October/November 2008 - The Greets Green Partnership Legacy ...

greets greenOCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2008COMMUNITY MAGAZINEGreets Greenis ‘BloomingMarvellous’www.greetsgreen.sandwell.gov.ukThe popular SmallSites project returnsto Greets Greensee page 6There’s still timeto apply for abusiness grantsee page 11Meet the two newPolice CommunitySupport Officerssee page 15

Around 50 young mums and dads haveattended the Young Parents Group at theYMCA.Samantha Guy, Teenage Parents GroupCommunity Worker for the YMCA said:“As the most successful group of its typein Sandwell it’s very important it continues.We’ve secured funding till the end of theyear and are making plans to continue thegroup at the YMCA in the longer term.”The group has really gone from strengthto strength with some young parentsgoing back to school or college to learnnew skills, and others starting work.Recently, members of the groupcompleted their Introduction to YouthWork qualifications and two members areabout to pass on the skills they’ve learntby becoming sessional youth workersand running other young parents’ groups.The funding forthe project mayhave finished, butthe work is stillgoing strong.Parentsare unitedParents across Greets Green arebecoming united thanks to theTeenage Pregnancy project.Last year, a Young Parents Forum,Parents United, was set up whichmeets once a month at the YMCA.It’s open to any young parents oryoung parents-to-be from the GreetsGreen area. Members run the groupthemselves and plan trips andactivities for local young parents.As well as providing a chance foryoung parents to meet others, theForum is also working to tackleinequalities in services provided foryoung parents.difference to my life…Sarah’s StorySarah, aged 20, has a two year olddaughter. She‘s been coming to the groupfor a year. “When I first started the groupI was new to West Bromwich,” sheexplains. “I had low self-esteem and notmuch confidence. I knew one girl herewho introduced me to the group.I’ve now made loads of new friends, havecompleted my Introduction to Youth Workcourse, have had help in finding a job andhave got involved in community projectsand gained loads of new skills.Now I’m happy and confident and can’twait to start work as a youth worker!We want to keep the group going nowthe funding is stopping so we’ve decidedto run it ourselves.”Kerry’s StoryKerry has been attending thegroup for a year.“When I first came to the groupI had no support, I was boredand generally unhappy with mylife,” she says.“The group has offered me a lotof support, a place to go and achance to meet new friends.I’ve completed an Introductionto Youth Work course, I’mmuch happier in myself nowand I’ll soon have a job doingyouth work.”Greets Green Magazine October/November 2008 5

PARTNERSHIP NEWS COMMUNITY SERVICESTALK TOYOUR REPS!Four Neighbourhood Reps havebeen re-elected to represent theircommunities and deal with anyissues which residents have.Following uncontested elections,Pam Jackson continues to representSwan Village, Amy Bahat representsCarters Green and Ann Collrepresents Oak House North. JessicaFerguson was also re-elected afterwinning the Hambletts South election.The other Neighbourhood Reps areJanet Sayce for Hambletts North,Paul Green for Greets Green andFajli Bibi for Lodge Road.Don’t forget you can talk to yourReps about any local issues you have.Along with the Community Reps, theysit on the Partnership Board and canraise your concerns at a senior level.To contact any of the Reps, callJackie Owen at Greets GreenPartnership on freephone 0800953 0215 or 0121 533 3191.Activities include:●●●●●●Greets Green African Caribbean Steering GroupBlack History Monthfoodafrican drummingface paintingarts & craftspaintingvarious information stallsMeet your Reps...Wednesday 15th Octoberat West Bromwich Town Hallfrom 1.00pm - 6.00pmHere we find out more about Jessica Ferguson,Neighbourhood Rep for Hambletts South.How long have you been a Neighbourhood Rep?This is my second term but I’ve been involved since the Repsfirst started. I began as Deputy Rep for Hambletts South.What do you like about being a Neighbourhood Rep?I enjoy helping people – no matter what it’s about. It mayseem a small issue, but if it’s important to someone, I like tohelp. I’ve made some lovely friends and got to know so manypeople through being involved in Greets Green Partnership.When the Partnership ends, it will leave a hole in my life.What are the best improvements the Partnership hasmade?I think the Kingsmill playground is great for the children andthe alleygating scheme has made local people feel a lot safer.The Partnership has also done a lot that people don’t see.They’ve helped to make a big difference at George SalterCollegiate Academy – it’s amazing. There’s still a long wayto go but we’re only human.What are your hobbies?I’m involved in lots of other localorganisations which takes up alot of my time. I’m also settingup a tenants’ and residents’association.I used to breed birds – budgies,canaries, parakeets and cockatiels – until my firstgranddaughter was born. I love my garden and I enjoydecorating. I’m trying to get my hall finished at the moment.I also enjoy my computer and have joined Friends Reunited.If I hadn’t got involved in the Partnership, I wouldn’t evenknow how to turn a computer on.How would you describe yourself?I’m definitely not a leader – I just like to get involved and helppeople.What would you like to say to local r esidents?Thank you for putting your trust and faith in me once againand I will try to do my best for you.Greets Green Magazine October/November 2008 7

PARTNERSHIP NEWS HEALTHMore healthcare& adviceavailable locallyWhether you’re visiting your GP,getting your baby weighed at thebaby clinic or seeking advice onfamily planning, local people inGreets Green know the Lyng Centrefor Health and Social Care.It provides a vital service to the localcommunity and lately the service hasbeen extended as staff at the centrehave been working with Sandwell andWest Birmingham Hospital to offer evenmore healthcare and advice to GreetsGreen residents.“We’re always looking to improve ourhealth services in line with what ourpatients and public tell us, whether thatbe small or big changes,” said StevePhillips at Sandwell Primary Care Trust.“After talking to local residents, werealised that people would find it easierif they could access a whole range ofservices at their local centre insteadof having to go to different places. Thisincludes a diabetes out-patient clinic,a long term oxygen therapy serviceand a dermatology clinic.”The centre has held several successfuldrop-in sessions where local residentshad the chance to have a look round,ask questions and find out more aboutthe various services on offer.The Patient Advice and Liaison Service(PALS) team are also based at the centre.They act as a voice for local patientsand can provide advice on all types oflocal NHS services, from doctors topharmacists, dentists and opticians.For more information, drop into thecentre on Frank Fisher Way, off MoorStreet, or call 0121 612 2000.DON’T BE SAD!Although the Greets Green Partnership funded Healthy Living project came toan end this summer, there are still lots of initiatives continuing at the YMCAto ensure local people can stay happy and healthy .“We’re keen to make sure we can help people lead a better and more enjoyable life,”says Michael Rossington, Head of Projects at the YMCA. “We want to encourage localresidents to get out of the house and meet new people while doing something which willbenefit them. We are grateful to West Midlands Regional Assembly and the BIG Lotterywho are funding ‘Living Well in Sandwell’.”One of the new ideas to aid healthy living are the two light boxes which were placed inthe YMCA café in September. The lamps have been clinically proven to help people whosuffer from SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder), a type of winter depression that affectsan estimated half a million people UK-wide between September and April.SAD is caused by a lack of sunlight, but the light boxes can really help. Simply call intothe YMCA café any morning, buy a timer card for 50p and enjoy allowing the light toshine directly onto your face. If you buy something from the café, the timer card is freeand newspapers are provided so you can truly relax.If you fancy something more energetic, yet still relaxing, go along to the Tai chi and yogasessions which run three times a week. “The sessions can help to combat depressionand are very good for people,” explains Mike. “They’re very friendly so you don’t needto worry about turning up on your own.”The sessions cost £1 and are open to anyone. They run on Tuesday afternoons,Friday mornings and Friday evenings. Call the YMCA on 0121 524 1950 toconfirm the latest times.FREEWELLBEING EVENTWest Bromwich Town HallFriday 10th October 11.00am – 3.00pmCome along and find out how you can helpyourself to feel better. Everyone’s welcome.●●●●Complementary therapiesRelaxation and debtmanagement workshopsHealthy eating tasters andother light refreshmentsTai Chi demonstrations●●●●RaffleTombolaFace paintingRange of stallsand informationstandsTo find out more, call Julie Davies, Greets Green Healthy MindsCo-ordinator on 0121 553 7074.8Greets Green Magazine October/November 2008

CelebratingOUR HEROESIf you know someone who you think deserves tobe recognised for their hard work in thecommunity, call Brian McKinstrie at Greets GreenPartnership on freephone 0800 953 0215.Paul’s a herofor helping outA man who just loves helping othershas seen his efforts recognised witha Community Hero award.Paul Coton, aged 55, was nominated byPeter Castigan, Manager of the AdamsStreet Care Home where Paul is a resident.Peter said: “Paul does errands andgardening and is always willing to spendhis time helping others who need it.He’s a real asset to the community.“He puts others first, ensuring hesupports certain individuals on a dailybasis. He’s well known in hisneighbourhood because he alwaysvolunteers his time to help and supportothers. He really goes the extra mile.”Peter said that Paul, who has Asperger’sSyndrome, also does a lot of work in thecare home. “If we have visitors, Paulshows them round and he’s absolutelyfantastic. If anyone deserves a CommunityHero award, it’s Paul.”Pauline puts everyone firstPaul, who has lived in Adams Street formore than 17 years, said: “I like doing oddjobs and helping people. It passes thetime. I’m really pleased to get this award.”When local resident, JessicaFerguson heard about Greet Green’sCommunity Heroes, she just had tonominate her friend and neighbourof 20 years, Pauline Robinson. Shewanted to thank her for the tirelesssupport she gives her neighboursand the local area.“She’ll do anything she can to help thepeople of Greets Green and will alwaysput them first,” says Jessica. “She lovesit round here and has spent the last fewyears working hard to make it a betterplace to live.“If she hasn’t seen an elderly neighbourfor a while she’s the first to knock onthe door and check everything’s all right.If there’s a power cut she’ll go straightround with candles!“People round here know that if youcomplain to Pauline about anything suchas rubbish in the street or anti-socialbehaviour, she takes action and getsthings sorted.”Being such an active member of thecommunity means Pauline is a very busylady. She’s been involved in lots ofcommunity groups, including the HealthForum, the Housing Forum, theNeighbourhood Forum and SandwellCommunity Information and ParticipationService (SCIPS) among others.She’s also on the Steering Group of theTime 2 Trade project where she usesher time to help others out.Yet Pauline is very modest about all shedoes. “Being called a Community Heromakes me feel very self conscious,” shesays. “I can't stand being at the front -I'd rather not be noticed. I'll have towear a paper bag on my head whenI go out now!”Asked why she does so much, Paulinesaid: “I love helping the people of GreetsGreen as they’re the best. I've visiteda lot of places in the world but GreetsGreen people are the most genuineyou’ll come across.”Greets Green Magazine October/November 2008 9

communitypageIf you would like your community group or organisation to be featured on this page, contact Communications & PR Manager,Brian McKinstrie, at Greets Green Partnership on Freephone 0800 953 0215 or email brian_mckinstrie@sandwell.gov.ukPARTNERS IN THECOMMUNITYLocal community organisations are set to benefit hugelyfrom working in partnership now that they’ve cometogether as the Greets Green Community Partners.High profile community organisations in Greets Green – Greets Green CommunityEnterprises, the Guru Nanak Community Centre, OSCAR Sandwell, the YMCA andDORCAS – are starting to work together to shar e services and resources. NowSandwell Women’s Agency Network (SWAN) is also joining the Partners.“We have in excess of 70 voluntary organisations in Greets Green,” explains Rohit Mistry,Community Services Manager for Greets Green Partnership. “We’ve funded the creationand development of many of them and are now looking at how to help them become moresustainable. Greets Green Community Partners brings together some of the bigger voluntarysector organisations to see how they can mutually work together to help sustain each other.”The organisations meet to discuss how services and resources can be shared. The ideais that if individual organisations cannot afford something on their own, they may be ableto do so as a group.Suggestions so far include employing a joint Human Resources Officer, putting in jointapplications for funding, sharing cleaning services or making joint stationery orders to gainbigger discounts.Stephen Bavington (pictured right), Fundraising and Marketing Manager at the YMCA,said: “I think it’s a brilliant idea. We started meeting at the beginning ofthe year and it’s very important that we work together. It’s usefulto build relationships and realise that we’re part of a bigger picturein Greets Green. We know we’re not working in isolation andthere are other people and organisations we can lean onwhen we need to.”Sharon Wilson (pictured below centre), former Deputy ChiefExecutive Officer at OSCAR added: “It’s vital we work withother organisations to maximise resources. We’re trying toencourage other communities to come to us and we’re lookingto support the work they do too. Greets Green CommunityPartners encourages this.”It’s useful tobuild relationshipsand realise thatwe’re part of abigger picture inGreets Green.Working together...●●●●●●Greets Green CommunityEnterprises (GGCE)Guru Nanak CommunityCentreOSCAR SandwellWest Bromwich YMCADORCASSWAN (Sandwell Women’sAgency Network)For more details on GreetsGreen Community Partners,call Community ServicesTheme Leader, Rohit Mistry atGreets Green Partnership onfreephone 0800 953 0215.10Greets Green Magazine October/November 2008

PARTNERSHIP NEWS JOBS & SKILLSRICKY TO KICK START BUSINESS WITHGRANTAn award-wining academy that hasgone from strength-to-strength ishoping to take on an employee withthe help of a Business Start Up grant.Ricky Dubidat’s Black Belt Academy onthe Hammec Industrial Estate in BrandonWay, has been going since 2000 andhas gradually expanded. It now hasaround 200 clients, both children agedfour-11, and adults. And it’s becomeexperienced at turning out champions –one aged only 10!Ricky said: “I used to work in IT but I’dtrained in martial arts since I was a child.At one of the places I was training, I wasfighting for them around the world andI became an instructor for them.“When I outgrew the establishmentI decided to start my own class. I startedteaching a few friends then I started todo it professionally – it was a hobby thatjust grew out of control!”In the early days the Black Belt Academyonly taught kickboxing, but since thenhas taken on more instructors to expandthe range of martial arts taught, and hasproduced British, European and Worldchampions along the way.Ricky himself has many martial artscredentials including being a Blue Belt inBrazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a Phase 1 Instructorin Philipino Martial Arts, a 1st dan KeysiFighting Method, a 2nd dan Sport KarateWSKA and a 3rd dan Kickboxing WAKO.He says as well as giving young peoplean interest, martial arts has lots ofbenefits. “It is confidence building andgives kids the get-up-and-go to achieveother things. We’ve created a few worldchampions and the youngest worldchampion is 10 years old and he’s fightingfor a world title for the third time.”Now Ricky has applied for a BusinessStart Up grant to help him expand further.He explains: “I have quite a few volunteersworking for me but I’d like to create aposition for Amie Weaver, a 1st degreeBlackbelt at Kickboxing, who’s trainedwith me since she was 15. She’s justfinished her Sports Studies course.”“Amie is involved in the developmentof the children’s classes, so I hope toexpand these through the grant.”Grants & support availableBUT YOU NEED TO BE QUICK!If you want to tur n your dreams of being your own boss into r eality, why notapply for a grant? But as the funding fr om Greets Green Partnership comesto an end in March 2009, we need to hear fr om you before Christmas.Q. How much money can I get?A. Grants of up to £1,500 are available to residents looking to start up their ownbusiness thanks to funding from Greets Green Partnership.Q. What are the grants for?A. The grants can be used to purchase essential tools and equipment to getbusinesses up and running.Q. Are grants available for existing businesses?A. Yes. Financial support and advice is available for existing businesses in Greets Greenwho are developing or who have a project that will lead to the creation of new jobs. Theproject also helps existing businesses access advice on marketing, IT, finance and export.Q. How can I qualify for a grant?A. To qualify for a Start Up Grant you must be about to start a business, be in the firstyear of trading, be currently unemployed or on a low income. Existing businesses justneed to be located in Greets Green.Q. How many businesses have benefited so far?A. More than 35 Greets Green residents have benefited from the grants to date.Successful businesses include Change UR Shape health club in Pacific Avenue,Wednesbury and Tracy's Pantry in Stone Cross.Q. Is there any other help available?A. Yes. The Business Start Up Project, which is being delivered in partnership withBlack Country Enterprise Ltd, also offers free training and support to develop yourcompany. One-to-one support for business planning, financial profiling and markettesting is available as well as information about local training opportunities.Q. How can I find out more?A. Contact Judith Bayliss on 01386 552619 or Katherine Hewitt, Jobs & Skills Managerat Greets Green Partnership, on 0121 533 3185.Greets Green Magazine October/November 2008 11

IT’S HEALTHY, TASTY &BLOOMING MARVELLOWhat a celebration!On 17th September localresidents gathered atGeorge Salter CollegiateAcademy for a specialevent to showcase theBlooming Marvellousgardens and launch theGreets Green CommunityCookbook.Blooming Marvellous GardensSince the start of the year, proud residents have been showing off theirgardens by taking part in this magazine’s Blooming Marvellous competition.“The aim of Blooming Marvellous was to recognise local people’s green fingeredefforts,” explained Richard Wyatt, Greets Green Partnership’s CommunicationsOfficer. “Whether people spend their time at their allotment, or work hard toproduce beautiful hanging baskets or a colourful garden, we asked them to getin touch with us.“We wanted to show how much pride residents have in their gardens. Thegardens really lift the look of the neighbourhoods in Greets Green.” Everyonewho took part in Blooming Marvellous was invited to the celebration eventwhere professional photographs of their gardens were on display. Participantswere presented with a commemorative vase inscribed with the BloomingMarvellous logo.“So many people are making a huge effort to improve the area in whichthey live and we’re pleased to have been able to recognise someof them,” added Richard.12Greets Green Magazine October/November 2008

Tasty CookbookThe event also celebrated the launch of the Greets GreenCommunity Cookbook which has been produced by the New Dealfor Healthier Food and Fit for Life projects.Both projects were funded by Greets Green Partnership and delivered bycommunity food advisors, health workers and members of Sandwell PCT’sfood team. Grants were given to local community groups and organisations- including schools - to set up Food Interest Groups (FIGs). These groupshave learnt about healthy eating and have cooked many of the recipes inthe cookbook, which features over 50 different recipes.Shaleen Meelu from Sandwell PCT says: “Eating healthily is becoming apart of everyday life for local people. The cookbook contains lots of healthy,simple recipes which everyone can enjoy. There is also information aboutthe FIGs and the work they do to help residents learn more about healthyeating and get back into cooking.”Members of the groups featured in the Community Cookbook came alongto the celebration event where some of the tasty recipes had beenprepared by Rob Sims, chef at George Salter Collegiate Academy.Copies of the cookbook were handed to the participants and manywere eager to get cooking. If you’d like a copy call the Food Teamon 0121 612 2962.US!Continuingthe good workFunding from Greets Green Partnership has now come to an end. However , allthe good work will be continued by the Eatwell in Sandwell pr oject, funded bySandwell PCT.The project runs a whole range of initiatives including…• Shopwell which is supporting local retailers to sell seasonal fruit and vegetables ataffordable prices and to encourage their customers to make healthier food choices• Slimwell which is helping people to lose weight and find out about healthy eating –without spending a fortune• Cookwell which is teaching local people how to cook healthy mealsThere are also lots of healthy living projects taking place with local schools.To find out more, contact the Food Team on 0121 612 2962or visit www.eatwellinsandwell.co.ukGreets Green Magazine October/November 2008 13

GET YOUR TEETH INTOHEALTHY EATINGA family affairParents and pupils are cooking up somedelicious dishes together at NewtownPrimary School.Through the Fit for Life project, fundedby Greets Green Partnership, the schoolhas started classes where parents andgrandparents can practise cooking healthymeals alongside pupils.“The six week family cooking session is goingreally well,” says Julie Nichols, Fit for Life Coordinatorat the school. “Everyone can takehome what they’ve cooked and have it for theirfamily meal.”The class is for Newtown pupils from Year 5downwards, and the family members cookingwith them include mums, dads and grandmas.They also look at subjects such as healthylunchboxes and have made smoothies to learnabout fun ways to get their five-a-day portionsof fruit and vegetables.To find out more, call Newtown Primaryon 0121 557 8504.Lots of local healthy eating initiatives areincluded in the community cookbook.Here we feature two of the groups whichresidents can get involved with…Cooking & eating togetherDiane Purcell attends the cookery classes at NewtownPrimary School with her six-year-old grandson Cole. Theyalready enjoyed cooking together at home, but the classeshave introduced them both to some new dishes they enjoy.Diane, said: "Cole has been coming to stay with me since he wasborn and we cook a lot but not such specialised stuff! At the schoolwe've done alovely vegetablelasagne, a fruitcrumble anda really goodfish pie.“The classes aregood becausethey're educatingchildren aboutwhat sort offood to eat. Colecomes to me on a Friday night to stay for the weekend and we eatthe food we've made then. We’ve really enjoyed the classes."Adapting traditional recipesA group of Yemeni women have been meeting every Sunday to discuss healthier eating – and see howthey can introduce new ideas into their traditional meals.Health Development Officer, Afrah Muflihi says: “It’s been a very popular group. We’ve looked at issues such ascoronary heart disease and fat, salt and sugar intake, but from the perspective of Yemeni food and how we can makeit healthier.” The group has now come to an end, but interest has been maintained and there are plans to start it again.The kitchen at the YCA has recently been refurbished and the women are looking forward to getting the Food InterestGroup going once more.To find out more, contact Afrah Muflihi at the YCA on 0121 525 3909.Trying new things at homeKallam Yafai has been busy trying to keep up everything she learned while cookingat home for her family in Greets Green. “We learnt how to have a balanced diet,”she says. “It was interesting to find out how I could adapt traditional recipes into morehealthy ones with less salt and more vegetables.”Kallam is now trying to bring her family round to her slightly adapted recipes butadmits it hasn’t always been easy! “I tried to get them to cut down on salt, but theyweren’t very happy,” she explains. “The younger two were all right so I moved ontointroducing semi-skimmed milk instead of full fat. You just have to keep trying!”14Greets Green Magazine October/November 2008

PARTNERSHIP NEWS CRIME AND COMMUNITY SAFETYNEW PCSOs JOIN THE TEAMTwo new Police Community Support Officers,or PCSOs, have joined the local Gr eets GreenCrime Fighting Team, strengthening the fightagainst local crime.Marina Walton has added the area to herpatch in West Bromwich town centre. Shesaid: “I’ve been a PCSO for about two anda half years now. A town centre presentsdifferent issues to a neighbourhood thoughso I’m learning more about it.“I’ve joined PCSO Jones and she’sintroduced me to many local people. I’ll begoing along to the Neighbourhood Forummeetings and finding out about the issueswhich are affecting local residents.”Chris Webb was formerly a regular PoliceOfficer in Chelmsley Wood, but has nowbecome a PCSO in Greets Green. He said:“I’m busy finding out a bit more about thework of Greets Green Partnership and amgetting used to the new area and the workthat needs to be done.”To contact the Greets Green CrimeFighting Team, call 0845 113 5000.NEW LIGHTSEvery single street in the GreetsGreen Partnership area will bebenefiting from new, brighter streetlights by next March.Greets Green Partnership has providedfunding to complete a third phase ofstreet lighting in the area. Already, 436new lights have been installed and nowa further 400 will be erected.Greets GreenTreasure Trail28th & 29th OctoberPART OF FAMILY LEARNING MONTHFree goodiebags for all,includingpedometersHalf-term funfor families andgroups of all agesFollow the clues to discover the cultur e andheritage in Greets Green, stop at places ofinterest and take part in lots of funlearning activities on the way.A differenttrail eachdayThe project, which is being managedby Sandwell Council’s Street LightingDepartment, has already made manyresidents feel safer at night as the newlights are much brighter.Crime & Community Safety ThemeLeader, Phil Hartley, said: “I’m delightedthat we’ve been able to install new streetlighting in all the roads in the GreetsGreen area as many residents havehighlighted it as an issue in the past.It's free totake partPrizes forthe winningteams“The new high quality lighting willimprove the quality of our streets, helpreduce the fear of crime and improvethe image of the area.”For more details, call Phil Hartleyat Greets Green Partnership onfreephone 0800 953 0215.10.00am to 2.00pm each day startingfrom the Memorial Gardens.To register, call Event Organiser Navida Bukharion freephone 0800 953 0215.Greets Green Magazine October/November 2008 15

PARTNERSHIP NEWS HOUSING21ST RESIDENT GOES SOLARThe Greets Green SustainableWarmth Project is celebrating its21st solar water heating installation!While many people face soaring fuel bills,21 Greets Green residents are managingto reduce their water heating costs byup to 45 per cent by converting to solarpower.Mr Chatwin of Bromford Lane becamethe 21st Greets Green resident to havecentral heating and solar panels for waterheating installed, and is already delightedwith their performance.“I was reading the Greets GreenMagazine and saw the story about thelady in Caroline Street who’d had solarpanels installed,” Mr Chatwin explains.“I wondered whether I could get themfitted at my house so gave theSustainable Warmth project a call.”Thanks to funding from Greets GreenPartnership, the project offers a rangeof services to homeowners in the areawho have an annual household incomeof less than £15,000. These are carriedout by Sandwell Warm Zone and includecentral heating, loft and cavity wallinsulation, and solar water heating.Greets Green Sustainable Warmth ProjectSee if you qualifySection A1.Do you own your own home?If “No” please contact us to find out if you can still qualify.If “Yes” please go to question 2.Yes / NoMr Chatwin has a south facing propertywhich meant he was able to have solarwater heating installed. “When you’re apensioner you don’t get a lot of sparecash,” he says. “Anything that keepscosts down is a help.“I also wanted to do my bit to be green.I’m really pleased with how well it’sheating my water so far. I told my nextdoor but one neighbour how good it isand he’s now having it installed too.“I’ve lived in Bromford Lane andCambridge Street for about 70 yearsnow and getting solar water heating issomething I’d never have dreamt of inthe past. It’s a good talking point whenI go to the club!”Cathy Kirby from Sandwell Warm Zonesaid: “Seeing the Greets Green residentstaking up the measures on offer iswonderful.”If you’re interested in looking at analternative way of heating your hotwater, give the Sandwell Warm Zoneteam a call on 0121 569 5015.2.Do you have a Central Heating System?Yes / NoIf “No” please complete Section B below. If “Yes” please go to question 3.3.Is your Central Heating System over 15 years old?Yes / NoIf “Yes” please complete Section B below. If “No” we are sorry but we cannothelp you under the scheme at this time.Section BTotal Household Income (Net Monthly)*MinusMonthly Mortgage Payment(including buildings insurance cost)**TotalIf the total is less than £1290 – CALL US NOW!!(You do not need to return this form to us. It is for your assistance only)0121 569 5015* This includes the Net (after tax) income of all persons living in the property.Please include any benefit income apart from Attendance Allowance or DisabilityLiving Allowance.** Do not include contents insurance.16Greets Green Magazine October/November 2008

PARTNERSHIP NEWS HOUSINGENVIRONMENTAL WORKGETS UNDERWAYMajor environmentalimprovements arestarting to take shapein Greets Green.Following door-to-doorconsultation withresidents, work is nowunderway in BromfordLane and Claypit Lane,while Dartmouth Streetresidents have beendiscussing theimprovements theywould like to see.To find out more, call theGreets Green Housing Teamon freephone 0800 953 0215.Improvements in Claypit LaneResidents’ feedback is leading theenvironmental improvements schemein Claypit Lane where work recentlybegan on site.“Residents’ needs have been listenedto and the scheme has been designedbased on what they’ve told us,”explained Marianne Monro from GreetsGreen Partnership’s Housing Team.“There will be some major changes.”Earlier this year, Greets GreenPartnership’s Housing Team knocked ondoors in Claypit Lane and asked residentsfor their views on a range of high qualityimprovements. They were also able toinfluence some of the work such as thecolour of all the metalwork.A range of improvements are now gettingstarted which will include new boundaryfencing, brick walls and security gates,new paving, parking bays, traffic calmingmeasures and street lights.“The scheme has been really well thoughtout and will enhance the look of ClaypitLane,” said Marianne. “Work will becompleted in phases throughout the nextyear and is set to make a huge differenceto the look of the area.”It’s marvellous in Bromford Lane!Evelyn Haden and sons Roger andDavid think the work which hasstarted on their home in BromfordLane is ‘marvellous’!Through Greets Green Partnership’sExternal Improvements Scheme, certainresidents on Bromford Lane have thechance to benefit from a range of majorimprovements including new windowsand roofing, and only have to pay 10 percent of the cost. Some residents, suchas Evelyn who’s aged 89 and on incomesupport, are having the work totallyfunded by Greets Green Partnership.“We’re having a lot of work done includingnew windows at the front and back, a newwall and pathway at the front, a new frontdoor, new roof to the kitchen andbathroom, new chimney pots and the yardre-laid,” explained Roger Haden. “Thework is fantastic. The cost would be quitesubstantial and there’s no way we couldhave afforded it. My mother has lived herefor 65 years - ever since she got married.She doesn’t want to move and this workmeans she won’t have to.“It’s maintaining what’s a good, strong,well built property for many more years.Me and my brother had already thoughtwe should have the windows done, sothis work has come at the right time.”Work started on the Haden’s property atthe end of August and other propertieswill soon be benefiting too.Ian Jennings from Greets GreenPartnership’s Housing Team said: “Thisscheme is really going to improve theappearance of the properties on BromfordLane. We’ve selected one block ofterraced houses for the first lot of workand we’re funding 90 per cent of the cost.“The Council will then carry on fundingthe same work to the next two blocks.It’s an excellent scheme.”Greets Green Magazine October/November 2008 17

greetnewsIfTwenty-two young people and adultsfrom Greets Green and George SalterCollegiate Academy have taken acourse to pass the FA’s Level 1Coaching Football Award.you have any news get in touch.Call Barbryn on T: 01564 741847,E: susan@barbryn.co.ukor Greets Green Partnership on T: 0800 953 0215,E: brian_mckinstrie@sandwell.gov.ukCOMMUNITY COACHESOur tributeto VeraSince the last issue of themagazine, Greets Green haslost a much-loved friend withthe passing of Vera Barnes.Vera had been an active member ofthe community for many years andwas perhaps most well known forsetting up the Goldies Club for over55s five and a half years ago whenshe herself was 85!Over 50 members of the group, whichmeets every other Monday afternoonat the YMCA in Carters Green, turnedout in March this year to celebrate her90th birthday.Ally Allerson, Executive Director ofGreets Green Partnership said: “Vera’senergy and enthusiasm always markedher out as an exceptional memberof the community. Greets Green hasa lot to thank Vera for and she will bemuch missed.”Friend and local resident OliveBedworth, who has known Vera forover 35 years and is also deputychairman of the Goldies Club said:"Vera was an extremely nice lady,a very kind woman who would helpanyone. She was also a very goodfriend and I will miss her a great deal."Vera, a great grandmother, who hasthree children, worked in the bookingoffice for 30 years at New StreetStation. She also volunteered as aSamaritan and was a magistrate inWest Bromwich for 28 years.They are now able to volunteer their skillswith local clubs, teams and schools tobenefit the wider community with their newfootball qualification. The course took placeat George Salter and included learningabout codes of conduct, laws of the game,football for all and grassroots football.Some of those who took part already workin schools or with clubs and teams, whileothers are now taking part in volunteerplacements and working towards theirLevel 2 coaching awards.Among those who took part was localresident, Darren Saxon. He said: “By havingthe chance to do this award I can supportmy sons to develop in the correct way infootball. There are so many bad examplesof parenting and supporters I see everyweek at football games. I would recommendthat every parent takes this course.”For more details on footballdevelopment at George SalterCollegiate Academy click on theCommunity and Sports link atwww.georgesalter.comWALK 2 LONDON FROM CHINA!If you missed the chance to ‘W alk to Beijing’ don’t despair. You’re now beinginvited to set off back from China and walk to London.The ‘Walk to Beijing‘ initiative was a big success with more than 3,000 people takingpart. Out of the six towns in Sandwell, West Bromwich walkers topped the table andtook the gold for the most steps - 170 million steps!Andrew Wood, Healthy Walks Co-ordinator for Sandwell PCT, said: “Altogether, peoplewalked an amazing 644,260,058 steps, or 400,000km – not just to Beijing, but roundthe world nearly 10 times.”Now with thoughts turning to the Olympics in London in 2012, the Walk 2 Beijing:London has been launched. Anyone living or working in Sandwell borough can take part.Everyone is given a health check and receives a step counter. At the end of threemonths they get a second health check and if they’ve managed to improve their healththey’re given a shopping voucher.To sign up as an individual or a gr oup, call 0121 612 1407.LOOKING FOR STARS!Greets Green Partnership is searching for stars toperform at various community events. Do you have anykind of talent? Are you a singer, a dancer or a performerof any kind? Individuals and groups can apply.Please contact Navida Bukharion freephone 0800 953 0215.18Greets Green Magazine October/November 2008

60 YEARS OF EXERCISEOn 5th July, George Salter Collegiate Academy joined for ces with SandwellPrimary Care Trust (PCT) to celebrate the diamond anniversary of the NHS.Visitors to the school fete were invited to step back in time and try out some typicalactivities from 60 years ago including hopscotch, hula hooping and skipping, as well assome modern activities like dance mats and football.Nathan Moore from the Physical Activity Team said: “The children taking part had very goodskipping and hula hooping skills which surprised me. They all said they’d learnt at school,so the old ways of keeping active have not been lost or forgotten."Both the old and new activities were difficult and had the children breathing heavier andsweating. So although the type of physical activity has changed dramatically over the years,it’s not changed how hard we work when we exercise."The PCT also marked the anniversary with a range of other local events including healthyeating advice and food tasting at the YMCA, public health information stands in Queen'sSquare Shopping Centre, with an NHS timeline, photos of the past sixty years of the NHSin Sandwell and top tips for staying healthy, plus a display of photos at the Central Library,where information on alcohol intake and drinking past and present was also available.COMPETITION COULD BE A thrillerAre you a budding short story writer orpoet? Do you have a story to tell thatcould be a winner?The Adult and Community Learning projectis working with the library to stage anAutumn Writing Competition for peopleaged 16 and over.It’s being run to celebrate that 2008 is theNational Year of Reading, and the nationaltheme for October is ‘word of mouth’.FLO’S INCHARGEIt’s all change at Greets GreenChildren’s Centre which is looking fora new Manager following the departureof Jenny Mahimbo.In the meantime, the centre, which providesa vast range of services for families withchildren aged 0-5, is being run by a coupleof familiar faces – Deputy Manager FloReynolds and her assistant Glynis Webb.It’s hoped the new manager will be inplace before the winter. Watch thisspace!Competition entries have to be in by 31stOctober, so there’s still time to enter.There are three categories: poetry, shortstories of a maximum 500 words, or, if storywriting isn’t your thing, you could design anautumn-themed poster or collage and enterin the words and pictures category.Nikki Russell, Extended Services Adult &Community Learning Co-ordinator, said:“Local author Roger Ellory is running aFlip magazine for‘young greets green’couple of writing workshops for us sopeople can get inspired.”Birmingham-born Roger Ellory is theauthor of books including Candlemothand City of Lies. He’s running workshopsat the Central Library on Monday 20thOctober and Wednesday 22nd Octoberfrom 6.00 - 7.00pm.Collect your competition entry formfrom West Bromwich Library.Greets Green Magazine October/November 2008 19

YOUNGgreets greenOCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2008Holiday funat ‘Woodies’www.greetsgreen.sandwell.gov.ukSummer fun forchildren in GreetsGreensee page 20GCSE joy for GeorgeSalter CollegiateAcademysee page 22Have a go at ourprize competition,open to all agessee page 23

young greets greenYoungsters in Greets Greenhave been enjoying loads ofactivities put on especially tobrighten their summer.George SalterCollegiate AcademyAt George Salter Collegiate Academy lots of funsports ensured children got active. Boys got stuckinto basketball, cricket, football and multi-sports – andwere rewarded with a trip to Alton Towers at the end ofthe summer.Girls had fun trampolining, playing dodgeball and doing danceand other activities for three weeks.Plus, children aged six - 11 were able to take part in a WestBromwich Albion camp to hone their football skills for threeweeks. And youngsters who were about to move from primaryschool to George Salter Collegiate Academy were able to tryout the sports that they’re now doing as part of their PE lessons.Community Education & Sports Development Manager, RusSmith, said: “It’s been a very successful summer. We’ve hadabout 100 children doing sports each week.”20Young Greets Green Magazine October/November 2008

young greets green‘Woodies Club’ at WoodLane Community CentreYoungsters wanting to try lots of dif ferent activities headed along toWoodies Club which ran for the second summer in succession at W oodLane Community Centre.Allison Franks said: “We held ceramics workshops, circus skills sessions andsalsa dancing. There were also trips to Birmingham Museums, the JewelleryQuarter and the Pen Museum.“We had a good turnout of children this year and we’re hoping next year will beeven better.” Children also cooked up some healthy treats at special cookeryclasses run by the Healthy Eating team. Favourites included healthy pizzas andblueberry muffins.Everyone at the Woodies Club was given breakfast when they arrived, ate theirown packed lunch and had a cooked meal later, such as spaghetti on toast.An after school club is nowrunning at Wood LaneCommunity Centre. To findout more, call the centre on0121 525 2772.Young Greets Green Magazine October/November 2008 21

young greets greenGC S EGPupils at George Salter CollegiateAcademy collected another greatset of GCSE results this year.A total of 88 per cent of studentsachieved five or more A*-C grades, whichwas four per cent up on last year. Thenational figure shows that 65.7 per centof GCSEs were given a grade of A*-C.The George Salter top grade pass figureis continuing to rise year on year, since2003 when it was just 16 per cent.The Government has also now startedcalculating the percentage of pupilswith five A*-C grades including Englishand Maths. At George Salter a third ofpupils, 33 per cent, achieved this.Associate Principal Mick Green said:"We are delighted that our students haveJOYFOR STUDENTSdone so well. This continuing level ofimprovement and commitment from staffand students is a very small example ofthe high standards here at George SalterCollegiate Academy. The school is proudof everyone involved in this achievement.”To find out more contact GeorgeSalter Collegiate Academy on0121 553 4665 or go on-line atwww.georgesalter.comOn your feet!The YMCA is looking to get its ownstreetdance team up and running –do you want to be involved?Streetdance classes run on Saturdaysfrom 9.45-10.45am for anyone aged 8-15.They cost £1.50 if you live in GreetsGreen - just turn up!GREETS GREEN SCHOOLWINS THE ‘WORLD CUP’Ryders Green School was one of 10 schools fr om West Bromwich andSandwell which played six-a-side football in the Sandwell Schools annual‘World Cup’.More than a hundred youngsters took part in the event, which had to be switchedto indoors at George Salter Collegiate Academy due to the rain. Teams played intwo groups of five teams with the winners of both groups playing each other inthe final.The final saw Ryders Green and Cronehills battle for victory – with Ryders Greentaking the overall honours.The style of football was excellent and was supportedby West Bromwich Referee’s Association and George Salter’s BTEC sports pupils.To find out more about football at George Salter, click on the Communityand Sport link at www.georgesalter.comIt’s hoped that the classes will soonlead to a team being set up, so makesure you’re part of it from the start.And there’s more!Don’t forget you can also have a go onthe dance mats and sports wall at theYMCA on Tuesdays and Thursdays from4.30-5.30pm.There are 16 dance mats and thecomputer tells you whether you’re adancer in the making or have two leftfeet! Play loads of great games on thesports wall and get active and have funat the same time.Sessions cost £1.50 if you live inGreets Green.22Young Greets Green Magazine October/November 2008

SUCCESS IS REAL!A football team which brings togetherall different nationalities in GreetsGreen is celebrating its successesboth on the pitch and in developinga new youth side.Since our feature on Real West Brom FCin the December / January 2007 issue,the team has completed another greatseason of games and is also now well onthe way to creating an equally successfulReal West Brom Youth FC team.It’s been given £1,000 for both projectsfrom Greets Green Partnership’s ActiveLifestyles Fund to buy equipment andhire training facilities. Plus, the youth sidehas received funding to buy team kit fromthe Greets Green Youth Support Fund.Five members of the two teams – twoadults and three from the youth team –are also doing their Level 1 Coachingcertificate as part of their footballdevelopment.The youth team brings together youngpeople from many backgrounds andaddresses social issues through football.It’s now hoping to get funding from theYouth Opportunities Fund so that all itssquad members can undertake aFootball Organisers Award. Around 25-30 youngsters are currently involvedfrom a whole range of communities inGreets Green, including young peoplefrom Yemeni, Bangladeshi, Pakistani,Afgan, Nepalese, African Caribbean andSikh backgrounds.The adult team is also doing well,finishing 6th in the Premier Division of theBirmingham Shapla League. It now hopesto continue its success and also supportother groups and organisations who wantto set up their own football sessions.Real West Brom General Manager AbdulKahar said: “Both the adult and youthsides are going really well. The youthteam trains every Saturday at the parkand have had a few friendly matches.“The plan is to now get them into aleague. They can take over from us whenwe hang our boots up! Both teams aremade up of all nationalities and they’rebringing the community together.”Good luck to Real West Brom FC andYouth FC!Want to find out more? Call Manager,Abdul Kahar on 07973 550 565.FOOTBALLMANAGERWANTEDIs your dad a budding footballmanager?The Hat-Trick project is lookingfor a new manager to lead GreetsGreen Albion Under 8’s. Ideallythey will already be CriminalRecords Bureau (CRB) checkedand have an FA qualification.Experience in youth footballis required, along with goodknowledge of FA and leagueformats.The new manager must beapproachable, able tocommunicate with childrenand adults, and have loads ofenthusiasm and commitmentto be a positive role model foryoung people.Know someone who fitsthe bill? Get them to callDave Lawrence at Hat-Trickon 0871 271 9840.young greets greencompetitionL A N W A Q V F I A DSimply send your entry by Friday 7th November 2008to: Magazine Competition, FREEPOST GREETSE S I E U Z B L O S FGREEN PARTNERSHIP (no stamp required). The first A D G R T C L O U D Ythree correct entries out of the hat will each win aV F H T U X N W P K G£10 voucher.Autumn is upon us once again. Why not try and find all 12 ofE G T Y M C M E L M Ythe related words in the grid below to be in with a chance of S H I U N F Q R A I Nwinning one of this month’s £10 shopping vouchers.K H O B G R A S F S FLEAVES ORANGE FLOWERS RAINO R A N G E Z T R T VFRESH DARK FALLING NIGHTM J P H N S W C O L DD A R K Y H S X E D CAUTUMN MIST CLOUDY COLDJ K L U F A L L I N GCongratulationsto Keshia Lewis, Mr CliffordPartridge and Mitchell Bishopwho each won a £10 voucherfrom the August/Septembercompetition.Please fill in your details using BLOCK CAPITALS.Name:Address:Tel No.Age:This competitionis open toall agesYoung Greets Green Magazine October/November 2008 23