No 85 November 2023
GPS-tracked, door to door delivery to homes across Swindon with Est. overall print & online readership of 105,000
Swindon
LINK Your Community Magazine
South & East Edition
Focus on Care and Retirement p14
swindonlink.com
Old Town Gardens is flying high with revamped aviary p3
SE November Master pages.indd 1
20/10/2023 09:27
SE November Master pages.indd 2
20/10/2023 09:27
Editor's Note By Jamie Hill
Home makeover fits the bill for residents of historic Town Gardens aviary
By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk
This month we're celebrating 45 years of Swindon Link. The actual first edition of this lovely community magazine came out in December 1978, so at this point 45 years ago, the founder of the magazine would have been busily putting that first edition together. As part of the celebrations, our sister publication The Ink, the news subscription service, will be hosting a talk by Swindon Link founder Roger Ogle on Monday 6 November at the Hop Inn on Devizes Road at 7.30pm. Roger will be taking us on a journey from The Link's humble beginnings to now. This the first of a series of planned community talks that will be hosted by The Ink on a quarterly basis. In case you didn't know, The Ink is a new concept that we launched a couple of months ago. It's a news subscription service with insightful long-form news, getting under the skin of what matters to Swindon. You can subscribe by scanning below.
The birds of the historic aviary in Swindon's Town Gardens have returned to their newlyrefurbished home. The des res has been repainted and given a new roof and new flagstones plus a backdrop mural by acclaimed Swindon artist Tim Carroll. The space has been divided into two sections so birds which get on best with each other can be housed together. A number of new residents include quail, who join familiar birds including parakeets and budgerigars. The ribbon cutting was performed by South Swindon Parish Council chair Cllr Neil Hopkins, and those present at the ceremony included head gardener Aaron Hedges and gardening team members Dennis Watson, Stewart Coombs and Terence Hedges. Aaron Hedges said: "We set out last May to restore the aviary and make it a lot better for the birds and the public, and give the public more of a variety of birds to look at. "We stripped it back to a bare frame, repainted it all and gave it new wire, a new roof, new slabs." The team posed for pictures holding the prestigious Britain in Bloom trophy they recently won. Cllr Hopkins said: "When we took over the three heritage parks including the Town
Group Editor and Owner: Jamie Hill Deputy Editor: Barrie Hudson
ADVERTISING Call 01793 644540 or email: advertising@swindonlink.com
Sales Manager: Rosy Presley Accounts Manager: Karen Randall
Closing date for December adverts and editorial: 10 November December edition published: 24 November
Contributors: Tyler Ody, Becky Cox, Maurice Spillane and Alfie Howlett
Our Statistics Est. Readership of 105,000 in print & online visitors. Swindon’s largest free publication. Advertising starts from just £49.
Positive Media Group Limited, Suite J, Fairview House, 43 Bath Road, Swindon SN1 4AS
T: 01793 644540 Email: publisher@swindonlink.com
The ribbon was cut by parish council leader Cllr Neil Hopkins watched by, from left, Cllr David Griffiths, Head Gardener Aaron Hedges and Cllr Linda Kasmaty
Gardens, obviously the aviary was just part of the fixtures, and it was probably looking a bit tired. "It's a beautiful structure and we felt it needed some refurbishment. We took the opportunity not only to refurbish it, replace the roof, repaint it, pick out some of the key features in the structure itself, but we've also had a mural as a backdrop painted by Tim Carroll, a local artist. "We've also separated two areas, so we have different bird species that get on together." Cllr Linda Kasmaty, the parish council's Chair of Leisure, Environment and Amenities, said: "It represents a great
success. The parish council have had this idea, and I think it was Aaron who said, 'If we're going to have an aviary, we need a decent aviary - otherwise let's forget the aviary.' "I think the parish council took that on board and said, 'What do we need to do?' It's been beautifully restored and the mural Tim Carroll did is lovely." Thanks to the refurbishment, the aviary's lifespan has been extended by an estimated 15 years. The official unveiling attracted the attention of many members of the public strolling in the Autumn sunshine, and all said they were impressed by the work.
The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Use of advertisements in printed or electronic form is forbidden unless an advertiser or publisher has sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority. Positive Media Group Limited cannot be held responsible for goods or services or the copyright of content supplied by our advertisers.
Reg. in England & Wales. No: 4513027, at Suite J, Fairview House, 43 Bath Road, Swindon SN1 4AS Printed by Precision Colour Printing, Telford
Hear Link Magazine highlights on air, the last Wednesday of each month and as a podcast on www.swindon1055.com
Got a community story or feature? Contact newsdesk at publisher@swindonlink.com or 01793 644540 swindonlink.com n November 2023
SE November Master pages.indd 3
3
20/10/2023 09:27
The Eco Briefing
A massive change to Swindon bin services From 27 November, the way we throw things away in the borough of Swindon will evolve. It’s the biggest change to how our waste gets collected in 15 years and will see a whole new fleet of refuse vehicles released onto the town’s roads. Jamie Hill reports. - From Monday 27 November there will be weekly bin collections. One week for recycling and one week for domestic waste. - Food waste collections will be taken on a weekly basis with Swindonian households receiving a new large 23 litre outdoor ‘caddy’ as well as a smaller five litre ‘caddy’ to put in the kitchen to empty into the outdoor one when necessary. - Every Swindon household will receive a new 70 litre weighted bag for plastic and metal recycling. This is to go out in whichever week the recycling is collected. If it fills up, households can put any extra in another weighted container (not a clear plastic bin bag) and it will be collected. -The two other existing recycling bins should be sorted into paper and card in one and glass in the other. -A letter is going out to every Swindon household in the next few weeks explaining the changes and what the collection days will be. Do not use the new containers until 27 November. It’s mind-boggling when you think about it. There are nearly 100,000 households in Swindon and the borough council is tasked with getting rid of every single bit of rubbish thrown away by all of them. Over the summer, with driver shortages, you could see that the team in charge of the bin collections got to the point where they simply weren’t coping. Entire collections were missed or delayed. And Swindon Borough Council, and its newly installed Labour administration, were definitely feeling the heat when it came to their waste and recycling collections - at least for a few weeks until it all calmed down and they were able to catch up. So, you might understand why some people would be cynical about the newly announced massive shake-up to the collections. If you live in flats for instance, these changes aren’t for you as communal bins will be dealt with in a different way. It’s for houses. But one thing that has been pretty impressive is that to carry out this undertaking, the council has invested £6 million in a brand spanking new fleet of refuse vehicles. Rob Brown, the Head of End to End Waste Services at Swindon Borough Council, said: “A lot of the problems that we’ve been facing with our collections is that our fleet was at the end of its life and had lots of maintenance problems, so we would have had to replace the fleet anyway. “These new lorries will be rolled out as part of this new service being introduced in November and one of the good things about them is that it will actually mean less collections. Beforehand we collected plastics separately so it would mean three different stops at households - plastics, recycling and general waste. But the new lorries are able to compartmentalise on the vehicles themselves all the different types of recycling including food waste, which is sorted even on the domestic waste collection vehicles, so there will only need to be two collections.” According to the council, the rollout of the new system is costing about £800,000, to include the new bins and the letters going out to each household. SBC’s Cabinet Member for the Environment and Transport, Chris 4
swindonlink.com n November 2023
SE November Master pages.indd 4
(L to R) Rob Brown, Head of End to End Waste Services at Swindon Borough Council, and Chris Watts, SBC’s Cabinet Member for the Environment and Transport, in front of one of their brand spanking new bin lorries
Watts, said: “This is a scheme that has been in the planning stages for the past few years under the previous administration and it should make our entire waste collection services that much more efficient. Obviously, with everything, there is a cost to these things but this is necessary for us as a borough to be at the forefront of fighting climate change.” Currently only about 40% of Swindon’s waste is recycled, with the rest heading for incineration in Oxfordshire, Avonmouth or Lakeside. The national average is now about 50%. It is hoped that the changes will push the recycling rate up to 50% or even 60%. Rob Brown added: “Councils in Wales are at the forefront of this with their rates at around 60% or 70%, but we are hopeful this will give us that push in the right direction. “Food waste is generally quite heavy and bulky so households will definitely see a difference in what they are chucking into their main domestic waste wheelie bin. I think a lot of people will also be able to see how much food they are actually wasting as well, meaning that households could end up buying less to provide less waste. “The weighted bags might seem to some households a tiny bit small but they are actually quite sizeable and we would recommend crushing down your aluminium and plastics as much as possible. They are made to be crushed down. “As time goes on, we should be seeing less and less waste anyway, especially with supermarkets now on board with providing less packaging.” Currently, the council uses several companies to deal with their recycling with paper and cardboard as well as the plastics going to local firms for recycling. The food waste will be taken down to a company in Warminster where it will be going through a process of anaerobic digestion; this is where bacteria break down the waste in the absence of oxygen to provide fuel that is then used to go straight into the national grid, with any leftover being used as slurry for local farmers’ fields. For the council, if everything goes right, this could actually provide a £1.2 million dividend as they are able to sell the waste for this process. Cllr Watts said: “We know this is a huge undertaking and, like all change, it will take some getting used to. “The team have had a difficult time recently but through their hard work they got through it and I have every confidence that they will make this work.”
20/10/2023 09:27
SE November Master pages.indd 5
20/10/2023 09:27
Unlike Birmingham, Swindon won't be going bankrupt - but it still has a £27m hole to fill When austerity was first mooted in 2010 by the newly-installed Conservative-Lib Dem coalition Government, it was meant to be a temporary measure intended to right the wrongs of the 2008 financial crash. A short, sharp shock if you will. But 13 years later, there is still no end in sight to local government funding cuts. Swindon Borough Council has seen Central Government funding drop by almost 40% in real terms during this period. And with councils like Birmingham City having to declare a Section 114 Notice a few weeks back, following Woking, Northamptonshire, Croydon and Thurrock, it is only right that we delve into Swindon’s own finances to see how it is navigating these national financial woes. Link Editor Jamie Hill sat down with Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet member for Finance, Kevin Small, to discuss the state of the finances they inherited from the previous Conservative administration. By Jamie Hill jamie@positive-media.co.uk Here are the headline figures - Swindon Borough Council won’t be issuing a Section 114 Notice and won’t be going bankrupt - By the end of this financial year (23/24) there will be an overspend of £10m - Next financial year (24/25) the council faces a shortfall of around £27m Swindon Borough Council is not in a great position. It seems to have been death by a thousand cuts over the past decade or so. For us residents, who have seen council tax rise by its maximum five per cent year on year, we all seem to be paying more for less, which is a mite frustrating. For the Labour administration, who only took over from the Tories at the May local election, it is the biggest problem they face. How are they supposed to make a difference with their hands tied behind their backs as there is essentially no money? Kevin Small is the man tasked by Swindon Borough Council to try and navigate us all through this financial quagmire, having been appointed to the role as Cabinet Member for Finance. The first thing he wants to address is that Swindon Borough Council won’t be going bankrupt any time soon. “We’re not in any Birmingham or Northamptonshire County Council situation of needing to have a notice served on us. “We’re a long way from that and I don’t think we’ll ever be in that position although I know 6
you can never ever 100% guarantee anything. “At the present time there is a forecast for the end of the year 23/24 of overspending of around £10 million. £9.887 million to be exact.” According to Cllr Small the shortfall for this year has mainly been caused by a large overspend in Children’s Services, one of the council’s statutory duties. The overspend came down to two factors - the main one being an increase in demand. “We can’t control the increase in demand. Children need to come into care and they need to be looked after. In an ideal world it would be great if less children needed those type of services but it has gone up so the cost has gone up. “The other contributing factor was the previous Conservative administration setting, what I still believe, unrealistic saving targets within that department to balance the budget. We’re seeing those saving targets not being delivered. “There’s also a £3 million overspend in Adult Services and again that is mostly related to an increase in demand in the adult care service.” Both Children’s and Adult Services are statutory duties. Statutory duties make up more than 80% of the council’s budget, meaning over the past few years non-statutory duties have been the areas that have seen the most cuts. Cllr Small added: “We’re lucky so far that we’ve had the benefits of the increase in interest rates. We’ve not had to borrow so much, so there’s been a saving there and also
Kevin Small, the SBC Cabinet Member for Finance
that our capital programme has been delayed so there is money that would have been invested in those capital projects that has been sitting in the savings account and therefore has had more interest and that has given us just under £5 million dividend to count against our fixed expenditure overspend.” But it’s next year (24/25) that is the scarier figure as SBC will be facing a shortfall of £27 million. “We’re looking at the possibility of £27 million that will need to be found to balance the books.” Cllr Small confirmed. “That is made up of the overspend from this financial year and other pressures on services, inflation, and also salaries that gets us to £27 million.” According to Cllr Small the real-term funding cuts that SBC has had to face since 2010 is 40%. He said: “When I first started in local Government back in the 80s, councils used to get a support grant that worked out
at about 50 to 60% of council expenditure and it was still around the 50% mark or just below when The Conservatives came to power in 2010. “But now the grant from The Government only makes up about 5% meaning that more and more of our funding has to be taken from council tax rather than from general taxation. “The vast majority of our budget has to be put towards our statutory duties. “Because of austerity, councils have had to cut non-statutory duties to balance the books. We will be going through a similar exercise again this year to find that £27 million. “The vast majority will be from non-statutory services. You look to try and get better value for money from statutory services, delivering them in a different way making them more cost effective. But it remains that we have to continue to produce those services no matter what. “So in reality most of the money will have to be found
swindonlink.com n November 2023
SE November Master pages.indd 6
20/10/2023 09:27
through cutting non-statutory services. More people will get to see the cuts to those nonstatutory services. They’re more visible. “People are able to see the demise of local government caused by the last 13 years of austerity from the Conservative Government.” Swindon Borough Council are going through the budget this Autumn to see how they can fill that £27 million gap. Cllr Small said “We’re hoping that we can come up with something that has as little impact as possible. To do the best for the people of Swindon. But it’s not going to be easy. We’ve always said that we would keep council tax as low as possible. It was one of our pledges. But we’re also going to have to strike a balance as to what we need to do to keep going. It is our intention to try and do that. “But the financial burden remains on councils because of the lack of funding from Government, so every year you have to go to the maximum limit
because of the need to balance the books. Either that or have an even greater round of cuts in council services.” According to Cllr Small, 1% of council tax roughly works out at just over a million pounds of income for the council, so if they don’t put up council tax by 1%, there would need to be a million pounds of cuts to be found to support that. “It’s a balance. We wish we were in a position where we could look at it in a way that we didn’t need to increase it just to keep the providing the services that we do provide and be in an enviable position of deciding to increase council tax to provide additional services rather than staying the same or keep the increase as low as possible. “In reality, though, because of the savage cuts over the past 13 years with the Central Government grant being lower, councils have had to increase tax to offset that shortfall. “We don’t know what the Central Government grant will be for next year yet but if it’s
in line of the last few years, it won’t be enough.” There is currently a fair funding review being carried out to look at how the formula is worked out by Central Government for local government funding. But the results of this reportedly won’t come in until 2026. “I think we’re possibly going to have a new Government by then. That would be a good thing as the formula currently is worked out with a Conservative slant and you would hope Labour would be a bit fairer. In summary though, I see nothing that would suggest that we would be anywhere near [section] 114. “A lot of these problems in Birmingham came from the Equal Pay claim and Northampton was bad investments. But we’re nowhere near that. We’ve got concerns about the level of borrowing we have as a council as it’s high. But at the same time we’re not in a position where we won’t be able to find the £27 million needed.”
“It is frustrating that we’re so constrained by the finances,” added Cllr Small. “If we had the money we could make huge changes tomorrow. We knew it was going to be tight. We knew realistically that you have to work within the financial situation that you’ve been given. “But we’re looking at opportunities which are either cost effective in the sense of can it be done within the present budget or are we able to spend the money in different ways to still be able to provide as good a service. “We are also looking at other approaches. For opportunities that aren’t directly fed in from council tax to provide the services that we want to provide. We’re looking at how we can invest in the town centre but that doesn’t automatically mean the funding comes directly from taxpayers money. Essentially it means we’re looking at being able to support and become the facilitator rather than the financier to make the changes we want to make.”
swindonlink.com n November 2023
SE November Master pages.indd 7
7
20/10/2023 09:27
Volunteers from Swindon finance company spruce up community centre
three workdays a year to volunteer for a cause they care about and support the local community. This is part of the organisation’s Inspiring Better
Futures vision which focuses on making a difference in society. OneFamily is working with charities that focus on financial wellbeing, access to education and training, and improving life
chances. Kathryn Grobler, Outbound Sales Manager at OneFamily, said: “We had a great time painting the community centre and learning more about the important work the Mechanics’ Institution Trust does to preserve Swindon’s heritage. “The volunteering days offered to OneFamily employees create a real sense of purpose by giving back to the community and are great projects for the team to get stuck into." Dan Fishlock, Community Engagement Officer at the Mechanics’ Institute, was delighted by the project, and said: “We owe a huge thank you to the OneFamily team for helping our community. They were all an absolute pleasure to have around and did a brilliant job transforming our community centre hall."
“Nationwide is the large-scale alternative to shareholderowned banks. We offer a good way to bank for our customers through our national network of branches, better service, value and fairness. Our rebrand keeps us relevant for customers today and tomorrow." The building society has pledged as part of the rebrand to continue valuing face-to-face service at a time
when major banks have closed significant numbers of branches up and down the country According to Nationwide research, 63 per cent of people value their local branch, with face-to-face service the top reason. In June, Nationwide extended its Branch Promise, meaning it won’t leave any town or city in which it is based until at least 2026.
A month previously, it returned £340m of profit to 3.4m eligible members through the first ‘Nationwide Fairer Share’ payment, with each receiving £100. The company says these moves, together with its high street commitment, demonstrate the difference a memberowned institution can make not just for its customers but for society.
By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk
Team members from finance firm OneFamily helped the Mechanics’ Institution Trust by sprucing up a community centre in Swindon’s historic Railway Village. Four members of the sales team at OneFamily spent a day giving the Central Community Centre a lick of paint and a fresh new look inside. The building was formerly the Great Western Medical Fund hospital, a blueprint for the NHS, and is looked after by the Mechanics’ Institution Trust. Their mission is to preserve Swindon’s heritage buildings including the grade II* listed Mechanics’ Institute building in Emlyn Square. OneFamily colleagues are given the opportunity to use
Volunteer team members hard at work
Rebrand for Swindon-based Nationwide
By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk
Nationwide announced its most significant rebrand in a generation. The Swindon-headquartered firm says it is commiting to the nation's high streets at a time when banks continue to close branches. All 605 branches are being rebranded including the Swindon Regent Street branch and Croft Swindon Head Office. The new look represents its biggest image overhaul since 1987 – when the average house cost just £40,882. It is aimed at ensuring Nationwide - a member-owned mutual - remains attractive and relevant for future generations of customers looking for a financial services provider that puts people before profit. Debbie Crosbie, Chief Executive of Nationwide Building Society, said: 8
swindonlink.com n November 2023
SE November Master pages.indd 8
20/10/2023 09:27
Labour candidate's well-attended 'Big Conversation' about town centre
By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk
South Swindon Labour Parliamentary Candidate Heidi Alexander hosted a special drop-in event alongside borough council leader Jim Robbins and members of his cabinet. The venue was Workshed - the redeveloped business space within the old Carriage Works on London Street - and the occasion was part of Ms Alexander's 'Big Conversation' about the future of the town centre. The space was crowded with members of the public and members of the business and heritage communities as well as borough and parish councillors. All were encouraged to talk about their views as to how the future of the town centre, currently reeling from further
Heidi Alexander speaks to the crowd as council leader Jim Robbins looks on
losses of major businesses, might be secured. Ms Alexander said of the impressive turnout: "I think it's a reflection of just how strongly people feel about the state of the town centre. "As someone who grew up here in the 1980s I remember spending whole afternoons in the town centre with my friends. I just think it's in such a sorry state at the moment. "You talk to people who are
running shops in the town centre and they tell you the problems they're having with shoplifting, with antisocial behaviour, and I just wanted to give people an opportunity to come together, talk to me as the Labour Party's Parliamentary candidate, talk to Jim Robbins and the councillors who are now in charge of Swindon Borough Council, and say, 'This is what we'd like to see.'" John Robinson, a retired
warehouse worker who has lived in Swindon since childhood, was impressed by the event, and said: "I just like the openness that we've had this morning. Everything's been explained, we've asked questions, we've had truthful answers. "Nobody's expecting miracles overnight, but it would be nice to see Swindon advance at some point, and we've got people here who care about the town centre. That means a lot to somebody who has lived in Swindon for 50 years. "We all want to go into town, we all want to feel comfortable, we all want to be able to shop. It's changed but we still want to see a town centre that's thriving - and not just people who live in the town centre but people who come in from outside."
Community Centre 10th anniversary quiz
By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk
Christ Church Community Centre will host a quiz night on Friday 1 December, with the doors opening at 7pm and games beginning 30 minutes later. The community centre, which is in its 10th anniversary year, is holding the event alongside Old Town Residents Association (OTRA), which is celebrating its 55th anniversary. The quiz will raise muchneeded funds for both organisations, and the organisers say participants can look forward to some questions specific to Old Town and Christ Church plus some other fun rounds. There will be a bar and food is being provided by mobile local pizza company Pizza Lola. Chris Smith, General Manager of the centre, said: “It made good sense to invite the
residents' association to take part, they were the first ever hirer for the hall ten years ago and we had a good night then. "The Community Centre is turning 10 years old this year and has become a vibrant hub of events from keep fit, dance, community discussion and parties.” OTRA started in 1968 as a response to the original development of the Burmah Campus which is now Marlborough Park. Over time it combined five residents’ associations and is now a discussion hub and voice for approximately 10,000 residents across Old Town. Co-Chair Colin Doubleday said: “The association has changed lots over the years, but our primary aim is still to create day-to-day contact and discussion between residents and with councillors, police and other organisations who represent us. “We welcome discussion
with all residents either via our Facebook page or at our monthly open meetings.” He added: "Right now our focus is a night to celebrate with friends - why not come along to join us at the quiz? What are you waiting for? Book now before it's too late!"
Teams can have from two to six people, with entry costing £6 per person. Food is included - half a pizza per person - as part of the ticket price. Tickets can be obtained by visiting www.thisisoldtown.com/ events and scrolling down to the quiz night. swindonlink.com n November 2023
SE November Master pages.indd 9
9
20/10/2023 09:27
Four-legged friends not forgotten by Ukraine aid charity
Swindon switches to 'all-out' council elections By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk
People in Swindon will now only be asked to vote for local councillors once every four years following an Extraordinary Council meeting. Councillors voted unanimously to change the election cycle from the current ‘by thirds’ model to an alternative ‘whole An election count at Steam A recent consignment of vital council’ election model, which supplies sent to Ukraine by would see all seats on the (when no elections take place) few. Swindon Humanitarian Aid council elected at the same in 2025. Leader of the Council, Cllr Jim Project included a treat for a time, once every four years. The council says the change Robbins, said: “I am delighted morale-boosting dog. The decision to change the will allow the administration that councillors have voted SHAP has sent countless election cycle came after a to make strategic long-term to move to ‘all-out’ elections truckloads of medical and public consultation during the decisions and save the council following our consultation with other supplies to Ukraine since summer. approximately £300,000 residents over the summer. Russia invaded early last year, A total of 794 people every four years. "This will allow us to work together with vehicles including responded, and of those 58.56 Alongside this decision, the on our long-term missions to a bus kitted out as a mobile per cent said they would prefer Local Government Boundary reduce inequality, achieve field hospital. to vote for councillors every Commission for England net zero, and build a better The aid has included around four years. (LGBCE) is reviewing Swindon’s Swindon. 130 pallets of hygiene wipes, The ‘all-out’ election cycle will wards due to electoral "We hope that this will help which are much sought after as take effect from 2026, with inequality in two wards St to bring positive change to the they help keep both civilians a third of councillors being Andrews, which has too many people of Swindon. It will also and front line troops clean when elected for a final time in 2024 electors, and Wroughton & have the added benefit of there is no water available for followed by a fallow year Wichelstowe, which has too saving the council money." washing. One bag of hygiene wipes Skill and dedication of teenager inspires boys to try gymnastics sent recently also included a pink dog coat which was By Barrie Hudson among the thousands of items barrie@positive-media.co.uk donated in Swindon since the A young Acrobatic Gymnast invasion. from Swindon is paving It turned out to be a perfect the way for boys at Evoke fit for a little dog named Pavlovna by Ukrainian soldiers Gymnastics in the town. Kailen, 16, first signed up for - and came just in time for the Recreational Gymnastics at harsh winter. nine, after a local club offered SHAP Chair Mike Bowden him a free taster session. said “I have to be honest and He had previously tried say when we loaded the pink football and rugby, but they dog coat I did wonder if we were not for him. After being had gone barking mad but offered a place, within six it’s so lovely to see a little months he was offered a trial Ukrainian dog wearing it. for a new Acrobatics squad "Hopefully it will keep him and found pure joy in the or her warm in the cold winter his country internationally. He can look up to. discipline. months ahead. said: "I love how my squad and "As I started out myself at In the beginning, people "Of course, our primary focus my coach are like my family. around their age, I want to be often made remarks about the is to send aid to the people of We have such a strong bond able to inspire them and share Ukraine, but in keeping with the sport to Kailen, saying it wasn’t and even though we are all on my passion with them.” for boys or asking him: “Isn’t Brits' love of animals we send our own journey, we are there As Kailen has progressed, bags of cat and dog food and gymnastics a girl's sport?" to support one another. My he now competes with his However, even though this the odd pink dog coat. coach always strives to help me Acrobatic partner Ruby, and knocked Kailen’s confidence, he see the best in myself. "I'm so proud of the the two get along like brother chose to ignore the stereotype magnificent work of the whole “I now also help to coach the and sister. and remind himself how much SHAP team of volunteers." boy’s development squad at Further information can he loves Acrobatics and the SHAP is on Facebook Evoke. I enjoy being able to be found at www.britishfeeling it gives him. at www.facebook.com/ see other boys in Acrobatics gymnastics.org/discover/ Today Kailen is representing groups/1161884587960781/ and be a role model that they 10
swindonlink.com n November 2023
SE November Master pages.indd 10
20/10/2023 09:27
swindonlink.com n November 2023
SE November Master pages.indd 11
11
20/10/2023 09:27
Charity night at Bengal Square
Bengal Square in Peatmoor held the first of its charity nights at the start of October. The restaurant is offering good causes and charities the ability to use the venue on a Monday and a Tuesday evening, giving organisers the opportunity of a value for money set menu and the ability to sell tickets to the event. The first event was organised by TD Williamson based in Dorcan who were raising much needed funds for Swindon Food Collective and Threshold Housing Link. It was organised by Samantha Mitchard. If you would like to organise a charity night at Bengal Square contact the restaurant at info@bengalsquare.co.uk
Old Town Christmas Festival 2023
After the success of last year the Old Town Christmas Festival 2023 will take place on Sunday 26 November on Wood Street and Victoria Hill. The event will take place between noon and 5pm. Tickets are available for advance purchase to guarantee entry as the numbers are limited to 5000 via www.thisisoldtown.com/ support-us/p/christmas-festivaladmission-ticket
12
‘Stay Well Swindon’ campaign aims to reduce winter hospital attendance Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Swindon Borough Council have joined forces for a special project. Their aim is to prevent the health of local people from deteriorating, in a new campaign called ‘Stay well Swindon’. Cllr Jim Grant, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Joint Working, said: “This joined-up care tackles not only the individual’s immediate health condition, but other factors that might be impacting on their wellbeing. By addressing these issues earlier, we hope to get people the right care, in the right place, at the right time. “We know that many patients go to hospital because their health has worsened due to things at home, such as not being able to afford heating, so it’s hoped that this year we can reach more people before it gets to that stage. “There is also lots that families,
friends and carers can do to support – and sometimes even something as simple as popping in on a neighbour more regularly can highlight any problems to us even earlier. "It’s also important to stay warm when the temperature drops - if you’re worried about energy costs, visit www.swindon. gov.uk/costofliving to find out about the financial support available.” It is expected that this winter will be the busiest on record yet, and with GWH regularly operating at maximum capacity, the two organisations are highlighting the community support that is available right across Swindon so that people can access help earlier on and prevent a hospital stay. In the last 12 months, over 125,000 people have attended the Emergency Department and Urgent Treatment Centre at Great Western Hospital, with around 98,000 of them admitted to a ward for further care. NHS bosses say
environmental and social issues are also having an impact, with more people being affected by loneliness, homelessness and the cost of living. Mental health attendances are also increasing year on year at Great Western Hospital, with around 2,500 patients presenting with mental health issues in the last year. To offer support on these social care issues, a number of initiatives have been set up by both organisations which seek to get people help earlier, so they don’t deteriorate and need a stay in hospital. A total of 38 Welcome Spaces across the town provide local residents with a confidential and safe space to spend time, meet other people and find warmth during cold weather. A full list of spaces can be found at www.swindon.gov.uk/ welcomespaces. More information can also be found at www.gwh.nhs.uk/ patients-and-visitors/stay-wellswindon
This year's Swindie Makers Market set to be biggest yet Preparations are well under way for the fourth Swindie Makers Market. It will be held at new venue Steam on Saturday 18 November from noon to 4pm. Organiser Lora O'Callaghan said: "Swindie is a one-day event that brings together talented modern makers, musicians and food and drink businesses all under one roof, and for our fourth one we are expanding and hosting the one-day event at the Steam museum. "Born after a desire to get small creative business owners together to sell their on trend, high quality products, Swindie has now grown into an all day event that not only celebrates makers but also provides exposure for musicians along with some of the finest, hand picked food and drink vendors. "Each stall is carefully selected with an emphasis on the quality of products,
brand identity along with the businesses ethos. "We’re super excited to welcome this time up to 100 talented makers alongside breweries, bakeries, coffee and street food vendors, all trading against our backdrop of live music. "So set the date in your
diaries, 18th of November and get ready to support small and celebrate all things indie!" The organisers say the new venue allows for even more makers and more food vendors along with live music throughout the event. www.swindiemakersmarket. co.uk
swindonlink.com n November 2023
SE November Master pages.indd 12
20/10/2023 09:27
The South Swindon Parish Council Column By Neil Hopkins Chair of South Swindon Parish Council Britain In Bloom I’m delighted to announce that South Swindon has been awarded a Gold Award at the Southwest In Bloom awards ceremony in early October. Thank you to all the volunteers across the parish for all their hard work across the various community gardens and projects. I’d also like to thank the parish staff who work in our parks and around the parish who kept our community looking great and tidy. This was our first entry into the main competition of South West In Bloom so to win gold at the first attempt is a fantastic achievement and is all down to the hard work of all the volunteers and staff. Town Gardens Aviary It is a pleasure to report that the Town Gardens Aviary
refurbishment work has been finished and it is now open to the public again. The birds were moved back at the start of October and love their new home. I would like to thank everyone for their patience while this work has taken place, as this work took longer than expected due to a contractor letting us down, so we undertook the extensive work in-house. Thank you to our fantastic maintenance team and to the Town Gardens staff for their tireless efforts in delivering this project alongside their usual day to day jobs. Enchanted Gardens Light Trail Tickets for the Enchanted
Gardens Light Trail 2023 are now on sale! The Town Gardens will be awash with colour and light this festive period, bringing festive cheer into the heart of Swindon. The event will be running again from the 1st to the 24th December and Parish Councillors have successfully pushed for even better light installations to make sure we are delivering value for money
to people. This year, we are working with the Old Town Business Association to provide an improved offering for the food and beverage area, which will be located around the bandstand. Book your tickets through the Town Gardens website: www. towngardens-swindon.co.uk/ enchanted-gardens-lighttrail-2023
swindonlink.com n November 2023
SE November Master pages.indd 13
13
20/10/2023 09:27
A focus on care and retirement in Swindon With a rapidly increasing elderly population in Swindon it is vital that we are aware of the plethora of services out there not only for retirement living but also for genuinely good care facilities. As you get older it becomes all about the quality of life and ensuring that you are in the right hands for your needs.
Hartford Care’s luxury new care home, Cotswolds Rise in Swindon, now open Hartford Care’s newly built, stateof-the-art residential care home, Cotswolds Rise, in Swindon, is now open, with prospective residents and their families welcome to come along and chat with the team, discuss care requirements and view the new home. Cotswolds Rise will be hosting a series of drop in events, with an open day on Monday 30 October, 11am to 3pm and community coffee mornings every other Thursday from Thursday 26 October 10am to noon. People are invited to pop along to these events with no appointment necessary, to meet the team, and have the opportunity to tour the home. Cotswolds Rise offers residential,
dementia and respite care across 66 en suite bedrooms. Close to Swindon town centre’s amenities, the home has fully accessible and enclosed landscaped gardens with patio areas and sun terraces, perfect for hosting outdoor activities. There are several spacious lounges and dining rooms, a lifestyle kitchen, salon and a shop. Designed with sustainability in mind, Cotswolds Rise has significant renewable energy elements, including solar panels, heat pumps and battery storage systems. For more information on Cotswolds Rise, Upper Mill, Swindon, SN5 4FL, please call 0800 234924, or email: cotswolds. rise@hartfordcare.co.uk
Finding the right care home Ladymead Care Home is located in a beautiful rural area of Wroughton. The home is only a short drive from Swindon town centre and there is easy access to local transport. Ladymead is a purpose-built home providing residential and nursing care to the elderly. It is a very friendly and happy home with an extended family feel. The staff pride themselves on making the home attractive and comfortable and they work according to the residents’ needs and routines. The home has TV lounges and a quiet sitting room where residents can relax in quiet contemplation, or enjoy the company of others. Kingsmead Care Home is located in the Old Town area of Swindon. The home has a selection of lounges and communal areas, where activities are often held, and a quiet sitting room. The meal experience is excellent at Kingsmead, with our chef and catering team working hard to create meals that are both nutritious and tasty, using fresh seasonal ingredients. The home offers a very stable environment for residents with many of the staff long-standing, so they have been able to build up great relationships with the residents and families over time. The care home manager is a registered nurse and has heavy involvement with residents and the day-to-day running of the home. For a reassuring chat with one of our advisors call 01793 387330. 14
Quality living at home When to introduce the concept of Care/ Companionship It’s a sad fact that when families look for care it is often too late. Quite often the person who requires care refuses to have the care they need because they are not used to having strangers in their home or asking for help. We frequently hear stories where implementing a care plan is impossible as they cannot see why the family is unable to step in and do the necessary. This often results in tension within the family unit. It is useful to introduce the concept of care/companionship to ageing loved ones in good time, so they get used to the concept and allow the families to get used to what good care/companionship looks like and what is best for their loved ones. This is particularly important when family members are showing signs of dementia. At Helping Old Friends, we can provide a cost-effective service that will, through our fully vetted and trained staff provide hassle free Companionship. This Companionship can take on many forms. It may be that we clean the house, do the washing and ironing, put away the shopping or even take the person shopping. Or is could be that we just provide Companionship, a cup of tea and a natter. We can also provide respite for partners who feel they cannot leave the home for fear that they cannot leave their loved one alone. If you would like to know more about the services that Helping Old Friends can provide, please give Katrina a call on 01793 550 895 or Lauren on 01285 701 801
swindonlink.com n November 2023
SE November Master pages.indd 14
20/10/2023 09:27
A focus on care and retirement in Swindon “I hate asking for help. But IHear love knowing it’s there.” Clear:
Enjoy a stress-free lifestyle, with flexible support whenever you need it with McCarthy & Stone Retirement Living. When you move to one of McCarthy & Stone's retirement properties at Gilbert Place, life can become much easier. It’s not because their properties are brand new, stunningly modern and sited in beautifully tended private grounds. Or because many offer flexible support services that can be easily tailored to meet your needs. Or even because there are friendly faces everywhere, from your neighbours to the on-site team. It’s because you can enjoy the peace of mind of knowing they take care of all the things you might have come to think of as a hassle. There are friends next door and help always nearby. You’ll enjoy a warm welcome to the vibrant community, where new neighbours quickly become
new friends who share hobbies, interests and passions. Experts are also on hand for everything from general maintenance to gardening. They can help with the vacuuming too, while the onsite bistro offers a break from cooking. Even holidays are more relaxing, knowing there’s someone to keep an eye on things 24/7 back home. Come and see for yourself. Our stress-free approach to living offers such a range of benefits, it’s no wonder many of our homeowners say they wish they’d made the move sooner. So why not come and see for yourself? You can take a tour, or simply pop in for a chat. Gilbert Place, Lowry Way, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN3 1FX Call today on 0800 185 5669 and one of their friendly team will be happy to help, or alternatively visit mccarthystone.co.uk/gilbertplace
swindonlink.com n November 2023
SE November Master pages.indd 15
15
20/10/2023 09:27
People considering becoming foster carers promised they will never be alone
By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk
More than 120 children and young people are living miles away from Swindon, separated from their family and friends. This is because Swindon Borough Council does not have enough local foster carers who can provide a loving home. However, the council is hoping to change that by encouraging people to take the first step to see if fostering is for them. Those able to become a foster carer will never be alone. The council’s Fostering Team will support each foster carer every step of the way and they will become part of the strong network of local foster carers, with access to training and support. Swindon foster carers are paid up to £708 per child, per week, depending on the
carer’s skills and the needs of the child. Some of the council’s foster carers have spoken of their joy at being able to positively shape a young person’s life. Foster carer Caroline, 35, said: “It’s a long road but only 10 months in we are seeing a real change in the young person with us. The most rewarding part is seeing the change in the children. “It’s the little things like when you hear them using your words to another child in a positive way. It’s when you see them becoming a part of the family and feeling comfortable and at home.” The Fostering Team run regular information sessions to put carers’ minds at ease and to help them find out more about what it's all about. The sessions are relaxed and there is no obligation to continue.
At the sessions, potential foster carers have the chance to meet foster carers and Fostering Team members, and learn at first hand what the role entails.
Anyone interested in attending should visit www. swindon.gov.uk/fostering call 07917 503447 or email fosteringrecruitment@swindon. gov.uk to find out more.
Tackling the scourge of loan sharking
By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk
When people think of loan sharks, they might think of small-scale lenders who pester their victims into repayment or violent predators and organised crime groups However, this is not the reality. A loan shark is another term for an illegal money lender – someone who lends money and asks for repayments, but who does not have the necessary authorisation from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Recent research estimated that over one million people are borrowing money from illegal money lenders across England. Victims often borrow money from a friend or family member who they originally trusted. In fact, 60 per cent of victims say they knew the lender before borrowing, and 56 per cent say they considered the loan shark to be 16
a friend before they borrowed. These friends can make it seem as though they are doing the person a favour by lending some quick cash, but can often turn nasty when challenged over the amount being repaid or a missed payment. Credit Unions, such as Acorn Community Bank acorncommunitybank.co.uk - are a safe alternative, providing low APR loans and
saving accounts to manage finances safely. Financial advice to help with additional or rising costs can also be found on the Swindon Borough Council website at www.swindon.gov.uk/ costofliving You can also contact Citizens Advice Swindon citizensadviceswindon.org.uk - for resources and access to additional support.
Another useful resource is Stop Loan Sharks stoploansharks.co.uk- which has a confidential 24/7 hotline on 0300 555 2222. The organisation has specially-trained staff to provide people with emotional and practical support specifically tailored to their needs. The website has a live chat facility.
swindonlink.com n November 2023
SE November Master pages.indd 16
20/10/2023 09:27
Our School Visions: A community where everyone belongs, where our children feel safe to be confident and ambitious, and where we work together with kindness and respect. We are redesigning our curriculum to reflect our community and location, which is rich in geographical and historical interest. Our team of passionate and enthusiastic subject leaders are working together to ensure our curriculum provides our children with enriching and exciting experiences. We want to ensure that all children can achieve success along their educational journey. Our values of Ambition, Belonging and Compassion, our Noremarsh ABC’s reflect those of the Ascend Learning Trust and align with all the other schools within it. These values can be seen all around our school. All parties have a vital role to play in Noremarsh’s ABCs:
Ambition
Our team are ambitious for all of our children. We want them to achieve their full potential in their time with us. We have redesigned our curriculum to be ambitious and challenge and engage our learners.
Belonging
School Profile:
Noremarsh Junior School Get to know the schools in your area This issue: Noremarsh Junior School Address: Clarenedon Drive, Royal Wootton Bassett SN4 8BT Contact: 01793 8562250 Website: www.noremarshjuniorschool.org.uk Email: admin@njs.ascendlearningtrust.org.uk Twitter: @NoremarshJS Facebook: Noremarsh Junior School Instagram: @noremarsh.js
About the Academy
At Royal Wootton Bassett Academy, we are determined to ensure that all students are provided with the learning experiences, learning opportunities and all-round support they need to be the very best version of themselves that they can be. The Academy has a proud record of academic success by pupils with considerable achievement in a range of sporting, musical, dramatic and extra-curricular activities. Our vision is one that recognises that success comes in many shapes and forms and should be celebrated in the largest and smallest of ways. For students and staff to individually and collectively progress, we must personally develop and learn from our mistakes or the challenges that lay before us each day. This process is supported by our values opposite and we apply them every day, to everything that we do.
We know that all children are different and have differing needs throughout their time with us. We are skilled at supporting them and adapting our practice to help them all to achieve success. As a community we believe there are no outsiders.
Compassion
Our children talk about kindness alongside compassion. We see this on a daily basis in and outside of the classroom and on the playgrounds. Our community cares about each other and we show it.
Respect
We aim to be respectful to each other, to our environment and to understand our links within a diverse world.
Wellbeing
School Profile:
Royal Wootton Bassett Academy Get to know the schools in your area This issue: Royal Wootton Bassett Academy Address: Lime Kiln, Royal Wootton Bassett, SN4 7HG Contact: 01793 841900 Website: www.rwba.org.uk Email: admin@rwba.org.uk Twitter: @RWBAcademy
We aim to consciously promote and achieve positive mental and physical wellbeing, to draw on skills and tools to support our journeys and to be resilience.
Balance
We aim to recognise our academic goals and achievements and to balance them with the love and attention we should give to ourselves as a whole.
Aspiration
Through having high expectations, we aspire to progress in everything that we do.
Facebook: @RWBAcademy swindonlink.com n November 2023
SE November Master pages.indd 17
17
20/10/2023 09:27
Interview: Don Bryden is founder and CEO of BEST - Be A Better You, a Swindon charity helping young people By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk
LINK PEOPLE
a place called Phalaborwa. "I remember the train arriving in the early hours of the morning, and I've never heard such shouting and yelling, smacks around the back of the head and backsides being kicked from the minute we got off that train." In spite of the hellishness of the training, Don went on to join a respected cavalry unit, although he candidly admits that his military service left him with trauma which lingers to this day. At the beginning of the century he came to Britain with his young family. "I arrived in England with £380, a wife and two kids." Don Bryden, right, with BEST Operations Manager Craig Hiscock, who There were early troubles has been with the organisation since the beginning including a fight in London which left him with a badly plus older than her, started with strong British connections, broken leg. taking her in. had problems in his own earlier "We managed to save "We went through hell with life. enough money to rent our first her, had to move out of the "As a young kid, I got myself house. I remember having to country." into real trouble at the age of live for three months on a couch Don and his wife, Sarah, 14. Although I was doing sports we found by the side of the were determined not to let the - I was riding, showjumping road." exploitation continue, and with something drew me to gang Don found work in recruitment the ties of that exploitation life. in Swindon, thoroughly learning broken, Jess turned her life "We used to meet up at a about the sector and gaining around. local bowling alley. Things useful insights into psychology, The young woman took to started deteriorating; the knife and eventually set up on his boxing, and today is one of culture came. I started getting own. the country's most successful in into trouble at school, and it BEST is going from strength to her weight division. A bright just escalated from that into strength, and recently moved sporting future beckons, and something similar to what the into its largest premises yet, Jess works with some of the kids have today. where the facilities include a young people now helped "At the ripe old age of just large space with a boxing ring by the charity her father was turned 18 I got my prescription and opportunities for other inspired to found in the light of papers. I was called up to the sports training. the family's experiences. South African Defence Force. His advice to parents whose "She's gone from running I found myself in a situation own children are in peril? around with knives, doing more where we were packing all our "The only thing I can say is drugs than we'd imagine, being bags, getting all the stuff we that initially you've got to be an enforcer, beating up kids needed to take. tough. You've got to be hard after being beaten up herself, "I was on this train. It was and make some rulings. to taking that aggression and like a small prison cell. All the "I was not prepared to lose putting it in the ring, and doing shutters had to be up because my child - no matter what the her sport for her country. we were classed as government cost." "That's a winner as far as I'm property - we weren't Mum's Information about the charity, concerned." and Dad's property anymore. its work and how people can Don himself, who is originally "We spent two full days and help can be found at www. from Port Elizabeth in South into the third night, travelling on bestrust.co.uk Africa and comes from a family this train from Port Elizabeth to
Don Bryden, a successful businessman in the recruitment sector, created BEST - Be A Better You at the beginning of 2020. The charity's mission is a simple one, using mentoring and sport to help young people facing emotional, social and mental health difficilties to avoid taking harmful paths. So far, the number of people it has helped has run into four figures, and BEST was recently visited by an admiring Prince William, who takes a special interest in the welfare of the young. He spoke to Don, the team and many young people. Don speaks about the charity's work with a vehemence and passion born of horrifying experience, as his own daughter, Jess, suffered criminal exploitation. He said: "From the age of 10 or 11 things started changing in her. "She was bullied for a long time. Eventually she started standing up for herself. All three girls that had beaten her up, stamping on her food, stealing her food, phoning her day and night, threatening her - she was a wreck. "But she eventually stood up to all three of them and physically knocked their lights out. But because of her getting her fists involved and battering these girls, the first thing each and every one of their families did - they hadn't worried about their daughters beating my daughter - was go to the police. "It was probably the worst thing that could have happened, not because the police did nothing but because Jessica was recognised by the wrong crowd. "The wrong crowd, two years 18 swindonlink.com n November 2023 SE November Master pages.indd 18
20/10/2023 09:27
BUSINESS PROFILE
Business Profile - Deacons Business Type - Jeweller Established - 1848 Location - 11-15 Wood Street, Old Town, Swindon SN1 4AN Telephone number - 01793 527530/522072 Website - www.deacons-jewellers.com By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk If a business has not only survived but thrived for 175 years, its core philosophy is clearly a sound one. Managing director Richard Deacon, pictured, in charge since 1998 and - alongside sister Sara - part of the sixth generation of his family to run the firm, is happy to explain that philosophy. "The watchword here at Deacons, obviously, is 'service' and providing the best possible service we can is always uppermost in our minds. "I think today that is more important than ever, because as everybody knows, the world of retail has changed enormously, particularly in the last five years, and probably accelerated by the recent pandemic. "Therefore, we've had to up our game, and in the selling of - let's face it - luxury goods that people might only purchase two or three times in their lifetime, it's very important to make that occasion, when it happens, a special occasion for our customer. "That might be purchasing an
engagement ring, it might be purchasing a wedding ring, it might be purchasing a Rolex watch, but it's very important that we make sure we look after our customer in the best way we can. "In order to do that, over the last five years we have completely refurbished our retail space in Wood Street. The showroom now, I like to think, is very impressive, for somebody setting foot in it for the first time." The company has just finished refurbishing and extending its clock, watch and jewellery workshop, which now includes a state-of-the-art Rolex workshop where four accredited Rolex watchmakers look after customers' luxury watches. Mr Deacon said: "We are very, very lucky to be official Rolex retailers, and we are even luckier that we have always kept our skills in the workshop. A lot of other similar businesses no longer have that capability that we have here in Wood Street. Our Rolex
workshop is truly a fantastic facility that would rival any in the country without a doubt and enables us to give people an exceptional service. "In summary, the new workshop facility makes Deacons even more of a destination for future generations of Swindonians." The company sets great store by continuity, and prides itself on the fact that the average length of service among its staff is 19 years, with some remaining for far longer.
A proud tradition of skill
The founder of Deacons was 26-year-old George Deacon, the son of a Westbury farmer who used his savings and a loan from his father to buy 13 Wood Street in 1847. The shop opened the following year. George Deacon had been an apprentice to a clockmaker called Thomas Howse in High Street, Marlborough. More than 17 decades on, Deacons' experts still create, maintain and repair timepieces, and workshop cabinets brim with finelycrafted components. In addition to selling clocks, watches, jewellery and silver, the company creates special pieces to commemorate major events such as the jubilees of monarchs. It is marking this year's 175th anniversary with a series of specially-crafted pieces including bangles in precious metals and a limited-edition clock. swindonlink.com n November 2023
SE November Master pages.indd 19
19
20/10/2023 09:27
LINK POLITICS Hope at last for The Oasis? A column by Swindon Borough Council Leader Cllr Jim Robbins It is certainly feeling like Autumn and has done over the last few weeks with some very wet weather. We were very disappointed to see the Link Centre close due to severe flooding, and we are working with GLL, the Wildcats and the West Swindon Library to try to see them all back up and running as soon as possible. We are hoping to bring the reopening dates forward if we can and are keen to see the Wildcats back on the ice to make sure that they can keep the club going. It is hugely frustrating for us to lose the Link Centre swimming pool whilst the Health Hydro is being renovated and the Oasis is shut, but I’m hoping that November will bring some
20
positive news on the Oasis. We are keen to bring plans to reopen the Oasis to the November Cabinet meeting, and we are desperate to be able to share the exciting plans with residents. We are hoping that Seven Capital can put in a planning application soon after the meeting and that work to renovate the centre will start as soon as possible. We know how important the Oasis is to the town, and it will be a huge boost to see work start to bring it back to use.
Getting back to the office A column by borough council Conservative Group Leader Cllr Gary Sumner At the Full Council meeting on 12 October, I submitted a motion, seconded by my colleague Cllr Matty Courtliff, that asked the Labour administration to encourage more staff to return to working from the office. The primary reason for this is that the Covid pandemic had a devastating effect on our town centre (and town and city centres across the country) and many of these businesses survived that period thanks to generous Conservative Government support. However, ‘post lockdown’ working practices remained, with many staff continuing to work remotely. Our town centre desperately needs footfall. The closure of Marks and Spencer was like a slow car crash with the
lunchtime food section shrinking and less ‘office wear’ on sale. I work in my office in the town centre, and talking to many small business owners they agree that whatever anyone does in terms of ‘grand plans’ will not increase footfall. My motion wasn’t to force the staff back to the office five days a week – but enough to make a difference. It is also important for staff morale. The Labour Group rejected my motion, saying that they would become an outlier as an employer and find it harder to recruit staff.
swindonlink.com n November 2023
SE November Master pages.indd 20
20/10/2023 09:27
Sofa Screenings revitalising the cinema experience for Swindon film-lovers By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk Swindon’s Create Studios has launched a new experience for film-lovers and explorers. It is aimed at people who want to enjoy something a little different to the standard multiplex offer or watching alone online. Sofa Screenings launched in the second week of October at Create’s new home in Swindon’s Carriage Works, promising a great film on offer every Thursday and Friday evening through the Autumn and into next Spring. The opening film was acclaimed independent romcom Rye Lane. For each screening, the doors open at 6.30pm for a 7pm start, and tickets cost £5 for under-25s and £8 for over25s, with snacks and drinks available. Project Lead Louise Norbury said: “Our first Sofa Screening programme covers universal themes of love, belonging, identity, ambition and the JOY of cinema - with content that’s contemporary and award winning through to classics to revisit in new company. "Create’s new home in Swindon’s Carriage Works will welcome cinema explorers as well as established film-lovers keen to share in discussion and reflection with like-minded people. "We look forward to seeing them on the sofas soon!” Sofa screenings is the first in a series of initiatives that Create Studios will be sharing as part
of a new three-year British Film Institute Spotlight initiative in Swindon, Wiltshire and Gloucestershire. The aim of the project is to bring the best of old and new film to audiences hungry to share screening experiences again. This new initiative has been funded by the BFI, using funds from National Lottery to enable Film Hub South West (part of BFI film Audience Network (FAN) to work at a more local level to develop the capacity and confidence of cinemas, community organisations and creatives to put on screenings of a wide range of films for local audiences. Louise Norbury has been appointed to work with the Create Studios team to deliver this exciting new project Drawing on her extensive experience in film education and mentoring people within community settings, the Create team are excited to welcome Louise to the team. Shahina Johnson, Create Studios’ CEO said, “We know film is a powerful tool to bring people and communities together, and we can’t wait to develop an offer alongside our partners to connect and inspire across the region.” Details of screenings can be found at createstudios.org.uk/ events/event-type/screening/ and potential partners interested in hosting screenings as part of the Spotlight project are invited to contact the Create team via the website or email info@createstudios. org.uk
22
LINK NATURE
SE November Master pages.indd 21
22
LINK POETRY
LINK
FEATURES
A scene from opening film Rye Lane
24
LINK CULTURE
27
LINK SPORT & CYCLING
20/10/2023 09:27
LINK
NATURE
Wiltshire Wildlife Trust gives politicians priorities to support nature recovery
Leading wildlife organisations including Wiltshire Wildlife Trust have published their State of Nature 2023 report. It shows that nature is continuing to decline at an alarming rate across the UK, which the organisations say is already one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world. According to the report, one in six species is now at risk of being lost to the nation, wildlife studied has on average declined by 19 percent since monitoring began in 1970 and most important habitats are in poor condition, even though restoration projects have clear benefits for nature, people and adapting to climate change. Wiltshire Wildlife Trust and fellow trusts across the country have identified five priorities for politicians ahead of the next General Election: - Bring back the UK’s lost wildlife - the next Government
LINK
POETRY
Red squirrel by Peter Cairns
must work across departments to put nature into recovery by protecting and restoring at least 30 percent of land and sea for nature by 2030. Beavers should be in every county, a nature recovery network should join up wild places, and damaging fishing practices – such as bottom trawling – must be banned. - End river pollution and water scarcity - the next UK Government must sufficiently fund enforcement agencies to do their job.
Memories of the Berlin wall and those who knew it Maurice Spillane: Of Poetry Swindon
I was in Germany for the Berlin Marathon recently. I’d a day to be a tourist in Berlin again. It’s a city of wonderfully solid and stark buildings, the latter from the old GDR. The last time I was in Berlin was 1986, three years before the Wall came down. I’d an office in Frankfurt at the time. One of my staff had a nickname, 'Über die 22
- Fund wildlife-friendly farming - the destruction of nature and impacts of climate change are the biggest threats to food security in the UK. - Enable healthy communities - more than a third of the population – nearly 9.5 million households in England – are unable to access green places near their home, so the next UK Government must support the creation of more green spaces in neighbourhoods, fund and integrate green prescribing into community-based health
services and enable all children to access outdoor learning opportunities. - Tackle the climate emergency by protecting and restoring natural habitats - nature can make a huge contribution to achieving net-zero targets if habitats are restored because peatlands, woodlands, and other wild places store carbon. Wiltshire Wildlife Trust CEO Joanna Lewis said: “Wiltshire’s wild places and wildlife are under threat from pollution, habitat loss and our changing climate. However, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust is working with nature-friendly farmers, like the Wylye Valley Farmers, to save our chalk streams and rescue iconic Wiltshire species like corn buntings and stone curlew. "Together, we have the opportunity to achieve a Wilder Wiltshire, clean up our rivers and bring abundant nature back into our farmed landscape."
Mauer', meaning she’d escaped 'Over the Wall'. She wore that nickname with a lovely smile as a badge of honour, in memory of her escapade. Checkpoint Charlie was armed by Americans and East Germans on my last visit. It was grim with the cold war statements of Wall and Watchtowers and the silence of the observed and the observers.
This time the Checkpoint was a photo opportunity for young tourists, and though the museum nearby captured the monstrosity of it all, I couldn’t let go of my earlier memory of the death-strip. And beyond the death-strip, trying to imagine how people lived where neighbours, even family, could be informers reporting on dodgy tendencies and opinions. It’s hard to believe now that the East German government used literature and poetry in particular to motivate the border guards, to uplift them from boredom and the attraction of the glamour lights in the West. Poetry books were published to show that the concrete and
barbed wire were anti-fascist protection - and the guards diligently killed those who tried to flee. My colleague, Über die Mauer, was lucky. This translated German poem, The Unforgotten Unforgotten, is about those who died trying to escape: We stand, where they fell, What they loved, we love more deeply. What they hated, we hate more strongly. Wherefore they died, we now live. Unforgotten - are the murdered. Unforgotten the murderers. www.mauricespillane.co.uk
swindonlink.com n November 2023
SE November Master pages.indd 22
20/10/2023 09:27
Swindon Oasis by Dona Bradley swindonlink.com n November 2023
SE November Master pages.indd 23
23
20/10/2023 09:27
Brighten up those dull Winter evenings with a dash of comedy
LINK CULTURE
By Jamie Hill jamie@positive-media.co.uk
Calling all budding Actors! Have you ever watched This Country, Ghosts, Miranda, or Father Ted and thought, "I would love to be in something like that?"
Well, here’s your opportunity to learn how to act in comedy! And it doesn’t matter if you have never trodden the boards before; the Actors’ Institute course in Acting for Comedy is strictly for beginners aged 18 plus, offering a safe and nurturing space for newbies to get to grips with the basics. “We have been running our popular Acting for Beginners courses for over a decade in Swindon and people join us for
different reasons,” said Hannah Marquez, Co-founder of the School. “Some want to build selfconfidence or find a new hobby and others have always
wanted to be an actor and use our courses as a springboard to working in the industry. But one thing's for sure, everyone who joins us has bags of fun and will meet lots of new
friends!” The next six-week course starts in Old Town, Swindon on P2 November and can be booked at www.actorsinstitute. co.uk
Paint Fest a massive success say organisers
Following the success of the first Paint Fest in 2022 this year's took place on 2 and 3 September and was bigger and better than ever with hundreds of people coming to the festival over the weekend and enjoying all the amazing artwork in the sunshine. This year the festival brought over 50 talented artists and six headline artists with some travelling from as far as the US and Spain. Two of the headliners, Curtis Hylton and Medianeras have just completed their murals on Victoria Hill and Fleming Way. Although the festival has ended, the artists’ work can still be enjoyed and their work has transformed many areas of Swindon. There's the mural trail that will take you to a variety of locations around Swindon to see the eye-catching and thought-provoking artworks. Head over to Swindon Paint Fest's website or their socials for a map and the precise locations of all the artwork from this SE November Master pages.indd 24
year and last year. swindonpaintfest. weebly.com/map-2023 Caryn Koh, Organiser and Co-Founder of Swindon Paint Fest said: "Thank you to all of our amazing sponsors notably InSwindon BID, Artsite, Powered Access Solutions, Brewers Paint, and Rudis Bar for their beliefs in our vision. Thank you to the local businesses, the council and the community who've donated or helped in their own way in supporting us making the festival possible. Thank you as well to each and every artist who’s been a part of the festival. "The buzz on the weekend for all things art could be felt; from the live painting at various venues; live painting, exhibitions, DJs, workshops and performances at Artsite the main venue, exhibitions held at Mamsgallery and Oink Gallery, and the art market at Swindon Hub. The mind-blowing murals created by these talented artists have been so well received."
20/10/2023 09:27
SE November Master pages.indd 25
20/10/2023 09:27
SE November Master pages.indd 26
20/10/2023 09:27
Your old bike could make a child's Christmas magical thanks to local mechanic's appeal Monthly column with Becky Cox of Swindon Cycle Campaign. Have you got any bikes sat in the garage or not being used? Children grow out of bikes so quickly and a once dearly loved bike can easily be forgotten about. That preloved bike could make a local child’s Christmas this year. Matt Jones, a local bike mechanic who runs bike repair business ‘Run & Repair’, is once again asking for donations of children’s bikes for his Christmas bike appeal, which is in its fourth year. Over 250 local families, many of whom were not able to afford a bicycle for their children, have benefitted from the scheme so far. The gift of a bike can open so many opportunities for children, from giving them chance to let off steam and get some exercise with friends to helping them develop their
Alfie Howlett: Swindon Town FC writer
With over a quarter of the season already gone, League 2 is beginning to take shape. In the midst of the early runners and riders sit Swindon. Despite fluctuating form in October, Swindon will be pleased with the start they’ve made. But can they keep their momentum? My stance on The Robins remains consistent. In my opinion, Swindon have their strongest starting XI since the 2019/20 side. This has already been demonstrated through their fine early season form. Based on the teams I’ve seen at The County Ground so far this season, I’d say that Swindon are amongst the top seven in the division. However, although a strong starting line-up wins you games, a strong squad earns you promotion. For me, Swindon have sold themselves short through a lack of
independence and making journeys without relying on parents or public transport. Matt’s Christmas Bike appeal is aimed at struggling families, and bikes are passed on at no cost. He wants to help those who are perhaps unable to afford something for their children this Christmas. No proof of hardship is required, he’s just happy knowing that a child will have the joy of receiving a bicycle this festive season. If you have a bike (or two!) that you’d like to give to a new home, then please get in touch with Matt via the contact details at the bottom of the page. Bikes can be from toddler-sized all the way up to those for adults. All he asks is that the bikes are in a reasonable condition to be repaired (i.e. not rusty bikes
that have been sat in the garden all year). Bikes can be dropped off at Run and Repair’s base at Unit 68 Bizspace, in Cheney Manor Industrial Estate, SN2 2PJ. Alternatively, if you know a family in need this festive season, please get in touch with Matt on Facebook: www.
Can STFC go the distance? ambition in the transfer market. Manager Michael Flynn is working miracles with both hands tied behind his back. Town’s gaffer has been offered little to work with and yet he is drawing every drop of potential from his squad. Nonetheless, he must be better backed in the January transfer window. This is because the squad depth is simply not there to compete at the top. Despite having one of the best starting teams, Swindon’s squad is parallel with mid-table. I’m concerned that this will come to fruition as the season progresses and dearly cost Town. In fact, we’ve already been offered a preview in the EFL Trophy, where Swindon’s threadbare squad has been unable to compete. Flynn has, however, expertly navigated the loan market.
In Murphy Mahoney, Jake Young, and Dan Kemp Swindon have constructed their spine on a fraction of the budget. Unfortunately, the loan market comes with its trademark risks. One being that all three players are vulnerable to recalls come January. In recent seasons this has become an all too familiar concern for Town fans. There will be large question marks placed over the future of both Jake Young and particularly Dan Kemp. This is due to the fact that both players are on loan from fellow League 2 clubs. Therefore, there are an array of reasons as to why they could each return to their parent clubs. Firstly, the two players would improve their old teams. This mainly applies to Kemp; with MK Dons struggling to get their season going, a
LINK
CYCLING
facebook.com/runandrepair email: run_repair@hotmail. com. Matt also offers good value bike services, repairs and cleans. Follow Run & Repair on Facebook or get in touch via Matt’s contact details above if you’d like to book your bike in.
LINK FOOTBALL player of his quality and form could kick start the Dons' season. Bradford on the other hand are building momentum after the departure of Mark Hughes. And with last season’s leading marksman, Andy Cook, leading the line it’s hard to see Young regularly starting for The Bantams. Although Young would undoubtedly improve the Yorkshire side's squad, there’s a more pressing reason behind his potential recall. If the forward were to leave SN1, it’d weaken Swindon; this in turn would strengthen Bradford who’ll likely see Town as a promotion rival come January If I was Town, I’d focus all my efforts on securing Kemp for the whole season. The number 10 is the main man, the source of all creativity, and Swindon’s Mr Consistent. You don’t get many like him so replacing him will be that little bit harder. swindonlink.com n November 2023
SE November Master pages.indd 27
27
20/10/2023 09:27
LINK
TRADE PAGES
28
swindonlink.com n November 2023
SE November Master pages.indd 28
20/10/2023 09:27
LINK
TRADE PAGES Semi-retired Plumber SURESTOP SWITCH installed for hard to get at or seized stop cock
• Disabled extra high toilets fitted • Tap washers & ball valves • Toilet cistern repairs • Kitchen taps fitted Tel: 01793 324116 Mob: 07788 621772
swindonlink.com n November 2023
SE November Master pages.indd 29
29
20/10/2023 09:27
30
swindonlink.com n November 2023
SE November Master pages.indd 30
20/10/2023 09:27
SE November Master pages.indd 31
20/10/2023 09:27
SE November Master pages.indd 32
20/10/2023 09:27