72.3% of births were from parents born outside of the UK versus the 35.2% national percentage. In the year 2019/2020 Wexham Park Hospital had 1,742 births from women where English is not their first spoken language.

To improve these health disparities, Slough Public Health, in partnership with Frimley Local Maternity & Neonatal System, has been working closely with places of worship across the borough including Slough Hindu Temple, Polish Parish Church, FT Church in Chalvey, Café Mama in Jamia Masjid & Islamic Centre amongst others. As well as in Slough libraries and community hubs and Slough children centres to reach out to women speakers of other languages and their communities.

Are You Ready for Pregnancy booklets have been translated into Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu, Somali, Polish, Romanian, Bengali and Arabic languages to break down the language barrier and digital inaccessibility they may experience. Simultaneously raising awareness to women and their partners, to educate and encourage them to adopt healthy behaviours before pregnancy for the best possible start for them and their baby.

Ifrah Mohamed, chair and co-founder of Slough Integration Services who support Somali women living in Slough, said: “It’s so important that women have all the information they need to make their own informed choices before and during pregnancy. Having access to information in their own language will definitely help them to make small changes that will make big differences to both them and their baby.”

Frimley Maternity website has also provided additional advice, tailored to women and families planning a pregnancy, which might help them on their journey to better health prior to conception. For further information visit: About Frimley Health and Care https://www.frimleyhealthandcare.org.uk/maternity/planning-your-pregnancy/

The booklets are available to read, download or print from the Frimley Maternity Website Leaflets https://www.frimleyhealthandcare.org.uk/maternity/parent-education-other-resources/information-leaflets/

*A raised body mass index (BMI) in a pregnant woman can affect the way a baby develops in the womb, and it also increases the risk of miscarriage. Being overweight also makes it more likely that the baby will be larger, raising the chances of complications at birth.

Direct debits – quicker way to receive £150 government rebate

Residents are set to receive a £150 cash payment from the government in response to rising energy bills, if they are in council tax bands A to D.

The money will be paid to 49,000 Slough households, which represents 89 per cent of all the borough’s homes.

The council is encouraging more people to set up direct debits to pay their council tax as this will mean payment of the £150 rebate can be made more quickly because the council already holds the bank details.

Paying by direct debit also means residents don’t have to worry about making future payments as it is automatic.

Councillor Beni Bains, lead member for regulation and public protection, said: “When the government announced this £150 payment to help with the rising cost of household energy bills, it was welcome news.

“Paying out the money to those who pay their council tax by direct debit will be straightforward as it will be paid to their bank account quickly. If we don’t already hold residents’ payment details, we will have to write to them first which will cause a delay in them receiving the money.”

The council is awaiting further details on how exactly the rebate scheme will work, but if residents sign up to pay by direct debit, they’ll be in the system ready to receive the payment as soon as it is issued.

Payments are likely to be made from April onwards.

With direct debit, council tax can be paid in 10 or 12 monthly payments and on a choice of three payment dates each month: the 1st, 15th or 25th.

Council tax bills for 2022/23 will be sent out in March.

Residents can sign up to pay their council tax bills by direct debit -
https://www.slough.gov.uk/council-tax/pay-council-tax

Cast your votes in Make Your Mark ballot

Young people across the town can share their views in the UK’s largest youth consultation.

The annual Make Your Mark ballot asks young people aged 11-18 across the country about the issues that matter most to them.

This year, seven issues will be presented to young people on a ballot paper and they vote for their top concern. The issues are:

1. Covid Recovery
2. Education and learning
3. Environment
4. Health and wellbeing
5. Jobs, money, homes and opportunities
6. Our rights and democracy
7. Poverty

Young people vote in schools, colleges and youth groups throughout February and the top topic with the most votes will become the campaign that Members of Youth Parliament work on throughout their two-year term.

In 2020, more than 185,000 votes determined three campaigns which were: stop plastic pollution, mental health and transforming education.

For the first time, Make Your Mark and Slough Youth Parliament elections are running at the same time, from 1-28 February.

Councillor Christine Hulme, lead member for children’s services, lifelong learning and skills, said: “Our young people are passionate and engaged and have some great ideas. Being able to have their say on which campaigns should be a focus is brilliant. I hope everyone who can vote takes the opportunity to do so.”

If you are a young person aged 11-18, you can register to vote online - https://www.makeyourmark.youthimpact.app/register/me

You can watch information videos about the seven topics - https://www.byc.org.uk/uk/uk-youth-parliament/make-your-mark

Results will be announced at an event in March, when the new parliament term will
begin and manifesto set based on Make Your Mark results.

Slough Youth Parliament is supported by Slough Borough Council’s Young People’s Service.

For more information on Slough’s Youth Voice initiatives, email sloughforyouth@slough.gov.uk

£57k fine for slum landlord

A rogue landlord who ran an unlicensed and unfit house in multiple occupation (HMO) has been fined more than £57,000 following a prosecution by Slough Borough Council.

Fahed Alam Choudhry, who currently lives at 9 Homefield, Wembley, was fined a total of £57,577.92 by Reading Magistrates after the council’s housing regulation team found he was running a house in multiple occupation without a licence – in breach of the Housing Act 2004 and the Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation (England) Regulations 2006.

Mr Choudhry’s property at 118 Arborfield Close, Slough was originally granted an HMO licence in 2018 but it was restricted to one year because of concerns about Mr Choudhry’s fitness to be a landlord having been found in breach of regulations previously.

The one year licence was not renewed in 2019.

During an unannounced visit to the property on 13 May 2021, officers found six different households and a total of 11 people living in the Arborfield Close house with facilities unsuitable for those numbers.

Some of the issues with the property included dangling live electrical wires, a blocked fire exit, holes in the floors, broken waterspouts into the kitchen and a completely overgrown garden.

Mr Fahed Alam Choudhry failed to appear in court on 14 January 2022 and was convicted, in his absence, of 11 offences; 10 offences of breaches of the management regulations and one offence of not licensing the HMO.

He was fined:
£5,000 for each offence
costs of £2,387.92
a victim supplement of £190
Bringing the total to £57,577.92.

Councillor Martin Carter, lead member for housing and environment, said: “Mr Choudhry cared not one bit about the law and even less about the safety, health and wellbeing of his tenants.

“The seriousness of the offences is shown by the fine imposed and I hope this serves as a warning to other slum landlords, who we know are operating in Slough, that we will not hesitate to hit your where it hurts the most; in your wallet.

“Gone are the days where unscrupulous and uncaring – and often absent – landlords can prey on the poorest in Slough’s communities, taking advantage of their desperation, their lack of knowledge of the regulations.

“No tenant should have to live this way. We will continue to find those who flout the law; putting tenants’ lives at risk just to line their own pockets.”

Fahed Alam Choudhry was ordered to pay the full amount with 14 days, or a collection order will be imposed by the court.

International Day of Zero Tolerance to FGM is a United Nations sponsored annual awareness day on 6 February, that takes place as part of the UN’s efforts to eradicate female genital mutilation (FGM). Visit www.slough.gov.uk/fgm to find out more about our work to eradicate FGM and how to report concerns.

Omicron hospitality and leisure grant

Applications are now open for a business grant for hospitality, leisure and accommodation businesses.

The government funding, announced in December, is in recognition of the Omicron variant that means some businesses may struggle over the coming weeks.

Businesses with a rateable value of £15,000 or less could be eligible to a £2,667 grant, those over £15,000 and below £51,000 could get £4,000 and those with a rateable value over £51,000 could get £6,000.

Councillor Beni Bains, lead member for regulation and public protection, said: “It’s great to see businesses getting support from government. It’s worth reading the eligibility criteria and getting your application submitted while you can.”

The council has written to businesses who previously received a Restart Grant for hospitality, leisure and accommodation and who we believe will be eligible under this scheme.

If you do not receive an email inviting you to claim this new grant, but believe you are eligible, you will still be able to apply.

Read the guidance on the council’s website (https://www.slough.gov.uk/business-rates/coronavirus-and-business-rates) to check eligibility and to apply. Applications will be accepted until 18 March.

Businesses in other sectors still have time to check if they are eligible for an additional restrictions grant (ARG).

These grants are for businesses which were trading pre-Covid in December 2019 and have continued to trade. New businesses which were trading on or before April 2021 are also eligible to apply, though separate rules on supporting information will apply.

The deadline to apply for the ARG grants is 9 February. Visit the council’s website to see the criteria and to apply - https://www.slough.gov.uk/business-rates/coronavirus-and-business-rates

Apply now for help to reduce energy bills

Households on low incomes can apply for funding for energy efficiency works in their home to reduce their energy bills.

Slough has received £396,000 from the Local Authority Delivery (LAD) scheme to help those likely to be in fuel poverty.

Funding for those eligible can be used towards insulation and ventilation upgrades, an upgrade to a low carbon heating system, heating controls so you only heat the home when needed, replacement of single glazed windows, energy-efficient hot water systems to keep water warm for longer, solar panels to generate free electricity and energy efficient lighting.

The eligibility criteria include:
• maximum combined household income of £30,000 or less, or less than £20,000 once housing costs are deducted
• Energy Performance Certificate Band D, E, F or G
• owner occupier up to £10,000 grant (fully funded)
• rented private / social up to £5,000 grant (minimum 33% contribution from landlord).

Councillor Martin Carter, lead member for housing and environment, said: “We are pleased Slough is getting a share of this funding from the Local Energy Hubs. Taking measures to improve the energy efficiency in your home will help to reduce your energy bills in the long term.

“I advise everyone to take a look at the criteria and, if they’re eligible, get an application in before 31 March. There is nothing to lose and someone will talk you through all the options if you are successful.”

Unfortunately, council tenants are not eligible to apply for this scheme. The council will be considering options with respect to energy efficiency schemes for its housing stock.

Tenants of other social housing providers, such as housing associations, should contact their landlord directly.

Not all of the upgrades are suitable for every home, so each application will be assessed to find the best option.

Applications and referrals must be made to Warmworks by 31 March, with work completed by 30 June.

Applications are on a first come first served basis, until all the funding is allocated. To apply, fill in electronic form at https://www.warmworks.co.uk/greenhomesgrant/#greenform

If you have a business which has been affected by Covid, you could be eligible to apply for a discretionary business grant. The deadline for applications has been extended until 11 February. Please read the guidance before applying at https://www.slough.gov.uk/business-rates/coronavirus-and-business-rates/1

Today is the final day of the library consultation. Don't miss your chance to have a say in the town's future library service. Visit www.slough.gov.uk/libraryconsultation to find out more.

The Safer Streets survey has been extended until 28 January so more people can give their views.

Thames Valley Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) have secured funding for Slough, and are working in partnership with Slough Borough Council, local community groups such as Chalvey Community Partnership and local charities like Aik Saath to help improve safety for women and girls in public spaces in Chalvey.

Chalvey was identified as a key area based on previous work carried out there and the general public perception of safety in Chalvey.

We are keen to understand what makes women and girls feel unsafe, so we can target funding into areas (places and/or people based) where it is most needed. We want our residents, commuters, and visitors to help us understand how we can make our streets safer for women and girls.

A survey has been created for you to share your views. Please share the survey link with friends and families who work, live, shop, or visit Chalvey - https://eu.surveymonkey.com/r/5NYNZGV

The M4 eastbound will be closed overnight (about 9pm-6am) between j6 (Slough-Windsor) and 5 (Langley) on Mon 17 Jan and Thurs 20 Jan.

The M4 westbound will be closed overnight between j5 & 6 on Tue 18 Jan.

The M4 will be closed overnight in both directions between j5 & 6 on Wed 19 and Thurs 20 Jan.

The M4 and associated slip roads will be closed in both directions between j5 (Langley) and 4b (M25) from 8pm on Fri 21 Jan until 6am on Mon 24 Jan.

Final days of library consultation

Thousands of residents have already responded to the library consultation, but there is still time to have your say.

Since the consultation opened on 28 October, there have been more than 2,140 responses.

The consultation into the future provision of library services asks questions about why you do or do not visit a library, which library you visit, which times and days you visit and which of the following five potential options you would prefer.

• Reduce the money available to spend on buying publications (both hard copy and eResources).
• Keep all the main library buildings open but reduce the opening and staffed hours at Langley and Cippenham and reduce the staffed hours at The Curve and Britwell libraries.
• Keep all library buildings but reduce the hours they are open, the hours they are staffed, and the space dedicated to the library. Attract other users to rent space in the building (co-location).
• Move all library services out of the current main library buildings and re-locate services to be delivered from a range of other locations across the borough.
• Close both Langley and Cippenham library buildings but maintain the staffing and opening hours at The Curve library and at Britwell library.

The library team have hosted 15 drop-in and online sessions to talk to residents about the consultation, emailed more than 250 groups, and have attended more than 30 community meetings and events talking to local groups, schools and young people.

Councillor Christine Hulme, lead member for children’s services, lifelong learning and skills, said: “Thank you to everyone who has responded to the consultation so far. We know there is a lot of speculation about the council’s intentions, but we do genuinely want to know which option you prefer given the council’s current financial circumstances.

“When the consultation ends on 20 January, we will be reviewing all responses and feedback received. This will all feed into a report to Cabinet with clear recommendations.

“If you use a library, or plan to in future, have your say now so we can shape the future of Slough’s library service.”

To read more on the consultation and to have your say, visit the consultation webpage - https://www.slough.gov.uk/libraryconsultation - or complete the survey online at https://eu.surveymonkey.com/r/librariesconsultation

Any queries can be sent to libraryconsultation@slough.gov.uk

Happy New Year runners, we hope you had a lovely festive break and are ready to get your trainers back on!

Our Active Slough running groups start back next week for a 5 week block - see dates below. Places are free and first come first served. Click the link at the bottom to join the first Run with Active Slough sessions of the year!

* Tuesday 6.30pm Upton Court Park from 18 Jan - 15 Feb
* Wednesday 6.45pm Eltham Avenue Recreation Ground from 19 Jan - 16 Feb

https://www.slough.gov.uk/xfp/form/184

Community learning and skills service rated good by Ofsted

The adult community learning and skills service (CLASS) is provided by Slough Borough Council to adults in Slough and the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead.

The latest Ofsted inspection, which took place in November, has shown that the service is making great strides in the education of adults in the borough, including helping students move into employment with the knowledge and skills they develop. In particular the collaborative way, that staff work with the community to ensure that the education provided meets the needs of the local residents was praised.

Ofsted rated all areas of the service as “good”, and this is a significant improvement from the service being rated as “requires improvement” in 2016.

Councillor Christine Hulme, cabinet member for children’s services, lifelong learning & skills, said: “This is a fantastic rating for the excellent adult community learning and skills service the council runs for residents of both Slough and the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, who have taught 1,875 students in the last 12 months.

“The students come from a wide variety of backgrounds with many making their first steps back into education after childhood, updating their computer skills so they can help their children, and learning English to help them into employment. For some, the reward of a qualification is a celebration for their family not just the learner.

“The inspector has mentioned the calm and friendly learning environment created for students and how their confidence and resilience is increased. It’s great to see the level of teaching is praised as well as the positive approach students have towards their studies. Thank you very much to all our hard-working staff and students and this rating is recognition of all of their continued efforts.”

Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan adopted

The Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan was adopted by cabinet shortly before the Christmas break.

The Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan provides a detailed analysis of how Slough will meet its commitment to becoming a carbon neutral borough, stopping its contribution to climate change. The council has set a target of borough-wide carbon neutrality by 2040, with an ambitious stretch target of 2030. This was outlined in Slough’s Climate Change strategy vision in June 2021. This target complies with the UK’s national target of net zero emissions by 2050 and a reduction of 78% of emissions by 2035, relative to 1990.

The report proposes a range of actions that addresses carbon emissions from sources such as the built environment, transport, and waste. In addition to carbon emission savings, each action proposed identifies additional social, environmental, or economic benefits. For example, reducing carbon emissions from transport can improve local air quality benefiting the health of residents, and enhancing green spaces with tree planting supports biodiversity.

The report also details how Slough will adapt to the risks posed by climate change. Slough is at risk of high temperatures, flooding and water shortages and actions are provided which can reduce these risks. For example, to reduce high temperatures, buildings can be designed to support cooling and limit overheating, and planting of vegetation around rivers absorbs water, reducing the flood risk.

The strategy is an ambitious one to deliver and will require working with businesses in the borough as well as working with and supporting residents.

Cllr Martin Carter, cabinet member for Housing & Environment said: “Climate Change is such an important issue for us all, this Strategy and Action Plan will help us achieve our commitment to becoming a carbon neutral borough by 2040. We will be working with partners, businesses, and residents throughout the time period to make sure we reach our goal. A big thank you to the officers who worked so hard on this complex issue.”

Third commissioner appointed to Slough

A third commissioner has been appointed to Slough Borough Council by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC).

Gavin Jones, who has been appointed as assistant commissioner, will join Max Caller, lead commissioner and Margaret Lee, finance commissioner, who have been in place since December 2021.

The third commissioner has been appointed following a request from the current commissioners and has been appointed on the same basis as Mr Caller and Ms Lee.

The commissioners were put in place following a review by DLUHC into the governance and finances of the council which found major problems stretching back several years.

The commissioners will be overseeing and assisting with the council’s recovery and renewal plan which lays out the work undertaken so far, and the work needed to create a sustainable council providing the right services to residents at the right time.

Gavin Jones is currently the chief executive of Essex County Council where he has served since 2016, having previously spent 10 years as CEO of Swindon Borough.

He joined Local Government after having worked in the commercial sector for much of his career, including time in the airline, travel and technology sectors.

He has also been chair of SOLACE – the UK’s leading membership network for public sector and local government professionals – for three years, helping it to grow and support leadership across the local government.

Councillor James Swindlehurst, leader of the council, said: “There are still very difficult times ahead of us and we have welcomed the commissioners, their expertise, advice and help and I look forward to meeting Gavin.

“We will be continuing to work with all the commissioners until the issues have been fully resolved by us all.

“Together we will be putting the council on a sustainable financial footing, improving our governance and making the right decisions for our residents and town.”

Max Caller, CBE, led the best value inspections at Northamptonshire and Liverpool and was a commissioner at Tower Hamlets.  Max is a former chief executive of the London Boroughs of Hackney and Barnet and former chair of the Local Government Boundary Commission for England.

Margaret Lee recently retired from 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. She is the finance lead on the Improvement and Assurance Panel for the London Borough of Croydon.

A reminder that bin collections are still running on different days this week and next - to check your revised day, visit https://www.slough.gov.uk/household-waste-collection/bank-holiday-collection-dates

Eligible businesses still affected by Covid can apply for a new round of grant funding. Applications are open now until 5pm on 4 February. Please read the guidance and have all your documents ready before applying, as they can't be sent after. Visit https://www.slough.gov.uk/business-rates/coronavirus-and-business-rates/1

The final drop-in to discuss the library consultation is today at The Curve, from 1.30-4.30pm. Talk to staff, ask questions, get help filling in the online survey. It closes on 20 Jan. Visit www.slough.gov.uk/libraryconsultation for more details.

How would you make Chalvey a safe place for females?

Following the tragic death of Sarah Everard, the Government announced additional funding to help improve feelings of safety, with specific focus on women and girls in public spaces.

Improving feelings of safety can include looking at environmental-place-based changes such as street lighting and removing vegetation but it can also look at behaviours and attitudinal change through engagement and education.

Thames Valley Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) have secured funding for Slough, and are working in partnership with Slough Borough Council, local community groups such as Chalvey Community Partnership and local charities like Aik Saath to help improve safety for women and girls in public spaces in Chalvey.

We are keen to understand what makes women and girls feel unsafe, so we can target funding into areas (places and/or people based) where it is most needed.

We want our residents, commuters, and visitors to help us understand how we can make our streets safer for women and girls.

A survey has been created for you to share your views. Please share the survey link with friends and families who work, live, shop, or visit Chalvey - https://eu.surveymonkey.com/r/5NYNZGV

How to enrol: call now to book an assessment
Phone: 01753 476611
Email: lifelonglearning@slough.gov.uk
Online: www.webenrol.com/ebclass


Sign up now for adult learning courses

Enrolment is now open for adult learning classes in the borough.

The spring programme from the council’s community learning and skills service (CLASS) offers a variety of courses, from art, craft and design, health and exercise, cookery and healthy eating, to qualifications in basic skills and support for adults into work with maths, English/ESOL and digital skills.

This term there is a new programme of employability courses to support adults with job searches and a leisure programme supports learners with their health and wellbeing.

Councillor Christine Hulme, lead member for children’s services, lifelong learning and skills, said: “The new year is often a time when people look to take up a new hobby or learn a new skill. Our adult learning programme offers a great variety of classes, daytime and evening, with something to suit everyone.

“Have a browse through our course brochure to see what’s available. You may even learn some new skills which you can add to your CV to help with job hunting.”

Courses are delivered at The Curve and Slough libraries, with most free for the unemployed or low paid workers.

The CLASS team support local partners who deliver creative courses such as media, spectator safety and community interpreting.

If you are interested in signing up, please visit the council’s website - https://www.slough.gov.uk/communitylearning

To enrol on a course, which are held in-person, with some online, you have to attend an assessment session. This will be about the subject you’re interested in and allows the team to offer you the course at the level that best suits you.

Leisure courses can be booked online and do not need an assessment.

Please call 01753 476611 for more information on how to book an assessment.

Courses start from the end of January.

New business grants coming soon

Eligible businesses that continue to be affected by Covid will be able to apply for a new round of discretionary grant funding.
Open for applications from Monday 10 January until 5pm on 4 February, the grants are for businesses which were trading pre-Covid in December 2019 and have continued to trade.
New businesses which were trading on or before April 2021 are also eligible to apply, though separate rules on supporting information will apply.
All applications must be accompanied by the supporting documentation. There is no opportunity to submit further documents afterwards. Incorrect documentation will mean an unsuccessful application.
Businesses are advised to get their documents in order, ready to apply on 10 January.
This includes:
• proof of property costs
• proof of trading
• proof of income for a period pre-Covid if you were trading, then one month’s bank statements from October, November or December 2019
• proof of current income – the same month’s bank statements for 2021
• if you only started trading during Covid, all bank statements from April to November 2021.
All businesses that can demonstrate they have been and continue to be severely financially impacted by Covid and can demonstrate fixed property costs in relation to the business can apply.
Councillor Beni Bains, lead member for regulation and public protection, said: “I applaud businesses who have worked so hard during this pandemic to survive and provide their services. Any grants which could give them a little help are welcomed.
“Please do read the application guidance before applying and get your application submitted in good time.”
The following will not be eligible to apply:
• businesses that continued to trade effectively during lockdown such as accountants, solicitors take-aways, newsagents etc
• businesses with more than 50 employees
• businesses in areas outside the scope of the localised restrictions, as defined by government
• businesses that have already received grant payments that are equal to the maximum levels of State Aid permitted under the de minimis and the Covid-19 Temporary State Aid Framework
• businesses that do not trade or employ staff in Slough
• self-employed people who have received or were eligible to receive SEISS grants
• businesses that are in administration, are insolvent or where a striking off notice has been made prior to payment
• betting shops, vape shops, casinos, adult gaming centres and arcades.
Visit the council’s website for more information on the scheme, and an application form (available from 10 January) - https://www.slough.gov.uk/business-rates/coronavirus-and-business-rates

Britwell and Northborough residents have until 30 December to have their say about issues in their area. Complete the survey at https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/Britwell

Record recycling rates

Residents in Slough have done a fantastic job of recycling in 2021 and we are encouraging them to keep it up as we move towards 2022.

The council’s Just Four campaign makes it really clear about what can be recycled in the red bin, and residents have been playing their part to make sure as much as possible is recycled.

This includes cardboard, newspapers and magazines, drinks cans and food tins, glass jars and bottles and plastic drinks and washing up bottles.

The community’s efforts mean this year we have the lowest amount of contaminated and rejected recycling loads in five years.

Statistics, excluding December, show:

6,857 tonnes of red bin recycling was collected

7.2% of red bin waste was rejected – down from 10.5% in 2020 and 23.6% in 2019

94 bin lorry loads of red recycling was rejected – down from 150 in 2020, 304 in 2019, 283 in 2018 and 227 in 2017

3,753 tonnes of green waste was collected

519 fridges were collected

1,330 street cleaning requests

1,855 fly-tipping clearances.

Councillor Rob Anderson, lead member for sustainable transport and the environment, said: “Thank you to everyone in the town who has been sorting their recycling so well. It makes a huge difference to the environment when we can recycle as much as possible. Following our Just Four advice is the best way to ensure there is no contamination of the recycling.”

This year, we will be accepting wrapping paper in the red bins, if it passes the scrunch test. 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. This is because some metallic-looking paper is actually lined with plastic and cannot be recycled.

Cllr Anderson added: “There will be so much wrapping paper used as gifts are exchanged. It’s fantastic we can accept wrapping paper into the recycling this year, but please only put it in your red bin if you have done the scrunch test and it has passed.”

There will be no real Christmas tree collection this year, unless a resident is on the environmental service’s ‘assisted’ list. Residents can take their tree to Chalvey Household Waste and Recycling Centre, compost it themselves, or chop it up and leave it in their green bin until the collections resume in March.

Most cards and envelopes can be recycled in the red bin if they are paper based. Any embellishments such as ribbons or glitter cannot be recycled so please rip off that section before recycling. Batteries should also be removed from musical cards and disposed of at battery recycling points.

The council’s website has a reminder about what goes in your red bin - https://www.slough.gov.uk/household-waste-collection/what-goes-in-bins/2

Find the full acceptance guidance for Chalvey HWRC - https://www.slough.gov.uk/bins-waste-recycling/household-waste-recycling-centres/4

Today (Fri) is the last day to comment on the proposed release of green belt sites for family housing consultation. Have your say at https://slough.citizenspace.com/planning-policy/green_belt_sites_for_family_housing/

Slough Youth Award winners

An evening of music and performance helped to celebrate the winners of Slough Youth Awards.

The sixth annual celebration was held on 9 December at The Grove Academy.

Harjaap Singh, Slough Youth Parliament Chair, and Aneesa Younes, hosted the evening.

After receiving 31 nominations for this year’s awards, which are held to recognise the achievements of young people, the judges chose the following winners.

• Young Artist 2021 Winner – Aditi Banerjee

• Young Inspiration 2021 Winner – Amrit Singh Mann

• Young Entrepreneur 2021 Winner – Tiera Rowe

• Young Sportsperson 2021 Winner - Manjot Singh

• Young Voluntary Group of the Year 2021 Winner – Aik Saath Vaccination Volunteers

Councillor Christine Hulme, lead member for children’s services, lifelong learning, and skills, opened the event by acknowledging what a tough 18 months it had been for our young people, particularly the effects of lockdown on their mental health and wellbeing, and how important it was for us all to continue to look out for each other, to ensure that we are all safe.

Cllr Hulme said: “The award nominations showed what great community champions our young people are, as well as being exceptionally talented in a number of fields. Congratulations to the winners.”

Performances on the night included Aditi Banerjee, DJ Ayden, singer Autumn, a video of ‘Poem to a parent or carer’ written by Abi Srinatharan and turned into a film by Katie Bonham, as well as Stevoss & Uncle Gidz (Love Music Hate Violence Project).

Nadine Barrett, Youth Work Team Leader of the youth voice team, said “I am extremely proud of the hard work of our small team of three people, the input of our amazing youth volunteers and the support of the community development team to pull this off.

“In such difficult financial times and amidst a pandemic, we showed how resilient we all can be together when prioritising what’s really important – the next generation. I’m so pleased we could do this face to face and thankful to the generosity of Grove Academy for hosting this exciting event.”

The judges were Ketan Gandhi - Slough Borough Council, Asma Aziz – SCVS, Cllr Sabia Akram – council deputy leader, Miriam Hussaini – Youth Rep from Slough Youth Parliament and Tanveer Sandhu - Member of UK Youth Parliament for Slough.

A video of the ceremony can be watched at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGXasuqeELk

For more information on Slough’s Youth Voice initiatives, email sloughforyouth@slough.gov.uk

Vaccines at Salt Hill Park

You need an appointment to go to Salt Hill for a vaccine. Please follow the link to book - https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-vaccination/book-coronavirus-vaccination/?fbclid=IwAR1zyNeHYePp04bkUGOiN3O42VG89or9RI1wzy38TOemTPzrLaHCrqygu8k

Children are invited to join in the Winter Mini Challenge to read three books before Friday 19 February. They can choose any books they like – fact, fiction, joke, picture books, eBooks or audio books. Visit https://summerreadingchallenge.org.uk/news/general/winter-mini-challenge-2021 to sign up.

A lane closure at the Tuns Lane junction with Church street will remain in place until at least 4 January, when Thames Water will be undertaking repair work.

The M4 east and westbound will be closed overnight (from 8pm-6am) between j 5 (Langley) and 6 (Slough-Windsor) on Friday 17, Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 December. The M4 j6 eastbound exit slip will be closed overnight on Monday 13, Tuesday 14, Wednesday 15 and Thursday 16 December.

Tomorrow (Sat) at Cippenham library, there is a library consultation drop-in from 12noon-3pm. Come along and talk to staff, ask questions and get help to fill in the online survey. More on the consultation at www.slough.gov.uk/libraryconsultation @SloughLibraries

The search and track and weekly lists web pages for planning will be unavailable from 10 December to 14 December 2021 due to a system upgrade.

During this time, please do not comment on a planning application using the website, as your comments may not be received. Please use our planning form at https://www.slough.gov.uk/xfp/form/163?type=planning

The winter edition of Housing Highlights, our housing magazine for tenants and leaseholders of council owned homes, is out now!

In it you can read the housing annual report for 20/21, Osborne property services key facts, the tenant and leaseholder satisfaction survey 2020, plus stories on winter energy costs, gas safety checks, Osborne partnership work, Foxborough highlights, keeping safe during the dark nights and more. Read it at https://www.slough.gov.uk/housing/housing-highlights