Phil Hope MP - News archive Nov

News archive Nov - Dec 2007

December 2007

Investment in things to do and places to go for young people in the constituency

skateboarders
Young people are being urged to come up with ideas to improve 'things to do and places to go' for young people in the area.
Phil Hope MP has made the call as he welcomed new funding for projects such as skate parks, basketball courts and music workshops in Corby and East Northants.
Over the next three years the Government is providing a total of £2.8 million for Northamptonshire County Council to invest in activities for young people.
£1.1 million will be available for the Youth Opportunity Fund and £979, 500 for the Youth Capital Fund – funds which have to be spent on projects for young people and decided by young people.
Phil Hope MP said:
"I am delighted that the government has invested 2.8 million for young people in Northamptonshire. This funding puts the young people in the driving seat – they can put forward ideas for what they want to see in their community and help to decide where the money is spent."
"Young people across Corby and East Northamptonshire should think about what they would like to invest this money in, whether it's places to do sport, music or drama, revamping old facilities or getting new ones built.
"I want to hear what young people in our area would like to see – and I'm keen to do what I can to support those who come up with plans that can be made a reality."
31/12/07

Phil welcomes news of school feast

chopping onions Northamptonshire County Council has become a member of the School FEAST (Food Excellence And Skills Training) network and has secured funding from the School Food Trust to build a new training kitchen.
The award is in partnership with local colleges Northampton, Moulton, Tresham and Bedford. The Northamptonshire FEAST will offer training in cooking skills, nutrition, food hygiene and kitchen management to all school cooks and catering staff in Northamptonshire over the coming years following the build of the new county facility.
The FEAST network is a new initiative which will bring together training providers across England who will offer a wide range of training and support to all those involved in improving school meals, including school cooks, kitchen assistants, lunchtime supervisors, teachers, bursars and employers.
Phil said:
"I am delighted that schools and colleges in Corby and East Northamptonshire will benefit from the School Feast network. I'm sure many parents in my constituency would agree that the government has been successful in helping to raise the standard of school food. Being part of the School FEAST network will further strengthen these standards. And it is fantastic news that there will be a purpose built training facility for school cooks and catering staff."
The School FEAST network brings together new and existing training establishments, sees the formulation of new partnerships and offers a consistent core offer of training. The added value of this formula is the flexibility for any centre or partnership to specialise or diversify into areas of special interest, which will develop over time. The School Food Trust is actively working to expand the network to cover other areas of the country, and will announce these via the School FEAST website.
19/12/07

Phil encourages Raunds residents to have their say on parking

News item in Nene Valley News
News article from Nene Valley News
Phil Hope welcomed news that Raunds Town Council will be holding a public consultation about parking in Raunds Town centre.
The Town Council would like to find out people's views about whether to open the town square for parking when the market is not being held or close the square to parking.
Raunds residents and traders have until 31st January 2008 to make their views known. Residents and traders can contact the Council offices by emailing raundstowncouncil@fsmail.net, telephone 01933 622087 or by visiting the Town Council Office, The Hall, Raunds.
Phil Hope MP said:
"I am aware of the concerns from traders and members of the public about parking in Raunds town centre. I welcome the decision by Raunds Town Council to open a consultation about whether or not the town square should be used for parking when the market is not being held.
"It is important that the Town Council are able to make an informed decision about this issue and so I urge people in Raunds to contact Raunds Town Council and make their views known about this important issue."
18/12/07

£146.5 in East Midlands for new affordable housing

building site (c) FreeFoto.com Phil Hope welcomes the announcement of £146.5 million for 2008-2009 for affordable housing in the East Midlands.
The announcement is part of regional allocations from the £10.4 billion for housing investment made available through the Regional Housing Pot over the next 3 years.
The funding will support the Housing Green Paper commitment to provide at least 70,000 affordable homes a year by 2010-11 of which 45,000 will be social rented homes.
Welcoming the announcement, Phil Hope MP said:
"The Government is serious about providing more homes and more affordable homes locally. I know that first time buyers and working families in my constituency will welcome this investment in decent homes."
Announcing the funding today, Housing Minister Yvette Cooper said:
"This investment will help deliver the affordable homes that we need in every part of the country to help first time buyers and families on the waiting list."
For existing housing, around £2 billion will be used to support projects to improve the stock condition alongside wider regeneration projects. This funding will underpin the continuing commitment to ensure all local authority owned social rented stock achieves the decent homes standard by 2010 and to secure significant improvements in private sector housing.
13/12/07

Phil welcomes new leisure park

Artist's impression of the new development. Click for larger image.
Phil welcomed news about the progress of a new £10m leisure park, owned by OFF Developments, being built off Rockingham Road, Corby.
Construction of the 75,000 sq ft mixed-use development on the northern outskirts of Corby, which began in July, has been progressing apace. At the heart of the £10m scheme, which was funded by Dunbar Bank, is a three star 86-bedroom hotel which will be the first Hampton by Hilton hotel in Europe.
Wetherspoons has also chosen the 4.5 acre scheme to launch a new family pub and restaurant format which will trade as The Samuel Lloyd and Dominos and will premier its new European format at Rockingham. Subway is also taking a retail unit.
OFF Developments has just appointed London agent Bidwells to join local agent Budworth Hardcastle in a final push to secure tenants for the remaining 12,000 sq ft health and fitness club, a 5,000 sq ft day nursery and a 7,000 sq ft children's activity centre.
Phil Hope MP said:
"I am delighted that Corby will benefit from this new OFF Developments leisure facility which will see the development of a Hampton Hotel, Wetherspoons family pub and restaurant and dominos pizza, all investing in the future of Corby."
Cllr Pat Fawcett, Leader of Corby Borough Council said:
"It is great to see new investment flourish in Corby. I have been tremendously impressed with how much progress has been made since I last was on site, at the launch of the scheme, in the summer."
NNDC's chief executive Bob Lane said:
"North Northants Development Company and its predecessor Catalyst Corby have supported OFF Developments' plans for this site since they were first launched in 2005. We are delighted to see the realisation of Rockingham Park, which provides further evidence of Corby's commercial renaissance."
13/12/07

Lottery windfall for Connect2 project

walking on footpath Phil has welcomed news that £400,000 of People's Lottery cash will be invested into East Northamptonshire after the Connect2 project has won the People's Lottery vote for a massive £50 million project to connect communities through networks of green cycle routes and pathways across the country.
This means that East Northamptonshire will see its Greenway project, which was part of the original Connect2 bid, be developed to run along the Nene Valley from Raunds right through to Wellingborough.
Phil Hope MP said:
"I am delighted that people living in East Northamptonshire will benefit from this £400,000 which will go towards improving cycle and walking paths. I am particularly pleased that this money will be used for safer routes to school so that parents and children can walk to school safely."
John Grimshaw, Sustrans CEO said:
"This is a fantastic Christmas present! We are delighted that Sustrans' Connect2 has proved itself the people's favourite in the public vote and won the £50million from the Big Lottery Fund.
"As a massive public consultation exercise Connect2 has engendered a huge amount of goodwill from all sectors. It has confirmed our belief that people want to walk and cycle more when given the right surroundings. But the hard work starts now and there will be a huge amount to be done to make sure we fulfil all our obligations to the Big Lottery Fund. Ultimately the real winners will be those thousands of people who will now be able to Connect2 their shops, schools, workplaces and each other every day!"
12/12/07

Children's plan could mean new play areas and youth clubs

child on slide Phil Hope says he wants parents, young people and community groups in the constituency to come together to bid for some of the new funding, announced by Children's Secretary Ed Balls this week.
The Children's Plan announced £225 million to build or upgrade 3,500 play areas across the country – an average of 23 in every local authority. And £160 million will be available over the next two years for new youth facilities, which will be shaped by young people themselves. Across the country this could mean either 50 new state of the art youth centres, or 500 refurbished centres, or 2,000 smaller scale centres or mobile units.
Other announcements in the Children's Plan include more support for families with new measures to help parents take a more active role in their children's education, a review of the primary curriculum, a move towards 'testing when ready' and more catch-up support for children falling behind.
Phil said:
"The Children's Plan sets out what the Government will do to back parents as they bring up their children, tackle all the barriers that hold children back and unlock the talents of all our young people and not just some.
"Play is a vital part of children growing up, developing, learning and exploring and I want to see more good quality facilities where children can play safely. I will be asking local parents where new play facilities are needed or where existing ones need to be upgraded – so that our community can come together and start bidding for the new funding announced in the Children's Plan.
"I also want new things to do and places to go for young people in our area. This could include facilities for sport, music, drama or art – but it will be down to young people themselves to shape what's provided. So I want to hear from young people and the local community about what facilities they would like to see and start putting together our plans.
"I want us make the most of the new investment and make the Children's Plan a reality in our area."
11/12/07

ifs Young Business Writer of the year 2008

pen and paper Phil has called on teenagers in Corby and East Northants to take part in a national writing competition organised by financial education charity, the ifs School of Finance.
The ifs Young Business Writer of the Year competition is open to anyone aged between 14 and 19 and enables them to test their writing skills by writing an article of no more than 1,000 words in a business magazine style.
Every year the ifs Young Business Writer of the Year competition is judged by a business or finance journalist from a national newspaper. In recent years judges have included Rob Budden from the Financial Times and Robert Cole from The Times. This year the competition will be judged by James Daley, Personal Finance Editor for The Independent.
James will be awarding marks for demonstrating research, evaluation, analysis and written argument skills and for good overall reporting style.
As well as the title "ifs Young Business Writer of the Year 2008" the author of the winning article will receive a prize of £500.
The title for the article is:

"Saving for the future, one size fits all?"

Budding young business writers should think about the various savings options available to the British public. Possible questions to consider when thinking about this issue include: Are the options available sufficient? Are some savings mechanisms better than others? Are some methods of saving more suited to particular types of individual? What should the role of the state be in providing for people's retirement?
Phil Hope MP said:
"I am happy to voice my support for the ifs Young Business Writer of the Year Competition as it can help to improve writing standards in general whilst ensuring students think about what is a very important issue i.e. saving for the future.
I encourage 14-19 year olds in Corby and East Northants to participate in the competition and wish them every success in doing so.”
Gary Millner, Corporate Relations & Communications Director at the ifs School of Finance, said:
"We are very grateful for the support of Phil Hope MP in highlighting the benefits of this worthwhile competition.
I'm sure we will receive many different views about how to tackle this problem from young people across the UK, including Corby and East Northants.

Anyone aged between 14 and 19 who wishes to enter the competition simply has to e-mail their article (which must not exceed 1,000 words) to ybwy@ifslearning.com between now and February 29 2008.

Further details can be found online at www.studentinvestor.org.
11/12/07

Record funding to tackle homelessness

Phil has welcomed the Government's funding announcement for homeless services in Corby and East Northamptonshire.
Phil Hope MP said:
"Over the past 10 years, this Government has worked hard to reduce homelessness figures across the country to the lowest levels since the early 1980s.
"But there is still more to do, and today's funding announcement for homelessness services means more help for some of the most vulnerable people in Corby and East Northamptonshire.
"Corby Borough Council and East Northamptonshire Council will each be given a total of £90,000during the next three years to help prevent and tackle homelessness in the area. “
Housing Minister, Iain Wright said:
"This record funding will help councils step up their work to prevent and tackle homelessness. We've seen huge progress over the last decade, but there is much still to do.
“We want to help families living in temporary accommodation into a settled home, provide better opportunities for young people facing homelessness and make further reductions in rough sleeping.”
Cllr. Mark Pengelly, Deputy Leader of Corby Borough Council said:
"I welcome this extra government funding to help tackle homelessness. It will benefit the most vulnerable people in the borough and the Council will be debating how this money is best spent over the next few weeks."
This is the first time that Communities and Local Government has awarded a three year settlement. This will help councils plan for the long term and achieve even more for their money. It will also help them meet the targets to reduce the number of households in temporary accommodation by 50 per cent and end the use of bed and breakfast accommodation for 16 and 17 year olds by 2010.
Councils will be able to invest the funding in expanding successful prevention schemes such as rent deposit and mediation services which have contributed to huge falls in homelessness and make further reductions in rough sleeping by funding outreach and day centre services.
06/12/07

Funding available for young people making a difference in Corby and East Northamptonshire

Phil Hope is calling upon young people in Corby and East Northamptonshire who have ideas for community projects to apply for funding from vcashpoint a youth fund offering grants of up to £2500.
Youth volunteering charity v have given £1m to vcashpoint, their youth fund run by youth members and HSBC Bank. The new scheme will allow 16-25 year olds from across the UK to turn their ideas into reality and set up their own community projects by applying for grants of up to £2,500.
Application deadlines for the forthcoming rounds of funding are as follows:
1 February 2008 (round two)
25 April 2008 (round three)
18 July 2008 (round four)
Full application details can be found at www.vinspired.com
The first round of vcashpoint grants were awarded earlier this year with 72 successful applicants securing £130,000 of grants. v received a diverse range of inspiring and innovative applications from young people committed to making a positive contribution in their local communities and funded projects include young volunteers who are now:
Co-ordinating football training and a tournament for disadvantaged young people
Arranging fun and educational trips for children with special needs
Improving communal leisure areas on a housing estate
Developing a Chinese radio project
Phil Hope MP said:
"I would encourage all young people in Corby and East Northamptonshire who have a community idea to apply for vcashpoint funding. This fund is designed by young people for young people and gives them the chance to make a difference to their community."
06/12/07

Prime Minister's special delivery

Phil with students at Manor School Phil was delighted this week to inform school pupils from seven schools in his constituency that they had a special delivery from the Prime Minister.
Phil made a whistle-stop tour of primary and secondary schools in his constituency in July, including Raunds Manor, Huxlow Science College, Irthlingborough Primary Schools in East Northamptonshire and Kingswood Secondary, Kingswood Primary, Corby Community College and St. Patrick's Primary Schools in Corby, to help open dialogue between school children and the Prime Minister by engaging with pupils aged seven to eighteen years old to join his project titled 'ASK THE PRIME MINISTER'.The Prime Minister noted in a letter to Phil that the pupils 'have thought very long and hard about the issues that concern them both here in the UK and worldwide.' Each school have been sent a copy of the Prime Minister's letter for the pupils who took part in the project.
Phil Hope said:
"I was impressed by the quality of discussion I had with the students and thought that they had gone to some depth when deciding what to ask the Prime Minister.
"I think it is very important that young people understand how government can affect their lives and I am delighted that the Prime Minister has taken the time to give such in depth responses to the questions raised by students and I hope many of the answers will spark debate amongst the students in the classroom.
"This project has shown these young people that everyone can take part in the political process and I hope that this experience will kindle an interest in Politics amongst these young people.
"I encourage all young people to have their say on the issues that are of most concern to them and I would be happy to receive questions from them."
15/12/07

Phil launches light up a life ceremony

Phil Hope joined supporters and friends of Lakelands Day Care Hospice to officially turn on the Christmas tree lights at a ceremony in Corby Town Centre on Sunday 2nd December.
The ceremony was opened by Corby Mayor Cllr Jean Addison and conducted by Rev Jan Collins, the hospice chaplain. During the service, pupils from St. Patrick's Primary school and Brooke Weston City Technology College sang Christmas carols and Phil also read a poem titled Light a Candle by Paul Alexander.
Phil Hope MP said:
"I feel very privileged to have taken part in Lakelands 'Light up a Life' ceremony by reading a special poem and turning on the Christmas tree lights in Willow Place, Corby.
"The ceremony was an opportunity for us all to remember loved ones in a special way whilst helping Lakelands in their fundraising efforts.
"Lakelands day care hospice provides excellent care and support to both patients and their families and I am always delighted to support in any way I can."
Jo Plant, Head of Fundraising said:
"We were delighted to welcome Phil to Light up a Life; once again he took part in the ceremony with great enthusiasm. This annual event makes a very significant contribution to our on-going fundraising campaign. We are grateful to Phil for his on-going support."
04/12/07

Phil Hope welcomes new website to help Polish workers

Phil Hope welcomed news that the Trade Union Congress has launched a new Polish website to support the increasing number of Polish workers in the UK.
The website - run by the TUC in partnership with Citizens Advice and Solidarnosc - explains the rights workers can expect at work, from the minimum wage and working time to holiday entitlement and sick pay; information about social issues such as housing and health; and guidance about what living and working in the UK is really like.
Since Poland joined the EU in 2004, thousands of Polish workers have come to the UK to make their living, and 222,760 Poles registered for National Insurance numbers in 2006-7. Sadly many of these workers have fallen prey to unscrupulous employers and have been forced to work long hours for little pay, in unsafe workplaces with very few employment rights.
Phil Hope MP said:
"I welcome the TUC's new website which is designed to give Polish workers advice about the minimum wage, holiday entitlement and sick pay. This website will help combat the illegal practices taken by some rogue employers and employment agencies who exploit Polish workers as they may lack understanding of British working culture. "
04/12/07

Phil supports older people in Thrapston

Phil with petition Phil Hope called upon the political administration of Northamptonshire County Council to keep Thrapston Manor House Care Home open.
Phil Hope MP said:
"I have sent the petition to Cllr. Rosemary Bromwich, Cabinet Member responsible for adult care and explained that this is the second time that Manor House Care Home has been threatened with closure, the first time during the spate of draconian cuts to vulnerable adults services carried out by the Conservative administration.
"One of the major factors that improve the quality of life for elderly people who require care is the closeness of their friends and family and at present Manor House adequately provides this for older people in Thrapston. If this facility is closed by Northamptonshire County Council, then the same level of care must be provided and should therefore be located Thrapston.
"I have urged Cllr. Bromwich and her cabinet members to take into account the views of Thrapston residents when making their decision and ensure that they are sympathetic to the needs of older people in Thrapston."
04/12/07

Phil Hope MP Backs National Campaign For Warm Homes

Warm Front logo Phil is backing a national campaign that aims to highlight the plight of households who are concerned about being able to heat their homes to adequate levels this winter.
The Warm Homes Campaign is the annual winter campaign organised by fuel poverty charity National Energy Action (NEA). It is organised in association with eaga, and supported by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (in England).
The campaign aims to cut the number of excess winter deaths and reduce cold-related illnesses by raising awareness of the help available to people who cannot afford to heat their homes in winter.
Phil Hope MP said:
"I am particularly pleased to be supporting the Warm Homes Campaign. Fuel poverty is a serious issue. It is vital to help people make their homes more energy efficient. A more energy efficient house is good news for your energy bill. In this day and age, no one should have to spend the winter without affordable heat for their home. I want to see an end to fuel poverty in Corby and East Northamptonshire and across the rest of the UK."
Approximately one in six UK households are unable to affordably heat their homes. Cold homes affect people's health and wellbeing and are linked to cardiovascular illnesses such as heart disease and strokes, and respiratory illnesses such as asthma and bronchitis. The elderly, families with young children, people with disabilities and others on low incomes are especially at risk from the dangers of cold homes.
There are an average 50 excess winter deaths linked to cold homes every year in Corby and East Northants. This year, higher energy prices could push that figure even higher.
Jenny Saunders, NEA Chief Executive, said:
"For millions of families and individuals, winter brings poor health, isolation, debt and worry. We believe that this is unacceptable. The Warm Homes Campaign aims to highlight the effects of fuel poverty and to offer positive and practical solutions to the problem.
"During the month of campaign activity we will be urging Government to recognise the effects escalating energy costs have had on fuel-poor households and provide extra resources to help lift people out of fuel poverty and protect them from any future increases in energy prices.”
Ashley Guise, Divisional Managing Director for eaga, said:
"With winter deaths and poor health still being caused simply because people are living in cold and damp homes this is an extremely important campaign and eaga is only too happy to lend its support. Making homes warmer, dryer and healthier changes lives for the better and for the long term."
Anyone who is worried about their winter fuel bill should call the Home Heat Helpline on 0800 336699 for information and advice on keeping warm in winter. Or for more information about grants available to keep your home warm, call freephone 0800 3166014.
03/12/07

Phil welcomes support for coeliacs

Phil welcomed news that Coeliac patients in his constituency will benefit from a new scheme being rolled out in pharmacists by Northamptonshire Teaching Primary Care Trust.
Coeliac patients will now be able to access gluten free products direct from their local pharmacist. It means that patients will be able to order their gluten free products by registering with their local pharmacist instead of having to go through their GP.
Phil Hope MP said:
"I welcome the news that, thanks to the forward thinking approach taken by Northamptonshire teaching Primary Care Trust, Coeliac patients in my constituency can now conveniently order gluten free foods via their pharmacist."
Vicki Bray from Northamptonshire Teaching PCT said:
"We are one of just a handful of PCT's in the Country to be offering this brand new facility. The benefits of patients dealing directly with their local pharmacy for their gluten free products are three fold. Not only will it free up GP time, but patients will have more choice of gluten free products, and pharmacists will be utilising their pharmaceutical skills to greater effect – we are delighted that the scheme is now in a position to be rolled out across the county."
When Coeliac patients visit their GPs for their repeat prescription for gluten free products, they will be either given or sent a referral letter which should be handed to their local pharmacy in order to register for the new service.
Once registered, patients will then select with the pharmacist their gluten free products using the local guidelines which have been approved by the Coeliac Society. To ensure continuity they will then be required to fill out the standard monthly order form.
03/12/07

Phil thanks postmen and women for a first class effort

twin post women- L-R-Eve Reynolds, Phil Hope MP and Jeni Smith
Phil Hope with twin post women - Eve Reynolds (L), and Jeni Smith (R)
Phil visited Royal Mail's Corby delivery office to see for himself how postmen and women in the area get Christmas sorted.
Phil was brought on a tour of the delivery office to see how the posties deal with the mountains of festive mail. He chatted to the hardworking staff who make sure they deliver a first class Christmas for Corby residents.
Phil Hope MP said:
"I was delighted to visit the postal workers at the Corby delivery office and I was pleased to have the opportunity to say a big thank you for all their hard work during the festive season and throughout the year."
Mr Hope will made an early start in order to meet Graham Ingate, Delivery Office Manager, and some of the 88 postmen and women, who are responsible for ensuring that Corby massive Christmas mailbag is delivered to over 24,000 addresses at Royal Mail's busiest time of year.
The visit was in time to post any cards and presents for delivery before Christmas, with the last recommended posting date on Thursday 20th December for First Class mail.
04/12/07

Free maps for 11 year Olds

Phil with Corby Community pupils Phil Hope made a special presentation to year 7 pupils at Corby Community College by giving each of them an ordnance survey map of Corby.
The Free maps for 11-year-olds initiative scheme was launched in 2002 and offers a free OS Explorer® map to every pupil in Year 7 through their school – all the school has to do is order the maps for their pupils online. In addition to the maps for the pupils, the school receives classroom copies of the map.
The Free maps for 11-year-olds scheme aims to provide all children, irrespective of home or school circumstances, with a map of their own at the stage in their school career when it was most likely to be of best use. By providing additional maps for teachers at a ration of 1 for every 25 pupil maps the scheme also aimed to improve school map resources.
Each year of the scheme has seen over 700 000 maps distributed to pupils via their schools. By the end of 2007 this will amount to over 4.5 million maps.
Phil Hope said:
"I was delighted to award the OS maps to all year 7 pupils at Corby Community College. I fully support the free maps scheme as it is giving all children access to maps irrespective of home or school circumstances."
6/12/07

November 2007

Phil Hope welcomes move to put skills at the heart of welfare

Phil Hope welcomed the Government’s plan to help people move up the ladder of opportunity; off welfare, into work, and upwards to prosperity for them and their families.
The paper, Opportunity, Employment and Progression: the role of skills, is aimed to help people at every stage of their working lives. It details plans to pilot the advancement and careers service, which will not only offer advice on skills and work, but also other issues which may face people trying to find a job or move on, such as affordable childcare or housing benefits.
Under the new plans, when you sign on, you sign up for skills. Every new person on out of work benefits will have a light touch “skills screening”, by someone from the new advancement and careers service. Those who are finding it hard to find work will have an in depth skills health check, to help them access the training they need to get into work.
The government has put aside funds for half a million skills health checks. But the government says that getting a job should just be the start, so it’s providing another half a million skills health checks for those in low skilled work, who want to get on.
Phil Hope MP said:
"I'm delighted that the government is supporting people to gain the skills they need to get on at work and to get on in life. This package tells all the people in Corby and East Northamptonshire, that if you want to get on, then the government is on your side.
"The advancement and careers service will help people with low skills in the right direction of training, and perhaps give them the support they need to find childcare. The government is committed to helping people off benefits, into work, but then onwards to a better job. This is better for them and their families, as well as the economy."
29/11/07

New mattresses and beds to help control infection

hospital corridor Phil Hope has welcomed news that Kettering General Hospital has invested £200,000 to buy new mattresses and beds in the continued fight against infection.
Phil Hope MP said:
"I am delighted that Kettering General Hospital is replacing nearly 80% of its mattresses to help with the fight against infection. This shows the commitment by Kettering General Hospital to tackle potential C diff or MRSA infections.
"I understand that the changeover period may cause patients and relatives some inconvenience but I am sure that people can appreciate that in the long-term these changes will improve facilities.
"These new mattresses and beds signal only part of the ongoing infection control campaign by Kettering General Hospital. I am confident that Infection control is given the highest priority and is part of a Kettering General Hospital's core business and not an additional extra."Clinical Nurse Specialist for Tissue Viability, Colin Iverson said:
"Mattresses and beds are a very important part of the equipment used by hospitals and mattresses particularly need to be renewed every few years.
"Over the next few months the hospital is about to undergo a major deep clean in line with Government guidance and we are also planning a longer term ward refurbishment programme over the next two years.
“The new mattresses are another step in the right direction. We are about to carry out a huge deep clean of the hospital and infection control will be at the heart of this. It was important to us therefore the get the basics right and change mattresses in advance of the deep clean."
29/11/07

Extra funding for transport in Northamptonshire

traffic Phil Hope welcomed news that the Government has pledged up to £56.9million extra funding for Northamptonshire's transport, including roads, over the next three years.
Minister of State for Transport Rosie Winterton yesterday pledged £17m for roads and transport in the county for the next year and gave details of the future funding for 2009/10 which will be £18.9m and £21m in 2010/2011.
Phil Hope MP said:
"I welcome this extra £56.9million government investment for roads and transport in Northamptonshire. This shows the government's commitment and recognition of the growth currently taking place in Northamptonshire.
"I will continue to work closely with the Government to ensure to that Corby and East Northamptonshire both continue to receive appropriate investment in relation to growth and local needs."
28/11/07

Phil campaigns for the elderly in Thrapston

Phil continues his campaign to keep the Manor House care home in Thrapston open and calls upon Northamptonshire County Council to keep the care home open or provide the same level of care at another location in Thrapston.
During a Council meeting held in August, Northamptonshire County Council proposed that Manor House in Thrapston should be closed in an attempt to balance their budget. The County Council launched a consultation in September with care home staff and residents and this consultation is due to close on 7th December.
After the launch of the consultation period, Phil Hope MP initiated a petition campaign with Manor House Action Group to keep the care home open and they have collected 1,361 signatures from Thrapston residents who are against the closure.
Phil has now written to Northamptonshire County Council and called for Manor House to remain open or for the same level of care to be provided at another location Thrapston.
Phil Hope MP said:
"I was approached by a delegation of concerned relatives and residents from Thrapston expressing concerns about the proposed closure by Northamptonshire County Council of Manor House elderly care home. Together we decided to launch a petition campaign so that local people would have the opportunity to make their feelings known to the Conservative County Councillors who will be making the final decision about the future of the home.
"Northamptonshire County Council threatened Manor House with closure during their last bout of financial cuts in 2006 and I campaigned against the cuts then. I want to see Northamptonshire County Council do better at the efficient delivery of key services in my constituency especially for the most vulnerable which includes the elderly.
"The consequences of taking away this facility will mean that the quality of life for these elderly people will deteriorate because their friends and family who live nearby help provide a social network and prevent them from becoming isolated. It would be unacceptable to close this home and not provide alternative care in Thrapston for these people. "
26/11/07

Cransley Hopspice Casino Night

To launch its 10th Anniversary Celebratory Year, Cransley Hospice is holding a Casino Night at the Comfort Hotel Royal, Market Place, Kettering on Saturday 26th January 2008. If you would like to support the charity, further details are given on the Hospice website.
26/11/07

National recognition for local business

Phil Hope with Nick Clere Phil celebrated news that local business 'Making Change Happen' based in Harringworth, have received the 'Most Innovative Application of Learning Technology' Award at the 2007 E-learning Awards for its computer based coaching and mentoring application called 'My Performance Coach'.
Making Change Happen is a team of professional and experienced coaches and consultants who have developed an innovative and unique multi-media, multi-sensory coaching application 'My Performance Coach' (MPC).
MPC emulates the key processes and methods of a top performance coach in four key themes; performance improvement, change management, personal well-being and leadership development. MPC is designed to connect values, beliefs, identities and purpose with organisational and individual goals by influencing the adoption of powerful mindsets and emotions that directly govern 'high performance' behaviours and results.
Phil Hope MP said:
"I am delighted that 'Making Change Happen', a successful business based in my constituency, has won the 'Most Innovative Application of Learning Technology' Award at the 2007 E-learning Awards in recognition of their learning application 'My Performance Coach'. This package is a very useful for assisting learners to develop themselves and raise their aspiration and performance to complement and reinforce training courses."
Making Change Happen's CEO, Nick Le Clère said:
"Being recognised in this way, by thought leaders and peers from across the learning technology industry, is a vindication of the vision, commitment and dedication of the Making Change Happen team. It's a very prestigious Award to have won and we are delighted to be identified as leading innovators in this domain".
"We want to make the benefits of coaching and mentoring more accessible to the masses, who would previously be unable to get this kind of powerful support for themselves, or their organisations. We are very excited about the potential to help companies of all sizes improve their performance, by helping to release the full potential of their management teams, and their employees, using the latest, easy to use, learning technologies."
"Listening to recognised experts, sharing their inspiring messages, then using interactive coaching tools and techniques, has been shown to be a great benefit for learners. In addition, the stress management tools, available on demand, have been very well received. To perform at your best, it’s important not to burn yourself out, hence the growth in work/life balance initiatives in many organisations, which My Performance Coach actively supports.
26/11/07

Phil Hope MP launches Skills Campaign

Phil Hope, John Denham and staff from RS Components and Tresham Institute
Phil Hope has launched a new Skills Campaign in Corby with John Denham MP, Secretary of State for Innovation, Universities and Skills at Tresham Business Solutions.
Phil is encouraging local employers to sign the Skills Pledge and tap into new Government funding so that every member of their workforce achieves at least a first full level 2 qualification which includes NVQ level 2 and 5 GCSEs at grade C or above. Phil has written to companies based in Corby and East Northants encouraging them to sign the skills pledge
Local employers, including RS Components, Corus, Fairline Boats, Corby Borough Council, Solway Food and Orchard House Foods, attended the event and countywide training providers including Tresham Institute, University of Northampton, White Lion Training and NITAL were on hand to offer advice to employers about training options.
During the event, RS Components and Tresham Institute signed the skills pledge to show their commitment to 'upskilling' their workforce.
Phil Hope MP said
"Companies which invest in their staff improve their bottom line. They are more productive and more profitable, and individuals who return to learning at work can earn more and develop skills to increase their future employability.
"I call upon every employer in Corby to sign the Skills Pledge and commit themselves to ensuring that every member of their workforce has good literacy and numeracy skills and at least a full level 2 qualification.
"The Government’s new ‘Train to Gain’ service provides free training in Skills for Life – literacy and numeracy - and free training up to a first level 2 qualification for adults at work. A new Brokerage Service will also help companies to diagnose their skills needs and choose the best training organisation to help them."
John Denham MP, Secretary of State for Innovation, Universities and Skills today said:
"I applaud Phil's active engagement with employers in Corby which encourages them to sign the skills pledge - it shows he understands how Corby's businesses need to change. Only by increasing the skills of their workforces will they be able to compete in the increasingly globalised economy of tomorrow. This Labour government is committed to shaping the training system around the needs of the employer"
Allison Hope, Director of Tresham Institute Business Solutions said:
"Tresham Institute strongly supports this pledge and as a lead provider of Train to Gain we are making significant changes to support the skills development of the local community, already 295 new learners have benefited from this scheme. Last year our Business Solutions Centre, which specialises in providing bespoke skills training directly to employers, worked with 246 employers in the workplace or at our Business Centre, improving the knowledge and skills of the workforce."
23/11/07

Phil backs white ribbon campaign

Phil Hope has been backing the white ribbon campaign - 16 days of action on stopping violence against women to mark the UN International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Phil said:
"A lot of progress has been made to stop domestic violence – but some men still see violence to women as an accepted part of life.
"Domestic abuse still goes on behind too many front doors and it's a crime which destroys families, terrifies children and leaves its victims frightened and vulnerable."
"I will wear my white ribbon to signal my support for this campaign and I call on men everywhere to make a personal pledge never to commit violence towards women or to keep silent if they know about it."
For further information on this campaign, visit the white ribbon campaign website.
23/11/07

MP welcomes new sports hall facility

Phil with Huxlow staff outside sports hall Phil Hope visited Huxlow Sports College recently to see how pupils and staff are enjoying their new 630,000 sports hall.
The facility was officially opened at the beginning of October and includes a large sports hall that can be used for badminton, basketball or football. The main funding for the project came from lottery funding with £335,000 being granted from the New Opportunities Fund.
The school is hoping that the local community will use the new facility in the evenings and at weekends through offering taster sessions of different sports.
Phil with Huxlow students Phil Hope said
"I was delighted to visit the new sports hall and see staff and students making good use of the facility. It is important that local people use this hall so that it becomes a central facility for the local community."
22/11/07

Phil Hope welcomes arts funding for constituency

Phil Hope welcomed news that Fermynwood Contemporary Art project has been granted £74,000 from the Arts Council to continue its work in developing contemporary visual arts in North Northamptonshire over the next three years.
Fermynwoods has a strong national reputation for the quality of its artistic programme and will continue this work which now includes using a new offsite venue. Sudborough Green Lodge cottages in Fermyn Woods will be used for arts residences and education activities. This is part of a partnership with the Forestry Commission and the River Nene Regional Park.
The programmes will include work with schools and community groups and encouraging a more diverse audience such as excluded groups like disaffected young people and people using mental health services.
The Arts Council is the national development agency for the arts in England, distributing public money from Government and the National Lottery. Arts Council England works to get more art to more people in more places.
Locally the Arts have continued to thrive thanks to enhanced Government investment over the last ten years. This investment has enabled the arts to contribute to vital wider agendas, such as health, social inclusion and community cohesion.
Phil Hope MP said:
"The arts have the power to change lives and communities and to create opportunities for people and I am delighted that the Arts Council has chosen to invest £74,000 in Fermynwood Contemporary Art project."
The Arts Council has also awarded £135,000 to Northamptonshire County Council for Northants Dance the dance development agency for the county.
It is currently hosted by Northants County Council and provides dance activities and training for children, young people, adults, professional dances and dancers with disabilities.
The new funding is from March 2008 and will make it possible for Northants Dance to re-launch itself as an independent dance agency.
20/11/07

Local service given prestigious award

Phil with EADS staff
Phil Hope presented Northamptonshire County Council's Employment and Disability Service with the acclaimed Matrix Quality Standard for information advice and guidance services at their headquarters in Grafton Court, Kettering.
The Employment and Disability Service (EADS) offer people with disabilities support, help and advice to find suitable employment. EADS work closely with employers and service users to overcome the potential barriers a disability may present. The service offers supported employment opportunities which include work placements and training in the workplace.
The Matrix Standard is a unique quality framework for the effective delivery of information, advice and guidance in learning and working environments. Many people can benefit from this advice and information, including organisations and employers who are committed to developing their staff’s awareness and giving guidance on the employment of disabled people.
The Matrix Standard was awarded to EADS in recognition of the high standards achieved in the delivery of information, advice and guidance (IAG). The quality mark assures the public that the organisation is listening to its service users and employers needs and supplying a service that meets those needs.
Phil Hope MP said:
"The Employment and Disability Service is a lifeline for people who have disabilities in my constituency. The service assists people with disabilities to find suitable employment and also gives support and advice to people during their time in employment.
"I was delighted to award the service with the prestigious Matrix Standard to recognise the hard work by staff to provide the highest level of information, advice and guidance to clients.
"I have personal experience of the quality service provided by EADS when a young lady came to work in my office through the service and the support she received from EADS was second to none"
19/11/07

Phil backs campaign to stamp out bullying

Anti Bullying Week logo Phil Hope gave his backing to Anti Bullying Week and called for a new campaign to stamp out bullying inside and outside school.
He said bullying blighted the lives of thousands of children every day and welcomed £3 million of new investment in 'peer mentoring' schemes.
Peer mentoring works by training pupils from a wide range of backgrounds and ages to be mentors. They will be taught by experts to resolve conflict, offer support and advice, help pupils in making friends and on feeding back information about bullying to teachers.
Phil said:
"Bullying is totally unacceptable in whatever form it takes. It is not an issue we can sweep under the carpet. It’s something we must all stand up to.
"Whether it’s bullying in the playground or on the way to school, homophobic bullying or cyber-bullying using mobile phones and the Internet, all of us including teachers, parents and children must work together to stamp it out.
"Research shows that more often than not a child being bullied would rather confide in another pupil than go directly to a teacher. That's why peer mentoring - young people supporting each other to stamp out bullying - is an exciting scheme that is already having great success in many schools. It helps to catch problems at an early stage, and nip them in the bud.
"Obviously teachers will need to supervise these schemes and peer mentoring will never be a substitute for disciplinary sanctions, but this scheme allows young people to be responsible and mature by helping other children who suffer from bullying.
"I also welcome the Government's new campaign against cyber-bullying. This includes new guidance for teachers on tackling the problem and an online campaign with the slogan 'laugh at it and you’re a part of it' which will feature on websites like Bebo, MySpace, Yahoo and MSN."
Visit the Anti Bullying website for further information.
19/11/07

Phil joins Barnwell students

Phil with Barnwell students
Phil dropped by Barnwell workshop on Friday 16th November to talk to students currently taking vocational courses at the new site.
Barnwell workshop is based at the old Barnwell Primary School site on Armston Road, Barnwell and schools in East Northamptonshire, including Prince William School, use the site to offer students courses in Motor Vehicle Training, Beauty Therapy and Landscaping all done in partnership with Tresham Institute.
Phil with Barnwell students
Phil Hope MP said:
"I was delighted to meet the young people at Barnwell Workshop and talk to them about their learning experiences. They each showed enthusiasm and commitment for their course.
"Through joined up working with Tresham College, schools in East Northamptonshire can now offer students an alternative to traditional qualifications and offer training in areas such as Motor Vehicle, Beauty Therapy and Landscaping to help students develop their work related skills in a creative and enjoyable way."
16/11/07

Phil goes back in time at Woodnewton

Phi with pupils at Woodnewton
Phil went back in time when he visited local school Woodnewton: A learning community, Willowbrook Road, Corby.
In order to bring history alive in the classroom school pupils and teachers dressed up as Victorians and the children experienced what it would have been like to have attended school in the Victorian age.
Woodnewton: A learning community also recently received a 'Good' Ofsted report.
Phil Hope has written to the school remarking: "This is down to the hard work of your teaching staff and as I note from the inspection report, 'the headteacher provides an excellent direction for the work of the school.'
"Please extend my congratulations to your staff, governors and of course your pupils who clearly work exceptionally hard. It was also lovely to read that your pupils have been noted for their politeness and excellent behaviour."
16/11/07

Kelly Panks attends reception at No 10

Phil with Kelly Panks at No 10
Phil accompanied a special constituent called Kelly Panks to a Number 10 Downing street reception recently to congratulate her for all of her hard work in gaining her engineering qualifications.
Phil was asked to choose a young person from his constituency to attend the reception which recognised young people from across the UK for their hard work in apprenticeships, voluntary work or sport.
Kelly was chosen for the commitment and drive she has shown in gaining various qualifications in engineering including, two NVQ's, City and Guilds, BTEC and currently working towards her HNC.
Phil Hope MP said:
"It was with great pleasure that I invited Kelly to attend a reception for exceptional young people at Number 10 Downing Street. Kelly is a great role model for other young people as she has shown outstanding perseverance and dedication in working towards her NVQ and HNC qualifications in engineering. I am delighted that her hard work was recognised by the Prime Minister."
16/11/07

Manufacturing Excellence Awards 2008

Hunt to Find Best of Business ‘Oscars’ Begins
Phil Hope MP is urging firms in Corby and East Northamptonshire to enter the Institution of Mechanical Engineers’ (IMechE) Manufacturing Excellence (MX) Awards 2008.
The MX Awards are the most prestigious ‘Oscars’ in the business world and benchmark best practice in UK manufacturing. Some of the world’s biggest industry names, from Barclays, PricewaterhouseCoopers, BP, Autodesk, and the Government’s Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) are supporting MX2008.
Phil Hope MP said:
"I hope to see as many companies as possible enter MX2008, as the competition is known as the national hallmark of best practice in manufacturing and we, as MPs are supporting this country's manufacturing industry, these companies and our future.
"Protecting the heritage of UK manufacturing and skills is a hugely important task, and to support this I would encourage any firms, of any size, to enter. They are free and run in partnership with some of the country’s leading business names, including the Warwick Manufacturing Group."
Deadline for entries is 28 February 2008. Firms have been judged by some of the UK’s top business experts, including Barclays Corporate Director Graeme Allinson, MAS West Midlands Chief Executive David Wright, and Lord Bhattacharyya, Director of WMG.
Graeme Allinson judged MX2007 and said:
"I am continually impressed with the ingenuity and quality of product design by UK firms that enter the MX Awards. Some of them are real world beaters. The way forward for our manufacturers is to invest in quality and value. The majority of firms need to almost double spending in research and development to ensure we become the world leaders in overall quality."
Companies can compete for awards ranging from Best Overall Business, Best SME, Best Sustainable Manufacturer, Product Innovation, and Best Business Education Partnership.

Each firm that enters is entitled to a free, bespoke Benchmark Report from a panel of manufacturing experts and independently valued at £20,000 after filling in a Self Assessment Audit.
The Report will offer a 'top tips' service to firms with invaluable advice on how to improve performance, taking size, industry and resources into consideration.

MX is one of the world's longest-running business schemes in UK and was first set up 25 years ago by a dedicated team of IMechE members and business representatives to promote and protect the heritage of our UK industry and, most importantly, share best practice.
Finalists for the awards will be invited to a glittering awards ceremony on 26 June at The Dorchester in London where the winners and overall MX winner will be announced.
Firms interested in entering should visit www.mxawards.org or email h_morgan@imeche.org.
Media enquiries should be directed to the IMechE Press Office on 020 7304 6973/6877 or email media@imeche.org

MX2007 Winners:

Overall Winner Manufacturing Advisory Service Award for Manufacturing Excellence
Trend Control Systems – Horsham, West Sussex
RSM Robson Rhodes Award for Manufacturing Excellence Best Small or Medium Enterprise
Rencol Tolerance Rings – Bristol
Arup Award for Sustainable Manufacturing Winner
Winner Agfa Graphics – Leeds
Highly Commended The Bio-D Company – Hull
BP Award for Best Partnership between Business and Education
Winner MBDA – Stevenage, Herts and Lostok, Lancs
Highly Commended Alitex - Petersfield, Hampshire
Highly Commended AnTech - Exeter
UK Resource Centre for Women in Science, Engineering and Technology Award for Diversity and Inclusion
DuPont – Stevenage
Kellysearch Award for Customer Focus
Elfab – North Shields, Tyne & Wear
Renishaw Award for Product Innovation
Wrightbus – Ballymena
Sandvik Coromant Award for Process Innovation
The Hadley Group - Birmingham
Warwick Manufacturing Group Award for Logistics and Resource Efficiency
Trend Control Systems
IBM Award for Business Development and Change Management
Winner Hozelock – Sutton Coldfield
Highly Commended AP Driveline – Leamington Spa
Professional Engineering Award for People Effectiveness
International Cuisine – Consett, Co Durham
Barclays Award for Financial Management
Dunlop Bestobell - Loughborough
National Business to Business Centre Award for Integrated e-Business
Eastern Storage Equipment - Norwich
14/11/07

Phil Hope calls for local support for project

Irthlingborough 'Ikers
Phil with the Irthlingborough Ikers’, one of the many groups to benefit if the project is successful
Phil is calling on local people to give their support to the Sultrans' Connect2 Project in the national Big Lottery Fund's: The People's £50 Million contest.
The Sultrans' Connect2 is a national project which aims to get more people walking and cycling and the bid includes linking Irthlingborough, Stanwick Lakes and Raunds with Wellingborough, Rushden and Higham Ferrers through a series of foot and cycle paths. The total cost of this project will be around £800,000.
Phil Hope MP said:
"I urge local people to vote for the Sultrans' Connect2 project in the National Lottery's: The People's £50million contest. This is a fantastic project and if successful would benefit people living in Raunds, Stanwick and Irthlingborough.
"Walking and cycling are great forms of exercise that help to keep both the heart and mind healthy."
14/11/07

Phil Hope welcomes commitment to community cohesion

Phil Hope has welcomed a declaration, tabled by Cllr. John McGhee at a recent County Council meeting, which makes a commitment to tackle extremism and racism.
The declaration states:
"We in Northamptonshire are proud of our diverse and multi-racial heritage, which we regard as a source of cultural, social and economic strength. We will work vigorously to combat all forms of racism, to rid Northamptonshire of racial discrimination and to enshrine the principle that individuality and universality are the foundations of justice and peace."Phil Hope MP said:
"I welcome Cllr. John McGhee's motion tabled at a recent Northamptonshire County Council meeting which asks that all political parties condemn extremism and racist behaviour in all its forms.
"A clear message is being sent out that we are proud to have and to celebrate our diversity, that has certainly earned Corby its reputation as one of the most welcoming and generous towns in the East Midlands."
13/11/07

National minimum wage

Phil Hope MP is alerting employers and workers in Corby and East Northants about the legal guidelines concerning the National Minimum Wage, currently £5.52 per hour.
Phil Hope MP said:
"Nearly every business in Corby and East Northants does exactly what is required by law – but I’m determined to make sure no one tries to make an unfair profit by trying to dodge the minimum wage. It is important that local employers as well as workers are aware of the National Minimum Wage guidelines. The document below is a short guide and sets out the legal guidelines that I hope workers and employers will find useful."
National Minimum Wage Guide (pdf 43k)
13/11/07

Are you getting your working tax credits

Phil is urging people in Corby and East Northamptonshire to check that they are not missing out on getting financial help.
People are able to claim Working Tax Credits, which give support to individuals on a low income. Tax credits are helping 6 million families and 10 million children, with a 97% take up amongst those with incomes less than £10,000.
Working Tax Credits top up income so that an individual without children who is working full-time is guaranteed a weekly income of at least £180 a week.
Phil Hope MP said:
"I urge people, living in Corby and East Northamptonshire who think they might be eligible, to claim their Working Tax Credits. These tax credits help those who most need it, and support work where wages are low.
"I want to ensure everyone who can benefit from Working Tax Credits does, so am supporting the campaign to raise awareness and encourage people to check whether they are eligible."
People without children are eligible for WTC if they are over 25, work more than 30 hours a week and earn less than £11,500 (or £16,000 as a couple)
Anyone who thinks they might be eligible for tax credits should call the tax credits helpline on 0845 300 3900
07/11/07

More funding for free nursery places

child painting Phil Hope welcomes news that children and families in Corby and East Northamptonshire are set to benefit from £340 million of government funding for free nursery education.
The Children's Minister Beverley Hughes has pledged that the government would extend free nursery education for every 3 and 4 years old from 12.5 to 15 hours a week. The extension will be rolled out across the country over the next three years, and all local authorities will offer the extended entitlement by 2010.
This funding emphasises the Government's commitment to ensure that every child gets the best possible start in life and to help families balance their work and home life through the expansion of free, flexible childcare.
In Northamptonshire 15,665 children will benefit from free early years provision.
Phil Hope MP said:
"I am delighted that children and families in Corby and East Northamptonshire will benefit from this government funding which will see 15,665 children in this county benefiting.
"This is just one part of the government's commitment to ensure that every child gets the best possible start in life."
07/11/07

Football foundation investment for Titchmarsh

Phil Hope welcomed news that the Football Foundation has awarded Titchmarsh Parish Council £120, 528 towards the cost of a new changing room pavilion and welcomed the charity's continued investment into local football.
The Football Foundation was launched in 2000 and is currently the UK's largest sports charity funded by the Premier League, The FA, Sport England and the Government, each donating £15m annually to the charity. The Football Foundation aim to improve facilities, create opportunities and build communities throughout England.
Since 2003 the Football Foundation has donated a total of £887,199.33 to Junior Kit Schemes, Community and Education schemes, Goalpost Safety Schemes, Coaching Packs and Capital Projects based within Corby and East Northamptonshire.
Local projects benefiting from this funding include Corby Borough Council's West Glebe Park facility which was awarded £664,000.00 and numerous schools in Corby and East Northamptonshire have benefited from £400 Junior Kit grants.
Phil Hope MP said:
"I am really impressed by the extra £887, 199.33 that has been invested by the Football Foundation into football clubs and schools in my constituency. This funding has not only helped local schools and clubs kit out their school football teams but has also helped larger projects such as the West Glebe Facility and Titchmarsh Parish Council and both projects have enormous benefits for the local community.
"I would encourage schools, clubs, and local authorities to apply for Football Foundation funding. Football is for people of all ages, its fun, gets you fit and is a great way to meet new friends."

For further information about the Football Foundation and funding opportunities please visit the Football Foundation website.
12/11/07

Phil welcomes opportunities set out in Queen's Speech

Phil Hope welcomed the opportunities for families in Corby and East Northants as set out yesterday in this year's Queens Speech at the official State opening of Parliament.
Phil Hope MP said:
"I recognise the struggles, hopes and ambitions of families in every part of my constituency and I welcome these measures set out by the Government in the Queens Speech to support all parents with children and not just some and measures to support all people who want to get a foot on the housing ladder and not just some.
"I particularly welcome measures addressed in the Housing and Regeneration Bill which will help put affordable housing within the reach of the many and not just the few. The Bill aims to support the delivery of the three million new homes needed by 2020 to meet the growing demand and rising aspirations.
"I feel very strongly about the need to extend educational opportunity to all our young people to ensure that young people stay in education or training until age 18 and welcome new measures to extend apprenticeship opportunities. It is important that we continue to raise the participation age for young people in post-16 learning in order for them to achieve higher levels of skills and qualifications. And to increase adult participation and achievement in economically valued skills – to have world class skills by 2020.
"It is important that we help all children get the best possible start in life and so I welcome measures to improve services for vulnerable children; and improve youth and community facilities. Plans to reform the statutory framework for the care system will ensure that children and young people receive high quality care and support. And through increasing the focus on the transparency and quality of care planning and ensuring that the child's voice is heard when decisions are made that affect their future.
07/11/07

Corby featured on the One Show

Corby's Highland Gathering was featured recently on The One Show. If you missed it, you can watch a video extract on the BBC One Show website
07/11/07

Age Concern and E.ON banish the killers between the sheets

Phil with members of the E.ON and Age Concern testing team
Older people from Northamptonshire have pulled the plug on old and unsafe electric blankets with help from Age Concern and energy company E.ON. The organisations teamed up to perform expert safety checks free of charge to local residents.
Shockingly 60% of the blankets tested in Corby were found to be faulty. All defective blankets were repaired or replaced by E.ON free of charge and on the spot. Phil Hope, MP for Corby and East Northants attended the event and offered his support.
Phil Hope, MP said:
"I was delighted to join Age Concern and the E.ON team at the Autumn Day Centre in Corby to take part in testing electric blankets. It is great that E.ON and Age Concern are working together to tackle the problem of faulty electric blankets by providing this free testing service."
Blankets over 10-years-old are responsible for 99% of all electric blanket fires. Older people, who came with electric blankets of this vintage were offered replacements. All other blankets were safety checked for defects.
70 per cent of people across the country never come forward to have their blankets tested, although, on average, an alarming two out of every three blankets checked by Age Concern and E.ON are defective.
Age Concern Northampton & County’s Project Manager, Ann Lloyds said:
"Almost all electric blanket fires are caused by blankets over ten years old that do not comply with modern safety standards. Having an electric blanket tested is an essential and perhaps even life-saving step that older people must take. If you’ve missed our free testing this year, then Trading Standards or the Fire Brigade may be able to check the safety of your electric blanket."
Suzanne Doxey, Community Relations Manager at E.ON, said:
"For a safer winter it's essential that electric blankets are tested by an expert every three years, and our efforts in Corby have put 39 unsafe blankets out of use. We’re delighted to be able to help older people continue to sleep safely at night."
E.ON held 25 testing days across England in October and November. Since the scheme began in 1999, Age Concern and E.ON have tested or exchanged a total of 31,041 blankets. Of those tested, 19,220 failed the safety checks and were either repaired or replaced by E.ON free of charge.
07/11/07

Phil joins Corby youth for annual conference

Phil at Corby Youth conference
Phil joined students from across Corby on Friday 2nd November at the Willows Art Centre to take part in the third annual Corby Youth Conference.
The conference was planned and organised, with the assistance of Groundwork youth worker Ann-Marie Lawson, by students from Corby Community College and a youth group from the Exeter estate. The theme of the conference was Children's rights and Phil Hope MP joined his colleague Cllr. John McGhee and representatives from Northamptonshire County Council, Corby Borough Council and Northamptonshire Police on a guest panel to answer questions from the young people.
The event was sponsored by Northamptonshire County Council, Groundwork North Northamptonshire and East Midlands Network for Global Perspectives in Schools and the days proceedings were chaired by nineteen year old Charmain Warren.
Phil Hope MP said:
"The Youth Conference is an important annual event as it not only gives young people a voice but also helps them to understand how local government and local organisations work together to improve their lives.
"I was delighted to join my colleague Cllr. John McGhee and other representatives from local authorities and organisations to take part in the Question Time panel. It was great to see that the young people had obviously put a lot of thought into what questions they would like answered."
05/11/07

Phil delighted to showcase neighbourhood community team

L-R Danny Pickard- Land Securities Town Centre Manager, Cllr Pat Fawcett- Leader of Corby Borough Council, Nick Bolton- Project Director North Northants Development Company, Phil Hope MP and Gillian Merron MP, Minister for the East Midlands
Phil was delighted to welcome his colleague Gillian Merron MP, Minister for the East Midlands to Corby so that she could see first hand the current transformation taking place in Corby Town centre with the new £40m Willows shopping centre and the great work being done by Corby Borough Council's Neighbourhood Management Team.
Corby Borough Council launched the Neighbourhood Team last year, along side Corby's first Police Safer Community Team. They work across Corby with a team of six wardens and three caretakers. They work in partnership with Northamptonshire Police and local partners to identify and resolve community issues.
Since their launch last year they have been very successful particularly on the Kingswood estate where crime has significantly reduced. They have also led a targeted campaign throughout the town leading to a 70% reduction in mini-motorbike crime.
The Neighbourhood Team has also benefited from the government's RESPECT taskforce, which has helped the team develop their knowledge of the powers available to them in tackling anti-social behaviour.
Phil Hope MP said:
"I am delighted that Gillian Merron MP, Minister for the East Midlands, was able to come to Corby and see the transformation taking place here. I am particularly pleased that she was able to meet Corby Borough Council's Neighbourhood Team which has been instrumental in helping reduce crime in the Kingswood area.

L_R Cllr Pat Fawcett- Leader of Corby Borough Council, Gillian Merron MP, Minister for the East Midlands, Phil Hope MP and Cllr. Bob Eyles.

"I was delighted that Corby Borough Council has directly benefitted from the government's RESPECT taskforce. The RESPECT agenda is all about the government reaching out to local communities through local bodies, such as the Neighbourhood Team, to build a community where people respect each other and anti social behaviour is dealt with. Gillian Merron was very interested to see how Corby Borough Council is leading the way in delivering the government's RESPECT agenda."
Gillian Merron MP, Minister for the East Midlands said:
"Local people in the Kingswood area, have led the way in the fight against crime, which has fallen in just two years. This area has been turned around as a result of the efforts of community representatives, and now experiences less crime and yobbish behaviour, more people engaged in community activities, better coordination of service provision and people feeling safer in their own community."
01/11/07