Friday, 30 September 2011
Disabled People against Cuts (DPAC) opens to members and hosts first DPAC Conference in London
DPAC is becoming more accountable by opening itself up to members and developing an election process for a new DPAC steering group.
DPAC will be one year old on 3rd October 2011. They have hosted many protests against the condem regimes, cuts in local authority spending and their impacts, and against Atos and the WCA. DPAC has publicised and reported on the many issues that are affecting disabled people in the attacks led by the condem government. DPAC works from the framework of the social model and will continue to do so.
Membership for individuals is free but DPAC suggests a donation to the cause, organisations of disabled people and allies of disabled people are also welcome to become members.
DPAC funds go directly to campaigns, all those working with DPAC work for no fee using the knowledge and skills that DPAC needs to keep going. DPAC wants to open up membership and elect a steering group to take DPAC into the next phase of the fight against the attacks on disabled people.
To join go to: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dFE5dmRsQVFVS29XYU13NFVWY3ExRHc6MQ
And see DPAC website here - http://www.dpac.uk.net/2011/09/dpac-opens-to-members-2/
DPAC Conference 29th October- London
DPAC’s first conference will aim to develop the campaigns and areas that new DPAC members are priorities. It will give a chance for disabled people to come together to discuss the issues affecting them and develop solutions and actions.
DPAC is pleased that a number of speakers have agreed to take part in this conference. They include: Linda Burnip, co-founder of DPAC, John Mc Donnell MP, Jon McArdle from Black Triangle, Tracey Lazard from Inclusion London, Julie Jaye Charles from Equalities National Council, Melanie Close from Disability Equality North West, Mike Higgins from DAN, Andrew Lee from People First (Self Advocacy)and journalist and presenter Mik Scarlet. The conference will also be the venue for the election process for the new DPAC steering group.
Places will be limited to a first come first served basis so please book soon. There is a small travel allowance open to members only, again on a first come first served basis.
DPAC would like to thank Stephen Hodgkins of Disability Lib for providing the conference venue, the Andrew Wainwright Reform Trust for travel finds and all those that have supported DPAC
See: www.dpac.uk.net for details of membership and conference
mail@dpac.uk.net
http://www.dpac.uk.net/
Request for help with article about housing and disabled people:
I'm emailing as I'm currently researching a feature for Disability Now magazine looking at access to housing for disabled people and the barriers sometimes faced when trying to access a home (whether in social housing, private renting or buying a property). I'm looking to highlight personal experiences of encountering barriers to accessing housing that may include physical, attitudinal, communication and financial issues. Please note this story will focus on the UK context so I'm only looking to cover experiences of accessing housing in the UK.
The feature will centre on people's own experiences and therefore I'm looking to speak to people who have previously (or are currently) encountering barriers and challenges in trying to secure the home of their choosing.
If anyone is willing to talk to me about their own experiences (in confidence) please get in touch with me directly. My email address is ruthepatrick@googlemail.com or I can be contacted by telephone on 01943 870 117. I am happy to change names for the story if people would prefer to appear anonymously in the article.
To see my previous articles and columns for disability now, please go to http://www.disabilitynow.org.uk/
DPAC will be one year old on 3rd October 2011. They have hosted many protests against the condem regimes, cuts in local authority spending and their impacts, and against Atos and the WCA. DPAC has publicised and reported on the many issues that are affecting disabled people in the attacks led by the condem government. DPAC works from the framework of the social model and will continue to do so.
Membership for individuals is free but DPAC suggests a donation to the cause, organisations of disabled people and allies of disabled people are also welcome to become members.
DPAC funds go directly to campaigns, all those working with DPAC work for no fee using the knowledge and skills that DPAC needs to keep going. DPAC wants to open up membership and elect a steering group to take DPAC into the next phase of the fight against the attacks on disabled people.
To join go to: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dFE5dmRsQVFVS29XYU13NFVWY3ExRHc6MQ
And see DPAC website here - http://www.dpac.uk.net/2011/09/dpac-opens-to-members-2/
DPAC Conference 29th October- London
DPAC’s first conference will aim to develop the campaigns and areas that new DPAC members are priorities. It will give a chance for disabled people to come together to discuss the issues affecting them and develop solutions and actions.
DPAC is pleased that a number of speakers have agreed to take part in this conference. They include: Linda Burnip, co-founder of DPAC, John Mc Donnell MP, Jon McArdle from Black Triangle, Tracey Lazard from Inclusion London, Julie Jaye Charles from Equalities National Council, Melanie Close from Disability Equality North West, Mike Higgins from DAN, Andrew Lee from People First (Self Advocacy)and journalist and presenter Mik Scarlet. The conference will also be the venue for the election process for the new DPAC steering group.
Places will be limited to a first come first served basis so please book soon. There is a small travel allowance open to members only, again on a first come first served basis.
DPAC would like to thank Stephen Hodgkins of Disability Lib for providing the conference venue, the Andrew Wainwright Reform Trust for travel finds and all those that have supported DPAC
See: www.dpac.uk.net for details of membership and conference
mail@dpac.uk.net
http://www.dpac.uk.net/
Request for help with article about housing and disabled people:
I'm emailing as I'm currently researching a feature for Disability Now magazine looking at access to housing for disabled people and the barriers sometimes faced when trying to access a home (whether in social housing, private renting or buying a property). I'm looking to highlight personal experiences of encountering barriers to accessing housing that may include physical, attitudinal, communication and financial issues. Please note this story will focus on the UK context so I'm only looking to cover experiences of accessing housing in the UK.
The feature will centre on people's own experiences and therefore I'm looking to speak to people who have previously (or are currently) encountering barriers and challenges in trying to secure the home of their choosing.
If anyone is willing to talk to me about their own experiences (in confidence) please get in touch with me directly. My email address is ruthepatrick@googlemail.com or I can be contacted by telephone on 01943 870 117. I am happy to change names for the story if people would prefer to appear anonymously in the article.
To see my previous articles and columns for disability now, please go to http://www.disabilitynow.org.uk/
Pioneering male dance company returns to Birmingham
2Faced Dance are one of the UK’s most pioneering male dance companies and produce work that fuses athletic contemporary dance with elements of hip-hop. With a reputation for creating cutting edge work, the company will be performing In the Dust, a triple bill of break-infused contemporary dance. Th explosive triple bill features work from critically acclaimed choreographer Tom Dale, Place Prize finalist Freddie Opoku-Addaie and 2Faced Artistic Director and DanceXchange Associate Artist, Tasmin Fitzgerald, and explores themes of decay and destruction.
David Massingham, DanceXchange Artistic Director comments: “2Faced Dance Company has become renowned for pushing the boundaries of physical performance and creating work that is bold, adrenaline fuelled and inspiring. Their performances often have an electrifying vibe which not only captivates the audience but also leaves them itching to jump up and start dancing.”
In the Dust is part of a special tenth anniversary season for dx, celebrating a successful decade based at Birmingham Hippodrome. In the last ten years, dx has supported the production of over 50 major touring works including Akram Khan, Jasmin Vardimon and Rafael Bonachela as well as hosting a large number of performances in its studio theatre. The expanded 2011 season will not only showcase some of the best new names in the dance world but also features performances by some of the artists who have worked alongside dx in the last ten years.
To find out more information about dx or to purchase tickets for performances please visit http://www.dancexchange.org.uk/.
Queen Elizabeth Humanities College, Bromyard - RAF Red Arrows
Contact: David Kemp, 01885 482230; dkemp@queenelizabeth.hereford.sch.uk
The RAF Red Arrows and Battle of Britain Memorial Flight are riding Coast to Coast across the breadth of Wales and England in just two weeks’ time. They will cover 400 miles in 4 days, “400 in 4”.
Dr Emma Egging is taking her husband's place on the Coast to Coast Challenge. You may recall that Jon was tragically killed in the summer whilst flying with the Red Arrows. Please support the team in trying to raise as much money as possible in his memory.
Their only stop in Herefordshire will be at Queen Elizabeth Humanities College on Wednesday 12th October between 12.15 and 1.45pm. Why not come along and join us – all welcome?
Latest: £43,171 had been raised by midday Thursday 29th September. Bromyard would like to raise at least £400, a pound per mile.
Text CYCLE to 70099 to donate £3 and have your chance to win a VIP day with the Red Arrows or BBMF. The lucky winners will be able to meet the pilots, tour the aircraft and see what happens behind the scenes on the world famous display teams!
The RAF Red Arrows and Battle of Britain Memorial Flight are riding Coast to Coast across the breadth of Wales and England in just two weeks’ time. They will cover 400 miles in 4 days, “400 in 4”.
Dr Emma Egging is taking her husband's place on the Coast to Coast Challenge. You may recall that Jon was tragically killed in the summer whilst flying with the Red Arrows. Please support the team in trying to raise as much money as possible in his memory.
Their only stop in Herefordshire will be at Queen Elizabeth Humanities College on Wednesday 12th October between 12.15 and 1.45pm. Why not come along and join us – all welcome?
Latest: £43,171 had been raised by midday Thursday 29th September. Bromyard would like to raise at least £400, a pound per mile.
Text CYCLE to 70099 to donate £3 and have your chance to win a VIP day with the Red Arrows or BBMF. The lucky winners will be able to meet the pilots, tour the aircraft and see what happens behind the scenes on the world famous display teams!
SHOWTIME ACADEMY HALF TERM HOLIDAY SCHOOL
9.00am -3.30pm
A week of dance and drama, run by Meral Barlow, who is a primary school teacher, a dance teacher and also a first-aider.
With a team of assistants in drama and dance, children will have a great time as they learn new dance routines, rehearse scenes from plays and create their own improvised pieces, which will be performed for family and friends at the end of the week!
The scheme is open to all children aged 4 – 14 and takes place at
St Peter’s Church Hall, Vicarage Road, Harborne.
Children will have a great time as they learn new performing skills and play games with their friends in a safe and secure environment.
To book your place, please email meral1@live.co.uk or call me on 07834 920 788
My Generation - The Glory Years of British Rock
Touring V&A exhibition visits The Public
An exciting series of photographs by Harry Goodwin, ‘My Generation: The Glory Years of British Rock’ will be displayed at The Public in West Bromwich from 21 October 2011 to 15 January 2012 as part of their forthcoming Art of Noise exhibitions programme.
Harry Goodwin was resident photographer on the hit BBC music show ‘Top of the Pops’ from 1964 to 1973, whose images captured the charisma and style of every chart-topping rock musicians of that era, both on stage and behind the scenes.
The touring exhibition from V&A features more than 60 photographs by Goodwin from the BBC’s archive files, creating a fascinating record of the mood and style of the ‘60s and ‘70s and the impact of its musical stars. The striking and memorable images include everything from a shocked Bob Dylan (temporarily blinded by Harry’s flash in punishment for grumpiness) to a dramatic shot of Jimi Hendrix playing the guitar with his teeth, and Paul McCartney pouring tea. Other artists include, Chuck Berry, The Who, Stevie Wonder and The Jackson 5.
In the early 60s he started work as a scene shifter for the BBC in Manchester. “I used to get the odd photo I could sell to the ‘Radio Times’. There was a 12-week pilot of a series called ‘Top of the Pops’ in 1964, and they needed someone to photograph the bands.” Harry’s flair for the job was soon evident, and over the next 10 years he would photograph some of the most famous and successful stars in the music industry.
In many cases the original footage of the performances is now lost and these photographs are now all that remains of performances by artists including Jimi Hendrix, Aretha Franklin, Dusty Springfield and The Beach Boys.
Linda Saunders, Managing Director of The Public said,
“Top of the Pops was an iconic television programme, much loved by generations of people. The work of Harry Goodwin brings back to life the energy and charisma of the institutional show and will no doubt revoke the fond memories.”
My Generation: The Glory Years of British Rock forms part of The Public’s Art of Noise programme, a series of exhibitions looking at the significance of sound and music in the Arts. The exhibition runs from 21 October 2011 to 15 January 2012, Wednesday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm and Sunday, 11am – 3pm and is free to visit.
For more information about exhibitions at The Public call 0121 533 7161 or visit http://www.thepublic.com/
Light House invites people to suggest subject of photo to represent Wolverhampton for new exhibition We English
Light House Media Centre in Wolverhampton is inviting local people to get involved in an upcoming exhibition, We English by Simon Roberts, by giving their suggestions for a photograph to be displayed within the exhibition at Light House next year.
Throughout 2008, British photographer Simon Roberts travelled the length and breadth of England, documenting people at leisure in the country’s richly varied landscape. Gathered together as We English, his works are an intriguing and lyrical personal exploration of the nation.
Light House and Simon are now inviting suggestions of an event, activity or leisure pursuit taking place this winter in Wolverhampton, as the setting for a final photograph to be taken for the exhibition. Ideas relating to interesting subjects or events taking place in and around Wolverhampton (outdoors, during daylight hours) in November and December 2011 can be submitted to kathryn@light-house.co.uk or by visiting Light House and completing a form before the closing date of 31 October 2011.
The exhibition has been shown in several locations around the UK and each time Simon has made a new image to be added to the show, from suggestions by people in the local area. In Birmingham he photographed Edgbaston Cricket Ground, in Croyden, a festival, and in Bradford it was the local BMX park. He is looking for something that represents Wolverhampton on the theme of leisure.
Photographer Simon Roberts said: “I’m looking for ideas that provide an interesting snapshot of England and Wolverhampton in its own right. This request for ideas hopefully provides a democratic process for illustrating what's important to people, and explores their own thoughts on living in England.”
Simon will make a shortlist of the suggestions he likes the most, and plans to visit the locations to investigate further, but he will not announce which he is attending. The selected photograph will then be revealed in the New Year when the exhibition opens.
The exhibition We English, will be showing at Light House Gallery from 27 January to 5 April 2012. For more info contact Light House on t: 01902 716055 / e: info@light-house.co.uk or visit http://www.light-house.co.uk/
Throughout 2008, British photographer Simon Roberts travelled the length and breadth of England, documenting people at leisure in the country’s richly varied landscape. Gathered together as We English, his works are an intriguing and lyrical personal exploration of the nation.
Light House and Simon are now inviting suggestions of an event, activity or leisure pursuit taking place this winter in Wolverhampton, as the setting for a final photograph to be taken for the exhibition. Ideas relating to interesting subjects or events taking place in and around Wolverhampton (outdoors, during daylight hours) in November and December 2011 can be submitted to kathryn@light-house.co.uk or by visiting Light House and completing a form before the closing date of 31 October 2011.
The exhibition has been shown in several locations around the UK and each time Simon has made a new image to be added to the show, from suggestions by people in the local area. In Birmingham he photographed Edgbaston Cricket Ground, in Croyden, a festival, and in Bradford it was the local BMX park. He is looking for something that represents Wolverhampton on the theme of leisure.
Photographer Simon Roberts said: “I’m looking for ideas that provide an interesting snapshot of England and Wolverhampton in its own right. This request for ideas hopefully provides a democratic process for illustrating what's important to people, and explores their own thoughts on living in England.”
Simon will make a shortlist of the suggestions he likes the most, and plans to visit the locations to investigate further, but he will not announce which he is attending. The selected photograph will then be revealed in the New Year when the exhibition opens.
The exhibition We English, will be showing at Light House Gallery from 27 January to 5 April 2012. For more info contact Light House on t: 01902 716055 / e: info@light-house.co.uk or visit http://www.light-house.co.uk/
St. Paul's Community Development Trust have been nominated to receive a NatWest Community Force Award
Please help us receive one of these awards by voting for us! You can read more about the award on our website
http://www.stpaulstrust.org.uk/latest-news/your-chance-to-influence-change-in-the-community/
You can cast your vote by clicking here http://communityforce.natwest.com/project/4969
A 'snowy' October set for Solihull Arts Complex
Magical Extravaganza on Ice on Monday 10th October at 7.30pm in the Theatre, fuses together magic, illusion and ice dance. The show is performed on a special synthetic ice pad, so audiences don’t need to wear their winter vest! Tickets cost £12 (£11) and this show is suitable for all ages.
Ballet Theatre UK return to Solihull with their beautiful re-telling of the classic Snow Queen, on Wednesday 26th October at 2.30pm & 7.30pm. Featuring dazzling costumes and glittering stage sets the professional dancers perform to a glorious musical score. A real treat for the half-term break. Tickets are £17.50 (£16, £12 child) and the show is suitable for all ages.
There is a group booking offer of one ticket FREE in every 10 for Magical Extravaganza on Ice and The Snow Dog.
LOCAL CHILDREN TO CREATE CREST FOR MAJOR INTERNATIONAL EVENT
The Birmingham International Tattoo is a major event in the calendar and this year for the first time local children are being asked to help create a crest or logo for the show. The event itself gives children plenty of scope to unleash their creativity as it features a wealth of different acts from dog display teams to gymnasts, from international marching bands to the field gun race and disco dancers, not forgetting the spectacular grand finale which features all 1,000 performers as they fill the National Indoor Arena. Performers this year will come from as far afield as Norway and Holland to take part in this year’s special Christmas spectacular.
Organisers are looking for local children to reflect the diversity and pageantry and spectacle of the event in a crest and a spokesman for the Tattoo, Ian Collins, said: “This year’s Christmas event will be our finest yet in the 23 years of the event and we are looking to tap into the inspiration and creativity of local children to help us portray the fantastic family fun of the event in the form of a crest or shield. Winners and their families will be able to join us as special guests at this year’s Christmas Tattoo and they also will be able to see their crest in print in 5,000 copies of the official souvenir programme. We are looking forward to seeing crests from all the creative children we know are out there across the West Midlands.”
The Tattoo organisers have made it easy for children of all ages to enter as all they need to do is go to the Tattoo website at www.birminghamtattoo.co.uk and download an entry pack, which includes a blank template that can be completed and posted off. All entries received during October will be judged by members of the Tattoo Production Team - and six winners and their families will be given free tickets to attend the Sunday afternoon performance of the Tattoo, where one final winner will be announced to the audience of 10,000 people.
So, children get out your pencils and paints and start creating a crest for this major international event.
Social Impact Bonds: A new way to invest in better healthcare
Dear Colleagues,
I thought that you might be in interested in a discussion paper we have recently published on Social Impact Bonds as a way of investing in better healthcare.
We asked Professor Paul Corrigan, a leading adviser on improving health services, to assess the suitability of the Social Impact Bond model for the NHS. This paper sets out his thoughts. He explores some of the reasons why a longer term source of finance is required in the NHS, and argues that Social Impact Bonds could be a way to provide some of that finance, particularly in establishing better ways to manage diabetes, asthma and other long term health conditions.
http://www.socialfinance.org.uk/resources/guide/new-way-invest-better-healthcare
If you would like a hard copy of the paper the please email Sarah Henderson at sarah.henderson@socialfinance.org.uk.
Best regards,
Richard Todd
Social Finance
131-151 Great Titchfield Street
London
W1W 5BB
E: richard.todd@socialfinance.org.uk
W: http://www.socialfinance.org.uk/
I thought that you might be in interested in a discussion paper we have recently published on Social Impact Bonds as a way of investing in better healthcare.
We asked Professor Paul Corrigan, a leading adviser on improving health services, to assess the suitability of the Social Impact Bond model for the NHS. This paper sets out his thoughts. He explores some of the reasons why a longer term source of finance is required in the NHS, and argues that Social Impact Bonds could be a way to provide some of that finance, particularly in establishing better ways to manage diabetes, asthma and other long term health conditions.
http://www.socialfinance.org.uk/resources/guide/new-way-invest-better-healthcare
If you would like a hard copy of the paper the please email Sarah Henderson at sarah.henderson@socialfinance.org.uk.
Best regards,
Richard Todd
Social Finance
131-151 Great Titchfield Street
London
W1W 5BB
E: richard.todd@socialfinance.org.uk
W: http://www.socialfinance.org.uk/
Thursday, 29 September 2011
Changes to the Pensions Act
Dear Colleague,
I thought that this may be useful information to share.
At Freshwinds we have been working with a useful contact at Jobson James Chartered Financial Planning who is helping us to understand and make plans for changes to the pensions act that will be introduced January 2012 that will affect all employers. This includes charities, third sector organisations and social enterprises.
The Pensions Act 2008 establishes new duties for ALL UK employers that start to be introduced from 2012.
These duties require employers to provide some or all of their workers with access to a workplace pension scheme that meets certain legal requirements.
Employers will have to automatically enrol certain workers into a qualifying pension scheme and pay contributions on their behalf.
The duties will start to be introduced from 2012.
The Government are introducing the National Employment Savings Trust (N.E.S.T), employers without a work based pension scheme need to take advice on the roll out of the Pensions Reform.
If anyone would like further information and an introduction please contact me on the number below.
Many thanks,
Natalie White
Assistant Employment & Training Manager
A: Freshwinds, Prospect Hall, 12 College Walk, Selly Oak, Birmingham, B29 6LE
T: 0121 415 6682
F: 0121 415 6699
Natalie.White@freshwinds.org.uk
http://www.freshwinds.org.uk/
Concept Taster Day
New on the BSSEC blog...
http://www.bssec.org.uk/blog/
Concept Taster Day
September 28th, 2011 by Mark Ellerby
Concept, Action for Blind People’s social enterprise in the West Midlands, is holding a ”Taster Day” to demonstrate the services it offers to organisations and businesses in the region, as well as highlighting the work it does to support blind or partially sighted people into employment.
READ MORE/...
http://www.bssec.org.uk/blog/?p=2391
http://www.bssec.org.uk/blog/
Concept Taster Day
September 28th, 2011 by Mark Ellerby
Concept, Action for Blind People’s social enterprise in the West Midlands, is holding a ”Taster Day” to demonstrate the services it offers to organisations and businesses in the region, as well as highlighting the work it does to support blind or partially sighted people into employment.
READ MORE/...
http://www.bssec.org.uk/blog/?p=2391
Jonathan Edwards visits Wilson Stuart School in Birmingham
• Meets pupils from Wilson Stuart School and 3 partnership schools to answer questions on his sporting career and London 2012 and take part in a gifted and talented inclusive athletic training session.
Jonathan Edwards, Deputy Chair London 2012 Nations and Regions visited Wilson Stuart School in Birmingham on Monday 19 September to sample their winning dish as part of the ‘Get Set to exercise your taste buds competition’ and to personally congratulate the pupils and staff involved with this amazing achievement.
Following a taste test of the winning dish, Jonathan joined secondary and sixth form students from Wilson Stuart School to talking about his accomplishments, goals and show the students his Olympic medals. Jonathan was then grilled by a few Wilson Stuart pupils in a Parkinson style interview which covered everything from the length of Jonathan’s legs to what inspired him to take up sport.
To conclude his visit Jonathan joined students from Wilson Stuart partnership schools, Moor Hall, New Oscott and Holy Cross, alongside some of Wilson Stuarts own gifted athletes to be put through his paces at a number of indoor athletic stations teaching triple jump skills.
Jonathan Edwards, Deputy Chair London 2012 Nations and Regions said: “It’s been great visiting Wilson Stuart School and seeing how they have been getting involved in the London 2012 Games. By winning the Get Set to Exercise Your Taste Buds competition the students here will really be playing their part - they have not only learnt about healthy and active lifestyles but their meals could be providing the fuel for the athletes competing at the Games!
Steve Hughes, Head Teacher Wilson Stuart Special School said: “PE and Sport has proven to be a very powerful vehicle for whole school improvement for Wilson Stuart School and we have actively engaging with the Olympics ever since the Paralympic Launch.
As the Games get closer we are really excited about the experiences and energy this once-in-a-lifetime event will generate within school. We are fully committed ensuring our students celebrate the games and also recognise the importance of the Olympic and Paralympic values. We enjoyed taking part in the competition and were delighted to have won. Our students were tremendously inspired by meeting Jonathan Edwards and excited by the opportunity to see an Olympic Gold Medal.”
Chris Wilson, Assistant Head Teacher, Wilson Stuart Special School said: “MOMENTUM… BUILDING ON OUR LEGACY is our future ‘GET SET’ Project - Wilson Stuart Active Society CIC is a social enterprise that has been set up to continue the Olympic Legacy beyond 2012 by Wilson Stuart School, improving standards in education through the power of PE and School Sport, not just for Wilson Stuart School but all our partnership schools in our local Big Society. We aim to continue using the Olympic and Paralympic values in all our future work with young people, knowing the impact it has had in the past 3 years and the impact Jonathan made when he visited on 19 September”.
Get Set is the official London 2012 education programme for schools and colleges across the UK. More than 19800 schools and colleges have already registered with the programme. It provides students and teachers with access to free resources including films, activity and fact sheets and access to competitions such as Get Set to exercise your taste buds. Through Get Set schools and colleges which demonstrate how they are using the Olympic and Paralympic Values can apply to join the Get Set network. Schools which apply to join the Get Set network before 16 December 2011 will receive tickets to the Games through the London 2012 Ticketshare initiative, as well as other exclusive rewards and opportunities.
Jonathan’s visit was hosted by the West Midlands for 2012 team, for more information of events and activities taking place across the region inspired by London 2012 visit http://www.wmfor2012.com/.
To share your London 2012 related stories and experiences visit www.facebook.com/thegamesandme to be in with a chance of winning a visit to the Olympic Park in November.
Ethnic Minority Council Centre - Venue For Hire in Wolverhampton
Meeting, Training, Conference or a Celebration?
Ethnic Minority Council’s (EMC) cost effective, fully equipped training facility provides an ideal, easily accessible space for small to medium sized events. Located centrally we are easily accessible from Wolverhampton Town Centre and the main A roads into Wolverhampton .
To book or view our facilities, simply give us a call on 01902 313 052 and our friendly staff and volunteers will be there to help.
Facilities include:
Choice of rooms
§ 1 Meeting room for up to 14 people
§ 1 Training room for up to 40 people
§ 1 Conference room for up to 30 people (upstairs)
Fully equipped spaces
§ Flexible table/chair layout
§ Flip charts
§ Broadband Internet access
§ Modern Office Furniture
Kitchen
Catering on request
Admin Services Available
§ Photocopying Facilities
Ample Parking available
Board Room Rate (seats up to 14 ppl)
EMC Members Monday to Friday per hour £8.00 (min 3 hours)
Wider Voluntary and Community Sector Monday to Friday per hour £10 (min 3 hours)
Statutory sector Monday to Friday 12.00 per hour (min 3 hours)
Training & Conference Room Rates (depending on style can seat up to 40 ppl)
EMC Members Monday to Friday per hour £7.00 (min 3 hours)
Wider Voluntary and Community Sector Monday to Friday per hour £9 (min 3 hours)
Statutory sector Monday to Friday 12.00 per hour (min 3 hours)
(For weekend bookings please telephone to discuss with Project Manager)
Kind Regards,
Project Manager
Ethnic Minority Council
Working together for a better tomorrow
tel/fax: 01902 313 052
Ethnic Minority Council’s (EMC) cost effective, fully equipped training facility provides an ideal, easily accessible space for small to medium sized events. Located centrally we are easily accessible from Wolverhampton Town Centre and the main A roads into Wolverhampton .
To book or view our facilities, simply give us a call on 01902 313 052 and our friendly staff and volunteers will be there to help.
Facilities include:
Choice of rooms
§ 1 Meeting room for up to 14 people
§ 1 Training room for up to 40 people
§ 1 Conference room for up to 30 people (upstairs)
Fully equipped spaces
§ Flexible table/chair layout
§ Flip charts
§ Broadband Internet access
§ Modern Office Furniture
Kitchen
Catering on request
Admin Services Available
§ Photocopying Facilities
Ample Parking available
Board Room Rate (seats up to 14 ppl)
EMC Members Monday to Friday per hour £8.00 (min 3 hours)
Wider Voluntary and Community Sector Monday to Friday per hour £10 (min 3 hours)
Statutory sector Monday to Friday 12.00 per hour (min 3 hours)
Training & Conference Room Rates (depending on style can seat up to 40 ppl)
EMC Members Monday to Friday per hour £7.00 (min 3 hours)
Wider Voluntary and Community Sector Monday to Friday per hour £9 (min 3 hours)
Statutory sector Monday to Friday 12.00 per hour (min 3 hours)
(For weekend bookings please telephone to discuss with Project Manager)
Kind Regards,
Project Manager
Ethnic Minority Council
Working together for a better tomorrow
tel/fax: 01902 313 052
GHOSTS & GHOULS RETURN TO BLISTS HILL VICTORIAN TOWN!
Ghostly Gaslight Halloween Event: 6pm Saturday 29th October
Creepy crawlies, ghosts, ghouls and a spooky atmosphere will await you at the Ghostly Gaslight Halloween event at Blists Hill Victorian Town, near Ironbridge, Shropshire on the evening of Saturday, 29th October. Come dressed in your most frightening costume to ward off the mischievous sprits, which will play havoc in the dark and watch out for things that go bump in the night!
As dusk falls spooky antics are expected to replace the normal everyday activities that take place at the open-air museum. The street lamps will cast eerie shadows at every corner and weird apparitions will replace the friendly Victorians who are usually seen in the town’s shops, cottages and work places. Watch out for the village carpenter who will be nailing victims in his coffin.
This popular fun event will start at 6pm. Tickets must be purchased in advance priced at £9 adults and £6 children aged 3-16 years. All under 16s must be accompanied by an adult, tickets will not be available on the gate and Ironbridge Gorge Museum Passports are not valid for this evening. No dogs will be allowed; for more information call 01952 433424 or visit http://www.ironbridge.org.uk/.
Creepy crawlies, ghosts, ghouls and a spooky atmosphere will await you at the Ghostly Gaslight Halloween event at Blists Hill Victorian Town, near Ironbridge, Shropshire on the evening of Saturday, 29th October. Come dressed in your most frightening costume to ward off the mischievous sprits, which will play havoc in the dark and watch out for things that go bump in the night!
As dusk falls spooky antics are expected to replace the normal everyday activities that take place at the open-air museum. The street lamps will cast eerie shadows at every corner and weird apparitions will replace the friendly Victorians who are usually seen in the town’s shops, cottages and work places. Watch out for the village carpenter who will be nailing victims in his coffin.
This popular fun event will start at 6pm. Tickets must be purchased in advance priced at £9 adults and £6 children aged 3-16 years. All under 16s must be accompanied by an adult, tickets will not be available on the gate and Ironbridge Gorge Museum Passports are not valid for this evening. No dogs will be allowed; for more information call 01952 433424 or visit http://www.ironbridge.org.uk/.
Fun in the Sun at Gheluvelt Splashpad
With the sunny weather and high temperatures forecast to last for the next few days, Worcester City Council will be keeping the Splashpad at the Gheluvelt Park running for one final weekend this year.
The Splashpad had been due to close on the 30th September until next summer, but it will now remain open for both Saturday and Sunday (1 and 2 October), giving visitors two extra days to make the most of the Splashpad.
“Gheluvelt Park has once again proved to be a great destination for families, with over half a million people visiting this summer and enjoying all the free facilities,” said Cllr Roger Knight, Portfolio Holder for Cleaner & Greener at Worcester City Council.
“With the prospect of a fabulous weekend ahead, we anticipate many people will make it down to the park and enjoy the Splashpad, which is proving such a hit with younger children.”
The Splashpad had been due to close on the 30th September until next summer, but it will now remain open for both Saturday and Sunday (1 and 2 October), giving visitors two extra days to make the most of the Splashpad.
“Gheluvelt Park has once again proved to be a great destination for families, with over half a million people visiting this summer and enjoying all the free facilities,” said Cllr Roger Knight, Portfolio Holder for Cleaner & Greener at Worcester City Council.
“With the prospect of a fabulous weekend ahead, we anticipate many people will make it down to the park and enjoy the Splashpad, which is proving such a hit with younger children.”
Vacancy at The Drum - Finance & Admin Manager
The Drum is a unique European arts centre that is committed to celebrating the diversity, challenges and vibrancy of Black British culture. It promotes, in particular, contemporary British African, Asian and Caribbean arts and cultural activities, especially music. The Drum is firmly rooted in its local community and intends to become a national and international renowned Centre.
Finance and Admin Manager: Salary £25,000 – £29,000
We are looking for a highly skilled and motivated individual to control, improve, develop and deliver a professional and comprehensive finance service for The Drum.
You will need to have experience of preparing management accounts, controlling, monitoring and analysing financial performance, preparing monthly reports on variance, cash flow control, as well as assist in the preparation of funding and grant applications. Ideally you will have experience of project accounting and systems/process development.
The successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to work as part of a team, you will need to be a self starter, be able to work off your own initiative and prepared to get involved at the detailed level as and when required. You will need to be at least part qualified with CIMA or ACCA (or equivalent) or have substantial experience of working in a similar environment, have the ability to manage staff and an understanding of the arts sector or voluntary sector.
Experience of using accounting software ideally QuickBooks is also required but experience of using other systems will be considered.
For an information pack and application form please contact:
Harpreet Sharma
Tel: 0121 333 2422
Email: h.sharma@the-drum.org.uk
Web: http://www.the-drum.org.uk/
Closing date: 14th October 2011
The Drum is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.
The Drum receives ongoing financial support from Arts Council England, West Midlands and Birmingham City Council.
Charity No 1042218
NO CV’s PLEASE
Finance and Admin Manager: Salary £25,000 – £29,000
We are looking for a highly skilled and motivated individual to control, improve, develop and deliver a professional and comprehensive finance service for The Drum.
You will need to have experience of preparing management accounts, controlling, monitoring and analysing financial performance, preparing monthly reports on variance, cash flow control, as well as assist in the preparation of funding and grant applications. Ideally you will have experience of project accounting and systems/process development.
The successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to work as part of a team, you will need to be a self starter, be able to work off your own initiative and prepared to get involved at the detailed level as and when required. You will need to be at least part qualified with CIMA or ACCA (or equivalent) or have substantial experience of working in a similar environment, have the ability to manage staff and an understanding of the arts sector or voluntary sector.
Experience of using accounting software ideally QuickBooks is also required but experience of using other systems will be considered.
For an information pack and application form please contact:
Harpreet Sharma
Tel: 0121 333 2422
Email: h.sharma@the-drum.org.uk
Web: http://www.the-drum.org.uk/
Closing date: 14th October 2011
The Drum is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.
The Drum receives ongoing financial support from Arts Council England, West Midlands and Birmingham City Council.
Charity No 1042218
NO CV’s PLEASE
Head of Social Design – Young Foundation Vacancy
45,200 to £56,500 plus defined benefit pension
We are looking for an experienced service designer to join the Young Foundation in a lead position as head of the newly created Social Design Practice. This exciting new role is designed to help us maximise our work solving social problems using design thinking.
Attributes –we are looking for someone who:
1. Has at least 3-5 years experience of service design, able to hit the ground running, comfortably adopt a leadership position and make an impact quickly.
2. Has a genuine passion for our social purpose - who enjoys being part of an organisation that seeks out cutting-edge innovations in health, education, housing, poverty reduction, criminal justice and many other varied and diverse fields - and is inspired by the challenge of using design thinking to changing the way people engage with and tackle social issues, gaining the knowledge and skills they need.
3. Is a self-starter who works fast, enjoys working at the earliest stages of product development, embracing a spirit of "failing fast", and assembling a ‘minimum viable product’ rather than polished outputs.
4. Is a great team player who enjoys debating issues and collaborating with the team - confident about ideas but also committed to learning, and respectful of others.
5. Is 100% committed to the user experience, and excels at design research, empathy and engaging with our diverse mix of target GIA participants and Young Foundation clients - including policymakers, non-profit managers, young budding social entrepreneurs and many more.
6. Can display a credible interest in how communities, organisations and governments work, and how individuals learn.
7. Excels in communication – verbally and in written form - and be a credible representative of what we do in a wide range of audiences.
8. Enjoys teaching and mentoring across a range of skill sets.
9. Flexibility and the ability to work on a number of projects simultaneously.
What we have to offer:
1. The opportunity to work for and help shape a dynamic, values-driven organisation working to achieve lasting social change;
2. £45,200 to £56,500 depending on skills, knowledge and relevant experience;
3. access to a defined benefit pension scheme with an employer’s contribution of 16%;
4. Light, attractive offices 15 minutes from the centre of London.
This is a fixed term post for 12 months on a full-time basis. Initially this role will be around half to two thirds of the postholder’s time, with the remainder of time building the Social Design team and practice and working alongside venture support colleagues. We will consider applications for both full time and 0.8 full time equivalent.
How to apply:
Please send a CV and a covering letter setting out how your skills and relevant experience relate to the person specification to applications@youngfoundation.org.
The covering letter should give details of your current role, salary and notice period, confirmation that you are a British or EU Citizen or otherwise have the right to work in the UK, and where you saw the advert. We are open to considering applications on a secondment basis as long as your employer supports your application. If you are applying as a potential secondee, also send confirmation from your employer that they would support a secondment.
The closing date for applications is noon on Thursday 13th October, 2011. Interviews will be on Friday 21th October, 2011.
We regret that we will only be able to reply to and give feedback to short-listed applicants.
If you have any questions please contact:
Jacques Mizan, Senior Associate
Direct: 0208 8709 4820
Mobile: 07776 307 080
Switchboard: 0208 980 6263
Email: jacques.mizan@youngfoundation.org
We are looking for an experienced service designer to join the Young Foundation in a lead position as head of the newly created Social Design Practice. This exciting new role is designed to help us maximise our work solving social problems using design thinking.
Attributes –we are looking for someone who:
1. Has at least 3-5 years experience of service design, able to hit the ground running, comfortably adopt a leadership position and make an impact quickly.
2. Has a genuine passion for our social purpose - who enjoys being part of an organisation that seeks out cutting-edge innovations in health, education, housing, poverty reduction, criminal justice and many other varied and diverse fields - and is inspired by the challenge of using design thinking to changing the way people engage with and tackle social issues, gaining the knowledge and skills they need.
3. Is a self-starter who works fast, enjoys working at the earliest stages of product development, embracing a spirit of "failing fast", and assembling a ‘minimum viable product’ rather than polished outputs.
4. Is a great team player who enjoys debating issues and collaborating with the team - confident about ideas but also committed to learning, and respectful of others.
5. Is 100% committed to the user experience, and excels at design research, empathy and engaging with our diverse mix of target GIA participants and Young Foundation clients - including policymakers, non-profit managers, young budding social entrepreneurs and many more.
6. Can display a credible interest in how communities, organisations and governments work, and how individuals learn.
7. Excels in communication – verbally and in written form - and be a credible representative of what we do in a wide range of audiences.
8. Enjoys teaching and mentoring across a range of skill sets.
9. Flexibility and the ability to work on a number of projects simultaneously.
What we have to offer:
1. The opportunity to work for and help shape a dynamic, values-driven organisation working to achieve lasting social change;
2. £45,200 to £56,500 depending on skills, knowledge and relevant experience;
3. access to a defined benefit pension scheme with an employer’s contribution of 16%;
4. Light, attractive offices 15 minutes from the centre of London.
This is a fixed term post for 12 months on a full-time basis. Initially this role will be around half to two thirds of the postholder’s time, with the remainder of time building the Social Design team and practice and working alongside venture support colleagues. We will consider applications for both full time and 0.8 full time equivalent.
How to apply:
Please send a CV and a covering letter setting out how your skills and relevant experience relate to the person specification to applications@youngfoundation.org.
The covering letter should give details of your current role, salary and notice period, confirmation that you are a British or EU Citizen or otherwise have the right to work in the UK, and where you saw the advert. We are open to considering applications on a secondment basis as long as your employer supports your application. If you are applying as a potential secondee, also send confirmation from your employer that they would support a secondment.
The closing date for applications is noon on Thursday 13th October, 2011. Interviews will be on Friday 21th October, 2011.
We regret that we will only be able to reply to and give feedback to short-listed applicants.
If you have any questions please contact:
Jacques Mizan, Senior Associate
Direct: 0208 8709 4820
Mobile: 07776 307 080
Switchboard: 0208 980 6263
Email: jacques.mizan@youngfoundation.org
Women & Theatre Comedy Fun(d)raiser
Local Housewife and mother of 5, Mrs. Barbara Nice is celebrating World Mental Health Day in style! With some of the best of female comic talent in tow, Barbara will be making us all feel better by having a blooming good laugh!
This year we’ve got a cracking line up including Shazia Mirza, Jen Brister, Katie Mulgrew, Juliet Meyers and Persephone Lewin
Tickets: http://www.glee.co.uk/performers/women-theatre-presents-barbara-nice-gals.htm
Women & Theatre return with their sell-out Annual Comedy Fun(d)raiser. Women & Theatre is a Birmingham-based company & registered charity which has been addressing contemporary issues through performance since 1983. The company creates engaging drama, which promotes the spiritual, social, physical and mental well being of the whole community. All proceeds go to Women & Theatre (B’ham) Ltd. Registered in England & Wales No. 1998448; Registered Charity No. 518580
Wednesday, 28 September 2011
Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club – Paul Tonkinson - The Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton : Friday 30th September 2011
Now firmly established as one of the most original and talented comedians on the UK and international circuit, charismatic wordsmith Tom began his ascent up the comedy ladder in 2002. In 2003, he scooped first prize in Channel 4’s prestigious So You Think You’re Funny competition and a year later he was nominated for Chortle Best Newcomer. Since then, he has continued to take the UK circuit by storm. An articulate and natural raconteur, he possesses an innate ability to riff with an audience like they’re old friends.
Simply put, this Edinburgh Comedy Award Nominee (formerly The Perrier Award) is one of the smartest, funniest stand ups you could hope to spend an evening with: An un-missable performer.
'The ultimate crowd pleaser' The Guardian
www.comedycv.co.uk/tomwrigglesworth
“Razor sharp humour” Metro
Official Website: www.myspace.com/barrydodds
“Rumour is a lot of acts don’t like following Wouter as he’s simply too good to follow – I agree” Metro
Official Website: www.myspace.com/woutermeijs
“Amazing comedy skills” The Times
Official Website: www.facebook.com/people/Javier-Jarquin/589647877
Tickets priced £12.00 + £14.00 (inc. entry to Cheeky Monkey club night) are available from Midland Box Office : 0870 320 7000 or online at http://www.wolvescivic.co.uk/
Celebrate ten years of innovative dance
Established in 2001, the international touring company presents Bare Bones The Decade, a presentation of iconic solos and duets from its previous productions, performed up-close and in-the-round. A number of high-profile choreographers have worked with the company over the last decade, and Bare Bones The Decade features choreography from previous productions by well-known names Hofesh Shechter, Carol Brown, Charlotte Vincent, Jasmin Vardimon and Luca Silvestrini.
David Massingham, Artistic Director of Bare Bones and DanceXchange (dx), comments: “It’s been a really amazing ten years of working with fantastic performers and brilliant choreographers. This selection from our history really epitomizes the spirit of the company. I love each and every one of these great works.”
2011 not only marks the ten year anniversary of Bare Bones, but also celebrates ten successful years of dx being based at Birmingham Hippodrome. dx, a powerhouse of dance responsible for helping to take British dance to a worldwide stage, has supported the production of over 50 major touring works, including Bare Bones, in the last decade. Bare Bones The Decade features as part of dx’s special anniversary line-up which also includes international artists TAO Dance Theatre, Frauke Requardt and Aakash Odedra.
To find out more information about dx or to purchase tickets for performances please visit http://www.dancexchange.org.uk/.
JOHN WEST ANNOUNCED AS SPONSOR OF THE ‘CELEBRATIONS OF THE SEA’ PROJECT
Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society Announces Sponsor for its Exhibition of Underwater Photography
L-R: Fishermen Rob Simmonds and Mike Kingsley who are featured in the exhibition.
The Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society, one of the UK’s oldest charities supporting impoverished former seafarers, has announced canned seafood manufacturer John West as its headline sponsor of the ‘Celebrations of the Sea’ project, the world’s first photography exhibition underwater.
The unique exhibition features photographs of individuals whose lives are dominated by the sea, including a number of celebrities such Mike Golding, one of the worlds most accomplished sailors, who has lent his support to the project. All the subjects are photographed carrying out their ‘day job’ but underwater.
Sponsor John West is one of the leading global brands in canned seafood, and has been catching the finest wild fish since 1857. John West the fisherman was a real stickler for quality, that’s why today John West has its own fleet so they can guarantee they catch the finest wild fish. As a result they really care for the fishermen who brave the elements to land their catch.
Asanka De Silva, Marketing Controller from John West, said: “As one of the UK’s leading seafood brands, John West has strong links to the sea and the marine industry, so we're delighted to be supporting this fantastic initiative by The Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society. The ‘Celebrations of the Sea’ exhibition is a really imaginative way of showcasing the experiences of mariners from all walks of life - from fishermen to sailors - with people all around the UK and we expect there to be lots of interest and engagement as the exhibition tours around the UK.”
The sponsorship from John West is supported by supply chain management company CEVA Logistics, which is providing its vehicles to transport the images around the different locations.
The exhibition is a collection of images taken underwater by photographer and TV Producer Kate Westaway. The Bristol based photographer has pictured everything from the rarest marine life in waters across the globe to high profile stars like Angelina Jolie on the set of Tomb Raider II. The exhibition will tour the UK at a number of Sea Life Centres where the images can be viewed submerged in various tanks.
Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society Chief Executive, Malcolm Williams, said: “‘Celebrations of the Sea’ aims to honour the maritime industry’s unsung heroes from the fishermen who brave the UK’s stormiest seas, to traditional lobster pot makers who keep precious fishing traditions alive and our most talented chefs who turn the fish caught out at sea into the nation’s favourite dishes. We are incredibly grateful for the support shown to the Society from headline sponsor John West, logistics provider CEVA and Sea Life for providing venues for the exhibition.”
The project aims to raise the profile of the UK maritime sector and its importance to the UK economy where it directly employs over 250,000 people, more than aerospace and agriculture combined, and has a £37 billion turnover. Over 95% of all Britain's imports and exports go by sea and fifty million people travel to, from and around the UK by ferry each year.
All donations generated from the exhibition will go to the Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society to support its work on behalf of retired and impoverished seafarers and their families in times of financial hardship.
With a volunteer network of over 200 Honorary Agents throughout the British Isles, the Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society handles several hundred new applications for assistance each year, distributing over £1.5 million to over 2,600 cases of need in the last 12 months.
The exhibition will launch in Brighton at the Sea Life Centre on 20th October where it will stay until 27th October before moving onto the centres in Weymouth, Birmingham, Blackpool and Scarborough in November and December
The Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society, one of the UK’s oldest charities supporting impoverished former seafarers, has announced canned seafood manufacturer John West as its headline sponsor of the ‘Celebrations of the Sea’ project, the world’s first photography exhibition underwater.
The unique exhibition features photographs of individuals whose lives are dominated by the sea, including a number of celebrities such Mike Golding, one of the worlds most accomplished sailors, who has lent his support to the project. All the subjects are photographed carrying out their ‘day job’ but underwater.
Sponsor John West is one of the leading global brands in canned seafood, and has been catching the finest wild fish since 1857. John West the fisherman was a real stickler for quality, that’s why today John West has its own fleet so they can guarantee they catch the finest wild fish. As a result they really care for the fishermen who brave the elements to land their catch.
Asanka De Silva, Marketing Controller from John West, said: “As one of the UK’s leading seafood brands, John West has strong links to the sea and the marine industry, so we're delighted to be supporting this fantastic initiative by The Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society. The ‘Celebrations of the Sea’ exhibition is a really imaginative way of showcasing the experiences of mariners from all walks of life - from fishermen to sailors - with people all around the UK and we expect there to be lots of interest and engagement as the exhibition tours around the UK.”
The sponsorship from John West is supported by supply chain management company CEVA Logistics, which is providing its vehicles to transport the images around the different locations.
The exhibition is a collection of images taken underwater by photographer and TV Producer Kate Westaway. The Bristol based photographer has pictured everything from the rarest marine life in waters across the globe to high profile stars like Angelina Jolie on the set of Tomb Raider II. The exhibition will tour the UK at a number of Sea Life Centres where the images can be viewed submerged in various tanks.
Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society Chief Executive, Malcolm Williams, said: “‘Celebrations of the Sea’ aims to honour the maritime industry’s unsung heroes from the fishermen who brave the UK’s stormiest seas, to traditional lobster pot makers who keep precious fishing traditions alive and our most talented chefs who turn the fish caught out at sea into the nation’s favourite dishes. We are incredibly grateful for the support shown to the Society from headline sponsor John West, logistics provider CEVA and Sea Life for providing venues for the exhibition.”
The project aims to raise the profile of the UK maritime sector and its importance to the UK economy where it directly employs over 250,000 people, more than aerospace and agriculture combined, and has a £37 billion turnover. Over 95% of all Britain's imports and exports go by sea and fifty million people travel to, from and around the UK by ferry each year.
All donations generated from the exhibition will go to the Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society to support its work on behalf of retired and impoverished seafarers and their families in times of financial hardship.
With a volunteer network of over 200 Honorary Agents throughout the British Isles, the Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society handles several hundred new applications for assistance each year, distributing over £1.5 million to over 2,600 cases of need in the last 12 months.
The exhibition will launch in Brighton at the Sea Life Centre on 20th October where it will stay until 27th October before moving onto the centres in Weymouth, Birmingham, Blackpool and Scarborough in November and December
Join thousands of people in the West Midlands in celebrating London 2012
• More than 690,000 people have already participated in a range of cultural activities as part of the Cultural Olympiad in the West Midlands.
• £515 million worth of London 2012 related business contracts have been won by firms across the West Midlands
• Post a comment about your London 2012 experience at facebook.com/thegamesandme by the end of September and you could even win a visit to see the Olympic Park later this year!
Through The Games and Me the West Midlands for 2012 team are encouraging the thousands of people who have already engaged with London 2012 activity across Herefordshire to share their experiences as a way of inspiring others. People posting comments before the end of September will have the chance of winning a visit to the Olympic Park later this year.
Individuals are invited to share their 2012 related stories on the dedicated Games and Me pages on Facebook, uploading photos, stories, blogs and videos demonstrating how people from all over the West Midlands are playing their part in the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
To date more than 690,000 people have already participated in a range of cultural activities as part of the Cultural Olympiad in the West Midlands generating £7.5 million worth of economic activity within the region. This includes the 106,000 people who attended over 60 events marking a year to go to the Games as part of London 2012 Open Weekend from 22 – 24 July 2011.
Businesses across the West Midlands are also making the most out of London 2012 having won over £515 million, over half a billion, worth of tenders supplying the 2012 Games and related projects, with over 302 different contracts won by 57 of the 59 Parliamentary constituencies.
Key contract wins include the master toy licence to produce the much sought after London 2012 mascot range, won by Golden Bear Products in Telford, the manufacture of the Olympic Torch by Coventry based The Premier Group, the production of commemorative and souvenir merchandise by Waterford Crystal, Wedgwood and Royal Doulton in Stoke-on-Trent and Zaun Fencing in Wolverhampton which has now won four separate contracts to supply the Games.
David Moorcroft, Chair of West Midlands for 2012 said: “Over the coming months the West Midlands for 2012 team will be encouraging all those who have been involved and inspired to share their stories with us so we can see how people have had their own Olympic or Paralympic moment right here in the West Midlands and urge those who have not yet got involved to visit http://www.wmfor2012.com/ for news and events listings.”
To find out how you can get involved in London 2012 inspired projects in the West Midlands visit www.wmfor2012.com and to tell us how you are already involved post your story at www.facebook.com/thegamesandme.
• £515 million worth of London 2012 related business contracts have been won by firms across the West Midlands
• Post a comment about your London 2012 experience at facebook.com/thegamesandme by the end of September and you could even win a visit to see the Olympic Park later this year!
Through The Games and Me the West Midlands for 2012 team are encouraging the thousands of people who have already engaged with London 2012 activity across Herefordshire to share their experiences as a way of inspiring others. People posting comments before the end of September will have the chance of winning a visit to the Olympic Park later this year.
Individuals are invited to share their 2012 related stories on the dedicated Games and Me pages on Facebook, uploading photos, stories, blogs and videos demonstrating how people from all over the West Midlands are playing their part in the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
To date more than 690,000 people have already participated in a range of cultural activities as part of the Cultural Olympiad in the West Midlands generating £7.5 million worth of economic activity within the region. This includes the 106,000 people who attended over 60 events marking a year to go to the Games as part of London 2012 Open Weekend from 22 – 24 July 2011.
Businesses across the West Midlands are also making the most out of London 2012 having won over £515 million, over half a billion, worth of tenders supplying the 2012 Games and related projects, with over 302 different contracts won by 57 of the 59 Parliamentary constituencies.
Key contract wins include the master toy licence to produce the much sought after London 2012 mascot range, won by Golden Bear Products in Telford, the manufacture of the Olympic Torch by Coventry based The Premier Group, the production of commemorative and souvenir merchandise by Waterford Crystal, Wedgwood and Royal Doulton in Stoke-on-Trent and Zaun Fencing in Wolverhampton which has now won four separate contracts to supply the Games.
David Moorcroft, Chair of West Midlands for 2012 said: “Over the coming months the West Midlands for 2012 team will be encouraging all those who have been involved and inspired to share their stories with us so we can see how people have had their own Olympic or Paralympic moment right here in the West Midlands and urge those who have not yet got involved to visit http://www.wmfor2012.com/ for news and events listings.”
To find out how you can get involved in London 2012 inspired projects in the West Midlands visit www.wmfor2012.com and to tell us how you are already involved post your story at www.facebook.com/thegamesandme.
Chance to try something new as part of Older People’s Day
Herefordshire Council’s sports development team has teamed up with halo leisure, the British Red Cross and Visit Herefordshire, to provide a series of taster sessions and fun activities aimed at encouraging people to be more active.
The UK Older People’s Day is in its fifth year in October this year and to celebrate in Herefordshire there will be a tea dance, historical walk, sing-along sessions as well as a chance to try out a series of free taster sessions at halo leisure centres, including zumba, spinning, body pump, yoga and fitball.
There is also a chance to try a snorkelling session at Leominster leisure pool while Hereford leisure pool is offering free health MOTs.
Shirley Goodwin-Jones, Herefordshire Council’s specialist physical activity development officer, said: “These events are aimed to show people that whatever their age there is an activity suitable for them and by taking exercise they can vastly improve their health and well being.
“Many of the activities also include a chance to socialise as this is also very important for people’s mental health, especially if they are alone.
“National UK Older People’s Day is aimed at anyone over the age of 45 and this is why we have also, thanks to our leisure partner halo, been able to include some activities that will appeal to the more young at heart and active such as spinning, zumba and snorkelling, and offer them a chance to try something new,” she added.
Events start with a Singalong with Karen on Friday, September 30 at Cleveham Court, Colwall, with songs from the 1930s to 1960s with a chance to dance along as well as try out some percussion instruments. This event runs from 5pm to 7pm and the fee of £4.50 includes refreshments. The British Red Cross has organised this event and can also provide transport by calling 01432 373039.
Then there is a free guided historical walk of Hereford on Sunday, October 2 at 11am, meeting at the Discover Herefordshire Centre. This is being led by Liz Hill and provided by Visit Herefordshire.
There will also be a tea dance on the same day from 2pm to 4.30pm at All Seasons School of Dance which will include a mixture of ballroom, Latin and sequence dance together with a cream tea and live music. The dance costs £2 and transport can be arranged by contacting the British Red Cross on 01432 373020.
Free halo taster sessions are running throughout Saturday, October 1, and are:
Leominster Leisure Centre 0845 24 12 540
Aqua Zumba Class (11am-11.45am); Snorkelling Session (11.45am-12.15pm); Swimming Stroke Development/Non Swimming Coaching Session (12.15pm-12.45pm); tea/coffee and cake – an opportunity to discuss exercise with halo’s team of fitness instructors (1pm-1.30pm); Introduction to Spin (indoor cycling group exercise class, 1.30pm-2pm); Introduction to Body Pump Class (full body conditioning, weight bearing workout using bar bells – suitable for all ages and levels of fitness, 2.15pm-2.45pm).
Hereford Leisure Pool – 0845 24 12 562 – please call the Centre for details of timings or visit http://www.haloleisure.org.uk/
Dance Mat Workouts (similar to the Wii exercises your children and grandchildren enjoy); free health MOTs (Fitness Mapping, Body Statistic Analysis, Blood Pressure Monitoring), Aqua Fit Group Exercise Class (30-minute class running throughout the day); Green Workout (Fitness Instructor led Power Walk around the meadows by the Leisure Pool)
Hereford Leisure Centre – 0845 24 10 978
Fitball (fun group exercise class using stability balls to focus on core strength and stability and all round conditioning, 9.45am-10.15am); Gentle Mobility Circuit (10.30am-11am); Yoga (11.30am to noon); Zumba Dance Workout (9am-9.30pm)
Ross Swimming Pool - 0845 24 12 570 - please call the Centre for details of timings or visit http://www.haloleisure.org.uk/
Introduction to safe and fun Weight Lifting Workouts (suitable for all ages and abilities); Swimming session
Ledbury Swimming Pool 0845 24 12 579 - please call the Centre for details of timings or visit http://www.haloleisure.org.uk/
Introduction to safe and fun Weight Lifting Workouts (suitable for all ages and abilities); Swimming Session
For more information log onto www.herefordshire.gov.uk and http://www.haloleisure.co.uk/
The UK Older People’s Day is in its fifth year in October this year and to celebrate in Herefordshire there will be a tea dance, historical walk, sing-along sessions as well as a chance to try out a series of free taster sessions at halo leisure centres, including zumba, spinning, body pump, yoga and fitball.
There is also a chance to try a snorkelling session at Leominster leisure pool while Hereford leisure pool is offering free health MOTs.
Shirley Goodwin-Jones, Herefordshire Council’s specialist physical activity development officer, said: “These events are aimed to show people that whatever their age there is an activity suitable for them and by taking exercise they can vastly improve their health and well being.
“Many of the activities also include a chance to socialise as this is also very important for people’s mental health, especially if they are alone.
“National UK Older People’s Day is aimed at anyone over the age of 45 and this is why we have also, thanks to our leisure partner halo, been able to include some activities that will appeal to the more young at heart and active such as spinning, zumba and snorkelling, and offer them a chance to try something new,” she added.
Events start with a Singalong with Karen on Friday, September 30 at Cleveham Court, Colwall, with songs from the 1930s to 1960s with a chance to dance along as well as try out some percussion instruments. This event runs from 5pm to 7pm and the fee of £4.50 includes refreshments. The British Red Cross has organised this event and can also provide transport by calling 01432 373039.
Then there is a free guided historical walk of Hereford on Sunday, October 2 at 11am, meeting at the Discover Herefordshire Centre. This is being led by Liz Hill and provided by Visit Herefordshire.
There will also be a tea dance on the same day from 2pm to 4.30pm at All Seasons School of Dance which will include a mixture of ballroom, Latin and sequence dance together with a cream tea and live music. The dance costs £2 and transport can be arranged by contacting the British Red Cross on 01432 373020.
Free halo taster sessions are running throughout Saturday, October 1, and are:
Leominster Leisure Centre 0845 24 12 540
Aqua Zumba Class (11am-11.45am); Snorkelling Session (11.45am-12.15pm); Swimming Stroke Development/Non Swimming Coaching Session (12.15pm-12.45pm); tea/coffee and cake – an opportunity to discuss exercise with halo’s team of fitness instructors (1pm-1.30pm); Introduction to Spin (indoor cycling group exercise class, 1.30pm-2pm); Introduction to Body Pump Class (full body conditioning, weight bearing workout using bar bells – suitable for all ages and levels of fitness, 2.15pm-2.45pm).
Hereford Leisure Pool – 0845 24 12 562 – please call the Centre for details of timings or visit http://www.haloleisure.org.uk/
Dance Mat Workouts (similar to the Wii exercises your children and grandchildren enjoy); free health MOTs (Fitness Mapping, Body Statistic Analysis, Blood Pressure Monitoring), Aqua Fit Group Exercise Class (30-minute class running throughout the day); Green Workout (Fitness Instructor led Power Walk around the meadows by the Leisure Pool)
Hereford Leisure Centre – 0845 24 10 978
Fitball (fun group exercise class using stability balls to focus on core strength and stability and all round conditioning, 9.45am-10.15am); Gentle Mobility Circuit (10.30am-11am); Yoga (11.30am to noon); Zumba Dance Workout (9am-9.30pm)
Ross Swimming Pool - 0845 24 12 570 - please call the Centre for details of timings or visit http://www.haloleisure.org.uk/
Introduction to safe and fun Weight Lifting Workouts (suitable for all ages and abilities); Swimming session
Ledbury Swimming Pool 0845 24 12 579 - please call the Centre for details of timings or visit http://www.haloleisure.org.uk/
Introduction to safe and fun Weight Lifting Workouts (suitable for all ages and abilities); Swimming Session
For more information log onto www.herefordshire.gov.uk and http://www.haloleisure.co.uk/
new economics meeting next Saturday - how did economic planning work ? Russia and the UK
10.15-12.00
The Warehouse
54 Alison St
Digbeth
As an opening stab at how planned economies worked or did not work, Alan Clawley and I will be doing a couple of presentations on the post war urbanisation that was done in the era before the emphasis on free market economies became overwhelming.
Alan will be speaking about the building of the New Towns in the UK, during the later years of which he worked on one. I will be speaking about the St Petersburg (or rather Leningrad) suburb of Kupchino which I visited just as the Soviet planned economy was being demolished by Boris Yeltsin.
This is an open meeting so please feel free to pass on the invitation to anyone who might be interested.
Andrew Lydon
The Warehouse
54 Alison St
Digbeth
As an opening stab at how planned economies worked or did not work, Alan Clawley and I will be doing a couple of presentations on the post war urbanisation that was done in the era before the emphasis on free market economies became overwhelming.
Alan will be speaking about the building of the New Towns in the UK, during the later years of which he worked on one. I will be speaking about the St Petersburg (or rather Leningrad) suburb of Kupchino which I visited just as the Soviet planned economy was being demolished by Boris Yeltsin.
This is an open meeting so please feel free to pass on the invitation to anyone who might be interested.
Andrew Lydon
Coventry University lecturer’s film ‘Defeat of the Champion’ gets World Premiere screening this week at Human Rights Film Festival
The national award-winning Birmingham International Film Society (BIFS) continues the highly successful first ever West Midlands Human Rights Film Festival with a special screening this week.
On Wednesday 28 September at 8pm at the Birmingham Central Library Theatre, the World Premiere of ‘Defeat of the Champion' will be screening.
Co-directed by Ken Fero, who lectures in Media Production at Coventry University, the film is a pertinent documentary about Project Champion, a CCTV initiative which was covertly implemented by West Midlands Police, to effectively ring-fence the Muslim communities of South Birmingham in the War Against Terror.
The secretive nature of Project Champion and its connotations incensed members of the various communities it was set up to observe, who actively protested against the initiative, and were successful in reversing the project.
Project Champion arguably contravened Article 12 in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which states that ‘No one shall be subjected to arbitrary interference with his privacy’.
The screening will be attended by filmmaker Ken Fero and there will be a panel discussion after the film led by Adrian Goldberg, BBC WM radio presenter, featuring a number of the film’s participants, including Steve Jolly, Tom Reeve (cctvimage.com) and Charles Farrier (No-CCTV).
The Festival is funded by Screen WM and the British Film Institute, and supported by leading documentary film distributor Dogwoof Films. The Festival runs until Tuesday 4 October 2011
On Wednesday 28 September at 8pm at the Birmingham Central Library Theatre, the World Premiere of ‘Defeat of the Champion' will be screening.
Co-directed by Ken Fero, who lectures in Media Production at Coventry University, the film is a pertinent documentary about Project Champion, a CCTV initiative which was covertly implemented by West Midlands Police, to effectively ring-fence the Muslim communities of South Birmingham in the War Against Terror.
The secretive nature of Project Champion and its connotations incensed members of the various communities it was set up to observe, who actively protested against the initiative, and were successful in reversing the project.
Project Champion arguably contravened Article 12 in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which states that ‘No one shall be subjected to arbitrary interference with his privacy’.
The screening will be attended by filmmaker Ken Fero and there will be a panel discussion after the film led by Adrian Goldberg, BBC WM radio presenter, featuring a number of the film’s participants, including Steve Jolly, Tom Reeve (cctvimage.com) and Charles Farrier (No-CCTV).
The Festival is funded by Screen WM and the British Film Institute, and supported by leading documentary film distributor Dogwoof Films. The Festival runs until Tuesday 4 October 2011
Tuesday, 27 September 2011
John Piper exhibition pulls in crowds
The exhibition John Piper – Creative Partnership has proved to be one of the most successful ever hosted by Herefordshire Council’s Hereford Museum and Art Gallery.
This summer 2011 show attracted more than 7,300 visitors during its nine and a half week run and was praised for the breadth of work on display.
Visitor feedback shows visitors from as far away as Cape Town and Colombia as well as lots of groups from U3A and art appreciation societies.
Alexia Clark, Herefordshire Council’s visitor services officer, said: “Feedback on the exhibition was overwhelmingly positive with comments such as blown away by it, what a coup for Hereford Museum and sensational.
“More than one visitor commented that although they regularly attend Piper exhibitions they have never seen such a wide range of his work on show at any one time before.
“This exhibition has really put the county on the map for art lovers and I hope we will be able to stage many more shows of this calibre in the future,” she added.
Any people who missed the exhibition can still see some of the museum’s own collection of John Piper works in an exhibition on the museum’s stairwell.
This summer 2011 show attracted more than 7,300 visitors during its nine and a half week run and was praised for the breadth of work on display.
Visitor feedback shows visitors from as far away as Cape Town and Colombia as well as lots of groups from U3A and art appreciation societies.
Alexia Clark, Herefordshire Council’s visitor services officer, said: “Feedback on the exhibition was overwhelmingly positive with comments such as blown away by it, what a coup for Hereford Museum and sensational.
“More than one visitor commented that although they regularly attend Piper exhibitions they have never seen such a wide range of his work on show at any one time before.
“This exhibition has really put the county on the map for art lovers and I hope we will be able to stage many more shows of this calibre in the future,” she added.
Any people who missed the exhibition can still see some of the museum’s own collection of John Piper works in an exhibition on the museum’s stairwell.
The Mole Who Knew It Was None Of His Business, coming to The Public in West Bromwich on 25 October
The Mole Who Knew It Was None Of His Business
By Kipper Tie Theatre
Tuesday 25 October 2011
Presented by Forget-Me-Not Productions
A magical, musical adaptation of the popular children's picture book.
£8.50 (adults), £6.50 (children)
Two performances: 11am and 2.30pm
The Public, New Street, West Bromwich, B70 7PG
http://www.thepublic.com/
0121 533 7161
A magical musical adaptation of the popular children’s picture book, The Mole Who Knew It Was None Of His Business, comes to The Public in West Bromwich on Tuesday 25 October.
The Kipper Tie Theatre production follows the story of Mole, as he encounters a variety of outlandish and amusing characters on his travels.
The charming tale of a young mole who embarks on a witty revenge mission having woken up with poo on his head, has wowed critics and audiences across the country, and has toured since 2004.
Described by the Sunday Herald as ‘everything children’s theatre should be’ and ‘perfectly pitched’ by The Guardian, the theatre production is enchanting for adults and captivating for children.
Linda Saunders, Managing Director of The Public said,
“During October half-term people visiting The Public will be treated to a fantastic array of children’s theatre, creative workshops and interactive exhibitions. The Mole Who Knew It Was None Of His Business is a lovely production that promises to be a fun, entertaining show for the whole family”
The Mole Who Knew It Was None Of His Business takes place on Tuesday 25 October 2011 at 11am and 2.30pm. Tickets are £8.50 for adults, £6.50 for children and are available from http://www.thepublic.com/ or by calling 0121 533 7161.
For more information about events at The Public visit http://www.thepublic.com/ or call 0121 533 7161
Research into the reporting of disability hate crime in Birmingham
A request for your support from Birmingham Disability Network on behalf of West Midlands Police
West Midlands Police are carrying out research into the reporting of disability hate crime in Birmingham and have asked us to contact local disability organisations or other community groups who work with disabled people and carers to ask for your assistance.
Disability hate crime is a very serious issue and can be distressing for victims, even leading to deaths through suicide or murder.
However, disability hate crime is not widely reported compared to other forms of hate crime, such as race and faith motivated hate crime.
West Midlands Police are committed to finding out why people may not be reporting disability hate crime and have launched a survey in order to get more evidence from disabled people and carers who may have been affected by crime generally and disability hate crime specifically.
The survey is interested in the views of disabled people and carers who have suffered any crime, regardless of whether it was hate crime or not. Collecting information and personal experience across a range of crime will help to assess whether disability hate crime is being identified properly, whether all parties understand what hate crime is and whether the police themselves are recording and dealing with it properly.
In the survey, people therefore have the opportunity to state whether they feel a crime was due to their disability. The survey is also interested in gauging people's views on the police in general, how do they feel about the police, what was their experience in reporting any type of crime and did they encounter any barriers?
The questionnaire is on the website of West Midlands Police at this link:
http://www.west-midlands.police.uk/survey/disability_hate_crime/disability_hate_crime.htm
The questionnaire has 20 questions, many of which require a simple yes or no answer whilst others have boxes for people to type in more details about their personal experience. The survey is completely anonymous and confidential and can take as little time as five minutes to complete.
The information provided will help West Midlands Police to plan how they specifically respond to disability hate crime effectively in the future but also ensure that the service of the police to disabled people and carers reporting any sort of crime is first class.
We would ask your organisation to encourage your staff, members or service users who may have experienced any sort of crime to fill out one of the questionnaires online. You can also contact us if you require hard copies of the questionnaire, though we would encourage you to support individuals to complete the questionnaire online where possible.
In view of the serious potential impact of hate crime on the lives of individual disabled people and carers, we would urge you to support this survey.
Thank you for your attention.
Pete Millington
Information & Community Empowerment Manager
Birmingham Disability Resource Centre
West Midlands Police are carrying out research into the reporting of disability hate crime in Birmingham and have asked us to contact local disability organisations or other community groups who work with disabled people and carers to ask for your assistance.
Disability hate crime is a very serious issue and can be distressing for victims, even leading to deaths through suicide or murder.
However, disability hate crime is not widely reported compared to other forms of hate crime, such as race and faith motivated hate crime.
West Midlands Police are committed to finding out why people may not be reporting disability hate crime and have launched a survey in order to get more evidence from disabled people and carers who may have been affected by crime generally and disability hate crime specifically.
The survey is interested in the views of disabled people and carers who have suffered any crime, regardless of whether it was hate crime or not. Collecting information and personal experience across a range of crime will help to assess whether disability hate crime is being identified properly, whether all parties understand what hate crime is and whether the police themselves are recording and dealing with it properly.
In the survey, people therefore have the opportunity to state whether they feel a crime was due to their disability. The survey is also interested in gauging people's views on the police in general, how do they feel about the police, what was their experience in reporting any type of crime and did they encounter any barriers?
The questionnaire is on the website of West Midlands Police at this link:
http://www.west-midlands.police.uk/survey/disability_hate_crime/disability_hate_crime.htm
The questionnaire has 20 questions, many of which require a simple yes or no answer whilst others have boxes for people to type in more details about their personal experience. The survey is completely anonymous and confidential and can take as little time as five minutes to complete.
The information provided will help West Midlands Police to plan how they specifically respond to disability hate crime effectively in the future but also ensure that the service of the police to disabled people and carers reporting any sort of crime is first class.
We would ask your organisation to encourage your staff, members or service users who may have experienced any sort of crime to fill out one of the questionnaires online. You can also contact us if you require hard copies of the questionnaire, though we would encourage you to support individuals to complete the questionnaire online where possible.
In view of the serious potential impact of hate crime on the lives of individual disabled people and carers, we would urge you to support this survey.
Thank you for your attention.
Pete Millington
Information & Community Empowerment Manager
Birmingham Disability Resource Centre
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