Winter 2012 - Renfrewshire Council

Winter 2012 

The magazine for Renfrewshire's people 

Bright Sparks 

Investing in our businesses 

and young people

CONTENTS 

Contents 

Renfrewshire Council 

(main switchboard) 

Mon–Thurs, 8.45am–4.45pm 

Fri, 8.45am–3.55pm 

0300 300 0330 

(Contact Centre) 

Mon–Fri, 8am–6pm 

0300 300 0300 

Renfrewshire Wardens Service 

0300 300 0380 

Housing Repairs 

(Council tenants) 0300 300 0300 

(select option 1) 

For winter updates on schools 

and other Council services, 

'like' us on Facebook. 

Or on Twitter, follow 

@RenCouncilNews or search for 

#RenWinter. 

www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/winter 

Looking Local 

On Sky—go to the Community Channel, 

(539) press the red button. 

On Virgin—go to the Community Channel 

(233) press the red button. 

Keep these numbers close 

to hand so you know who 

to call in an emergency 

Utility companies 

Scottish Gas 0800 111 999 

Scottish Power 0845 272 7999 

Scottish Hydro Electric 0800 300 999 

Scottish Water 0845 601 8855 

British Telecom 

151 (residential customers) 

154 (business customers) 

Other services 

NHS 24 08454 242424 

Identify family or neighbours 

who may need an extra helping 

hand, and have their phone 

numbers to hand 

Regulars 

03 News from across Renfrewshire 

24 What’s on? 

Renfrewshire Arts & Museums have another 

packed programme in 2013 

26 Your councillors 

Surgery details for elected members 

Features 

08 Investing in Renfrewshire 

Helping young people find jobs and supporting 

local businesses 

14 Money, Money, Money 

Major changes to the benefit system by the 

UK Government will affect thousands of our 

residents 

18 At your service! 

Online, over the phone or even on your telly, 

Renfrewshire Council is here to help 

20 Volunteer with Home-Start 

Help parents of young children when they’re 

struggling to cope 

21 Taking the time to talk 

Call F.I.R.S.T Crisis if you’re going through some 

difficulties with your mental health 

22 Major new festival is a Spree-mendous 

success! 

08 

Music and comedy fans flocked to Paisley this 

October for this great new festival 

14 22 

Want a copy of the 

magazine in a different 

format or language? 

Email: communications@ 

renfrewshire.gov.uk 

Call: 0141 618 7396 

Write to: 

Communications 

Chief Executive’s Service 

Renfrewshire House 

Cotton Street 

Paisley PA1 1WB 

Read the magazine online now 

at www.renfrewshire.gov.uk 

Writing, design and layout: 

Renfrewshire Council 

Communications Unit. 

Printed by: Acorn Web Offset Ltd. 

The magazine is printed on 

100% recycled paper by a 

printer who is FSC and PEFC 

certified and holds ISO 14001 

environmental accreditation. 

Renfrewshire magazine costs 

each household just 64p a year. 

Follow us on Twitter: 

@RenCouncilNews 

and ‘Like’ us on Facebook! 

Renfrewshire Winter 2012 www.renfrewshire.gov.uk 

1

WELCOME 

NEWS 

Register 

your child for 

primary school 

Mrs Pollock of George 

Court, Paisley enjoys 

a cup of tea in her 

new kitchen 

Welcome 

The key priorities for Renfrewshire 

Council are giving people support in 

difficult times, and opportunities in the 

local economy. 

We’ve seen increasing emphasis on 

both in recent months and we’re gearing 

up to do even more in the coming year. 

One of the things which will have a 

major impact on communities across 

Renfrewshire will be the forthcoming UK 

Government welfare benefit cuts. 

The council has been raising 

awareness and providing information 

about the changes to the people who 

will be directly affected (p14–17). 

Working-age people in Renfrewshire 

could lose as much as £22million in 

benefits. 

We are sending leaflets to tenants 

expected to be affected by new housing 

benefit rules. 

In December, we’ll be hosting a 

welfare reform summit with partner 

organisations. On Thursday 13 

December, Paisley Town Hall will host 

a 'Make the most of your money day'. 

Experts will be on hand to offer benefits, 

debt and money advice. 

In addition to supporting the 

community we are also supporting our 

lowest-paid employees. 

The council recently approved a £7.50 

Living Wage for 800, mainly female, 

workers. 

Regenerating the economy and 

getting young people into employment 

are also vital for our community (p8). 

Later in this issue, you can read 

about some of the council’s key 

economic initiatives. 

I have been out and about meeting 

investors, retailers and business 

representatives and have been very 

encouraged at their practical support 

and involvement (p12). 

One of the things the council did 

to boost business in the run up to 

Christmas was to revive the Paisley 

Fireworks and Christmas Lights 

Switch-On as separate events. 

That proved a great success and was 

an ideal follow up to the inaugural Spree 

festival (p22). 

Next year we can look forward to the 

Royal National Mòd coming to Paisley. 

Overall, it has been a challenging 

year for Renfrewshire. There are more 

challenges ahead. 

We’ve seen a positive approach 

to tackling need and promoting 

opportunity and I am sure that will 

continue in the year ahead. 

Cllr Mark Macmillan 

Leader of Renfrewshire Council 

Session 2013/2014 

Children who reach 5 years of age 

between 1 March 2013 and 28 February 

2014 (inclusive) should be registered for 

education in their catchment school as 

follows: 

·· 

Pupils whose surnames begin with the 

initials A to L should be registered on 

Wednesday 16 January 2013. 

·· 

Pupils whose surnames begin with 

M to Z should be registered on 

Thursday 17 January 2013. 

Registration will take place between 

1pm and 3pm. 

Parents should produce their child’s 

birth certificate, and two proofs of 

residence, which must include: 

a) child benefit notification and one 

from either b) or c), 

b) council tax notice for the property 

or proof that you have registered for 

council tax at that property, 

c) a letter from your solicitor 

confirming that missives have been 

concluded or a rent book for rented 

property, or a tenancy agreement. 

Original documents must be 

produced. 

You must register your child in only 

one school, either the denominational or 

non-denominational school for your area. 

If you need information on 

schools in your area, please phone 

0300 300 0170 or visit our website 

www.renfrewshire.gov.uk 

If you want your child to go to a 

different school you will also need to 

make a placing request. Your catchment 

school will give you the form to fill in 

when you register. 

Delivering 

Housing 

Improvements 

More than 5,000 council tenants have 

received combinations of new kitchens, 

bathrooms and rewiring as part of a 

£138million housing improvement 

programme. 

As the council’s Delivering Housing 

Improvements programme approaches the 

halfway mark, around 4,000 homes have 

also had their heating systems upgraded. 

The five-year programme, which began 

in June 2010, will make sure all council 

houses meet the Scottish Housing Quality 

Standard by 2015. 

As well as the internal improvements, 

hundreds of tenants have also had work 

done to the external fabric of their homes 

including roofs, roughcasting, guttering 

and downpipes. 

Over the next year, the next phase of 

external work will focus on multi-storey 

blocks, deck access blocks, maisonettes, 

tenements and four-in-a-block properties. 

As well as council tenants, owner 

occupiers and private landlords who own 

properties in blocks shared with the 

council will also benefit. A range of 

financial help and advice will be available 

to help owners participate in the proposed 

work for their buildings. 

2 www.renfrewshire.gov.uk 

Renfrewshire Winter 2012 Renfrewshire Winter 2012 


3

NEWS 

NEWS 

Flying the flag 

Paisley has officially taken on the mantle as host 

town for the next Royal National Mòd. Renfrewshire's 

Provost Anne Hall and Convener of Mòd Phàislig 2013, 

Ealasaid MacDonald, attended the closing choirs’ 

event of the Dunoon Mòd. 

They officially handed over the Mòd flag, signifying 

that the town has the privilege of welcoming this 

prestigious festival from 11–19 October 2013. The 

flag is particularly significant as this is a gift from 

Renfrewshire to the Mòd movement to celebrate the 

first visit of the festival to the local area. 

It was presented to An Comunn Gàidhealach at 

the opening ceremony in Dunoon. It will be passed on 

to future host towns, which will have the honour of 

flying it to highlight their host status. 

The Mòd is a celebration of Gaelic language and 

culture and is one of Scotland’s largest and most 

culturally significant festivals. Paisley will welcome 

thousands of competitors, visitors, Gaels and 

non-Gaels to the town for a fantastic ten days 

celebrating the best of Gaelic culture and showcasing 

the best of Renfrewshire. 

Keep an eye out for all the upcoming events and 

excitement as Paisley prepares itself for a year of 

Gaelic culture and fun! 

If you are interested in hearing more about the 

Mòd or would like to get involved, visit the Mòd 

Phàislig 2013 website at www.modphaislig.org or 

email the team at modphaislig2013@yahoo.co.uk 

Calling all local 

businesses… 

make your 

transport 

budget go miles 

further 

Fancy up to £50,000 to make 

your transport budget go miles 

further? Businesses are on the 

road to major financial savings and 

reduced carbon emissions with 

help from their local Energy Saving 

Scotland advice centre. 

Through a FREE sustainable 

transport review, experts have 

already identified average 

annual savings of over £7,200 

and 12 tonnes of CO2 for many 

businesses. 

And there are also interest-free 

loans of up to £50,000 available 

(funded by Transport Scotland) to 

assist with items which help reduce 

transport costs. 

Contact your local Energy 

Saving Scotland advice centre now 

on 0800 51 2012 or visit 

www.energysavingtrust.co.uk 

Help available to keep your 

home energy-efficient 

Fancy turning the Scottish weather into 

energy for your home? It’s not uncommon 

to see four seasons in one day — but no 

matter what the conditions, the weather can 

be a great source of energy for your home. 

Renewables systems can help you to 

keep your home energy-efficient, helping 

you forecast major savings. And specialists 

at the Energy Saving Trust are on hand to 

guide you through the process — offering 

free, impartial advice on what will work for 

you and your home. 

To assist homeowners with the up-front 

costs, your local Energy Saving Scotland 

advice centre can advise on interest-free 

loans of up to £10,000 (provided by the 

Scottish Government) for all types of 

renewables, and grants of up to £1,250 to 

contribute towards the cost of installing a 

heat-generating system. 

The team of specialist advisors can also 

help you find certified installers and quotes. 

To find out how you can generate your 

own energy at home, contact your local 

Energy Saving Scotland advice centre now 

on 0800 51 2012 or visit 

www.energysavingtrust.co.uk 

Housing and Community Safety Convener 

Tommy Williams (second left) meets with 

tenants of the high flats at Gallowhill to 

mark the start of the second phase of a 

£6million project to transform the two 

tower blocks. 

Park Mains High School 

opens its doors 

Staff and pupils at Park Mains High in 

Erskine have been showing off their new 

£31million school. 

Designed and constructed in partnership 

with Renfrewshire Council, Holmes Miller 

and BAM Construction Ltd, the new 

school has had much emphasis placed on 

innovative design and construction and on 

integrating educational, sporting, cultural 

and community facilities. 

4 www.renfrewshire.gov.uk Renfrewshire Winter 2012 

Renfrewshire Winter 2012 


5

FEATURE PAISLEY TOWN HALL PILLAR GALLERY FEATURE 

The remodelled foyer will provide space 

for customers to relax. 

Pillar Gallery 

roars into 

action 

Paisley Town Hall refurbishment 

The £1.58million investment in the iconic A-listed Town Hall is gathering pace. 

Renewal work on the original balustrades 

and cleaning of the stonework is the first 

stage in a major restoration of the 19 th 

century Victorian building, long regarded as 

one of the finest in Renfrewshire. 

As well as a fresh new exterior, there 

will be a new, fully accessible, entrance 

making it easier for people with disabilities 

to enjoy the top wedding, conference and 

entertainment venue. 

A remodelled foyer, and the creation 

of new interior space from the existing 

cloisters, will provide space for customers 

to relax and access information on what to 

see and do in Renfrewshire, using the new 

interactive screens. And, the restoration 

work will provide the Town Hall with a 

makeover in time to host the Mòd in 

October 2013. 

The Town Hall remains open for business 

until the end of this year, but will close for 

events throughout January to March 2013 

to allow for internal works to the main 

reception and foyer area. 

A temporary entrance and reception 

area, accessed from Gauze Street, will allow 

the building to remain open for bookings 

and general enquiries from January to 

March. The building will reopen for events 

in early summer. 

The town hall entrance will be accessible 

for people with disabilities. 

The Pillar Gallery in Paisley Museum has 

reopened after a nine-month revamp. 

The modernisation programme has 

transformed the exhibition space and 

uncovered—literally—some of the 

building’s Victorian splendour. 

A suspended roof installed in the 

1960s was taken down. The original 

twin-barrel vaulted ceiling dating back to 

the 1870s was found to be in very good 

condition and can now be seen again in 

its original Victorian splendour. 

Councillor Iain McMillan, Convener of 

Renfrewshire Council’s Community and 

Family Care Policy Board said: 

“Paisley Museum is a much-loved institution 

and has been a leading feature of life in 

the town for generations of families. 

"This fantastic modernisation of 

the Pillar Gallery, while respecting the 

building’s Victorian origins, provides a 

modern space to better display some of 

the museum’s iconic objects and has 

resulted in an improved visitor experience. 

"The gallery reflects Paisley’s local 

history and international influence as 

well as broad themes from history, natural 

history and archaeology. 

"The rediscovery of the original Victorian 

ceiling is a wonderful bonus." 

The gallery space includes new and 

refurbished display cases, dramatic wall 

panels with large-scale photographs 

and graphic images, and new spaces for 

lectures and education activities. 

Alongside the expanded range of 

exhibits and information, regular 

patrons can be assured that the gallery’s 

most famous items are still prominently 

on show. 

Councillor Iain McMillan with pupils from 

St Fergus and West Primary Schools at the 

new-look Pillar Gallery 

6 www.renfrewshire.gov.uk Renfrewshire Winter 2012 



7

FEATURE INVEST IN RENFREWSHIRE INVEST IN RENFREWSHIRE FEATURE 

We're Investing in Renfrewshire 

Invest in Renfrewshire is a new 

£2.5m commitment by the council 

to support local businesses and 

help Renfrewshire’s young people 

find jobs. 

The partnership between local employers 

and the council sees the businesses commit 

to recruiting local young people to fill job 

vacancies and provide training opportunities. 

In return, the council will provide support to 

help these businesses grow. 

So far, more than 100 firms have signed 

up to Invest in Renfrewshire, from start-up 

enterprises to established companies. 

Support now available to local companies 

includes: 

·· 

Employment subsidies for businesses 

creating new jobs. 

·· 

The Business Growth Fund for businesses 

undertaking projects that will benefit the 

local economy, such as ICT, tourism and 

market development ventures. 

·· 

A subsidised graduate intern programme 

placing well-qualified young people with 

companies who need help with special 

projects. 

·· 

Financial support for employee training. 

·· 

Help for retail businesses to improve their 

frontages and interiors. 

Support for unemployed young people 

The recession has hit young people 

particularly hard and even those 

who are well-qualified can struggle 

to find work. 

Invest in Renfrewshire is 

helping local businesses to create 

more jobs and training and helping 

local young people to build up the 

abilities and personal qualities that 

employers are looking for. 

Support available to local young people includes: 

·· 

Paid graduate internships with local businesses and 

organisations. 

·· 

One-to-one coaching at the new Youth Employment 

Hub in Paisley. 

·· 

CV workshops and help with job searches and 

applications. 

·· 

Work experience and visits to local workplaces. 

·· 

Training initiatives such as the Finishing School and 

The Recruit. 

·· 

Training opportunities in the public sector. 

Ingliston Country Club 

near Bishopton was one 

of the first local businesses 

to sign up to the Invest in 

Renfrewshire programme. 

Owner Paul Fraser expects 

to take on up to nine local 

young people over the 

next year. 

Rachael Tosh-Provan, 23, recently 

graduated with an honours degree 

in Risk Management. 

In August, she gained a place 

on the Invest in Renfrewshire 

graduate intern programme and 

is now working as a technical 

research officer in the council’s civil 

contingencies team, developing 

plans with the emergency services 

and local voluntary organisations. 

Rachael is using her skills 

and knowledge in a working 

environment and is confident that 

the experience will help her find a 

full-time job. 

“When I was told I 

was successful, I 

was delighted. It 

gave my confidence 

a real boost and 

I’m hopeful this 

internship will be a 

stepping stone to a 

successful career.” 

Nicole Mitchell (centre) from Elderslie is one of a number of local apprentices taken on 

by Renfrew firm Steel Engineering through the Invest in Renfrewshire programme. 

To find out more about graduate internships and other opportunities available to 

young people through Invest in Renfrewshire, go to www.investinrenfrewshire.com 

or call 0300 300 0144 to speak to an adviser. 

8 www.renfrewshire.gov.uk Renfrewshire Winter 2012 Renfrewshire Winter 2012 


9

FEATURE 

JOHNSTONE CIVIC HUB 

JOHNSTONE CIVIC HUB 

FEATURE 

Plans for new £14.5million 

Johnstone Civic Hub 

The regeneration of Johnstone town centre has taken an exciting step forward 

with the unveiling of plans for the new £14.5 million Johnstone Civic Hub 

The facility will include a new town hall, 

library, theatre, marriage suite and cafe, with 

flexible accommodation also available for 

community and conference use. A range of 

council services will be brought together in 

the centre of the town, including customer 

services, housing, social work, Advice Works 

and the registration service. Community 

partners, such as Strathclyde Police and 

Macmillan Cancer Support, will also be 

located in the Hub. 

Environmental improvements including 

new lighting, paving and street furniture will 

complement the building. 

Demolition of the existing town hall and 

library could start in early spring 2013, with 

construction of the new facility starting in 

summer 2013. The new building could be 

operational by spring 2015. 

Renfrewshire Council Leader Mark 

Macmillan said: “Consultation is a vital part 

of this process and we have included the 

community in shaping our proposals. 

“Working with the local community is the 

key to delivering this kind of major project. 

We will also be doing everything we can to 

support local people and local traders. We 

will also continue to consult with the families 

and firms that make up the community of 

Johnstone to ensure we deliver the facilities 

that meet their needs. 

"In the meantime, we are proud of the 

hard work and effort from the community 

in supporting the regeneration of Johnstone 

Town Centre." 

“We will ensure the community is kept informed about 

how the work is progressing and about any issues 

which could affect them. This is a positive step for 

Johnstone with the first signs on the ground of the 

massive investment in new facilities that is to come. 

Ultimately, the programme should be a catalyst for 

ongoing public and private sector investment.” 

Renfrewshire Council Leader Mark Macmillan 




11

FEATURE 

Focus on business 

Supporting business and growing the local economy are key 

priorities for Renfrewshire Council. 

Council Leader Mark Macmillan has been 

out and about listening to business, and 

explaining the council’s approach on 

economic development. 

He said: “We want a positive working 

relationship with business to grow the 

local economy and boost employment 

opportunities, especially for young people, 

and help regenerate our town centres. 

“In addition to the Invest in Renfrewshire 

programme, we’ve seen good support from 

local business through their sponsorship of 

major town centre events.” 

Another area where the council is 

looking for businesses to play their part 

is in supporting the effort to ensure that 

commercially-owned properties in Paisley 

town centre are fully maintained. 

The council has written to private 

property owners and hosted a property 

repairs seminar on the importance of 

maintaining their properties and the impact 

on the retail and investment appeal of the 

town centre. 

Councillor Macmillan has also addressed 

a conference in Renfrew on social enterprise, 

and met delegates at a Renfrewshire 

Chamber of Commerce. 

“Despite the difficult economic climate, 

there are a lot of positive ideas and 

new approaches from businesses 

across Renfrewshire. I can assure them 

the council is ready to play its part in 

supporting enterprise and investment.” 

Council Leader Mark Macmillan 

BUSINESS IN RENFREWSHIRE 

Council Leader Mark Macmillan meets 

Laura Morrow, owner of Casa Bebe. 

EVE SPA 

Eve Spa open 

for business 

The final phase of the £8.5m 

refurbishment of Paisley’s 

Lagoon Leisure Centre is now 

complete with the opening of 

a new Spa facility. 

A five-star spa experience in the heart of 

Paisley without the five-star price tag, 

Eve Spa has been designed to an 

impeccable standard. As well as offering 

a full range of beauty and massage 

treatments, the new spa features an 

aromatherapy steam room, sauna, 

Chinese salt room, Rasul mud chamber, 

hot stone therapy and relaxation areas. 

Spa memberships are available with 

additional benefits including unlimited 

access to thermal experiences, up to 25% 

discount on treatments at all times and 

50% discount on standby treatments. 

Twelve complimentary guest passes 

mean you can share the Eve Experience 

with a friend each month without having 

to pay a penny. 

With standard membership costing just 

£29.99 per month, and a limited number 

of members of The Club at Renfrewshire 

Leisure able to 'bolt on' membership 

through an exclusive opening offer of just 

£14.99 each month, Eve Spa provides an 

affordable way to treat yourself every day. 

To find out more or sign up to a 

visit, email info@eve-spa.co.uk or call 

0141 840 8200. 

FEATURE 

12 www.renfrewshire.gov.uk Renfrewshire Winter 2012 Renfrewshire Winter 2012 


13

FEATURE 

WEALTHIER AND FAIRER RENFREWSHIRE 


FEATURE 

Money, 

Money,Money 

More people than ever are experiencing financial difficulties. 

Major changes being made by the UK Government to the benefits 

system will affect even more people. We explain those changes in this 

four-page special. 

The government's changes will see 

thousands of working-age people living in 

Renfrewshire receiving less benefit. 

As your local authority, we know this 

will be worrying. That’s why we think it’s 

important to make you aware of what’s 

changing now so you can start to plan 

ahead. 

The changes might mean you’ll need to 

apply for a new type of benefit, and in some 

cases you may receive less money than you 

did before. 

However, by finding out now what is 

going to change you may be able to take 

steps to prepare. 

How is Housing Benefit changing? 

New rates of Housing Benefit will take 

account of the size of each property. 

Where the government believes people 

are living in a property with more bedrooms 

than they need, their housing benefit will be 

reduced. This is sometimes called ‘underoccupancy’ 

or ‘bedroom tax’. 

This could mean your Housing Benefit 

will be less than the rent you have to pay. 

Renfrewshire Council tenants who are 

going to be affected will be contacted 

directly by the council. 

? 

Did you know? 

The new 'under-occupancy' rules 

are expected to affect around 3,000 

households in Renfrewshire, with more 

than £1.8million worth of housing 

benefit lost locally. 

From April 2013, working-age tenants will 

only be entitled to: 

·· 

One bedroom for each adult couple. 

·· 

One bedroom for any other adult aged 

16 or over. 

·· 

One bedroom for any two children of the 

same sex under the age of 16. 

·· 

One bedroom for any two children of 

either sex under the age of ten. 

·· 

One bedroom for any other child (other 

than a foster child or child whose main 

home is elsewhere). 

These rules will affect couples who 

need to sleep apart because of a medical 

condition and parents who have a spare 

room for when their child comes to stay. 

However, a disabled tenant or partner 

who needs a non-resident overnight carer 

will still be entitled to an extra bedroom. 

What can you do? 

www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/benefitchanges 

·· 

Choose to pay the difference and stay 

where you are. 

·· 

Increase your income by taking on a job 

or more hours at work. 

·· 

Make sure you are claiming all the other 

benefits you are entitled to. 

·· 

You may decide to move home. 

·· 

Apply for a Discretionary Housing 

Payment. 

Contact your landlord for more 

information. If you are a council tenant call 

0300 300 0175. 





15

FEATURE 

WEALTHIER AND FAIRER RENFREWSHIRE WEALTHIER AND FAIRER RENFREWSHIRE FEATURE 

? ? 

Did you know? 

It is expected that over 2,000 

disabled people will lose out on 

Disability Living Allowance when 

this changes to the Personal 

Independence Payment. 

Did you know? 

Renfrewshire residents are 

expected to lose a total of 

£22million in benefits because 

of the government's changes. 

What’s happening to Disability Living Allowance? 

Disability Living Allowance (DLA) will start to be replaced by the new Personal 

Independence Payment (PIP) in April. From June 2013 all new claims will be for PIP. 

Even if you receive DLA, you will NOT automatically be transferred and will have 

to make a claim for PIP. 

If you have a change in circumstances which affects your DLA entitlement after 

October 2013, you will be asked if you want to make a claim for PIP. If you decide not 

to claim PIP, your DLA will end. 

Everyone who is affected will receive a letter from the Department of Work and 

Pensions (DWP) telling them how and when they can make a claim for PIP. 

People of pension age will stay on DLA. 

What’s happening to the Social Fund? 

Another change taking place in April is that the Social 

Fund as it works at the moment is being replaced in 

Scotland with the Scottish Welfare Fund. 

At the moment, the Social Fund is run by the 

Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and provides 

emergency support in the form of Community Care 

Grants and Crisis Loans. 

Funding for these grants and loans will transfer to the 

Scottish Government, with local authorities administering 

the grants locally on their behalf. 

What is the Benefit Cap? 

From April 2013, a government cap is 

being introduced to the total amount of 

benefit working age people can receive. 

It’s expected the cap will be: 

·· 

£350 a week for single adults with no 

children. 

·· 

£500 for couples (with or without 

children) and lone parents with 

dependent children. 

If you receive more than the new limit, 

from April your Housing Benefit will be 

reduced. 

Everyone who is going to be affected 

will receive a letter from the Department 

of Work and Pensions (DWP). 

What’s happening to Council 

Tax Benefit? 

On 1 April 2013, Council Tax Benefit will 

be abolished and replaced with a new 

Council Tax Reduction Scheme across all 

local authorities in Scotland. 

For the first 12 months it is expected 

the new Council Tax Reduction Scheme 

will broadly mirror the current Council Tax 

Benefit scheme. 

This means there shouldn’t be 

disruption for claimants, providing their 

circumstances don’t change, but the 

council will contact you to let you know of 

any changes. 

The council is planning a 

range of measures to help 

local residents prepare for 

the impact of these changes 

as part of an overall money 

campaign. 

Information about the 

imminent changes will be 

provided on our website and 

social media sites, direct 

communications will be sent 

to council tenants affected 

by new housing benefit 

rules, and staff training will 

be carried out to ensure key 

groups of council employees 

can advise the public of 

changes that might affect 

them and where they can 

get support. 

The customer contact 

centre within the council’s 

headquarters is also 

being revamped to create 

more space to cope with 

anticipated increase in 

demand for services from 

the public. 

To find out more 

about the changes go to 

www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/ 

benefitchanges. You can also 

head to the Make the Most 

of Your Money Day being 

held in Paisley Town Hall 

on Thursday 13 December. 

www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/benefitchanges 





17

FEATURE SMARTER RENFREWSHIRE SMARTER RENFREWSHIRE FEATURE 

At your service! 

Nowadays, lots of us shop, bank and even ‘compare the 

market’ online or on the phone. 

At Renfrewshire Council, we’re also working to make it easier for you to 

do it online, do it on the phone or do it from the comfort of your own 

couch — whatever suits you best! 

Do it on the phone 

Lots of council services are 

available over the phone — 

but what number do you call? 

It can be a dilemma, so to 

help out we’ve introduced 

a slimmed-down series of 

0300 contact numbers for 

council services. 

The new, single number to call for our 

Customer Contact Centre is 0300 300 0300. 

This is the number to call to speak to a 

trained adviser who can deal with enquiries 

about our busiest services 

More 0300 numbers for council services 

are available at www.renfrewshire.gov.uk 

Do it on TV 

You’ll have heard people joke about 

‘council telly’ — well, now Renfrewshire 

Council really is on the telly! 

Looking Local is a new digital TV channel 

giving you instant access to public 

services — including those from 

Renfrewshire Council. 

The service is active all day, every day — 

all from the comfort of your own couch! 

? 

Did you know? 

Our website will have 

approximately 5 million 

page views during 2012. 

Do it online 

If you want to pay for something, apply for something or report a 

fault, you can go to our website at www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/doitonline 

Some of the things you can pay online: 

·· 

Council Tax 

·· 

Rent 

·· 

Business rates 

·· 

Planning applications 

·· 

Fixed penalty notices 

·· 

Service charges 

·· 

We’re adding more services online all 

the time — let us know which ones 

you’d like to see on there. 

Sky TV 

Press the Interactive button 

·· 

Select DirectGov (option 6) — press select to enter the 

service when prompted 

·· 

Choose Local Services (option 1) 

·· 

In the Quickcode box, enter ‘RTV’ (Key number 788) 

Virgin Media 

·· 

Press the Interactive button 

·· 

Select News & Info 

·· 

Choose Looking Local and entering ‘RTV’ 

(key number 788) 

Mobile phone or Nintendo Wii 

Put this address into the web browser: 

http://lookinglocal.gov.uk/renfrewshire 




19

FEATURE 


SAFER AND STRONGER RENFREWSHIRE 

FEATURE 

Volunteer with 

Home-Start Renfrewshire 

Home-Start Renfrewshire has been supporting families with young 

children throughout the local area for a decade and is part of a national 

network which helps thousands of families across the UK every year. 

Parents with young children can find it 

hard to cope for all sorts of reasons, maybe 

because of the illness or disability of their 

child or because of post-natal illness, 

bereavement or loneliness. At Home-Start, 

support is given to any parent who asks for 

help. Supported families, like Home-start 

volunteers, come from all walks of life. 

Home-Start are always in need of new 

volunteers and the only requirements for 

volunteering are that you have parenting 

experience, are friendly and non-judgmental. 

If you can spare a few hours a week to 

offer practical and emotional support to a 

local family then Home-Start can provide 

you with an informal, professional training 

course, support from a friendly team of staff 

and a hugely rewarding experience. 

Home-start is currently recruiting 

volunteers for the next preparation training 

course. 

To find out more, please visit our website 

www.home-start-renfrewshire.org.uk, call our 

office on 0141 889 5272, or send us an email 

at hs.renfrewshire@btconnect.com. 

“Volunteering with Home-Start 

Renfrewshire has given me the 

opportunity to help families who 

don’t have a support network. 

Developing a relationship with a 

family, seeing them progress and 

knowing I have played a part in 

that is incredibly rewarding and I 

would highly recommend it.” 

Home-Start volunteer 

Taking the 

time to talk 

“I know it’s a voice you’re talking to but 

it helps so much. I wouldn’t be here if it 

wasn’t for F.I.R.S.T Crisis.” 

These are the words of one appreciative caller to 

F.I.R.S.T Crisis, a service largely funded by Renfrewshire 

Council that’s here to help people experiencing a crisis 

in their mental health. 

A team of professionals with extensive knowledge 

and experience of mental health issues are there to 

help those struggling with traumatic life events or 

contemplating suicide. 

Home visits can even be arranged for those who 

need face-to-face advice and support to get through 

their period of crisis. 

The service is completely confidential and free 

to use. 

F.I.R.S.T Crisis also works closely with other agencies 

and if people are likely to need longer-term support 

with their mental health, the team can speak to other 

agencies on their behalf. 

? 

Did you know? 

F.I.R.S.T Crisis support 

upward of 600 people 

and take up to 12,000 

calls each year. 

When are we 

available? 

7 days a week 

365 days a year 

9am to 10pm weekdays 

10am to 5.30pm weekends 

Telephone: 0141 848 9090 

Freephone (from landlines): 

0500 829 093 




21

SPOTLIGHT 

THE SPREE 

THE SPREE 

SPOTLIGHT 

Major new festival is a 

Spree-mendous success! 

The Spiegeltent in 

County Square played host 

to outstanding musical and 

comedy performances 

Paisley made a major contribution to Scotland’s festival scene with the 

splendid success of this autumn’s Spree. 

A spectacular Spiegeltent wove its spell 

in County Square and the atmospheric 

surroundings of Paisley Abbey played host 

to some captivating performances. 

Music fans from as far afield as 

Texas and Japan joined local gig-goers to 

enjoy acts such as Roddy Frame, Karen 

Matheson, Damien Dempsey and Francois 

& The Atlas Mountains. 

Comedy fans were rocking with laughs 

provided by the hilarious Craig Hill and 

a stable of comedians from The Stand 

Comedy Club. 

The ‘cherry on the cake’ was the 

appearance of some of our most talented 

youngsters. Music from Create and Loud 

and Proud, as well as a specially-written 

play from PACE Theatre Group were 

evidence of Renfrewshire’s native talent. 

Next year’s festival will be even bigger 

and better, with an eight day programme 

from 11–19 October 2013 wrapping round 

the Royal National Mòd. 

Follow us online and be first in the 

know when acts are confirmed. 

www.thespree.co.uk 

/thespreefestival 

@spreefestival 





23

EVENTS 

EVENTS 

What's on 

Highlights 

Renfrewshire Arts and Museums 

Buy tickets from the box office on 0141 887 1010 

or online at www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/onlinebooking 

of the spring season. 

For more events go to 

www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/events 

Are you ready for a song and dance this spring? 

The spring season is almost upon us and here at Renfrewshire Arts & Museums we 

have been working hard to bring you an egg-stravagant line-up of all of the finest 

Scottish music, comedy and drama. Here are a few highlights you can look forward 

to this season. 

BURNS! Your Bard, By the Way 

Friday 22 February 

Paisley Arts Centre 

7.30pm 

£10/£6 

85 mins with interval 

An original, exciting portrayal of the life of Robert Burns. 

Two actors play many of the characters who shaped the 

poet’s life and works, moving seamlessly across age, 

gender and class. Hilarious comedy contrasts with 

heart-rending tragedy, interwoven with beautiful song. 

With a dialogue in rhyming Scots, and featuring some 

of Burns’ best-loved poems (including a dramatic recital 

of Tam o’ Shanter) there’s plenty here for the Burns 

enthusiast as well as the newcomer. 

Hotel California — A Night of Eagles Music 

Saturday 11 May 

Paisley Town Hall 

7.30pm 

2 x 45 mins 

£15/£13 

Hotel California, Scotland’s own tribute to The Eagles, 

are back again in 2013. Having toured successfully 

around the world with the Eagles Story, they are home 

again with a new line-up and a fresh new show. 

How To Make A 

Killing In Bollywood 

Friday 22 March 


7.30pm 

£10/£6 

2 x 45 mins 

May contain some strong 

language 

A brand new comedy full of 

life, laughter, colour, dance, 

music and tragedy. After 

Scottish-based actor Raza 

Khan is turned down for 

one too many roles, he is 

faced with the stark reality 

of a lifetime of serving 

chips and cheese to the 

local neds in the family 

carryout. 

But before consigning 

himself to this nightmare, 

he wants one last chance. 

One last chance to try 

and make it big. One last 

chance at showing the 

world what he is truly 

capable of. 

And where better to 

hit the dizzying heights 

of fame and fortune than 

where there are a thousand 

roles for guys like him? 

Bollywood. 

Southern Tenant Folk Union 

Saturday 16 March 


£12/£10 

7.30pm 

2 x 45 mins 

One of the most highly-acclaimed folk/bluegrass bands in 

the UK, who have just released their fourth album ‘Hello 

Cold Goodbye Sun’. Appearing live in session on Radio 2 

(Mark Lamarr), RTE Television (The View) & Radio 4 (Loose 

Ends) plus praise in Sunday Times/Guardian/Independent 

has seen them make waves on the music scene. An 

exciting live act who sell out theatres across Europe. 

Sign up & win 

For all the latest news on shows, exhibitions, family 

events and more then you can now sign up for our 

FREE weekly What’s On e-news which means you will 

be the first to know about ticket offers, special events 

and competitions. 

It’s quick and easy to register — just email 

ram.els@renfrewshire.gov.uk (put ‘What’s On Emails’ 

in the subject heading) and provide us with your 

email address, it’s that simple! Plus if you sign up by 

31 January, you will be entered into a prize draw to 

win shopping vouchers. 

Your free season’s guide 

Pick up a free copy of The Guide booklet, with the 

complete listing of everything taking place this spring 

at; Paisley Museum, Paisley Arts Centre, Paisley Town 

Hall and Renfrew Town Hall. Or you can view a digital 

copy online at www.renfrewshire.gov.uk 




25

COUNCILLORS 

COUNCILLORS 

Your Councillors 

Ward 3 

Paisley East & Ralston 

Ward 4 

Paisley North West 

Ward 5 

Paisley South 

Ward 6 

Paisley South West 

Details were correct at the time of going to press. However, 

if you intend to go along to a councillor’s surgery, please call 

0141 840 3477 to check the dates and times, particularly 

during school and public holidays. 

Visit www.renfrewshire.gov.uk for latest surgery details 

and to contact your local councillor by email. 

Ward 1 

Renfrew North 

Bill Brown 

(Labour) 

Renfrew Town Hall 

1st Wed of every month (7pm) 

Kirklandneuk 

Community Centre 

3rd Sat of every month (10.30am) 

Alex Murrin 

(Labour) 


2nd Sat of every month 

(10.30am) 

Kirklandneuk 


4th Sat of every month (10.30am) 

Bill Perrie 

(SNP) 


1st Sat of every month (10am) 

Kirklandneuk 


1st Wed of every month (6.30pm) 

Ward 2 

Renfrew South & Gallowhill 

Margaret Devine 

(Labour) 

Gallowhill Community Centre 

2nd Thurs of every month (6pm) 

Cherrie Centre 

2nd Sat of every month (11am) 

Arkleston and Newmains 

Community Association, 

Renfrew 

2nd Sat of every month (11.45am) 

Eddie Grady 

(Labour) 



Renfrew 

2nd Wed of every month 

(6.30pm) 


Last Sat of every month (10am) 

Cathy McEwan 

(SNP) 



Renfrew 

Last Sat of every month (11.30am) 


3rd Tue of every month (6.30pm) 

Gallowhill Community Centre 

3rd Thu of every month (6.30pm) 

Brian Lawson 

(SNP) 

To arrange a prompt personal 

appointment with Councillor 

Brian Lawson, please call 

0300 300 1253. 

Will Mylet 

(SNP) 

St John Ogilvie Primary School 

1st Mon of every month (6.30pm) 

Hunterhill Community Centre 

2nd Thurs of every month 

(6.30pm) 

Jim Sharkey 

(Labour) 

Alternates with Maureen 

Sharkey. 


1st Tue of every month (6.30pm) 

St Andrew’s Academy 

2nd Tue of every month (6.30pm) 

Ralston Community Centre 

3rd Wed of every month (6.15pm) 

Williamsburgh Primary School 

1st Thurs of every month (6.30pm) 

Maureen Sharkey 

(Labour) 

Alternates with Jim Sharkey. 


1st Tue of every month (6.30pm) 

St Andrew’s Academy 

2nd Tue of every month (6.30pm) 

Ralston Community Centre 


Williamsburgh Primary School 


Terry Kelly 

(Labour) 

West End Community Centre 

2nd Sat of every month (11am) 

West Primary School 

4th Sat of every month (11am) 

Engage Renfrewshire, 

Falcon Crescent, Paisley 

Last Wed of every month (5.30pm) 

Kenny MacLaren 

(SNP) 

Alternates with 

Mags MacLaren. 

Martyrs' Church 


Beechwood Community Centre 



Kenny MacLaren. 

Mags MacLaren 

(SNP) 

Martyrs' Church 




Tommy Williams 

(Labour) 



Eddie Devine 

(Labour) 

Glenburn Community Centre 

1st Thurs of every month (6pm) 

Charleston Centre 


Todholm Primary School 

3rd Thurs of every month (6pm) 

Lochfield Primary School 

4th Thurs of every month (6pm) 

Roy Glen 

(Labour) 

To arrange a personal 

appointment/home visit 

with Cllr Roy Glen, please call 

07506 966362. 

Paul Mack 

(Independent) 

To arrange an appointment wth 

Cllr Paul Mack, please contact 

0300 300 1267. 

Marie McGurk 

(SNP) 

Glenburn Community Centre 

1st Mon of every month (6pm) 

Charleston Centre 

1st Tues of every month (6pm) 

Lochfield Primary School 

2nd Wed of every month (6pm) 

Lorraine Cameron 

(SNP) 

Foxbar Resource Centre 

2nd Tue of every month (6pm) 

Langcraigs Primary School 


Foxbar Community Centre 


Jacqueline Henry 

(Labour) 





Brediland Primary School 


Mark Macmillan 

(Labour) 


1st Sat of every month (9.30am) 





Eileen McCartin 

(Lib Dem) 



If you wish to contact Cllr 

Eileen McCartin directly, please 

do so on 0300 300 1254. 




27

COUNCILLORS 

COUNCILLORS 

Ward 7 

Ward 6 

Paisley Johnstone South South, WestElderslie and Howwood Paisley South West 

Ward 8 

Johnstone North, Kilbarchan 

and Lochwinnoch 

Ward 9 

Houston, Crosslee and Linwood 

Ward 10 

Bishopton, Bridge of Weir 

and Langbank 

Ward 11 

Erskine and Inchinnan 

John Caldwell 

(Labour) 

Elderslie Village Hall 


Thorn Primary School 

2nd Fri of every month (5.30pm) 



John Hood 

(Labour) 

Cochrane Castle 


1st Fri of every month (5.30pm) 

St Paul’s Church, North Rd, 

Johnstone 

3rd Fri of every month (6pm) 

Johnstone Castle 



Stephen McGee 

(SNP) 

Howwood Village Hall 


West Johnstone 

Shared Campus 


Auchenlodment Primary School 

3rd Thurs of every month 

(5.15pm) 



Iain McMillan 

(Labour) 

Spateston Bowling Club 


Fordbank Primary School 


West Johnstone Shared 

Campus 


Howwood Village Hall 


Derek Bibby 

(Labour) 


Christopher Gilmour. 

McKillop Institute, 

Lochwinnoch 


Steeple Hall, Kilbarchan 


Johnstone Town Hall 




St Margaret’s Primary School 


Andy Doig 

(SNP) 


2nd Wed of every month (6.30pm) 

Sandyflats Community House 





4th Wed of every month (6.30pm) 



McKillop Institute, Lochwinnoch 

4th Wed of every month (8pm) 

Christopher 

Gilmour 

(Labour) 

Alternates with Derek Bibby. 

Stuart Clark 

(Labour) 

Linwood High School 


Tweedie Hall, Linwood 

(youth surgery)* 

3rd Tues of every month (7pm) 

Carrick Centre, Houston* 


*Alternates with Provost Hall 

Audrey Doig 

(SNP) 





Anne Hall 

(Labour) 


1 st Fri of every month (11am) 

Brookfield Village Hall 

For date/times, contact Members 

Support on 0141 618 7094 


(Youth Surgery)* 

3rd Tues of every month (7pm) 

Carrick Centre, Houston* 



3rd Fri of every month (11am) 

*Alternates with Cllr Clark 

Maria Brown 

(SNP) 

Cargill Hall, Bridge of Weir 

1st Tues of every month (6.30pm) 

Bishopton Community Library 


Langbank Village Hall 


Michael Holmes 

(Labour) 

Langbank Primary School 

4th Mon of every month (6pm) 


4th Mon of every month (6.45pm) 



James MacLaren 

(Conservative) 


1st Mon of every month (6.30pm) 


2nd Mon of every month (7.30pm) 

Langbank Village Hall 

3rd Mon of every month (6.30pm) 

Jim Harte 

(Labour) 

Bargarran Community Centre 

2nd Mon of every month (5pm) 

Inchinnan Community 

Association 

3rd Mon of every month (5pm) 

To arrange a personal 

appointment with Cllr Jim 

Harte, please contact 07717 

432887 or email cllr.james. 

harte@renfrewshire.gov.uk 

Jim McQuade 

(SNP) 




Association 


Sam Mullin 

(Labour) 


1st Tues of every month (6pm) 

Old Farmhouse 



Association 

2nd Tues of every month (7pm) 

Bridgewater Community 

Library 

Last Tues of every month (6.30pm) 

Old Farmhouse 


Home visits can be arranged 

McKillop Institute, Lochwinnoch 










Allan Noon 

(SNP) 

Brookfield Village Hall 


Houston Village Hall 


Iain Nicolson 

(SNP) 




Association 





29

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* Purchase 12 Month Membership at £299 and receive an additional Welcome Gift, Guest Pass and Treatment Vouchers: total package valued at over £100. 

Offer valid on 12 Month Memberships purchased before 31st December 2012, quoting ref: Christmas Package. Terms & conditions apply.

Winter 2012 - Renfrewshire Council

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