Totally Telford is a Telford & Wrekin Council resident magazine, celebrating the towns within the borough and the incredible people, businesses, and organisations that make Telford and Wrekin a fantastic place to live, work, and visit.
ISSUE 8 • WINTER 2024 – SPRING 2025
CREATING A BETTER BOROUGH
Shaping Telford and Wrekin’s future together
• A safe and clean community • Supporting a thriving economy • A green and sustainable borough • Health and
wellbeing for all residents
About us... • We are a trusted, not for profit organisation. • We have a wealth of experience and expertise in supporting families and communities. • We make the decisions about the home where children will stay. • We always prioritise our in-house foster carers. • We provide local training and support. • Our fostering team and children’s services are here in Telford. We keep children local.
Children should stay and grow up in their hometowns and enjoy a childhood that is as stable as possible. We believe keeping them local is the way to do this. Foster with your local authority
Don’t just take our word for it. Read what some of our local foster carers have to say...
Charli and Chris “ Fostering a teenage boy
Debbie and Chris “ We have just transferred with our foster child who is with another local authority. It has taken five painless weeks from application to panel. ”
Donna and Felix “ We’ve been through mainly highs and some lows with our foster daughter. When she ran to greet us and gave us the biggest hugs she could - it’s a memory I will never forget. No longer the introverted silent girl we opened our door to. ”
alongside our young family has enriched our lives. It has been the best thing to happen to us. ”
Whether you are considering fostering or would just like to have a chat, we would love to meet you. We will be at the following locations:
Scan to find out more about our local carers.
Thursday 16 January Friday 31 January Wednesday 5 February Thursday 20 February Friday 28 February Wednesday 5 March Thursday 27 March Friday 28 March
6pm-7.30pm 10am-12noon
Ketley Community Centre Costa, Wrekin Retail Park Online Information Event Ketley Community Centre Costa, Wrekin Retail Park Online Information Event Ketley Community Centre Costa, Wrekin Retail Park
7pm-8pm
6pm-7.30pm 10am-12noon
7pm-8pm
6pm-7.30pm 10am-12noon
www.telfordfostering.co.uk
Welcome As we welcome a new year, my first as Leader of Telford & Wrekin Council, it’s a time to reflect on achievements and look to the future with determination. We ended 2024 by delivering our 20 pledges, demonstrating our commitment to making the borough cleaner, greener, and safer. These pledges brought real benefits: • Opening six family hubs to support families. • Creating additional school places. • Renovating leisure centres and hosting free sports activities through our Urban Games programme. • Delivering events like the crowd-drawing Balloon Fiesta. We launched an on-demand bus service and made significant progress on the transformational Station Quarter development, which includes The Quad, a vibrant learning and business centre. Last winter, we supported residents with record pension credit claims and nearly £600,000 in Household Support Funding, helping 6,000 pensioners with supermarket vouchers.
This year, we’ll transform Telford Theatre into a state-of-the-art cultural hub and enhance Wellington Market and Oakengates High Street to boost local business. The Station Quarter will continue to create opportunities for learning, jobs, and business growth. We’ll invest in equipping residents with skills for the future, opening up pathways to quality employment, explore ways to expand green transport, improve infrastructure, and support residents during challenging times. Protecting and caring for the vulnerable remains central to our vision. Together, we’ll shape a borough where businesses thrive, communities flourish, and our environment is protected for future generations—a place we’re all proud to call home.
Councillor Lee Carter Leader of Telford & Wrekin Council
www.telford.gov.uk/SignUpForLee Sign up to my weekly newsletter
Sunset at the top of The Wrekin
We are always looking for interesting stories about things happening in Telford and Wrekin, people who are going above and beyond or if you have an idea to help make your town, cleaner, greener or safer, we’d would love to hear from you. Email us at media@telford.gov.uk
With thanks to our contributors TW Leisure, Telford & Wrekin Culture and Events, Invest Telford, Visit Telford, My Options, Waggy Washes, Resin Floors Telford, Crown Print, Wellington Town Council, Love Wellington, Newport Town Council, Oakengates Town Council, Great Dawley Town Council, Madeley Town Council, Ironbridge Parish Council, British Red Cross, Sustainable Telford and Wrekin, West Merica Women’s Aid, Cranstoun Telford, West Merica Police.
This magazine has been created by Telford & Wrekin Council.
*All content was correct at the time of print.
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SAFER AND STRONGER COMMUNITIES
ADULT £2 UNDER 19 £1 Affordable
Last year more than 350,000 passengers chose to take their journeys with us on our seven routes the 99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104 and 105. With help from resident surveys, the council introduced the 100, also known as the ‘work express’ which now helps people living in Brookside, Sutton Hill, Madeley and Woodside, get to work in Stafford Park, Halesfield and Hortonwood, Wellington or access the Princess Royal Hospital as well as providing a direct bus to New Road Academy from the South of Telford. Schools and colleges between Madeley and Wellington as well as residents of Madeley, Dawley, Lawley, Arleston and Wellington have been supported by the 101 which also links people to the Princess Royal Hospital. Admaston, Arleston, Dothill, Hadley, Ketley Bank, and Lawley areas are covered by the circular 99 services (A&C) which also include stops at Wellington, Oakengates and Telford Town Centre as well as the Princess Royal Hospital. In rural areas, there are more bus routes and stops than ever before catered for by the 102, 103, 104 and 105 buses which replace the rigid, pre- bookable service known as the ‘Wrekin Rider’ which served an average of ten passengers a week. Bus passes will also be honoured on the public services. Schools and market towns of Wellington and Newport including Edgmond, High Ercall, Lilleshall, and Tibberton, are supported by the 102/3 services. buses for all
“We are working to provide the best fit within a budget and want to do all we can to ensure people are not isolated. We are committed to keeping the buses affordable for everyone and delivering improvements all the time to make sure they are the best fit for the people of Telford and Wrekin.” Councillor Ollie Vickers Telford & Wrekin Council Cabinet Member for the Economy
Full details of the council’s timetables and services are available here www.telford.gov.uk/BusServices
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SAFER AND STRONGER COMMUNITIES
Uncover
your partner’s past
Clare’s Law
You’ve met someone new, being showered with affection, spending more and more time with your new-found love and quickly planning a life together. It feels a little fast, but everything is great. Right?
You have the right to know if a current or former partner has a history of violence or abuse. Under Clare’s Law, individuals have the right to approach the police to request information about a current or ex-partner if they fear they may pose a future risk or if they have a history of abuse. This law also allows you to request information about the partner of a close friend, neighbour or family member if you’re worried they might be at risk of domestic abuse. How to report At a police station You can go to any police station to make a request. A police officer or member of police staff will take down some details and talk you through the next steps. You’ll be asked to give your: name, address, date of birth . Online Visit www.telford.gov.uk/ClaresLaw Need support with domestic abuse? • If you are in immediate danger, call 999 . • If you cannot speak, use the silent option. Call 999, answer the questions by coughing or tapping, then dial 55 if prompted. • If you, or someone you know is currently experiencing mental or physical abuse, call the Telford & Wrekin Domestic Abuse Service 0800 840 3747 . • If you have a hearing or speech impairment, use our textphone service 18000 or text us on 999 . • If you’ve pre-registered with the Contact 999 using Relay UK – How to use Relay UK | Relay UK .
It’s easy to miss red flags when you are feeling loved. But slowly remarks about your friends, never letting you pay – or difficult conversations about money – freezing you out when you’re upset or just not being able to share your hurts, needs, or wants in a relationship, can be signs that the person you are falling for is not being entirely honest with you. Ignoring your own needs to maintain a status quo, will only work for so long and a few months down the line you may start to find that you don’t feel entirely at ease, but are not sure why. These niggling issues may be a sign that the road ahead holds harsher attempts of manipulation and control, but there is a way to get a better understanding of the person in your life. Clare’s Law – also known as the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme – was named after Clare Wood, who was tragically killed by her violent ex-boyfriend in 2009. Clare’s father Michael spearheaded the campaign for change, leading to the law being officially implemented in England and Wales in 2014.
“We take a zero-tolerance approach to domestic abuse in Telford and Wrekin, Clare’s Law is a way people can protect themselves. It’s been around since 2014. However, it is not taken up often enough. No matter how trivial you think it might be, it’s better to be safe. Clare didn’t have the choice so we would encourage everyone who can to make use of Clare’s Law to prevent domestic abuse.”
Councillor Kelly Middleton Telford & Wrekin Council Cabinet Member for Healthier, Safer & Stronger Communities and Partnerships
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SAFER AND STRONGER COMMUNITIES
Report concerns about child sexual exploitation at SaySomethingTelford.co.uk Report concerns about child sexual exploitation at SaySomethingTelford.co.uk
In July 2024, Tom Crowther KC delivered his final report of the Independent Inquiry into child sexual exploitation in Telford. The inquiry had been launched two years earlier to investigate and tackle exploitation that had taken place in Telford and Wrekin. Returning to Telford and Wrekin to review progress made against his 2022 recommendations, Mr Crowther said: “What I have found has been without exception positive. People will not forget Telford’s history of child sexual exploitation – and nor should they. But in my view, the council’s approach now stands as a model. All involved deserve our very high praise.” You can read the full report at www.iitcse.com Learning from the past Working together to stop child sexual exploitation
Councillor Lee Carter Leader of Telford & Wrekin Council
What you can do • Recognise how to spot the signs and symptoms that child sexual exploitation may be taking place • Know when, where and how to report any concerns • Take action if something feels wrong Seen something? Say something is a campaign calling on the community across Telford and Wrekin to help us protect children and young people. Most importantly, we know that our work doesn’t stop here, so we are… …committed to a better future Keeping children and young people safe is the most important thing Telford & Wrekin Council does. That’s why the council continues to develop it’s services to meet the needs of children and young people who are victims of child sexual exploitation (also known as CSE), and to focus on preventing child sexual exploitation from happening now and in the future. Whilst we’re committed to doing our best, we know we need to work with others to make sure we keep children and young people safe.
Visit www.SaySomethingTelford.co.uk to learn how to spot the signs of child sexual exploitation and report concerns. You’ll also find support for victims and families.
Help improve lives by reporting concerns about child sexual exploitation.
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Why not ! Time to switch? Fancy making one easy change that will help improve our borough? More than 29,000 residents have now switched over to receiving their Council Tax bills by email. It helps the council save money which we can use for more worthwhile things like protecting front-line services. It also means less wasted paper, less fuel for postal deliveries, and less carbon going into the atmosphere.
It’s so easy you only need your name, home address and email address!
It saves the council money which can be better spent elsewhere
Switch to e-billing today
My Council Tax
Visit www.telford.gov.uk/ebilling to register for bills by email today. Or you can scan this QR code
Think which service for the right help, fast ThinkWhichService.co.uk
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Building digital confidence CONNECTING EVERYONE IN OUR BOROUGH
In Telford and Wrekin, digital innovation pays a key part in creating a better borough, but it also needs to be a digitally-inclusive borough for those who do not wish to or cannot access the digital world, and not exclude people without access or digital skills who might otherwise be left behind. That’s why Telford & Wrekin Council is now running free drop-in digital skills sessions around the borough every week, for people of all ages. These sessions are run by Digital Champion volunteers and can help with a wide range of digital challenges including online safety, using devices, sending email and keeping in touch with family and friends. There is also free wifi at public council buildings including libraries, community and leisure centres, and free-to-use computers at all of the borough’s libraries and some community centres too.
“Often the biggest barrier stopping people getting online is confidence, so the council runs free digital drop-in sessions every week, aimed at boosting skills and improving confidence. They’re open to all and there’s no need to book, just drop-in.”
There’s a whole range of support available to help people get online in Telford and Wrekin. For more information visit www.telford.gov.uk/TelfordOnline
Councillor Zona Hannington Telford & Wrekin Council Cabinet Member for Finance, Governance and Customer Services
As well as weekly drop-in sessions, Telford & Wrekin Council is also running two free six-week Get Connected courses for over 50s in partnership with Age UK. Courses are held in at Wellington Library and start later this month. Mondays – starts 27 January. Every Monday 2pm to 3.30pm Wednesdays – starts 29 January. Every Wednesday 10am to 11.30am To book on a course please call 01952 380000 or go to www.telford.gov.uk/GetConnected
Free digital skills drop-in sessions every week
6 week course for over 50s
Wednesdays 10am to 12noon Southwater Library, Telford Town Centre Thursdays 1.30pm to 3.30pm Wellington Library, Wellington
Sessions are open to all and there’s no need to book in advance. The council regularly reviews session locations to make sure they’re held where they’re needed and most popular.
To keep up to date with future locations, you can register your interest at www.telford.gov.uk/DigitalSkills
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A HEALTHY FUTURE FOR TELFORD AND WREKIN
Adult Social Care? In a vibrant community like Telford and Wrekin, caring for residents is one of the council’s top priorities so that all people can live safe and well in the borough. Councillor Paul Watling Telford & Wrekin Council Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health Systems Empowering residents to find the help they need, when they need it Do you know where to go for support with
The council wants to make sure that residents know where to go to get the help they need to support themselves or someone else. By asking people with lived experience for their feedback, Knowing Where to Go was created in
The resource brings together all the available adult social care options including key contact details and websites so that you can access the right services at the right time. This initiative underscores the council’s
information all in one place can really help. “The guide signposts
you to so many different offers with further information and contact details right at your fingertips. We want to make getting the right support as simple as possible.” Complementing this is the Carers Wellbeing Guide, a booklet tailored to those who dedicate their time and energy to caring for others. It offers practical advice and vital information that acknowledges the unique challenges carers face. The Carers Wellbeing Guide is more than a manual; it’s a lifeline. It reminds us that while we care for others, we must also care for ourselves. Together, these resources reflect a community united in its commitment to support and uplift one another. By equipping carers with the tools they need, Telford & Wrekin Council is fostering a network of care that benefits all, ensuring that everyone, from carers to those cared for, knows exactly where to go and what to do.
co-production with the Making It Real Board. It’s an adult social care tool designed to empower residents with the knowledge and resources needed to foster a supportive environment where everyone can thrive. Navigating social care and wider services can sometimes be tricky, especially if you’re coming to a brand new service for the first time. Knowing Where to Go is here to offer clarity in a sometimes confusing landscape.
commitment to education and community support, helping residents make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing. As Councillor Paul Watling, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care & Health Systems said: “When we know where to go, we know what to do and we can truly care for our community. “We know that caring can be challenging and exhausting at times, so having key
Carers Wellbeing Guide. www.telford.gov.uk/CarersWellbeing
Knowing Where to Go. www.telford.gov.uk/kwtg
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Shared Lives and Supported Lodgings offer unique opportunities for people to open their homes and hearts to those in need, creating a nurturing environment where everyone can thrive. The power of Shared Lives and Supported Lodgings care? Could you A HEALTHY FUTURE FOR TELFORD AND WREKIN
These programmes aim to assist adults with disabilities, young people leaving care, and others who need a stable home environment, cultivating a sense of belonging while also promoting independence, enabling people to grow and seek out community provisions and possible future employment.
Jeannie, a dedicated Shared Lives carer said: “I wanted to help people and this was perfect for me. “Shared Lives is all about opening up the home, being able to help people thrive and being able to watch them do something they never expected to do because of the support you can offer. “I’ve loved every day of it – there’s not a day I don’t want to do my job. “As long as you’ve space not only in your home but in your heart, then I think anyone could be a Shared Lives or Supported Lodgings carer.” Caring people are in high demand, as the need for supportive environments continues to grow. Councillor Paul Watling, Telford & Wrekin Council Cabinet Member for Adult
Social Care & Health Systems, said: “We need compassionate, committed people who are willing to open their homes and hearts. Together, we can create a community where everyone is valued, where every story is heard, and where every life is enriched.” The process to become a Shared Lives or Supported Lodgings carer is straightforward yet thorough, ensuring that the right match is made for all people involved. Interested applicants can begin their journey to caring by getting in touch with My Options. By participating in Shared Lives and Supported Lodgings, you can make a
lasting difference. The opportunity to share your life with someone who needs support is not only a commitment to community, but also an enriching personal journey that fosters education, understanding, and compassion.
My Options provides a wide range of person-centred support to people of all ages and abilities. www.myoptionstelford.co.uk
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A HEALTHY FUTURE FOR TELFORD AND WREKIN
It’s a new year and a new you – signing up to the Healthy Telford pledge could be a great way to commit to being healthier and happy in 2025. The Healthy Telford pledge is an empowering 12 week email programme designed to enhance wellbeing and encourage people to adopt healthier lifestyles, all while fostering a sense of unity by making this change for a reason. Finding motivation can be hard but getting healthier is much easier when you have a reason to do it! The pledge encompasses a wide range of support, including how to get more active, eating more nutritious food, enhancing emotional wellbeing and quitting smoking, all aimed at making health accessible and engaging. Who will you Do It For?
Take the pledge today
Jorden, who has already embraced the pledge, shared her enthusiasm: “I quit smoking for my son. “I wanted to be able to run around and play with him without being out of breath. I didn’t want to be paranoid that I smelt of smoke and therefore that my child did, even though I never smoked around him. “Now we can play together outside, and the money I’ve saved will be going towards a trip to Disney!” So who will you do for it?
Whether its for your dog, your children, or your future self, signing up to the Healthy Telford pledge is a promise to becoming a healthier you.
“The dedication of people who have already taken the pledge is truly inspiring, and the positive changes they are experiencing in their lives are a testament to what can be achieved. “I’ve committed to my pledge too – I’m aiming to complete 500,000 steps for Diabetes UK. “It’s a great way to get myself outside and active, meet new people and support people like my dad who have been impacted by diabetes.”
Sign up today healthytelford.com @HealthyTF @HealthyTelfordWrekin
Councillor Kelly Middleton Telford & Wrekin Council Cabinet Member for Healthier, Safer & Stronger Communities and Partnerships
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PROTECTING OUR ENVIRONMENT
Carbon net zero On track for Five years ago, Telford & Wrekin Council declared a climate emergency in the borough and committed to making all council activities and operations carbon neutral by 2030.
DID KN W
YOU
The council is pleased to say it’s still on track to achieve this, having already reduced carbon emissions by 61 per cent since making that commitment in July 2019. As well as making improvements to buildings and leisure centres, the council has recently completed a £1.9m walking and cycling route between Oakengates and Telford Town Centre to encourage more active travel, and is also installing 140 electric vehicle (EV) charging points in public car parks too. Through its housing company Nuplace, the council is building affordable, energy efficient homes with solar panels to reduce energy bills and carbon emissions and has also given out more than 9,000 energy efficient LED lightbulbs to As well as working hard to decarbonise its operations, Telford & Wrekin Council is also encouraging local businesses and community groups to do the same. At the end of last year the council held a Climate Change Conference attended by almost 40 partners including local businesses like Schwalbe Tyres and community organisations like Telford Climate Action Hub, all committed to tackling climate change. The conference focused on updates from partners on their climate change initiatives, plans to mitigate against more frequent extreme weather events due to global warming and enabled delegates to share ideas. Examples of successful initiatives included ten primary schools in the borough receiving funding to reduce carbon emissions through reduced food waste, and help for almost 3,000 households to cut their home energy bills, saving a total of £40,000. vulnerable residents around the borough. Conference shares climate change successes
Solar panels As part its carbon reduction work, the council has been installing solar panels on offices, leisure centres and commercial units. In total they generate around 370,000 kWh of energy and save almost 145 tonnes of CO 2 every year – the equivalent of around 123 return flights from London to New York. The council has its own solar farm too, at Wheat Leasowes, which has generated £5.68m in electricity since it was switched on in 2014.
“Climate change continues to be one of the biggest issues affecting our residents and businesses and remains one of the Council’s top priorities. I am proud of the progress we have made towards our ambition of reducing carbon emissions to net zero across our own operations. We are taking action wherever we can to make our buildings more energy efficient and the money we save is being ploughed back into vital services.” Councillor Carolyn Healy Telford & Wrekin Council Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Planning and Sustainability
Check out some of the solar panel sites www.telford.gov.uk/ solarpanelvideo
Decarbonising leisure centres Telford & Wrekin Council is
continuing to work hard to make its buildings more energy efficient as part of its commitment to becoming carbon neutral by 2030. It recently completed £2.2m in decarbonisation improvements at Oakengates Leisure Centre, including installing heat pump technology, improving the building’s energy efficiency and insulation. This work is reducing carbon emissions as well as cutting energy use by an estimated 114,000 kWh annually, enough energy to run 37 houses in Telford and Wrekin for a year. With Oakengates now open again, and Newport completed in 2022, the Council has already started similar work at Wellington Leisure Centre to reduce carbon emissions and energy use there too and hopes to complete this work by the summer.
Find out more about what else the council is doing to tackle climate change www.sustainabletelfordandwrekin.com
Find out more about this work www.telford.gov.uk/ LowCarbonLeisure
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PROTECTING OUR ENVIRONMENT
Seven parks get Green Flag awards Record
DID KN W YOU On a single summer’s day, one acre of wildflower meadow can contain up to 3 million flowers, support 96,000 honeybees, and produce 1 kilogram of honey. Reducing mowing to help wildlife keep growing Did you see all the wonderful wildflower meadows and verges around the borough last summer? Last summer the Council cut back on mowing and let more meadows and verges grow, to increase wildflower areas and provide even more spaces for nature around the borough. Wildflower meadows offer the perfect environment for butterflies, bees and other pollinating insects, as well as providing an abundance of attractive blooms through the season. They also added an extra five football pitches worth of wildflower meadows, bringing the total area managed for wildflowers in Telford and Wrekin to 171 acres, the same as 85 football pitches. Once the flowers started to seed, the meadows and verges were mowed to make sure seeds were spread and sown, to regrow these important habitats again this summer.
Protecting more space for nature As part of its commitment to protecting the natural
environment, Telford & Wrekin Council has recently designated two new Local Nature Reserves, so their importance as sites for nature are protected. The two new sites, Langley Fields Local Nature Reserve in Dawley and Horsehay and Simpsons Pools Local Nature Reserve in Horsehay, bring the total number of Local Nature Reserves in Telford and Wrekin to 20, covering more than 1,500 acres, or the equivalent to around 760 football pitches. Town Park voted the cleanest in England The award-winning Telford Town Park has picked up another prize, after being named England’s cleanest! The park and Local
For the first time, a record seven wonderful parks and green spaces in Telford and Wrekin have been awarded Green Flag status. These awards are the international quality mark for well-managed public green spaces. Dothill and Shawbirch Local Nature Reserve have joined Telford Town Park, Bowring Park, Apley Woods Local Nature Reserve, Hartshill Park, Dale End Park and Dawley Park which all retained their Green Flag status too. The Green Flag Award judges said: “These are vital green spaces for the community in Telford and Wrekin, bringing
Nature Reserve, which covers over 445 acres (equivalent to 225 football pitches) includes play areas, sensory and floral gardens, nature and heritage trails, fishing pools, bike hire and mini-golf too. With over 700,000 visitors every year, it’s fantastic that Telford Town Park has been
people together and providing opportunities to lead healthy lifestyles. Staff and volunteers do so much to ensure that they maintain the high standards of the Green Flag Award and everyone involved should feel extremely proud of their achievement.” These sites, along with the borough’s parks, Local Nature Reserves and over 300 green guarantee sites all protected from development, mean that in Telford and Wrekin there is more than three times the amount of green space in the borough per 1,000 residents compared to Natural England’s recommended minimum amount.
acknowledged as the cleanest in the country. Did you know,
there are 54 litter bins in Telford Town Park and in total they’re emptied more than 19,000 times every year, and often twice a day or more!
Check out the borough’s wonderful Green Flag parks in this short video youtu.be/J9iJIMut5xQ
Plan your visit to the Town Park www.telfordtownpark.co.uk
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ECONOMIC GROWTH FOR ALL
£1 million boost for Telford and Wrekin businesses
With over £1 million already allocated, Thrive Telford grants continue to empower local businesses. Invest Telford the council’s business support and inward investment team, Thrive Telford programme has been a game-changer for local businesses, helping them to innovate, grow, and thrive. With over £1 million already allocated, the programme, backed by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), has supported over 200 businesses across the borough. And there’s still time to apply for funding, but businesses need to act fast before all available grants are allocated. The impact of Thrive Telford is being felt by businesses large and small, including Waggy Washes, a local dog grooming service, and Telford Resin Floors, a specialist flooring company. Both businesses have used Thrive Telford grants to fuel their growth and development, helping them to expand their services, improve their operations, and create new opportunities for the community. These success stories are just a glimpse of the positive impact the Thrive Telford programme is having on local businesses. With grants available for innovation, exports, energy projects, and more, the programme has already made a real difference in Telford and Wrekin.
Waggy Washes: A clean start for local pet owners Waggy Washes, a dog grooming business based in Telford, has seen tremendous growth since receiving support from the Thrive Telford programme. With the help of an expansion grant, the business was able to upgrade its facilities and invest in state-of-the- art grooming equipment. This has allowed them to increase their capacity, reduce wait times for clients, and offer more specialised grooming services for pets. Business owner Stephanie Briggs shared, “The Thrive
Apply now before funding runs out
Telford grant has been a turning point for our business. With the funding, we were able to invest in new equipment and improve the experience for our customers. We’ve been able to grow our client base and employ one new member of staff. It’s made a real difference.”
With the deadline for allocations fast approaching, borough- based businesses are encouraged to apply soon before the funding runs out. Whether you’re looking to expand your operations, invest in sustainable energy, or create new jobs, Invest Telford could provide the support you need.
Resin Floors Telford: Transforming spaces, one floor at a time Resin Floors Telford, a company that specialises in providing high- quality resin flooring solutions for both residential and commercial properties, has also benefitted from the Thrive Telford programme. By using the grant to support marketing efforts and enhance their online presence, Telford Resin Floors has been able to reach a wider audience, attract new clients, and position themselves as leaders in their industry.
There’s still time to secure a grant for your business. For more information on available grants and to apply today visit www.investtelford.co.uk/thrive-telford
“Invest Telford through the Thrive Telford programme is transforming local businesses, helping them grow, innovate, and create jobs. We’re committed to ensuring every penny of funding supports Telford’s economic future and success.” Councillor Ollie Vickers Telford & Wrekin Council Cabinet Member for the Economy
Paul Duncan, Director of Resin Floors commented, “We are hugely grateful for the support provided. The Thrive Telford grant has allowed us to exceed our expectations in terms of growth which has allowed us to expand our workforce. Investing in capital equipment at the same time as hiring additional employees is always a difficult decision to take and the support from Invest Telford has helped to minimise this risk and given us the confidence to act on our optimism.”
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ECONOMIC GROWTH FOR ALL
Driving more footfall to Telford and Wrekin’s high streets High streets across the UK continue to face significant challenges. Suppor ting business growth
The council remains committed to supporting local businesses and creating vibrant high streets which residents and businesses can be proud of. Here’s just one example of a business in Madeley, Crown Print & Design, which has received support from the Pride in Our High Street programme and continues to grow and prosper.
So what’s the secret to bucking this trend? The council’s Pride in Our High Street programme continues to support businesses across the borough, helping them to grow and flourish, and encourage people to shop local and support local independent businesses on their doorstep. Since 2018, the programme has awarded a total of 367 grants and helped 65 businesses to set up on the high street through Pride in Our High Street start-up grants. Through the programme, businesses have also been given other funding to drive more footfall and attract more visitors to towns. That funding includes 79 eco grants to help businesses become more sustainable, 43 façade grants to improve shop frontages and enhance the overall appearance of high streets, and 19 digital grants to equip businesses to trade effectively in the digital arena. Pride in Our High Street continues to make great progress tackling empty shop units and breathing new life into the borough’s high streets.
Increased costs, online shopping and the attraction of supermarkets and out of town shopping facilities have all had a huge impact on high street businesses. However, Telford and Wrekin continues to buck the national trend for empty retail units on our high streets with just 3.8 per cent of units across the borough’s towns standing empty compared to 14 per cent nationally (Local Data Company).
Crown Print & Design relaunched in Madeley after the lease on its former Donnington unit ended thanks to a Pride in Our High Street start-up grant which has enabled owner Dumitru Savu to expand his business considerably. Established in 2021, the business is now based at Madeley Shopping Malls, on Madeley High Street and offers a wide range of printed products and gifts such as business cards, uniforms, leaflets, signs and many more Dumitru said: “We had been looking to improve our high street position in the borough for some time. “We looked at several available high street units and Madeley Shopping Malls was the most suitable and affordable option for us to enable sufficient company growth and sustainability. “We’re really grateful to Telford & Wrekin Council for supporting us with a start-up grant to make this move possible which is greatly supporting our business growth.”
You can find out more about the Pride in Our High Street programme www.telford.gov. uk/prideinourhighstreet
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ECONOMIC GROWTH FOR ALL
Investing in Telford and Wrekin Laying foundations for our futures
‘Creating a better borough’ is very much Telford & Wrekin Council’s mantra. And the Council’s Investing in Telford and Wrekin programme is committed to doing just that. Over the next three years, the council is investing a total of £250m into a wide range of projects, breathing new life into some of the borough’s most historic buildings and safeguarding their future for generations to come. The Quad in Station Quarter, a digital skills hub and a place for education, business and innovation to thrive, has already been completed and plans have been approved for a new sixth form centre for Telford College, opening in September 2026, which will add to
the academic campus being created in Telford Town Centre. But that’s only one part of Station Quarter which will also see 189 new homes developed and public realm improvements to make Telford Town Centre a much more attractive place to live and visit. In Oakengates, Telford Theatre is being completely rebuilt and the town centre is being revitalised – with dated retail units being modernised which includes residential units above, developing new public spaces for events and improving parking – all with the aim of driving more footfall to the town. And in Wellington, some of the most historic buildings in the town’s conservation area are being redeveloped while the town’s historic market is also set to be sensitivity renovated. So there’s lots to look forward to and watch this space over the months ahead to see these developments taking shape.
“Investing in Telford and Wrekin is quite literally laying foundations for the future. “It’s creating opportunities to learn new skills, secure great jobs, enjoy top cultural activities and live in an attractive place we can all be extremely proud of.”
Councillor Lee Carter Leader of Telford & Wrekin Council
You can find out more about the Oakengates Theatre project www.telford.gov.uk/ InvestingInTelfordAndWrekin
British Red Cross Oakengates Theatre Quarter project The British Red Cross was the first business to move into newly refurbished premises in Oakengates as part of ongoing plans to revitalise the town. It’s now open for business at 12-14 Limes Walk after being temporarily located at Market Street while improvement works took place as part of Telford & Wrekin Council’s Theatre Quarter project. Jayne Edwards, General Manager of The British Red Cross, said: “We’re delighted to be back home and absolutely love our new shop. “The difference this has made to Oakengates already is fantastic and the street is looking beautiful. It has that wow factor and I don’t think anyone was expecting this.”
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CELEBRATING THE IMPACT OF TOURISM IN TELFORD AND WREKIN
From the world-famous Ironbridge Gorge, outdoor adventures around The Wrekin, to bustling heritage market towns and cultural attractions, tourism supports the local economy, helping communities to thrive. Visit Telford, the Tourism Team at Telford & Wrekin Council, has been working tirelessly to position the area as a must-visit destination, supporting local businesses and benefiting residents. Telford welcomes over 4 million visitors generating a whopping £220 million direct economic impact and this number is growing with more and more people discovering the unique attraction of a destination that combines world heritage, epic adventures and outdoors with artisan attractions, cultural experiences, and some of the best hospitality with great food and drink hot spots. Recognising the significant role tourism plays, Visit Telford has recently joined forces with partners in Shropshire to form the Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP), which has been accredited by VisitEngland. This collaboration aims to strengthen the region’s tourism sector, promote the area as a top destination, improve the visitor experience, and support local businesses. Through the LVEP, more visitors will discover what makes Telford and Wrekin a great place to visit, stay and explore. Tourism not only boosts local businesses and is vital to making great places, but it also creates jobs, enhances community pride, and fosters a more connected and prosperous borough. Driving the economy
“Tourism is a vital part of Telford and Wrekin’s economy, supporting local businesses and creating jobs. The vital work of our Visit Telford team has been crucial in developing our destination into a major great day and stay location for regional, local and national visitors. Through partnerships like our new LVEP, we can ensure a brighter future for our community and visitors alike.”
Councillor Angela McClements Telford & Wrekin Council Cabinet Member for Leisure, Tourism, Culture & the Arts
Puddle Duck Cottages One local resident and tourism business who’s seen first-hand how tourism supports the community is Sonia Bird, owner of the award-winning Puddle Duck Cottages in Ironbridge. Specialising in dog- friendly accommodation, Puddle Duck Cottages has earned award winning recognition for offering a welcoming environment for both guests and their furry friends. “Tourism is vital to our success,” says Sonia. “The work of Visit Telford is so important in keeping our destination front and centre in the minds of regional and national visitors. We’re proud to provide a home-away-from-home for guests, many of whom return to explore the world- famous Ironbridge Gorge, its culture, heritage landscapes, and artisan shopping. Knowing their furry friends are welcome makes their experience even better. This year, we celebrated 10 years of welcoming visitors and are honored to have won numerous tourism awards, including three consecutive Gold awards at the Dog Friendly Awards held at the Kennel
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Club in London, one of the most competitive categories. We’re also proud to have been shortlisted in the VisitEngland Excellence Awards.”
YOU
The tourism sector is one of the Top 5 employment sectors in Telford and Wrekin supporting key jobs from hotel staff to tour guides, retail, hospitality and more.
Join the Visit Telford Partnership for FREE
If you have a tourism, retail or hospitality business located in Telford and Wrekin you could benefit from joining the Visit Telford partnership. Find out more by emailing hello@visittelford.co.uk For inspiration on great days out, what’s on, food and drink, great nights our and much more visit www.visittelford.co.uk and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
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LEISURE, EVENTS AND CULTURE
From our high streets, to the historic Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site, to the Telford Town Park QEII arena, and community spaces, your council has an action-packed programme of events for everyone this year with many of them being completely free as well. Added to this, the work is now underway for the brand-new refurbished Telford Theatre and its exciting new performances spaces. In the meantime the show must go on – on the road! Continuing to bring great entertainment to venues across the borough including comedy, drama, live music and children’s shows such as comedian Alfie Moore, the children’s show A Big Egg, Tina Live and Forever Elton to name just a few. Plus, the very popular summer outdoor theatre programme will include HMS Pinafore, a Midsummer Night’s Dream and Much Ado About Nothing. All we need now is some nice weather. Events and culture
Do you have an interest in the culture, arts and heritage in the borough? Do you want to meet other like minded people and help shape the way culture impacts everyone’s lives? Work with us to draw up a new Culture Strategy or join the Telford Culture Club network events. If you want to find out more and be part of the process email events@telford.gov.uk Cultural Strategy 2025
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YOU
Keep up to date with all the plans for the new theatre building www.telford.gov.uk/ investingintelfordandwrekin
Telford Theatre is undergoing a huge transformation?
“We can’t wait to kickstart another fantastic programme of events this year and look forward to seeing you there. Telford Theatre will be on the road using venues on people’s doorsteps to bring live entertainment into the heart of our communities. Take a look at what’s on and join us for live music, family shows or comedy.” Councillor Angela McClements Telford & Wrekin Council Cabinet Member for Leisure, Tourism, Culture & the Arts
Don’t miss out
Sign up today to hear about all the great events for the year ahead.
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SKATE BEYOND THEM WWW.TELFORDICERINK.CO.UK
BOOK ONLINE
SKI BEYOND THEM
www.telfordski.co.uk Tel 01952 382688 Ski Lessons / Snowboarding Lessons / Recreational Practice / Group Bookings Visit us at Court Street, Madeley Telford TF7 5EE
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LEISURE, EVENTS AND CULTURE
Investing Investing in leisure in you
“Investment into our leisure services is important to us in order to continue to offer first class facilities for residents today and future generations.” Councillor Angela McClements Telford & Wrekin Council Cabinet Member for Leisure, Tourism, Culture & the Arts
A Good Boost
A new session introduced in 2024 specifically for people with musculoskeletal conditions which effects joints, bones, muscles and can affect nerves has proved to be a great success with residents. The pool-based Good Boost sessions provide an exercise class that can be followed at your own pace on individual I-Pads. Sessions take place at Abraham Darby Sports and Leisure Centre and can be booked without any need for a medical referral. They are being delivered in partnership with Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin NHS. Sue has been a regular participant and says: “I joined the Good Boost Aqua programme at the start to help build strength and mobility following a total hip replacement. It’s made a big difference to my recovery with a notable improvement after just four sessions. I’m now eight months post-op, but still attend as there’s such a variety of exercises to help develop strength, balance, and flexibility. It’s a tailored programme that fits alongside physiotherapy advice.”
2025 marks the 150th anniversary of Captain Matthew Webb becoming the first man to swim the English Channel and Dawley’s local hero is the inspiration for the naming of the proposed new swimming pool to be built at Dawley – the Captain Matthew Webb Swimming Pool. At Telford & Wrekin Council the value of swimming to residents is well recognised – bringing both physical and mental health benefits and creating opportunities for people to access leisure facilities. From investing in a new pool to free swimming for residents aged under 25 plus a range of concessionary rates including discounted swimming for the over 50s Telford & Wrekin Council continues to provide opportunities to access facilities to support health and wellbeing. And more than 1,500 children under ten years old have enjoyed free swimming lessons under the 10 by 10 programme over the last two years providing essential swimming skills to young people. Investing in leisure facilities continues in 2025 with a scheduled reopening date of summer 2025 for the swimming pool at Wellington Civic and Leisure Centre currently undergoing major refurbishment works to improve the facilities for users and reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions including the installation of an air source heat pump, roof and wall insulation and a new hot water system. The fitness suite and fitness classes have remained open and this centre continues to be a popular site for residents.
You can sign up here if you would like to receive email updates and news about our leisure facilities. www.telford.gov.uk/TWLeisureUpdates
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Great value memberships
Multi-use sites across the borough Gym / Swim / Fitness Classes / Health Suite
Use offer code: NEWYEAR to get January for free
Pay nothing until 1 February 2025 Offer available from 1 January 2025
Sign up today at www.telfordandwrekinleisure.co.uk/january
USEFUL INFORMATION
go for help know where to
With more than 900 services, from bins to bushes and footpaths to fostering, there is probably a team here to help and the easiest way to reach us is through our app. My Telford is just one way Telford & Wrekin Council is delivering effective, efficient and quality services to residents as an innovative and community focused council. It’s never been easier to access the services that matter most to you but if you want to speak with us you can do that too!
from your council?
Sign up today
www.telford.gov.uk/MyTelford The My Telford app is FREE and easy to use and can be downloaded from your phone’s app store.
Have you met Tom? Ask Tom is our digital assistant and helps us answer more people without having to wait to speak to a member of staff and at any time of the day. While Tom isn’t right for everyone, he has helped cut customer waiting times by 50 per cent by using technology to handle these relatively simple queries. Tom can answer, listen, speak and send information directly to your devices.
Hi, I’m TOM, ASK me a question.
General contact numbers – Office hours Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm
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WEB ADDRESS
Adult Social Care – Knowing where to go
01952 385385 01952 383838 01952 384384
www.telford.gov.uk/kwtg
Benefits
www.telford.gov.uk/info/1002/benefits
Bins and recycling
www.telford.gov.uk/bins
Business rates
www.telford.gov.uk/BusinessRates www.telford.gov.uk/CouncilTax
Council tax
Domestic violence
0800 7831359 01952 383206 01952 380400 01952 381818
www.telford.gov.uk/da
Elections
www.telford.gov.uk/elections
Emergency welfare
www.livewell.telford.gov.uk/EmergencyHelp
Enforcement
www.telford.gov.uk/enforcement
Environmental health
www.telford.gov.uk/EnvironmentalHealth www.telford.gov.uk/FamilyConnectService www.telford.gov.uk/FloodingAndDrainage
Family Connect
Flooding Fostering
03451 559955 01952 387387
www.telfordfostering.co.uk
01952 384000 (OFH 03451 559955)
Highways (streets and roads)
www.telford.gov.uk/roads
Homelessness Housing options Leisure services Mental health
01952 676500 01952 381925 01952 382621 0300 1240364 01952 380380 01952 382444 01952 385385 01952 676500 01952 383867
www.telford.gov.uk/homelessness www.telford.gov.uk/HousingOptions
www.telfordandwrekinleisure.co.uk/facilities www.sssft.nhs.uk/services/Adults-Mental-Health
Planning
www.telford.gov.uk/planning www.telford.gov.uk/RegisterOffice
Register Office
Safeguarding children Safeguarding adults Support with travel costs
www.familyconnecttelford.co.uk/ConcernedAboutAChild
www.telford.gov.uk/AdultSafeGuarding www.telford.gov.uk/ConcessionaryTravel
Trading Standards
www.telford.gov.uk/consumers
Trees, hedges and woodland
www.telford.gov.uk/trees
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