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 6 • AUTUMN/WINTER 2023
HEALTH & WELL-BEING Edition
Keeping your mind & body healthy
• Splash out – U25s swim for free • Tai Chi in the park • Volunteer & nurture our green spaces
Being able to see a GP and have efficient services is a priority for young and old. We’d like everyone to have the best possible service at every practice in the borough, not just some. Rate your experience of GPs
A return journey to the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital for Newport residents, would mean catching 6 buses, 144 stops and cost £7.50 for a journey that would take over 4 hours.
Watch Your journey could look like this.
Now it’s your chance – have a say with Healthwatch Telford and Wrekin.
Fight for emergency services goes on Across Telford and Wrekin, people have been fighting plans to downgrade emergency services at the town’s main hospital for years. Future Fit plans will see Telford and Wrekin’s main hospital lose its 24-hour A&E and consultant-led women and children’s unit and become, primarily, a centre for planned care only. The current Hospital Transformation Plan will see Telford become the largest town in England without a full A&E service. We’re urging the government to reconsider its decision to allow Future Fit plans to go ahead. The full business case for the hospital transformation programme will be submitted to the national approval process this winter and we will continue to challenge the decision made.
Council Leader Shaun Davies presented a petition with over 22,700 signatures to the PM’s front door at 10 Downing Street.
Taking action So far this year, we’ve: 3 Delivered a petition signed by over 22,700 residents direct to Downing Street 3 Raised the issue in the House of Lords 3 Debated the issue at Full Council and re-instated unanimous support to challenge the government’s decision 3 Formally written to Steve Barclay MP – the Health Secretary – (twice) to set out our case and urge him to use his legal powers to review the plans 3 Highlighted the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital planning application with residents and urged health leaders to engage fully with them on transport plans 3 Continued to bring attention to the issue in the news and on social media
What you’re saying on social media
Jade de Monvé: “We need to save our A&E. It’s so busy as is. Putting them both together and moving to Shrewsbury is literally playing with people’s lives. The way Telford is expanding also, you are basically asking for more deaths if this goes ahead. The people of Telford need to take a stand to save our hospital.”
Terry Drurs: “I remember times before we had our own hospital. Arduous drives both in emergencies or just to visit loved ones at Shrewsbury. Those people who don’t remember, believe me we don’t want to go back there.”
Julia Cain: “Good for Shrewsbury but without proper parking it will be useless. Telford needs its own hospital as does Shrewsbury they both cover a massive area.”
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Welcome Our A to Z runs from adult social care to zebra crossings – more than 700 different services – and I understand first- hand how so many of them are important. Being well is more than just the obvious things – like exercising and eating healthy food. A safe community, secure home, access to good health care, job opportunities and a meal on the table are some of elements that when combined, give us building blocks for happy, healthy lives. For me and my parents, it was help with a first home, the park I played in as a kid and at the hardest time when I needed social care for my nan. This council supported me and my family and I’m now able to give back and make sure that you have support too.
From free swimming for little ones to warm meals and spaces for older people, council services support the lives of everyone in some way
As we head into the winter months and the challenges this brings, especially with the increased cost of living, it’s important to take extra steps to look after your well-being. This edition of Totally Telford is jam-packed with inspiration on how to make your money go further, steps you can take to stay well and services that you can call on to help.
Councillor Shaun Davies Leader of Telford & Wrekin Council
Everyone under the age of 25 living in Telford and Wrekin can swim for free in any of our four pools?
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Find a swim session near you: telfordandwrekinleisure.co.uk/swimming
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. If you have a story to tell, we would love to hear from you. Email us at ✉ media@telford.gov.uk *All info correct at the time of going to press.
With thanks to our contributors
Acknowledgements: Ironbridge Parish Council, Great Dawley Town Council, Oakengates Town Council, Newport Town Council, Wellington Town Council, Madeley Town Council, Telford Bike Hub, Shropshire Wildlife Trust, TW Leisure Services, Friends of Telford Parks and Green Spaces, Smallwoods, Buglife, Telford and Wrekin Street Champions, Telford Foster Carers, Live Well Telford, Visit Telford, Newport’s Dog Health Shop, Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust, Making It Real, Telford and Wrekin Libraries, AFC Telford United Foundation, Shropshire Cricket, Brightstar Boxing, Telford Netball, Telford and Wrekin Hockey Club, Telford Flyers BMX, European Innovation Limited.
This magazine has been created by Telford & Wrekin Council.
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GREENER
Green spaces for all
Enjoy an abundance of nature
We have cleared, renovated and installed pathways, ramps and steps, upgraded fencing and gates and installed new benches including wheel chair accessible picnic tables. We have desilted pools, managed vegetation, planted trees, sown wildflowers and installed homes for birds, bees, bats and bugs. Over the last few months, people have been out and about enjoying wildlife activities held in our green spaces, spotting creatures and reaping the physical and mental benefits of getting back in touch with nature, why not join them?
Scan for details of parks, nature reserves and green spaces: telford.gov.uk/greenspaces
Follow Telford & Wrekin Council on Facebook to find out about nature events and activities: facebook.com/TelfordWrekin
Exciting species we’ve found
Dingy skipper butterfly in Langley Fields Local Nature Reserve – present on this site but declining nationally and quite rare, so we’ve harvested Birdsfoot Trefoil seeds to sow on another of our sites to give the butterflies a wider habitat.
“We’ve been creating a community that is a greener place for all – our borough is now home to more than 300 council-protected parks, nature reserves and green guarantee sites. “Not only are our
natural spaces important for supporting biodiversity, they’re also hugely beneficial to the well-being of those who visit and volunteer. “I’m delighted that, by protecting and investing in our green spaces, we’re helping wildlife to thrive and making nature more accessible for all.” Councillor Carolyn Healy Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member for climate action, green spaces, heritage and leisure
Great crested newts in pools at Dothill Local Nature Reserve – we’ve recently dredged the pools and created new banks for poolside plants which will create a more diverse habitat for our newts and other creatures.
Daubenton’s bat in Dale End Park – known as the ‘water bat’, they catch insects from the water’s surface and can be seen flying just above the surface of the River Severn at Dale End Park. We have positioned bat boxes in the trees close to the river for this reason.
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GREENER
Get that riding If you’ve ever ridden a bike, you’ll know that feeling when – after pedalling hard – you earn a blissful moment of effortless freewheeling With the wind in your face and real life whizzing past, you’re in a world of your own. Most of us learn to ride a bike as a child but get out of the habit, which is a real shame, because it’s… just so much fun. If you fancy getting back in the saddle, Telford has some wonderful rides. Town Park The town park is a great place to start if you don’t have your own bike because you can hire from Telford Bike Hub, just beside the visitor centre. You can explore up to 14 miles of trails that weave around the park’s beautiful nature reserves and beauty spots. The Bike Hub is open every Friday to Sunday from spring until the end of the October half term, and seven days a week during the school holidays. This winter, a series of group rides –
each with a special theme – are being held plus ‘learn to ride’ sessions for young and old. Silkin Way
Get free BMX tuition through the Urban Games project – read more on page 16.
If you already have your own bike, we highly recommend a ride along the Silkin Way – our flag-ship 14-mile walking and cycling route from Bratton in the north to Coalport in the south. Thanks to some upgrades over the last year, the Silkin Way’s now got a smoother surface, better way-markers and more street lighting, plus new benches along the whole route – so you can stop for a breather, a sandwich, or just to take in the scenery. Download the Silkin Way route map: telford.gov.uk/silkinway
Be front of the queue Be the first to find out about forthcoming cycling activities including ‘learn to ride’ sessions, plus all things walking and cycling. Follow Travel Telford on Facebook: facebook.com/TravelTelford
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Cycling can burn calories at a rate of 400-750 calories per hour. Cycling increases your heart rate, pumping more oxygen to your brain which has been shown to help manage anxiety and depression. Plus endorphins and other mood-enhancing chemicals are released, making us feel more positive. Just one bout of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise like cycling for 30 minutes has been found to improve some aspects of cognition, including your memory, reasoning and ability to plan.
telford.gov.uk/bikehub Find out about Telford Bike Hub:
Source: Cycling UK
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GREENER
Green Spaces Are Go
Exercise is good for us right? But did you know that where you exercise makes a difference too?
Modern, fast-paced lives often leave us stressed, anxious, and overwhelmed but exercise helps us combat these negative feelings, especially in natural settings
That’s why we launched ‘Green Spaces Are Go’ and funded events that are totally free to take part in, to help spark a different kind of fitness journey like wintertime Nordic walks for example. Or try conservation work at Holmer Lake, tai chi in the park, football coaching, outdoor pursuits from ‘Parents Opening Doors’ or walking events in Newport and Hollinswood. Events will continue through autumn and into December in our 23 nature reserves, Green Flag award-winning parks and more than 300 green guarantee sites.
Whether you make it to an event or not, Telford and Wrekin is the perfect place for green space exercising and thousands of people took part in events over the summer, immersing themselves in archery, outdoor pursuits, hands-on conservation work, orienteering and expertly guided sessions at outdoor gyms. So, to improve memory, concentration and feel more relaxed, discover your perfect way to reconnect with nature and check out the link to the right to see what’s on.
Find out what’s on: healthytelford.com/greenspacesarego
Veterans’ and armed forces cafés, breakfast and football clubs, chat sessions, models for heroes and craft groups It marks our commitment through
to the armed forces family
These are just some of the things we have done to uphold our pledge to members of the armed forces, veterans, family members or for those who have sacrificed the most such as the injured and bereaved. The Armed Force Covenant ensures people are treated with fairness and respect in the communities, economy and society they serve with their lives. Telford & Wrekin Council has the highest accolade – a gold award – in the Ministry of Defence’s employer recognition scheme.
supportive policies for veterans, reserves, cadet adult volunteers and family members and for the delivery of events celebrating our armed forces community. For further information about the support services available visit telford.gov.uk/armedforces or contact Mrs Cindy Mason-Morris – British Armed Forces covenant co-ordinator ✉ armedforcescovenant@telford.gov.uk or call MOBILE-ALT 01952 384772 .
Find out more: telford.gov.uk/armedforces
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CLEANER
...Because of these People
The council’s teams protect, maintain and invest in our green spaces, but they can’t do it alone. They are supported by dedicated volunteers whose passion and hard work keep parks, nature reserves and wildlife in such good shape
Create added value for your volunteering in the community or for good causes. If you’re an employer and would like to know more, then get in touch. Could your team get involved? Contact ✉ volunteering@telford.gov.uk employees We also help with employee volunteering where employers support their staff with
“Volunteering at Dawley Hamlets Local Nature Reserve keeps me fit, mentally and physically, connecting with nature, history and like-minded people. We work to increase biodiversity and create a greener, healthier environment. “Organisations including Smallwoods and Buglife have brought in expertise, funding and more volunteers, multiplying our efforts. I like the idea that some of the fruits of our work might not be fully apparent until the next century.” Dave Jackson Volunteer with Friends of Dawley Hamlets Local Nature Reserve
‘Friends of’ groups
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Want to be involved in improving your local park? ‘Friends of Parks’ groups work closely with the council’s green spaces team. Each group helps care for a specific area, this way having a greater say in what goes on, from the park’s appearance, to facilities, conservation and safety too.
Thanks to everyone’s hard work, Telford and Wrekin has a whopping SIX Green Flag parks.
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Want to join a Friends group?
telford.gov.uk/joinus
Time to boost your digital skills
Six-week digital skills courses for over 65s are now available, helping to give people the confidence to get online. Each course consists of six, two-hour sessions supported by trainers and digital champion volunteers, as well as offering a chance to socialise with a hot drink and biscuits too. Online essentials include getting to grips with emails, shopping safely online and keeping in touch with family and friends are covered in the sessions. The courses are being delivered in partnership with the charity STAY and are part of the council’s work to tackle digital exclusion in the borough through its £24m On Your Side investment programme. Stay is a provider of specialist charitable housing and person-centred support. The last course available in this round is at Hadley Community Centre and starts Friday 27 October 1pm to 3pm. More dates are due to be announced please check the website telford.gov.uk/getconnected or call MOBILE-ALT 01952 380000 .
“These courses are aimed at beginners, so you really don’t need to have any prior knowledge to take part and learn new things. If you already have your own digital device, please bring it along to the course, but if you’re not sure if you have a suitable device, please get in touch and we may be able to help you. “We piloted the courses in a couple of locations around Telford and Wrekin, and they’ve proved so popular that we’re planning to announce new dates regularly.”
Councillor Nathan England Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member for finance, governance and customer services
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CLEANER Help us hit 2,000 Join the team of people who care about where they live Do you care about the open spaces around you, look out for your neighbours and want a clean and safe place to live? There is a way we can support you, by joining a team of 1,500 street champions – a group of active volunteers playing a vital role in keeping the borough spick and span. There’s lots of benefits that come with the ‘job’ like a sense of well-being, pride from helping your community and there’s a friendly network of volunteers you can join too. It’s the kind of job where you decide what you do, when you do it and even how you’d like to help. The roles cover three areas.
1. Doing
2. Reporting
3. Projects
Litter picking, cutting back overhanging branches, pruning, maintaining community gardens, deterring dog fouling by spraying it with coloured paint, linking in with the work of your parish or town council and supporting community events.
Help us keep on top of things like full bins, damage and other local issues so they can be dealt with as quickly as possible, by reporting these issues on the MyTelford app.
From time to time there may be opportunities to take part in environmental projects, awareness raising campaigns or data collection. How much time you put in is up to you. All we ask is that you do as much as you can. There may be other street champions operating in your area too, so we can put you in touch with them so you can work together.
Find out more, or register your interest in becoming a street champion at: telford.gov.uk/streetchampions
Street Champion Meet Matt Street champion Matt (21), helps with litter picking where he lives, and has also helped clean fences and clear driveways. As someone with autism and learning difficulties, Matt finds that volunteering has increased his confidence and communication skills as he also helps out elsewhere – volunteering at the community grocery, café as well as at a local garden centre too. Matt said: “I enjoy volunteering because I like being busy, meeting people and
“Our volunteers are what make Telford and Wrekin special and are striving for the same things as we are – bridging gaps, supporting each other and building an even better future. “There are so many people doing great things day in, day out and have a huge impact on people’s lives. “Volunteering doesn’t have to be a big commitment. Whether that’s an hour a week, it’s up to you. Even giving a little bit of time can help others in need and improve your own health and happiness too. It can also make you feel more connected to your community and the people around you.” Councillor Raj Mehta Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member for inclusion, engagement, equalities and civic pride
helping out in the community I get more confidence, feel valued and
am part of a team.”
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CLEANER
On the trail of
fly-tippers
If you’re like us and have a zero-tolerance policy on people dumping waste and expecting others to pay for its clean-up, then you’ll be interested to know that a new penalty is in force. And it’s not just fly-tipping we’re cracking down on – other offences like littering, graffiti and fly-posting also have higher penalties too. How do you feel about fly- tippers?
Sign up to receive appeals from Telford and Wrekin Watch: telford.gov.uk/watch
Clamping down with higher fines
“We’re not only clamping down with fines, but we’re also working with
Offence
WAS NOW £400 £1,000
Spotted a pothole or a bin that needs emptying?
Fly-tipping
people to reduce the cost of bulky waste collections, provide ample recycling facilities at dedicated sites and from people’s homes.
Littering
£80 £75
£150 £500
Graffiti and fly-posting
Duty of care
£300 £600
The powers came about due to new legislation announced by the government to tackle anti- social behaviour. Previously rates of fly-tipping had reduced by 43%, but this has started to rise again. Despite increased investigations and more fines issued year-on-year, the rate continues to rise. You can help too. If you see someone fly- tipping or can provide evidence to help us prosecute, call our confidential hotline on MOBILE-ALT 01952 388800 . We also have a website where all our appeals and convictions are saved, take a look and see if you can help solve a case at telford.gov.uk/watch . *Duty of care means failing to dispose of waste – household or commercial – in the right way.
“We will not
hesitate to issue fixed
penalty notices for fly-tipping and prosecute offenders because improving the quality of people’s lives and protecting communities is our number one focus.”
Then why not play your part and help us keep on top of things with the MyTelford app – your one-stop-shop for reporting and accessing over 100 council services. Report things quickly so that we as a community can work together to keep our town cleaner, greener and safer.
Councillor Richard Overton Telford & Wrekin Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for homes and enforcement
Sign up
Bulky item collections
Number of items
Charge
Open 9am – 5pm, seven days a week. Closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day, open for all other bank holidays. Household Recycling Centres Hortonwood 50 Hortonwood Telford TF1 7AA Halesfield 1 Halesfield Telford TF7 4LN
1 – 3 4 – 6 7 – 9
£15 £28 £43 £56
The MyTelford app is available to download on iOS and Android devices. More information on the MyTelford service can be found here:
10 – 12
Apple iOS
Andriod
Discounts are available for seniors aged over 80, households where a resident is 65–79 years, residents in receipt of council tax support or housing benefit or a longstanding illness or disability as well as TLC loyalty card holders.
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HEALTH
Fostering
Do you have the power to transform the life of a child in care?
Donna & Felix Amazing Foster Carers Have you ever wondered if you have the skills needed to foster? Donna and Felix, two of our incredible foster carers, share their recent experience. “We started fostering last year and have a 12-year-old living with us. The support from Telford Fostering team has been marvellous. “The skills to foster course they provide is brilliant, it thoroughly prepares you for your role as a foster carer. You can continue being in employment as well.”
At Telford Fostering, we welcome people from all walks of life, regardless of age, gender, relationship status or sexual orientation. Part-time fostering opportunities are
Stef’s Story Part-Time Fostering “I didn’t realise part-time fostering was possible until I contacted the Telford Fostering team. It’s a privilege to help make children’s lives happier and provide full- time carers with a much-needed break.”
available, in addition to full-time ones, so even if you can only foster a few days a month, please reach out to our team. You will receive valuable benefits, including competitive fees and allowances, training and development opportunities, in-house therapeutic support. If you have a spare room and are over the age of 21, along with a compassionate heart, you could be a foster carer. We are here to support you through this rewarding journey. Join us and become part of a supportive and valued community.
If you are interested in fostering, contact Telford Fostering:
telfordfostering.co.uk MOBILE-ALT 01952 387387 (9am–5pm)
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HEALTH
Adult Social Care
Save time, go to...
Are you or someone you know struggling with mobility or need additional care and support to live independently? The Independent Living Centre is here to assist. It’s a partnership between ourselves and Telford & Wrekin CVS (Council for Voluntary Service). It’s packed full of valuable information and guidance for anyone looking to enhance their independence at home or in the community. When you visit the centre, have a go and try out gadgets, and support equipment, suited to your needs. Unlike a typical office, the entire centre is designed to replicate a home environment. This way, you can experience first-hand how care, and support equipment, fit into familiar surroundings. Our friendly team welcomes you with a cup of tea and a chat to understand your challenges at home. Then together, we work towards finding practical solutions that suit both you and your living space. At the Independent Living Centre, you’ll have access to dedicated volunteers, known as ‘experts by experience’, who are happy to lend a hand. Why not drop by the Independent Living Centre and explore the range of equipment available. Find out how you could make your daily life easier, we’ll be more than happy to guide you through the options to suit your needs. Enhance your independent living
Live Well Telford ( livewell.telford.gov.uk) is an all age community directory. It has many useful links to help you quickly find services in the borough including: • things to do for children and families • community venues for hire • childminders • housing services • carer’s support • social care services and many others. You can search by age range, area, service types and other criteria to find the right match of what you are looking for.
livewell.telford.gov.uk Give it a try?
Drop-in sessions: At the centre there are different sessions throughout the week for those with particular needs (such as Autism Hub, Learning Disability Hub, Sensory Impairment and many others listed on the centre’s webpage), no appointment needed. Independent Living Centre 3A Hazeldine House, Telford Town Centre, Telford, TF3 4JL
Don’t miss out on help that’s out there. The Carer’s Well-being Guide is a one-stop guide with useful information, advice and contacts to support you as a carer: • benefits and financial support schemes; • community support services; • well-being advice; • getting out and about in the borough; • and much more. Are you a carer or know someone who is?
MOBILE-ALT Telephone: 01952 457181 MOBILE-ALT Text SMS: 07537453177 Opening times:
10am-5pm weekdays, Thursday until 6pm telford.gov.uk/independentliving Virtual house: On the website you can navigate through a Virtual House to see how a range of gadgets look inside a home and where you can purchase them.
Download the guide: telford.gov.uk/carerswellbeing
Help improve and develop adult social care services
Would you like to play a part in further improving and developing services in the borough? Join council leaders, to discuss your experiences and views on adult social care at monthly board meetings. If you can’t make it, you can still have a say by emailing ✉ makingitreal@telford.gov.uk . Sarah, one of the members says: “Making It Real looks at how things are in adult social care and tries to improve people’s future. “We’ve already done a lot of work around direct payments, making it easier to access fund should they need to. “I would encourage anyone eligible to join. You get to see how things in social care work and it is rewarding to know you can make a difference.”
Councillor Paul Watling Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member for adult social care and health systems “Support must be built up around a person’s strengths, their own networks of support and greater use made of resources available in the local community.” “Making It Real is a framework or guide that sets out what good, person-focused care and support should look like from the point of view of individuals with lived experience. “It recognises that people want a life, not just a service and that conversations with people should be based on what matters most to them.
Join the Making It Real meetings
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LEISURE
Feel great
exploring Telford is a place for exciting adventures. Autumn colours and crisp air make this a special time to enjoy lots of cool things to do here on your doorstep Nature’s magic: If you really want a mood- booster you can walk in peaceful parks, hike on interesting trails, and the best thing is it’s totally free. Meet animals: If you like animals, Telford has places where you can see and learn about them and enjoyone-to-oneexperience. Attractions like Frankly Alpacas, Hoo Zoo & Dinosaur World and Exotic Zoo Wildlife Park are great places to visit.
Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2023, Blists Hill Victorian Town beckons you to step into the past and explore its magical 52-acre open-air museum surrounded by the industrial monuments of the former Madeley Wood Company. “Since opening in 1973, we’ve been dedicated to preserving the Gorge and Telford’s history, offering an immersive glimpse into life in the early 1900’s”, said Nick Ralls, Chief Executive of Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust. “This autumn and winter, you can join us for a series of seasonal events that capture the essence of our heritage and promise an authentic experience, including our Victorian Christmas lates and weekends. “As the museum trust’s Chief Executive, I’m proud of the commitment of our team and humbled by the support of our volunteers and local communities. “Blists Hill Victorian Town stands as a bridge between eras, reminding us of the significance of our roots. There’s still time to join us as we commemorate the final months of 50 years of history and make new memories together.” Timeless celebrations 50 Years of Blists Hill Victorian Town
Back by popular demand – a magical Christmas experience Festive attractions on and around Southwater lake will delight you on your way through the Christmas market in Southwater. The Twelve Days of Christmas festive gardens will also see the Chelsea and Maxell Gardens in Telford Town Park transformed into a festive show of lights and sound. “We went today, it’s absolutely beautiful” “Great idea for people who can’t afford the expensive events that are on. It was lovely thank you” The gardens are open from 4pm to 8pm daily from Friday 15 December to Wednesday 20 December. Winter Festive Gardens
Telford is over 70% rural and is home to six Green Flag parks and 23 Local Nature Reserves.
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For every £1 spent at a local independent shop it puts back 70p into the local economy, resulting in growth and more jobs. Helping together: When you shop at Telford’s independent high street shops, local markets, and artisan boutiques, you’re helping everyone. Your choices matter and working together means you can give something back and make our community stronger. Taste adventure: Try delicious food in local cafés and pubs. With options for every taste and budget you’ll be spoilt for choice. Seasonal fun: As autumn comes, Telford becomes extra special. Halloween brings a bit of magic, and winter is like a fairy tale. Telford’s Christmas market will return again this year, and the Chelsea and Maxell Gardens in Telford Town Park will be once again be transformed into a magical winter festive garden, a family friendly event and a lovely way to spend time with your loved ones.
Find out what’s on at Ironbridge Valley of Invention at ironbridge.org.uk 28-29 October Victorian Ghost Town 4 November Firework night
13 & 20 December Christmas Lates
“In every season, Telford’s appeal shines bright, weaving heritage, nature, and community, making us a year-round destination.”
Check out all the fun things you can do, hidden gems to explore and places to eat and shop:
Councillor Eileen Callear Telford & Wrekin Council’s
Cabinet Member for education, employment and visitor economy
visittelford.co.uk
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LEISURE
DID YOU
We have a membership specifically for 14- and 15-year-olds?
Read how Kyle became fighting fit again helped ‘save my life’
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It’s called ‘Teen Aspirations’ and allows teenagers to access aspirations gyms, fitness classes and swimming pools across the seven aspirations leisure centres in Telford and Wrekin. Teen Aspirations
19-year-old Kyle from Telford who has cerebral palsy has told us about how becoming a gym member has helped to change his life. Kyle is a member at a council-run gym called aspirations. He popped along to @Park School in Stirchley which has equipment that is accessible to all, added to further support people with disabilities in a gym environment. Kyle told us: “Everyone should have the same opportunities to keep themselves fit and healthy and it’s great to see the council invested in this new specialist equipment at Stirchley. “I’d actually say since I joined the gym it has saved my life and I would recommend it to anyone regardless of your current ability. “My main focus was always about getting stronger but my mental health has improved, and it’s given me a focus. I can see how far I have come, and I really feel like I am part of something.” Last year new adaptable fitness equipment was also added to both Abraham Darby Sports and Leisure Centre and Wellington Civic and Leisure Centre as a part of their refurbishment programmes.
Its never been easier for young people to get to the gym. With new fitness equipment and the latest Les Mills classes available, there really is no better time for youngsters to take control of their health.
£16 per month Unlimited use of the facilities and classes.
Find out more: telfordandwrekinleisure.co.uk/ teenaspirations
Watch Kyle’s Story: telfordandwrekinleisure.co.uk
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Telford ice rink has dedicated SEND sessions.
The coolest place in town for SEND sessions
• Lift from ground floor to balcony area • Hearing loop at reception • Ramp for wheelchair access on and off the ice • Assistance dogs welcome • Accessible toilets and building entry • Viewing platform
People with SEND needs can attend mainstream lessons limited to 15 people per group. All public sessions are wheelchair friendly too.
telfordandwrekinleisure.co.uk/inclusive
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SAFER
Could you help? We’re on the lookout for people interested in volunteering and training to be a health champion, specialising in blood pressure checks. High blood pressure or hypertension is responsible for about half the heart attacks and strokes in the UK with young men particularly likely to be undiagnosed. You can give as much or as little of your time as you like, you don’t need to be an expert as training will be provided. Visit the website to get involved and potentially save someone’s life. volunteertelford.co.uk For some, flu and COVID-19 are unpleasant illnesses. But for many, particularly those with certain health conditions, they can be very dangerous and even life threatening. Every winter, thousands die from flu, and people can still get very ill or die from COVID-19. Catching both viruses at the same time increases the risk of serious illness even further. Vaccinations are our best defence against flu and COVID-19 ahead of what could be a very challenging winter, when viruses spread more easily. If you are eligible, getting both vaccinations will be two of the most important things you can do to keep yourself and others around you safe. It is important to top up your protection, even if you have had a vaccine or been ill with flu or COVID-19 before, as immunity fades over time and both viruses can change each year. Both vaccines have a good safety record, and if you were to experience side-effects, they are generally mild and do not last for more than a few days. Protect yourself this winter. Get your flu and COVID-19 vaccinations as soon as you are offered them. You can find out more information about both vaccines by visiting nhs.uk/covid-vaccine Get winter strong
Start living a healthier life with support from our Healthy Lifestyles team Help is at hand
Help to live a healthier life Our Healthy Lifestyle team are here to help you: • lose weight • eat better • stop smoking • drink less • exercise more • improve your wellbeing • lower your blood pressure and cholesterol • reduce risk of developing type two diabetes How do I access an advisor? If you live or work in Telford and Wrekin, the team is here to support you. Once you have booked your appointment, you will receive personalised one-to-one support in six structured appointments over 12 weeks. Get in contact and book your appointment today Online: telford.gov.uk/healthylifestyles ✉ Email: healthylifestyles@telford.gov.uk
Our friendly lifestyle advisors can support you in making the change in you always wanted to make. Whether you want to lose weight, exercise more, stop smoking, drink less or want to reduce the risk of type two diabetes – this team can help for free and confidentially. We all live busy lives, and many of us have a family to support, so it’s easy to forget to put ourselves first. Having someone in your corner to turn to for help and advice, to remind you of your goals, and give you the confidence to achieve them, can make all the difference to your health and well-being. Our advisors have helped thousands of people to live healthier lives using their expertise. They have changed lives and they can change yours.
MOBILE-ALT Telephone: 01952 382582
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Got an idea that will help people where you live?
Create a fulfilling childhood with
“We’re already experiencing the pressure from the cost of living crisis and with another winter around the corner, people’s mental
If you or someone you know is passionate about health, the environment, jobs or want to help create opportunities for young people then the ‘Make A Change’ project is the place to share your ideas. Each winning project – there were five this year – will receive £2,000 to set up your community or school ideas. Some suggestions might be a sensory or nature area, a project to improve people’s health like a sports tournament or new activity. The scheme could support a specific group of people with different needs such as hearing or visual impairment, military families or LGBTQ+ – the ideas are only limited by your imagination.
and physical health is a major concern. “This project is one
of the many ways we’re working with some of the youngest people to understand what support people need and finding the right
Help young people discover their talents and experience the world with the council’s 10 by 10 scheme. Our borough has a range of activities and experiences that can open your child’s eyes to the world, build their confidence and let them have fun. On the 10 by 10 website, you can find out about the 10 activities to try before you are ten, search for local offers and activities, and track your child’s adventures across each of the 10. If you have a reception-age child at a school in Telford and Wrekin, they will have been given an adventure card to track how they do. We hope you will enjoy taking part in 10 by 10 as a family and that it sparks something in your children that you don’t expect. 10by10.telford.gov.uk
people to deliver it.” Councillor Kelly Middleton
Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member for healthy, safer and stronger communities and partnerships
Get involved, sign up here:
telford.gov.uk/makeachange
“We want Telford and Wrekin to be the best place to grow up, ensuring all children can experience a wide range of activities.
“We are very proud to be the first council in the UK to run 10 by 10. It’s been tremendously successful since its launch, with every primary school engaging with the programme and with many families taking part. This helps all children thrive, especially those that might not otherwise benefit from essential extra-
curricular activities.” Councillor Shirley Reynolds
Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member for early years, children and young people
Join Telford & Wrekin Libraries
With 100s of print, audio and ebooks, libraries are a great way to discover something new, access free activities and materials, and meet like-minded people who enjoy the books you do. There are also lots of activities across the year for children to take part in – so pop into your local branch to find out more. Information about all our libraries and services can be found at library.telford.gov.uk
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Wild Telford is back
Aged 8+? Biking, bats and balls – we’ve got it all
Looking for something free to do over half term?
Fun, nature-filled sessions for the whole family to enjoy are back for October half term
Then check out our sports programme being held over October half term, in venues across Telford and Wrekin. We’re funding these sessions to help families with the cost of living – we all know how pricey the school holidays can be and how tricky it is to keep youngsters occupied and off devices. With help from AFC Telford United Foundation, Shropshire Cricket, Brightstar Boxing, Telford Netball, Telford & Wrekin Hockey Club, Telford Flyers BMX and the Bike Hub there will be plenty to keep your youngsters busy – and active. Each session is about two hours and there is no need to book, just turn up dressed for the weather. Telford & Wrekin Council has organised the sessions following feedback from residents that have been working with the Safer & Stronger Communities project.
Wild Telford was a huge success in the summer with families exploring the borough’s green places with help from the experts – Shropshire Wildlife Trust, helping inspire a love for nature. This autumn, everything from nature crafts, wild
scavenger hunts, bug hunting, den building and lots more will be available across our nature reserves and green guarantee sites. Even better, the venues are right on your doorstep
so you can get out there, time and again. See you there.
Find out more: telford.gov.uk/saferstronger
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Support for businesses
Our Invest Telford business support team is dedicated to empowering and inspiring both new and existing businesses. Their mission is to create opportunities and connect businesses with the right information and networks to aid their success. Any business based in the borough can tap into the full potential of our Invest Telford team. No matter your niche or industry, they are on hand to facilitate your business growth journey. Invest in Telford, thrive in Telford. Let’s shape the future together.
Find out more: investtelford.co.uk
New business start-up service Aspiring entrepreneurs take centre stage with a fully-funded support package to turn innovative ideas into reality. Thanks to a fresh round of funding, there’s extra renewed support to help new businesses get off the ground in Telford. Tim Luft, managing director of European Innovation Ltd, is leading the charge to empower 150 individuals with their innovative business ideas between now and February 2025. The start-up service is a fully-funded Empowering business growth Business owners can access an immersive experience with personalised one-to-one business mentoring sessions and an array of dedicated workshops that walk clients through the critical stages of researching, setting up, and ultimately launching a business. It’s just one of the bespoke solutions that supports and enhances the vibrant business community of Telford. initiative offered by council-owned ‘Invest Telford’, under the Thrive Telford programme, dedicated to providing aspiring entrepreneurs with the essential tools and support to launch their ventures successfully. Tailored schemes for unprecedented growth The Invest Telford team is now offering a number of carefully designed schemes to help businesses make that pivotal step towards growth. 1. Business start-up service: Inspiring entrepreneurs, to take centre stage with a fully- funded support to turn your innovative ideas into reality. 2. Business advice service: Seek expert advice and guidance from seasoned professionals to navigate your business challenges successfully. 3. Large grants fund: Access grants to fuel substantial projects and drive results.
With more than 12 hours of fully-funded mentoring and guidance, the service ensures that participants have the knowledge and confidence to navigate the challenging waters of entrepreneurship. Tim Luft explains; “The business start-up service will help anyone aged 16 and above, who has thought about starting up. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that Telford becomes the best place in the UK to set up a new business.” Support goes beyond just mentoring. European Innovation Ltd brings in business angel investors ready to invest in these budding enterprises, adding an extra layer of opportunity to the journey. With a focus on fostering collaborations that drive economic growth and promote sustainable development across the borough, Invest Telford’s commitment to supporting businesses is unwavering. If you have a business idea that’s waiting to take flight, don’t miss this golden opportunity to shape your future. Apply today and become a part of the thriving entrepreneurial landscape of Telford. For more information or to apply, visit startuptelford.co.uk
The Thrive Telford program of support is delivered by Telford & Wrekin Council’s Business Support and Inward Investment Team, Invest Telford, and funded by the UK government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). This £2.6 billion investment by March 2025 is the core of the government’s Levelling Up agenda, aiming to enhance community pride, improve life chances, and support local businesses and individuals.
Join Invest Telford in creating a brighter, more prosperous future for your business and the community with its brand new Thrive Telford programme of business support.
“Having a local company with a wealth of experience on board to spearhead this support is fundamental to helping businesses start up,
4. Small grants fund: For business owners seeking a boost to propel their business forward. 5. Export grants fund: Seize international opportunities and explore new markets with support for exporting. 6. Business development fund: Take your established business to new heights with specialised funding for expansion and innovation. 7. Clean growth energy assessments: Embrace sustainability and efficiency with an energy assessment tailored to your business needs.
grow, and prosper. “We’d like to wish businesses starting on their journey in Telford the best of luck for the future.” Councillor Lee Carter Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member for place economy and neighbourhood services
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Reviving community
Transforming Telford’s high streets
Thriving business may not be the first thing that springs to mind when it comes to health and well-being But, a thriving high street brings benefits for the community around it. Across the country, many high streets face difficulty, yet ours tell a different story – a beacon of success, carving a path towards vibrant and bustling town centres. The latest statistics from the summer painted an impressive picture – out of 726 retail units scattered throughout the borough, only 49 remain unoccupied, 6.75%, significantly below the national average of 13.9%. Fuelling this remarkable turnaround is the ‘Pride in Our High Street’ initiative, a ground- breaking programme by Telford & Wrekin Council. Over the past four years, we have delivered a staggering £1.98 million through 336 ‘revive and thrive’ grants, igniting the spark of entrepreneurship and community engagement. Under this unique programme, we’ve awarded grants to support aspiring entrepreneurs and bolster our high street businesses during and beyond the challenges of COVID-19. These grants include various categories, including eco grants for implementing energy-saving measures, diversification grants for exploring new product lines or services, and digital grants to help businesses enter the e-commerce marketplace.
We have launched a new round of high street grants including: Trial start-up grant – up to £1,000 The start up grant provides a low risk opportunity for individuals to trial their high street business idea as a shop – either in an empty unit or local market. Start-up grant – up to £10,000 The high street start-up grant provides viability gap funding to businesses looking to open in a currently empty retail unit. The aim of the grant is to bring empty retail premises back into use. NEW high streets grants available
However, the transformation goes beyond economics; it’s also about aesthetics. Façade grants have been utilised to enhance the visual appeal of businesses, improving signage and kerb appeal.
“Our towns’ high level of retail unit occupancy stand as testament to our commitment to local businesses during these challenging financial times. “Through the ‘Pride
in Our High Street’ programme, we’ve woven together the resilience of local businesses and the strength of our communities.” Councillor Lee Carter Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member for place economy and neighbourhood services
Find out more: View the funding criteria
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the right tree
It has been a year since Dogs’ Health Shop opened its doors at Newport Indoor Market, thanks to a Telford & Wrekin Council’s Pride in our High Street trial start-up grant and the community’s appreciation for healthier pet choices continues to grow. Nigel Paskin, the visionary behind the business, decided to establish a physical presence after observing a steady increase in online demand through his website – dogshealthshop.com and repeated enquires from customers as to where his shop was located. The market stall provides the finest natural dog treats, scientifically proven to enhance canine vitality. By sourcing treats and foods from reputable suppliers across the UK, Nigel ensures the utmost quality. One year of tail wagging success for Newport dog shop
Open on Fridays, Saturdays (8am-4pm), and Tuesdays (8am-4pm) entrances are located on Stafford Street and St Mary’s Street (via Market Mews). Free car park and bus service drop off around the corner.
Nigel saw this venture as an invaluable opportunity to offer these products locally and offers a convenient click-and-collect service. Unlike large pet stores or chains, Newport’s Dogs’ Health Shop caters to the unique needs of furry friends. Nigel remarks, “Many dog owners now realise that healthier diets lead to happier, more active dogs.” Nigel’s range continues to attract first-time dog owners and visitors from neighbouring areas, receiving numerous enquiries and welcoming visitors eager to explore his specialised offerings. He expresses his optimism, stating, “I’m feeling very positive about having a regular presence in Newport, and I’m excited to see my business continue to thrive.”
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