Phil Hope MP - News archive: May 2009

News Archive May - June 2009

Phil Hope supports Marine and Coastal Access Bill

The Marine and Coastal Access Bill underwent its 2nd reading in the House of Commons on Tuesday 23 June. This Bill is widely supported by the general public, and marine communities and businesses.

This Bill is an international first – a major piece of legislation which will preserve and manage our seas and all that lies beneath for generations to come. No other country has attempted such a strategic approach to the enormously complex issue of managing the marine environment.

Phil Hope said:
"Everyone loves a day at the seaside. Whether it's sitting on a beach, striding along a cliff top or poking around in rock pools, So I was proud to have voted to support the Governments Marine and Coastal Access Bill when it came before the House of Commons.

"It is an incredibly important set of laws that will change our seas and coasts for the better. These proposals are the first time any country anywhere in the world has tried to manage the sea in a coherent way thinking about the plants and animals in the sea, as well as the opportunity of getting energy from the seas' waves, winds and the natural resources that lie beneath.

"I was also delighted to back plans for a continuous path around England's coast. So for the first time everyone will be able to access our wonderful coastline in England through a carefully planned route. It will mean that our coast will be for us all.

The current arrangements in place for managing marine activities and protecting marine wildlife and the marine environment are complex and can be confusing and costly for all involved. New activities, changes in technology and a deepening understanding of the seas around us and the way we affect them have also exposed some gaps and limitations in this system.

The Bill seeks to find space in our seas for this economic activity and further necessary developments – such as generating renewable energy – while also giving protection for vital habitats and marine life. It does so by aiming to strike the balance between safeguarding our environment, ensuring the sustainability of our valuable marine resources, and helping industry to do its work.
30/06/09

Phil Hope MP welcomes £1m of European Funding for Economic Development in Corby

Phil Hope MP said:
"I am delighted that the European Regional Development Fund has given Corby another £1m. This will be used to create new jobs in Corby and help to boost the economy. I urge local companies and small businesses who have plans to expand or people who have an idea for a new business to submit an expression of interest. The forms can be downloads from : www.eastmidlandserdf.org.uk/

A total of £2.2m was secured from the East Midlands ERDF programme 2007-2013 in March 2008, following a successful bid by North Northants Development Company (NNDC), Northamptonshire Enterprise Limited (NEL) and Corby Borough Council.

Working in conjunction with the East Midlands Development Agency (emda), these partners are now seeking Expressions of Interest from local projects that promote economic growth by improving access to employment opportunities and business finance.

To increase the chance of securing funding, projects will need to show that they are in a good position to be delivered. Projects that gain funding will be those that are clearly related to meeting identified needs in Corby urban area and have a robust delivery plan. Potential bidders for funds should submit schemes for projects that create jobs either by assisting people to start businesses, or by supporting established businesses to prosper and expand. Projects that target the following areas would be particularly welcomed:

Initiatives to support businesses and social enterprises to develop the capacity to enter new markets
Initiatives to support businesses to benefit from public sector procurement opportunities
Initiatives to develop and improve access to employment (including local transport schemes and ICT connectivity)

The Corby Enterprise Centre is a good example of such a project and, as was confirmed in March 2009, has been awarded £1.1 from the ERDF. As a result, complete funding of £8.3m is in place to commence construction of this major new office and workshop space, which will provide an ideal home for innovative and expanding local businesses.

Pat Fawcett, Leader of Corby Borough Council, said:
"This is a fantastic opportunity for local companies and small businesses to find investment which is especially important in these challenging economic times. We hope this funding helps highlight Corby as a place for growth and encourage local entrepreneurs and businesses to develop some exciting new employment opportunities. I am very excited to see what new projects come forward."
Expression of Interest forms can be downloaded from:
www.eastmidlandserdf.org.uk
30/06/09

Phil Hope MP – putting the pressure on Northamptonshire County Council

In his campaign to have the roads in Oakley Vale adopted Phil Hope MP has again written to Katherine Kerswell Chief Executive of Northamptonshire County Council to seek assurances that the Council has not shelved the issue. He has also asked to meet her with representatives from the Oakley Vale Residents Association to discuss solutions and present the residents' petition calling for no further delays.

Phil Hope MP said:
"Hundreds of residents of Oakley Vale are worried that the County Council is going to shelve this issue. It is two months since I last heard from Katherine Kerswell so I am again pressing her to take action to adopt the roads in the area.

"I have investigated ways in which the County Council might be able to secure reductions in Council Tax for residents of Oakley Vale affected by the un-adoption of the roads. I will be bringing them to her attention when we meet in the near future."

You can read the letter to Katherine Kerswell here.
02/05/09

New Health Facility to serve all of East Northants

Phil Hope welcomed the decision by East Northamptonshire Council to approve planning permission for Kettering General Hospital's proposed new outpatients centre in Irthlingborough.

Phil Hope said:
"I am pleased that my campaign has been successful and that we will have a marvellous new health facility to serve all the people of East Northamptonshire.

"This decision is a victory for common sense and putting the health needs of local residents first. I would like to thank all of those people who signed my petition and who joined me in pressing for this new state of the art facility. I hope now that Kettering General Hospital will move swiftly to make these much needed services a reality"

Kettering General Hospital's Chief Executive, Dr Mark Newbold, said:
"We are very pleased with East Northamptonshire Council's decision to approve planning permission for this exciting new development.

"We believe the new facility will be a major improvement to health services in East Northamptonshire.

"At the moment 8,000 appointments are held at Rushden Memorial Clinic which is a small and outdated location with no room for expansion.

"When the new Irthlingborough centre is up and running we will be able to deal with 40,000 outpatient appointments in one place – at the moment some 32,000 appointments are held in Kettering.

"The new centre will also offer other diagnostic tests which previously would have meant a trip to Kettering."

The hospital will now finalise lease agreements with its developer and hopes to see building work start in the near future with completion by summer next year.

The Trust will be renting the completed site from the developer for a 20 year period.
02/07/09

Fighting climate change in Corby and East Northamptonshire

Phil Hope calls for Britain to lead the way at UN climate change summit.

On 26th June the Labour Government published 'The Road to Copenhagen', Britain's pitch for what the deal should include at UN climate change summit in Copenhagen in December. This makes clear that Britain will be on the side arguing for action.

Phil Hope MP said:
"Climate change is something we all need to be concerned with. People across Corby and East Northamptonshire have got in touch with me on this issue. Worried about what kind of planet we are going to leave for the next generation.

"But if we do act, instead of these changes and what they mean for our homes and countryside, we could have a more stable climate and new jobs in Britain. Instead of it being treated like a government secret, the Road to Copenhagen document will be sent to schools, libraries, citizens advice centres and other places across Corby and East Northamptonshire.

"I want to make sure I get your opinions on what needs to be done so please contact me at my constituency office or via my website and I'll make sure I tell Ed Miliband, Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, what people in Corby and East Northamptonshire are saying."

Ed Miliband, Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, said:
"This is make or break time for our climate and our future. With less than six months to go before crunch negotiations in Copenhagen, it's clear that there is no 'plan B'.

"The world's got no option but to work together to get a global climate deal that's ambitious, effective and fair.

"Our climate manifesto puts the British public in the front and centre of our efforts to get a climate deal.

"For people in Britain, getting a global deal now will mean reducing the risk of devastating future climate impacts and the huge extra costs that would bring. But it will also open the door to big new opportunities to create green jobs and economic prosperity.

"So here is the challenge for Britain: we need to show the way to a low-carbon future, but we also need to get all countries signed up to acting as well. We can help tip the balance by our own actions and by persuading other countries to join a global deal at the UN meeting in Copenhagen, this December."
29/06/09

Phil Hope welcomes a new Further Education College for Corby

The Government today announced that Tresham College will receive capital funding for a new education and training building in Corby. This will deliver high quality education and training courses for young people and adults in the local area.

Phil Hope said:
"This is fantastic news for Corby and will provide a state of the art centre for education and training. The new college will benefit young people, adults and the whole community. It gives a massive boost to the regeneration of the town, opening up the next phase of the town centre site to be redeveloped. It will also bring much needed jobs in construction.

"This is a huge achievement against fierce competition. Tresham College in Corby was one of only 13 Colleges in the country to have secured funding for new buildings in this round. A lot of hard work has gone in to securing this funding I would like to thank in particular, Tresham College, the County Council, Corby Borough Council and North Northants Development Corporation for their contributions in achieving this"

The College Principal, Mark Silverman was delighted at this news.
"This is fantastic news for Corby and Tresham, and it will allow us to develop world class facilities. I would like to thank all the partners and in particular Phil Hope who worked tirelessly to help secure this project."
26/06/09

New health clinic

Phil Hope is demanding that a new health clinic for people in East Northamptonshire is located in Irthlingborough. Phil's petition has attracted huge support from people in and around Irthlingborough.

Phil said:
"I strongly support the decision to locate a new health clinic in Irthlingborough to serve the residents of East Northamptonshire. This will be the best location for the new clinic and I have the support of thousands of residents who signed my petition.

"Local people have told me they are fed up with political interference by Conservative MP Peter Bone on this new health clinic. I have written again to East Northamptonshire Council in support of the site in Irthlingborough proposed by Kettering General Hospital on what is best for patients and what is best value for money.

"I intend to present my petition to East Northamptonshire Council urging them to support what is in the best interest of the whole community."

Jonathon Gray spokesman for Irthlingborough Labour Party said:
"The people of Irthlingborough and the surrounding area have signed a petition to say they definitely want to see the new clinic built here where it will best serve all the people of East Northamptonshire.

"We need to stop any further delay and get on with it!"
26/06/09

Phil Hope expresses deep dismay at Corus job losses

Phil Hope today spoke of his deep dismay on hearing of the extent of the job losses at Corus across the UK and locally.

Phil Hope MP said:
"It saddens me to hear this news. I understand that Corus are affected by the economic slowdown and they are compelled to cut their costs in the short-term to ensure that they retain a position as an important steel producer in the world market. I am heartened by the company's long-term commitment to steel production in the Corby area as demonstrated by the transfer of some work from the company's operation in Holland which has helped to mitigate the full extent of job losses at Corby.

"I am in close contact with Corus and the Trade Union in Corby and will ensure that they provide all the help possible in seeking alternative employment, training and re-training to maximise people's chances in the jobs market."
25/06/09

Fairtrade cosmetics for Corby and East Northamptonshire

Phil Hope encouraged shoppers in Corby and East Northamptonshire to buy fair trade cosmetics and toiletries that are now available in the shops.

People will now be able to buy 57 products with Fairtrade certified ingredients, including lip balms, face masks, body butters and shower gels. Shops like Boots, Neal's Yard and Lush will stock the products. Across the UK, 31% of people say they are interested in buying cosmetics carrying the Fairtrade Mark.

Phil welcomed the Government's support to the Fairtrade movement and urged people in Corby and East Northants to buy Fair Trade products when they can.

Phil said:
"During this global economic downturn, it is vital that world trade continues. Our shopping habits can make a real difference to the world's poorest people. Fair Trade helps support 7.5 million people in the developing world.

"By buying food, gifts and now cosmetics from developing countries we will help grow their economies and reduce poverty. When consumers and retailers act together to promote and buy goods from developing countries, we can make a real difference to the lives of some of the world's poorest people."
23/06/09

New Exeter Primary School Buildings and Children's Centre

Phil with pupils atExete School
Phil Hope MP joined the children and staff of Exeter Primary School to celebrate the opening of the redeveloped school and new Children's Centre. The opening was marked by the unveiling of a plaque.

The new building is not only a school but now offers courses as well as antenatal and health clinics for parents, carers and families. The former infant's school has been extended to include two new class rooms housing 7 – 11 year olds; and a new building attached to the school provides space for the younger children from reception classes to age 7. Two new exciting outside play areas which have been especially designed by a New Zealand educationalist finish the ambitious new learning centre.

Phil Hope MP said:
"It's an absolute privilege to open the new school building. The Exeter area is a really strong community and the New Exeter Primary School and Children's Centre will be at the centre of that community ensuring that every child will get the best possible start in life. I am really proud that we now have four children's centre in Corby offering care, support to children and their families.

"All the secondary schools in Corby are now successful. You've got a real choice in Corby and the children from this school will go on to schools which are some of the best in the country."

Geraldine Lewedon Head Teacher said:
"I am very proud of what the school has achieved over the past two and a half years. But we could not have done this without the support of the architects and builders, our governors and LEA and, most importantly, the staff, pupils and parent who had to cope with limited space while the new building was taking place.

"I want to make the community become the heart of the school and to extended out of hours learning for children over 11-16. Work on school grounds is our next project with the school community comprising of a pond, secret garden and an allotment."

Plans for the future include a community project to create a pond within the school grounds, a secret garden and an allotment area.
20/06/09

Kings Cliffe Community Sports Project

Phil visited Kings Cliffe Community Sports Project to see the enormous progress that has been made since his last visit.

The 12 acre site which is now vested in Cliffe Parish Council ownership to maintain recreational use in perpetuity and Phase 1 which plans to deliver a community recreation centre is now well under way. The major site works were completed last October and turfing and hedging are complete. The planned football pitches are on schedule for use in 2010.

Phil said:
"I have been a supporter of this ambitious project and am delighted that all the hard work that has been put into it is coming together. It's hard to put a value on an endeavour like this one which will sustain the community and benefit the people in Kings Cliffe and the surrounding area for years to come.

"Now we have to focus on finding funding for the next phase of the project, so I will be doing everything I can to help the project organisers in their search for further financial support."
22/06/09

Phil Hope visits Kings Cliffe Millennium Wood

Phil with young tree in 2009
Phil Hope revisited the Kings Cliffe Millennium Wood on Friday to see the progress of trees that he helped to plant nearly 10 years ago as part of the Millennium ‘Woods on Your Doorstep' celebration.

Friday's visit enabled the Woodland Trust to demonstrate how much trees and woods can contribute to improving quality of life for people, the need to improve people's access to woodland and how much communities benefit from involvement with woodland.

The focus of the visit was very much on climate change, as Mr Hope walked around seeing how the woodland contributes to enabling wildlife to adapt to the impact of climate change.

Phil Hope said:
"The spectacular change in the landscape of the Millennium Wood at Kings Cliffe since I helped to plant the trees there nearly ten years was amazing. The trees have really flourished and the Wood is now an important asset to the community.

Phil with young sapling in 2000

"Climate change is one of the greatest challenges facing the world today and this wood is an example of how local people we can act to limit the impact of climate change and provide habitat for wildlife.

"The Wood also contributes to the wellbeing of the local people by encouraging them to get outside and exercise in a beautiful natural environment."

Millennium Wood is just 600 metres from the centre of Kings Cliffe village and much used by the local community who were active in original fund-raising, design and planting of the 11-acre site and winning a 'Care In The Environment' award for their efforts.

It is separated by just one field from the huge ancient woodland of Fine shade Woods – bucking a regional trend that recognises the East Midlands as one of the regions with the lowest levels of biodiversity and woodland cover.

Phil was in for a surprise by the transformation from stick-like saplings back in 2000 to today's leafy splendour of Millennium Wood's oak, ash, field maple and cherry trees, suggests John Tucker, England director of woodland operations for the Trust.

"It's a great opportunity for us to emphasise how important the environment and woodland are to a wide range of policy agendas across the region and to illustrate how much woodland can do for people and wildlife," he said.

"Research increasingly shows how woodland contributes significantly to good health, particularly in respect of reduction in recovery times and by encouraging an increase in physical fitness."

"When people visit a wood, they establish an immediate emotional connection and find what they need, whether its play and adventure, rest and tranquility, an inspiration for new hobbies, exercise or contact with wildlife. We believe that no other natural space can offer such rich possibilities."
19/06/09

Money4Youth

Corby Borough Council has been awarded £87,785 by the Money4Youth scheme and is calling on young people in the town between the ages of 13 and 19 to come forward and help them spend it.

Young people with big ideas on how they want to see youth activities in their local area improved can put forward applications to the Corby Youth Forum who will be responsible for allocating the money.

Phil said:
"When ever I talk to kids in the town they always say that they want more things to do. This is a really exciting chance for young people in Corby to put their own ideas forward for improving activities in their neighbourhoods.

So if you have a brainwave about how to start a new fun activity which will get lots of your friends involved please contact Corby Borough Council."

For an application form contact Alison Gaffney on 01536 464018 or email Alison.gaffney@corby.gov.uk.
25/06/09

Corby's transformation continues with topping out of landmark Corby Cube

Corby Cube topping out
Local leaders and regeneration partners gathered in Corby town centre on Friday June 12th to celebrate the latest milestone in the resurgence of the Northamptonshire town.

The focus of attention was the Corby Cube building, where a traditional topping out ceremony was held to mark major progress in the construction of this striking new civic hub and theatre development. The ceremony, which celebrated the overall completion of the building structure, was performed by the Mayor of Corby, Cllr Mary Butcher.

Work began on the £27m building in February 2008 and is scheduled for completion in 2010. It is a major part of the Parkland Gateway development, which was identified in Corby's Regeneration Framework (launched in 2003) as a flagship public sector project to transform the civic heart of the town.

The Corby–East Midlands International Pool represents the other key element of the project and is to open its doors to the public on 24 July 2009.

Construction of the six-floor Corby Cube is being carried out by Galliford Try plc. Once complete, it will provide for a host of facilities including a 445-seat theatre, library, council one-stop-shop and offices, council chamber and marriage room, as well as a terraced roof garden and bistro.

The building, which has been designed by architects Hawkins\Brown, has already garnered international acclaim as a runner-up to the Beijing Olympic Swimming Pool in the 2007 LEAF Awards for the Best Public Building Design of the Year.

The project will also deliver extensive improvements to public space including a new town square, landscaping and street furniture.
It has been funded by Corby Borough Council, East Midlands Development Agency, the Department of Communities and Local Government, the Homes and Communities Agency and Northamptonshire County Council in partnership with the North Northants Development Company.

Phil Hope MP said:
"This is the most astonishing building. It is a 21st century town hall, this is the most dynamic civic centre not just in this region but across the country.

"This is a landmark day in the growth and regeneration of the town. The Cube will be the centre point for the renewal of the social heart of the town. The new marriage room will quickly begin to form a special place in people's lives and memories; and the new library and theatre will become a focal point for a cultural and artistic rebirth of our town."

Cllr Pat Fawcett, Leader of Corby Borough Council, said:
"The Corby Cube is going to be an amazing building and is changing Corby's skyline in a way that only a building of this stature could.

"The modern design and quality of the building is truly a mark as to how far Corby has come and where we are continuing to head in the future."

Simon Evans, Chief Executive of NNDC, said:
"The emergence from the ground of the new Corby Cube civic centre and the impending opening of the Corby East Midlands International Pool has created a real sense of anticipation and excitement amongst the local community.

"Such high quality facilities will have a long lasting impact on the quality of life for Corby residents and encourage further growth and inward investment."
16/06/09

New Corby Training Centre

Phil at Corby Training Centre Phil Hope visited the premises of the Corby Training Centre to see the £7 million refurbishment of the building.

The training centre which is being run by Freedom Group is being made ready to accommodate apprentices in electrical engineering, plumbing, engineering, gas fitting and renewable energy sources. The first 24 trainees who will be learning electrical engineering skills will start later this year.

Phil Hope said:
"The key to continuing the regeneration and development of Corby is to make sure that local people have the skills they need to find secure jobs in the future. I am pleased that the Corby Training Centre will be bringing new jobs to the area and giving our young people the chance to join apprenticeships in essential trades ready for the coming upturn in the economy."

Mike Warburton, Partnership and Funding Manager said:

"In this industry at the moment there is more work than we have the people for; in fact by 2015 we will be 9,000 people short so we do need to train people up and make the industry more attractive for young people to join.

"What we are trying to develop here is a world-class facility. We are not just looking to train our own apprentices, we are open to providing training courses for people looking to update their own qualifications and other companies who need training courses."

Freedom Group Director Gareth Spinner said:
"There are 5,500 houses being built at Priors Hall and someone has to build them. It would be great if we could get Corby people into the centre, trained and qualified, then they will be able to benefit from the ongoing regeneration of the town."

For information on applying for an apprenticeship or job at the centre, call Mike Warburton on 0845 168 6600.
12/06/09

National Child Care Week

Phil at Woodnewton Learning Community
Phil Hope visited Woodnewton the Learning Community on Friday the 12th of June to mark the Daycare Trust's National Childcare Week.

Daycare Trust''s National childcare week, now in its 12th year, aims to promote the importance of investing in childcare, out-of-school activities and early years' provision for children to strengthen and contribute to children''s play and learning. Mr Hope will be touring the Learning Communities new building which houses a 56 place nursery, administration facilities and a community room.

Whilst there he met parents and carers at the under 18 month group as well as visitors from the Central North Island Kindergarten Group from New Zealand who are Britain looking at our ‘Forest Schools.

Phil Hope said:
"I wanted to mark National Childcare Week to highlight the benefits that providing quality childcare can have on our children and our community as a whole. Good early nurturing improves children''s behaviour and lays the foundations for bright futures and also enables their parents to work or train and contribute to a prosperous society.

"I am really proud of the Woodnewton Learning Community whose staff are providing children in Corby with superb care in great facilities and delighted that visitors from as far away as New Zealand are coming to Corby to learn from their example."

Quality, affordable childcare can build brighter futures for everyone. It gives children a good start in life. It enables parents to work or train and it contributes to a prosperous society by supporting employers and regenerating local communities. It also underpins policies to tackle social exclusion, create jobs and raise educational standards. Daycare Trust is the national childcare charity which has been working since November 1986 to promote high quality affordable childcare for all.
24/06/09

More Help for Carers

Phil Hope announces the new hotline for carers.

A one-stop information and advice service for the unsung army of carers who look after ill, frail or disabled friends and relatives was officially was launched this week by Phil Hope MP.

The Carers Direct hotline will make England's 5 million carers' lives easier and reduce the time and stress of searching out essential advice.
Carers Direct comprises a website www.nhs.uk/carersdirect and a 7 days a week helpline freephone 0808 802 0202.

Funded by £2.8 million a year, Carers Direct includes:

Details of support available, including assessments, benefits, direct payments, individual budgets and time off.
Help to maintain, leave or return to employment
Help in education or training.
Advice on how carers maintain or improve their social and emotional well-being and their physical and mental health.
Access to health and social care for the person being cared for.
How to access information about, and support from, health and social care services for the person being cared for.

The launch comes on the first anniversary of the publication of the Government's Carers Strategy. Since last year carers are being given more planned breaks and better information about their rights and the support available to them. Later this year, they will also receive more support to get help to return to work.

Speaking at the launch Phil Hope MP said:
"I know that carers' lives are often made unnecessarily difficult if they have to struggle to find the information, advice and support they need. I hope Carers Direct will put this right.

"I have huge respect and admiration for the hundred of carers in Corby and East Northamptonshire, who do fantastic work every day. The Carers Strategy has already gone a long way to better support carers, but there is still a lot of work to do."

Jonathan Shaw, Minister for Disabled People, at the launch said:
"The Government wants to make sure carers get the help and support they need to overcome their barriers to work, fulfil their potential and build a better life for themselves and their families.

"The Carers Direct helpline will work hand in hand with our own information on the DirectGov website to ensure carers are given the help and support they need."

Carers Direct is complemented by Caring with Confidence
www.caringwithconfidence.net/ a training course available to carers
face-to-face, online and by distance learning. Caring with Confidence inform carers of their rights, the services available to them and networks which might support them. The Department of Health is investing around £4.6 million a year into Caring with Confidence.

Other initiatives from the Carers Strategy being developed include:

piloting a 'return-to-work' training entitlement of up to £500 for those who undertake more than five years of caring responsibilities, helping them to get the skills they need to get back into the labour market;
enabling Jobcentre Plus to provide a range of new services to carers, such as better training for advisors on awareness of carers needs and displaying more information on vacancies offering flexible working;
demonstrator sites to explore ways that local authorities and PCTs can help carers better by:
- providing more breaks for carers
- offering regular physical and mental health and wellbeing checks for carers
- supporting carers more effectively through the NHS, for example, by ensuring that the NHS considers carers' needs when booking and holding GP and hospital appointments
helping local areas develop better support around families to protect awareness and support for young carers across schools and among GPs.

Phil Hope MP, Minister for Carers, and Jonathan Shaw MP from the Department of Work & Pensions, joined carers for the Carers Week online Q+A event. Read the transcript here.

12/06/09

Debt Advice Network

Debt Advice Network is a charitable organisation which offers a free service for those with problems of debt. They have advisors nationwide who are able to help you and there is plenty of self help information on the website.

You can be confident that you will receive free, confidential, independent and impartial advice, tailored to your needs and circumstances.

Visit their website to find an advisor near you or phone: 0300 011 2340
09/06/09

Dignity in Old Age

Phil Hope met a range of people from local and national organisations in Corby last Friday to discuss ‘Dignity in Old Age and Care for the Elderly'.

Phil Hope said:
"This was and excellent opportunity to examine the improvements already underway in the health and social care system for older people. The challenge now is to ensure that good practice in some areas becomes the norm everywhere."

Phil has been re-appointed as Minister of State for Care Services and Minister for the East Midlands. He said:

"I am looking forward to publishing a Green Paper on the future of the care and support system that will provide 21st century quality care with more choice and control for service users and their carers."
08/06/09

Volunteer's Week

Phil launches Volunteer Bureau
Phil Hope visited Corby Volunteers' Bureau on Monday to help launch Volunteers' Week.

This year, Volunteers' Week is celebrating its 25th anniversary; the week plays a huge part in raising the profile of the millions of volunteers who regularly contribute to society.

Phil Hope MP said:
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the hidden army of people who give up their time to improve their local community through voluntary work.

"Corby has a strong sense of community and I know many people who stop off on the way to the shops or the way home from work to offer help to their neighbours. This is not seen as formal volunteering but serves to offer support were it is needed.

"A little goes a long way so if you have a little spare time, why not contact Corby Volunteers' Bureau on 01536 267873; volunteering is a great opportunity for everyone to have fun while meeting new friends and learning new skills.
03/06/09

USDAW supporting parents & carers campaign spotlight day

Phil Hope and Usdaw help working parents claim the benefits they're due.
Phil Hope MP gave support to the shopworker's union Usdaw's national spotlight day to highlight the benefits due to working parents and to give renewed support to the pledge to end child poverty by 2020.

Phil Hope MP said:
"The Government have put in place many measures to support working parents. I want to make sure that local families have all the information they need to claim what they are due, particularly in these tough economic times.

"I am also pleased to give my personal commitment to the pledge to end child poverty by 2020. The Government's action in helping parents back into work and giving them practical and financial support will help to lift even more children out of poverty."

John Hannett, Usdaw's General Secretary, is delighted with Phil Hope's support:
"I know that because of the global recession many Usdaw members are worried about money, as are millions of low-paid families. Working parents are particularly concerned about their ability to pay the bills, take their planned maternity or paternity leave, and the quality of family life.
"That is why we are holding our national campaign spotlight day."

Usdaw have produced information leaflets for working parents on:

Child benefit
Tax credits
£500 Sure Start Maternity Grant
£190 Health in Pregnancy Grant
Child Trust Fund
Help with NHS health costs
Housing and council tax benefits

Download a copy from www.usdaw.org.uk or contact Phil Hope MP on 01536 443325.

03/06/09

Phil Hope celebrates ICT Mark at Titchmarsh School

Phil with Titchmarsh pupils
Phil Hope unveiled a plaque to celebrate Titchmarsh School's ICT Mark from Becta , the government body responsible for promoting the use of ICT in learning at the school recently.

Phil Hope MP said:
"I was charmed by the Year 2 school councillors who proudly took me on a tour of their delightful school. I then had the privilege of unveiling a commemorative plaque marking the schools success in the use of ICT. They have undoubtedly made the best use of technology to make learning even more exciting for the children.

"Titchmarsh School although small sets an impressive example, not only in winning this award for their use of ICT but in its whole ethos of allowing the children to flourish in an atmosphere of inclusion and respect."

Children at Titchmarsh Church of England Primary School are at the forefront of using information and communications technology (ICT) to enhance their work.

Following an extensive external assessment by ‘Becta' the government agency leading the national drive to ensure the effective and innovative use of technology throughout learning, Titchmarsh School has been awarded the prestigious ICT Mark.

The award recognises the school's success in developing the strategic use of ICT in both administration and across the curriculum.

Head Teacher Josephine Milton commented:
"We are delighted to be awarded the ICT Mark. It recognises our positive approach to ICT and the benfits it is bringing to our children. We believe that ICT can be used in every aspect of learning and that it is essential our children are equipped for the modern world."

Niel McLean Executive Director for Becta said:
"Titchmarsh thoroughly deserve the accolade of an ICT Mark. They clearly demonstrate how important it is to take a holistic approach to using ICT in schools. Their investment in new technology has contributed to substantial improvements in learning."
28/05/09

Africa Day Celebration

brai Corby African Association are hosting an Africa Day Celebration on Sunday 31st May 2009 3.00pm to 10.00pm

Officially opened by the Deputy Mayor Cllr Mary Butcher, the celebration will be held in West Glebe Pavillion, Cottingham Road, Corby, NN17 1SZ
You are all invited to attend. Please wear traditional attire.

There will be:
Barbeque 'Brai', Drinks and traditional dance.
For further information, please contact
Peter Matsa on: 07908 402927/ 07944 130524
Or
Denise Sharman on: 07958289117
27/05/09

Spirit of Corby Awards 2009

Phil Hope joined hundreds of local people at the third annual Spirit of Corby awards ceremony on Friday May 15th.

Phil Hope MP said:
"Allison and I are very pleased to be here with you this evening to celebrate the spirit of Corby. To celebrate those people who make amazing contributions to our community in thousands of unseen ways. It continues to be a privilege to be a part of and to represent this community.

"Today in my surgery I met a family who have provided care for their very frail mother at home for many years and who continue to be together as she approaches the end of her life. A great example of the Corby spirit.

"Corby has come through tough times in the past and we can all see a stronger, more diverse, and more united community around us today. Corby is a generous and caring community. Corby is a talented community and one that has high aspirations for the future.

"This is the spirit of Corby and I feel honoured to be with you this evening."

The Friends of Thoroughsale and Hazel Wood were overall winners of the Spirit of Corby Award for their devotion to the area and to preserving the beautiful woods for future generations.

Spirit of Corby Award

(Jointly sponsored by NNDC and Dunham Law)
Was won by Friends of Thoroughsale and Hazel Wood.

Club Spirit Award

(Sponsored by Northamptonshire PCT)
Won by May Cardwell
Other nominees were Steve Legg, Lisa Joy Oliver and Priors Hall Junior Golf Team.

Educational Spirit Award

(Sponsored by Tresham Institute)
Won by Elaine Brennan
Other nominees were Stephen Porter, Ellen Wallace and Margy Whalley.

The Jimmy Kane Young Spirit of Corby Award

Won by Megan Sherlock
Other nominees were Martin Drummond and Tony Gaskell

Creative Spirit Award

(Sponsored by Corby Excellence Cluster)
Won by The Willows Arts Centre
Other nominees were Des Barber and Late Developer's Photographic Club

Corby Business Group Awards

The Open Category was won by Land Securities
The Small Business Category was won by the Hunting Lodge Hotel
The Employee of the Year Award was won by Janita Mackie of Goldsborough Home Care.

Community Spirit Award

(Sponsored by Northamptonshire Police)
Won by Mario Difolco
Other nominees were Corby Carnival Committee and Nelson Pengelly.

Environmental Spirit Award

(Sponsored by the Environment Agency)
Won by Friends of Thoroughsale and Hazel Wood
Other nominees were Friends of Coronation Park, Friends of Kingswood and Friends of West Glebe.
18/05/09

National Minimum Wage rise to help a million low-paid workers

Phil Hope MP welcomed an announcement by Peter Mandelson, Labour's Business Secretary, and Pat McFadden MP, Labour's Business Minister, that the National Minimum Wage will increase from October 2009 - benefiting a million low-paid workers.

The National Minimum Wage for low-paid workers aged 22 and over will rise from £5.73 to £5.80 an hour; the rate for 18-22 year olds will increase from £4.77 to £4.83; and for 16-17 year olds it will go up from £3.53 to £3.57 an hour. From October 2010 the top rate of National Minimum Wage will be extended to 21 year olds.

Phil Hope MP said:
"The minimum wage may have been in place for ten years now but we still need to make sure that workers aren't being exploited. I am pleased that from October using tips to make up workers' pay will be outlawed completely. We all leave tips in good faith, as a thank you for excellent service, and we have the right to know that they are not being used to make up workers' pay to national minimum wage."

Peter Mandelson said:
"The National Minimum Wage has been in place for 10 years and remains one of the most important rights for workers introduced in that time.

"I am very proud of the difference it has made to the lives of the UK's lowest-paid workers. It protects them from exploitation and also creates a level playing field for business, making a huge contribution to the UK's economic success."
19/05/09

Phil Hope tries 'New Age Kurling'

Phil at Epiphany Centre Phil Hope visited the Epiphany Centre, Corby recently where a New Age Kurling friendly between the Epiphany Centre team and Irish Centre teams was in progress. The Kurling is one of the activities put in place to address health inequalities in the area supported by Age Concerns Fit as a Fiddle programme and Kye Bishop Physical Activity Leader at Corby Borough Council.

Age Concern Northamptonshire also provides a qualified Service Advisor to give advice to older people and their carers at the Epiphany centre.

Phil Hope MP said:
"I really enjoyed meeting the members of the Epiphany Centre's and Irish Centre's New Kurling Teams and to see how Age Concern is helping older people live a healthier and more active life. New Kurling can be played by just about anyone – but it does get you using muscles you don't normally use – I recommend it!

"Team games are about making friends and socialising which is just as important as physical health so I would encourage older people in Corby to come along and join in. Age Concern Northamptonshire also provides a qualified service advisor called Tracey Willis at the Epiphany Centre to give advice to older people and their carers.
You can contact her on 01536 267453."

Age Concern has a drop in service at The Epiphany Centre on Tuesday from 12.00 2.00 pm.
05/05/09

Government cash for your old banger

Scrappage scheme gets on the road

Launching the Government's new scrappage scheme in Corby and East Northamptonshire Phil Hope said:

"From this week local motorists here in Corby and East Northamptonshire can drive off with a £2,000 discount on a new car, under the Government's scheme to scrap their old banger for a new model.

"Motorists will be spoilt for choice with 38 manufacturers taking part in the scheme covering all the major brands.

"It offers a real opportunity and bargain for car drivers who are looking to trade in their old banger for a new model.

"But it's a one-off offer so my advice to people is to get in quick if you want to take advantage of the scheme."
18/05/09

Local ex-miners don't need a lawyer

Former miners can claim new compensation free of charge

Phil Hope is warning former miners in Corby and East Northamptonshire not to be taken in by offers from lawyers to help them claim compensation for miners knee.

Phil Hope MP said:
"My message to former miners is simple – if you suffer from miners knee, you can claim for free."

"When Labour introduced compensation for miners who suffered from respiratory diseases or vibration white finger some lawyers attempted to cash in. I am worried that this will happen again."

"Of course everyone is entitled to use a lawyer but it is important that people do not fork out for a lawyer when they can claim without any cost to themselves."

After a campaign by Phil Hope it was announced last month that osteoarthritis of the knee in former coal miners to was being added to the list of prescribed diseases covered by the Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit scheme. This means that coal miners with this disease will be able to make claims for Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB).

Claims for IIDB can be made directly to Jobcentre Plus free of charge. Former miners will be helped by very experienced staff and will be able to help with any enquiries that people may have about claiming IIDB. We are keen to ensure that everybody with the disease makes a claim and although it is each individuals choice, there is no need to involve solicitors in this process.

Phil Hope urged miners to pick up the phone to the claim line, not to a solicitor:

"If you feel you may be eligible to make a claim, and you need further advice, you can ring 0845 608 8779 . This is the telephone number of the Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit office which will deal with claims from our area."

Symptoms of the disease include pain, swelling, stiffness and reduced mobility. The change is expected to come into force in July.
12/05/09

Smart Meters will help people save money on fuel bills

Thousands of people in Corby and East Northamptonshire will benefit from the smart meter roll-out that comes a step closer this week. The government has set out the options for installing the revolutionary kit in homes across Great Britain and on what the smart meters should be capable of doing.

Smart meters will mean:

No more estimated bills
No more waiting for the meter man
More info to help with cutting energy use, saving money and reducing your carbon footprint.

Smart meters enable meter readings to be taken remotely and together with a display device give householders real time information on their energy use. In trials some households estimate they have saved as much as 10% off their bills by changing the way they use energy and cutting back when rates are at their highest.

Phil Hope said;
"Smart meters will offer real help to people looking to save energy and that means saving money too"

"The more information you have about the energy you use, the more chance you have to use it more wisely, cut back where you don't need to and switch to cheaper tariffs. Smart meters are good news for everyone who wants to save money and cut back on CO2 emissions which cause climate change."

Other ways to save energy on offer:
As a major part of the Government's Home Energy Savings Package, every household in the UK is now entitled at least 50% off the cost of getting loft or cavity wall insulation installed in their home, and households over 70 can get insulated for free.

To find out more about the offers available, contact the Energy Saving Trust on 0800 512 012

Warm Front grants are available to vulnerable and low income households. To find out if you qualify, call Eaga Partnership (the company that currently runs the Warm Front scheme) on freephone 0800 316 6011, textphone 0800 072 0156 (from 8.00 am to 6.00 pm Monday to Friday).

Use the ACTonCO2 carbon calculator to find out how to save energy, save money and reduce your carbon footprint.
12/05/09

£710,000 awarded to KGH

Kettering General Hospital has made a successful bid for a share of a £100m investment to improve same-sex accommodation in the NHS.

Phil Hope said:
"I am delighted that Kettering General Hospital Trust has been awarded £710,000 from the Government's Privacy and Dignity Fund to improve its
same sex accommodation. The hospital has made huge progress so far; I'm pleases that these funds will mean that the few areas still needing improvement will soon be able to provide the privacy that every patient expects."

The award will complement the Trust's existing five-year £20m refurbishment programme which was launched in January 2008.
08/05/09

Community grants available

There are many opportunities available for local community groups, charities and voluntary organisations to secure grants and get practical help from a variety of different bodies.

Please contact the organisations below to access help for any projects you might have in mind within your community.

Northamptonshire Community Foundation

Northamptonshire Community Foundation currently has four Funding Programmes for groups to apply to. If you are unsure of which Funding Programme to apply to you can contact the Grants Team to discuss your project idea and they will match you with the programme that best suits your proposal.

General Funding Programme Guidance
Most awards will be between £250 - £5000. This can be for new or ongoing project activity that benefits the community in some way.

Grassroots Grants - Most awards will be between £250 and £5000. You must be a group that has been in existence for a year, have an average annual turnover of £30,000 or less and work for the benefit of your local community.

WNDC Stronger Communities Fund - Most awards will be between £1000 - £5000; if you are looking to make an application upto £20,000 please contact Matt Keen to talk through your idea.

Northamptonshire High Sheriff's Initiative Fund - For support with applying to this Fund contact Pauline Hoggarth.

For support with applying to any of our funds please contact Matt Keen.

Lottery Funding

Lottery Distributors in England now run their own small grants programmes. Each Lottery Distributor can now better address the needs of their particular cause in terms of applicants and the activity supported.

Sport England
Encourages people to take up and enjoy sport.

Arts Council England
Engages people in the arts; or helps people work as artists.

The Big Lottery Fund
Gives people a better chance in life, builds stronger communities and improves our environment.

Heritage Lottery Fund
Involves young people and helps communities learn about their local and national heritage.

Stagecoach Community Fund

Stagecoach help local people by funding the vital work of local, national and international charities. The Group help many worthwhile causes, including many health charities and local community projects in areas where Stagecoach provides lifeline bus and rail services. Supporting the community, working with the community as part of the community is embedded in their business philosophy.

Organisations seeking financial support from Stagecoach Community Fund can email Julie Donaldson.

BT

BT help community groups to get on-line. Community groups can apply for a laptop and a year's free broadband to enable them to get on-line through the BT Community Connections Scheme.

BT offer all registered UK charities, non-profit making organisations and volunteer led groups the opportunity to build and maintain their own website free of charge.

There is help and support available from two voluntary organisations in the constituency who can give you advice on finding a grant.

In East Northamptonshire you can contact:

Nene Valley Community Action
Telephone: 01933 396382
Email: info@nvca.org.uk

In Corby and the surrounding area:

Corby Voluntary Services
Telephone: 01536 267873
Email: may@corbyvcs.plus.com
08/05/09

Chief Constable Peter Maddison retires

Chief Constable Peter Maddison has announced his retirement from the Northamptonshire Police

Phil Hope said:
"I have written to Chief Constable Maddison to congratulate him on his retirement from Northamptonshire Police after six years of committed service.

"I took the opportunity to thank him for turning the service in to an efficient and streamlined force. He has embraced the government's initiative to bring in community policing with great success reducing the crime figures in the county year on year from 2003/04."
These are the total crime statistic for Northamptonshire

Recorded Crimes
2002/03	73,513
2003/04	78,585
2004/05	73,398
2005/06	68,075
2006/07	65,975
2007/08	63,657

In East Northamptonshire crime has decreased by 22.4% and crime in Corby has decreased by 14.2% between February and April compared to the same 3 month period last year.

Crime statistics for your area can be viewed on the following links:

Crimemapper.co.uk - east-northamptonshire district

Crimemapper.co.uk - corby-district
07/05/09

Phil Hope launches a consultation on the Government's National Autism Strategy

Autism Strategy consultation

Five people with Autism Spectrum Conditions met Phil Hope, who is Care Minister, to respond in person to a consultation on Autism launched on April 29th.

The meeting now appears online on the National Autistic Society website, You Tube and the new Department of Health consultation webpage . The issues raised will be formally submitted as the first responses to the consultation, which asks for opinions on what should be in the Government's National Autism Strategy to be published later this year.

The consultation will run for 20 weeks and seeks views from people with autism, their families, their carers and those involved in delivering services, to make sure that the final strategy makes a real difference on the ground.

People responding to the consultation will be asked for their views on five key themes. They are:

Health
Social Inclusion
Choice and Control
Awareness raising and training for staff
Access to training and employment

As well as writing and e-mailing their views, people can respond to the consultation by:

filling in a questionnaire that can be completed online or on paper and by individuals or groups;
taking part in a locally organised stakeholder discussion event - a consultation pack can be downloaded from the Department of Health website;
taking part in a regional discussion event; or
logging on to the discussion forum at www.dh.gov.uk

Ministers have already committed to issuing statutory guidance to ensure the final strategy has teeth and is put into practice at a local level.

Phil Hope MP said:
"People with Autistic Spectrum Conditions should have the same rights and freedom to enjoy life as everyone else.

"I want as many people as possible to respond to the consultation and let us know about their experiences, in their communities.

"The people I've met have strong opinions on what changes will make a difference to their day to day lives. With their responses to the consultation, and the views of people from across the country, we can make sure that the national strategy we'll publish at the end of the year really delivers where it counts."

Mark Lever, Chief Executive of The National Autistic Society and chair of the strategy's External Reference Group, said:
"After months of campaigning, the Government have given adults with autism an unprecedented opportunity to have their say in a strategy which could make a real difference. It is important that as many people affected by autism as possible take part to help shape the final strategy and the action that is needed at a local and national level. Without the right support autism can have a profound and sometimes devastating effect, so I urge the Government to reaffirm their commitment to giving the strategy the legal force, which is absolutely necessary to deliver real change."
07/05/09

Phil Hope welcomes Labour's Equality Bill

The Equality Bill received its First Reading in the House of Commons last Monday. It sets out groundbreaking new laws which will help narrow the gap between rich and poor; require business to report on gender pay; outlaw age discrimination; and will significantly strengthen Britain's anti-discrimination legislation.

Despite considerable progress since 1997, inequality and discrimination still exist which is why the law needs to be strengthened.

women are paid on average 23 per cent less per hour than men;
disabled people are twice as likely to be out of work;
people from ethnic minority backgrounds are nearly a fifth less likely to find work; and
One in five older people are refused quotes for motor or travel insurance, or car hire.

The Equality Bill is expected to come in to force from autumn 2010.

Phil Hope said:
"I believe in equality for people in Corby and East Northamptonshire. I have supported our Labour government's action such as challenging disability discrimination and outlawing age discrimination at work.

"This Bill is about fairness. It is about all people in our community getting fair treatment. So in Corby and East Northamptonshire it might mean making sure there are extra park benches in local parks so older people can enjoy public spaces and providing play areas for younger people so that they can make the most of our parks. I welcome this and I will support it.

Harriet Harman, Minister for Women and Equality, said:
"The Equality Bill is part of building a strong fair future for Britain out of the downturn. That means fairness and opportunity. Especially in tougher economic times, we need to face the problems fairly and we need to look for a fairer future.

"Though we have ensured new rights and opportunities for people with disabilities, for women, black and asian people and older people – there is still unfairness and discrimination to tackle. And this Bill will take the action necessary to tackle it.

The Equality Bill will strengthen our equality law by:

Putting a new duty on public bodies to consider how to reduce socio-economic inequalities;
Putting a new Equality Duty on public bodies;
Using public procurement to improve equality;
Banning age discrimination outside the workplace;
Introducing gender pay reports;
Extending powers to use positive action;
Strengthening the powers of employment tribunals;
Protecting carers from discrimination;
Protecting pregnant and new mothers;
Banning discrimination in private clubs; and
Strengthening protection from discrimination for disabled people.