Connect: Issue 9

ConnectNorth Glasgow Community Magazine

inside this issue

> jobs fair> adult learners> grand week

> walking network> big man festival> summer fun

> community action> local funding> events

Issue 9 | September 2009 What’s going on in North Glasgow

Hamish Millar, Dawn Lawrie, Charlene Goodwin

Connect // working north glasgow

/03/02 www.glasgowcpp.org.uk/northarea.aspxNorth Glasgow Community Planning Partnership

ConnectNorth Glasgow Community Magazine

your magazine

contents workingnorth glasgow // 04bella, bella

safenorth glasgow // 08grand week

safenorth glasgow // 10unique safety partnership

vibrantnorth glasgow // 13summer fun

healthnorth glasgow // 07new alcohol training programme

vibrantnorth glasgow // 14community action

eventsnorth glasgow // 16things to do

Welcome to this the ninth edition of Connect – the community magazine which aims to keep you informed on all that’s going on across North Glasgow.

welcome

This issue is packed with new initiatives designed to keep you and your family safe and healthy – read all about the events taking place across North Glasgow as part of GRAND Week on page 8 and the follow-up prevention and education work that is being undertaken in a unique partnership with local service providers on pages 7-10.

We’re also keen to get more people involved in their communities particularly through volunteering – read about how you can get involved with local sports clubs or adult learning projects with the help of Culture and Sport Glasgow.

Finally, we would like to encourage all those budding entrepreneurs or those looking for a career change or job to get in touch with Glasgow North Regeneration Agency – it’s easy, just give them a call or pop in to their Jobs Fair on the 17 September (opposite) to get all the advice you need to take the first step into work, training, education or self employment.

There are so many positive things happening in North Glasgow – we hope we have inspired you to make the most of what’s going on and to access the full range of support services that are available.

Stay connected with Connect magazine!

Bailie Ellen Hurcombe Chair of Maryhill/Kelvin and Canal Local Community Planning Partnership Board

Bailie Jim Todd Chair of Glasgow North East Local Community Planning Partnership Board

Helping young people enter the world of retail is the aim of Glasgow Retail Academy – a training project spearheaded by Glasgow North Regeneration Agency (GNRA) and run in partnership with Buchanan Galleries, Prince’s Trust and a whole host of retail employers.

retail training gets charlene on the career ladder

The programme gives young people a chance to train and secure an interesting job while at the same time saving employer’s time on induction training. One young person to gain a job through the Retail Academy is Charlene Goodwin.

Derek Houston, Employer Led Training Operations Manager at GNRA takes up the story: “Charlene initially came to GNRA in June 2008; she had just left Langside College and was looking at securing a full-time job. Within two weeks she had secured employment with DTZ at the Buchanan Galleries Management suite. This employment was supported through one of GNRA’s initiatives for a period of 16 weeks. She then started on a SVQ level 2 and shortly after was offered a full-time permanent job as a receptionist with DTZ in September 2008.

“Shortly after gaining her full time position Charlene was involved in a horrific accident that led to a week in hospital and a spell off work. Undaunted by her experience she returned to work less than four weeks after her accident and since then has successfully completed her Business Administration SVQ at level 2, started her Business Administration Modern Apprenticeship award and has won a national award for customer excellence through her employer DTZ. She is about to start a supervisory management qualification to further enhance her skills. Her professionalism and drive have recently been recognised with a promotion into a more responsible administrative role.”

Dawn Lawrie, Charlene’s manager said: “Charlene is a joy to work with, she’s smart, efficient, pro-active, willing, conscientious and overall a lovely caring girl.”

Hamish Millar, General Manager at Buchanan Galleries said: “Charlene came to Buchanan Galleries on a work placement and we were immediately impressed with her attitude, self discipline and work ethic. It soon became clear that Charlene had great potential and we were very happy to offer her a recent promotion.”

Charlene ends by saying: “Glasgow North Regeneration Agency has been hugely supportive, I know I can go to them if I am having any problems in my employment and the same goes for my colleagues in Buchanan Galleries.

“I really appreciate GNRA helping me find this job, supporting me over the past year, putting me through both levels of my SVQ and the team leader course.”

“

If you would like to learn more about the Retail Academy then contact GNRA on 0141 552 5413

Charlene came to Buchanan Galleries on a work placement and we were immediately impressed with her attitude, self discipline and work ethic.

Hamish MillarGeneral Manager, Buchanan Galleries

If you would like to learn more about the Jobs Fair then contact GNRA on 0800 917 0198

Bailie ToddBailie Hurcombe

Charlene Goodwin

“Katia Ratta

Café Bella

Overall the support from GNRA has

been brilliant and has allowed me to

do more with the business than I had

first hoped.

Connect // learning north glasgowConnect // working north glasgow


Tricia takes up the story: “I was unemployed when I first approached Glasgow North Regeneration Agency (GNRA) with my idea of starting my own handywoman business. They were so supportive and thought my idea had real potential. I was offered a place on one of their business start-up workshops which was followed up with one-to-one support covering business planning, market research, marketing, insurance issues, tax and National Insurance as well as business banking support and grant application advice.

“I really believe there is a real need for a local handywoman type service in North Glasgow. And the fact I am a woman providing these services gives me a real edge over the competition as my clients, particularly the elderly often feel safer dealing with a woman.”

Tricia continues: “One of my first customers was a lady who lives alone and needed someone to do odd jobs so I arranged a visit and agreed on a price for two days of work and during this time I did the garden, painted a fence, put up a mirror and curtain rail, changed a couple of light bulbs and jet sprayed a small path. The customer was really happy with the service and feels that she saved money by having one person doing all the jobs. She also felt more comfortable because I was female. This customer has booked me to do her garden on a three weekly basis and now wants me to do other jobs.”

Will Nisbet, Enterprise Manager at GNRA said: “The team here at GNRA were delighted to be able to help Tricia access the full range of business and funding start-up advice – all of which has allowed her to put the business on a sound footing right from the start.”

Tricia says of her experience: “GNRA were first class and continue to offer advice and support – all of which will help me get the business well established in the area. I love having my own business – it’s a challenge and it beats working for someone else hands down! At least now I have control of my own destiny.”

bella, bella!Katia Ratta, originally from Italy and having worked in the catering business for 15 years, decided to bring a little bit of Italy to Port Dundas when she took over the running of the local café!

Katia takes up the story: “I’ve worked in catering for most of my life and when the chance to run and own my own café came up earlier in the year I jumped at it. The business is currently called Café Bella but is soon to change to Café Katia.

“My café - which specialises in Italian dishes - is tucked away in the Port Dundas Business Park and is a real haven for all the businesses based in there. There are always plenty of mouths to feed from the 30 or so companies based in the business park including Inter Continent Couriers.

“Before I bought the café it was looking tired and dirty – it resembled an old service station diner and had no real appeal to customers. My first job was to upgrade the premises and this is when I first got in touch with Glasgow North Regeneration Agency (GNRA) – the team there were great and I quickly got business support and financial assistance to refurbish the café. Recently I’ve been in touch with the Employer Engagement Team at GNRA who are now helping me to recruit local people to a number of vacancies and the business support team are helping me to expand the catering side of the business.”

let’s get triciaTricia McCallum, encouraged by a group of her friends, took the bold step of starting her own handywoman business earlier this year and hasn’t looked back.

If you would like to set up your own business then why not call GNRA Enterprise Team on 0141 552 5413

If you would like to book Tricia then you can contact her on 07833251428

Jane Logue from Culture and Sport Glasgow explains: “Culture and Sport Glasgow run a whole range of adult literacy and numeracy programmes throughout North Glasgow helping adults brush up on their reading, writing and numbers.

“Volunteers play an extremely important role in delivering our adult learning projects; providing one-to-one support for learners and helping tutors with group work. Our literacy volunteers do a crucial job in helping adults, not just with reading, writing and numbers but with their general confidence. They are often the first step for people getting back to learning.

adult learners need volunteersIf you’ve ever thought about getting involved in supporting your local community then why not consider becoming a volunteer supporting adult literacy?

Advice services across North Glasgow have forged an innovative new partnership to help secure vital funding and the contract to deliver Glasgow City Council’s Financial Inclusion strategy in the area – all with the help of Glasgow North Regeneration Agency (GNRA).

The new consortium comprises Maryhill Citzens Advice Bureau, Central Citizens Advice Bureau, Sunnylaw Advice Centre, and Legal Services Agency and are now called North Glasgow Advice Services.The consortium are now delivering a wide range of financial inclusion services throughout the area from their community offices and on an outreach basis including:

> Money Advice> Welfare Rights> Financial Capability> Housing> Employment> Legal

David Grant from GNRA’s social economy team explains: “The team were able to support North Glasgow Advice Services through the creation of their consortium to the winning of the contract and beyond. This has been in the form of capacity building, business planning, and financial planning support – all with the aim of creating a sustainable organisation that will be able to deliver the Financial Inclusion services successfully to residents in North Glasgow.

The Social Economy Team works with a range of third sector organisations, from small voluntary organisations to larger social enterprises providing one to one advice and support on an account managed basis.

David Grant continues: “The Social Economy Team has a breadth and depth of knowledge that allows it to provide targeted and constructive support to organisations no matter their size or aspirations – be it from funding strategies to business planning support. We welcome any referrals from partner agencies or direct from organisations, as we aim to be the first port of call when the local sector requires support.”

north glasgowadvice services

“Anyone who decides to volunteer receives specific training – usually in the form of an Introduction to Tutoring in Adult Literacies Learning (ITALL) course.”

Jane continues: “Volunteers also help in our English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes, helping out the group tutor, especially in classes where there are learners working at different levels. We work in partnership with Glasgow ESOL Forum, which provides us with trained volunteers. Volunteering for adult learning is an often challenging but always fulfilling experience.”

If you would like to volunteer or would like to find out more then visit the Glasgow’s Learning website on www.glasgowslearning.org or telephone Jane Logue on 0141 276 0920

For more information call Legal Services Agency on 0141 353 3354

“Volunteers play an extremely important role in delivering our adult learning projects; providing one-to-one support for learners and helping out tutors with group work.

Jane Logue Culture and Sport Glasgow

If you would like to set up your own business then why not call GNRA Enterprise Team on 0800 917 0198

To contact Café Bella you can telephone Katia on 0141 332 6703

Katia Ratta

Tricia McCallum

Connect // health north glasgow Connect // health north glasgow

/07www.glasgowcpp.org.uk/northarea.aspx/06 North Glasgow Community Planning Partnership

Christine Laverty, Head of Addiction Services for North Glasgow Community Health and Care Partnership (CHCP) explains: “Often parents, grandparents or extended family members find themselves the sole carer of a grandchild or relative as a result of a parent’s addiction. These carers are often described as kinship carers and their needs have been the focus of recent national and local debate.

“Here at North Glasgow CHCP we recognise the huge responsibility that our kinship carers take on and it is in response to this that we have created this new carers support workers post – specifically to focus on the needs of individuals who are undertaking a caring role as a result of addiction.

“This new worker will be able to provide some much needed support on a wide range of issues and will be able to link carers into existing Carers Support Services which offer much needed respite and short breaks for families. We hope to have the post filled by September of this year.”

supporting the carersA new carers support post, focusing solely on the needs of kinship and young carers, has been created in North Glasgow with a view to giving those affected by addiction, all the support and information they need to get their lives back on track.

For more information contact North Glasgow CHCP on 0141 276 4580

Irene Hunter, Senior Addiction Nurse at North Community Addictions Team (North CAT) explains: “Recent research into drug related deaths in Scotland highlighted that over half the cases were witnessed by a friend or family member and in over half the cases several hours had gone by between overdose and death. If these family members or friends had access to Naloxone – an injection which reverses the effects of an opiate overdose – then many of these deaths could have been avoided.

Giving an injection of Naloxone is a safe and effective emergency first aid response to a drugs overdose and the more people who know about it and receive training on how to administer it will undoubtedly help save lives. That’s why Glasgow Addiction services has trained staff to deliver a new training programme for patients and carers to help clarify what actions need to be taken in an overdose situation.”

training set to save livesNew training designed to help carers and patients treat a drugs overdose quickly is all set to be rolled out in North Glasgow with support of the Scottish Government, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and Glasgow City Council.

In the coming months the North CAT will provide full training, for those who register, to include:• Overdoseawarenessandhow to recognise symptoms and risk factors• Practicalbasiclifesupport training• Informationonthesupply of Naloxone

If you would be interested in this valuable training or would like further information please contact Irene Hunter, North CAT on 0141 276 4580

If you would like more information on the Alcohol Interventions Programme please contact Christine Laverty, North Community Addictions Team on 0141 276 4580

new alcohol training programme

A new alcohol training programme is being rolled out across North Glasgow. The programme is designed to help staff who work across the voluntary and health and well-being sectors to intervene appropriately with their clients who may be experiencing problems with alcohol.

Christine Laverty, Head of Addiction Services for North Glasgow Community Health and Care Partnership explains: “Alcohol misuse across Scotland is at an all time high and we recognise that in order to tackle the issue and reduce the harm associated with alcohol misuse we need to ensure that all those working in a community setting know how best to get involved when clients show signs of problem drinking.

“As part of this drive to inform and support colleagues working in the community we have run nine one day training sessions and reached over 150 local staff including mental health teams, local addictions projects, Strathclyde Police, Strathclyde Fire and Rescue, youth services, community resource centres and local housing associations.”

Christine continues; “The response from the community has been tremendous – demand has outstripped supply and as a result we are going to run more sessions in the coming months. I am convinced that by raising awareness of drugs and alcohol issues across the wider community we can help reduce the impact that misuse has on individuals and the wider community.”


Connect // safe north glasgow Connect // safe north glasgow

Healthier Lifestyle/Drug Awareness Evening

Thursday 17th September 6:30 – 8:30pm Keppoch Campus School, Stoneyhurst Street, Possilpark

Glasgow Perthshire Youth Development is holding a Healthier Lifestyle/Drug Awareness Evening for all local young people. The event will consist of activities such as football, games and music as a mechanism to engage young people in discussion around alcohol and drug issues and people will be encouraged to visit information stalls.

For more information, contact Carol Cunningham on 0141 336 2585 or email [email protected]

Grand 5-a-side Football Tournament

Friday 18th September 11:00am – 4:00pm Petershill Leisure Centre, Adamswell Street, Springburn

Street League is holding a 5-a-side football tournament at Petershill Leisure Centre for drug and alcohol project participants to raise awareness of drug and alcohol issues. The event also aims to promote the benefits of partnership working, regular health and fitness exercise, volunteering and how this can assist recovery or prevent relapse.

For more information, contact Victoria Scott on 0141 285 6440 or email [email protected]

Alcohol and Drug Awareness Evening

Friday 18th September 5:30 – 7:30pm Ruchill Community Education Centre

Ruchill Youth Project is holding an alcohol and drug awareness evening for young people and their families. The event will consist of games and short quizzes to raise awareness of the issues around drug and alcohol misuse. There will also be an opportunity for young people to exhibit their alcohol awareness art work and to facilitate art workshops.

For more information, contact Jill MacKay/Theresa Glasgow on 0141 945 1540

GRAND week is co-ordinated by the Communities Sub-group and is linked to wider initiatives to promote community responses to alcohol and drug issues. For more information visit www.glasgowgrand.org

The week will launch on Saturday 12th September with a showcase event of activities and performances in George Square from 12 – 4pm. This will be followed by a series of local events throughout North Glasgow.

The Centrepiece event for North Glasgow ‘Somewhere under the Rainbow’ by the Together Project will be held on Wednesday, 16th September 2009 at Woodside Halls, Glenfarg Street, where service users from local addiction services will put on a performance around the theme of ‘the road to recovery’. Doors will open at 6:30pm to allow you to view the information stalls from a variety of local services and the performance will start at 7:30pm. Everyone is welcome to attend, no ticket required. Please be aware the performance may contain adult themes. A shuttle bus service will run from Ardoch House to Woodside Halls from 6pm. If you require transport, please contact Jim McSorley on 0141 558 7744.

Throughout the week several local organisations, in partnership with the Communities Sub-group and North Addictions Forum, will hold activities to promote the road to recovery and highlight the dangers of drug and alcohol misuse. These include:

grand weekGRAND WEEK (Getting Real about Alcohol ‘N’ Drugs) is a city-wide initiative that brings together a broad range of partners to:

• Raise awareness and increase knowledge of alcohol and drugs issues and services;• Get communities involved in tackling alcohol and drugs; and• Build partnerships and networks between communities, services and organisations.

Second Chance Project – Partner Open Day

Monday 14th September 1:00 – 4:00pm Ardoch House (Middle gate), 25 Ardoch Street, Possilpark

As a new project to North Glasgow, Second Chance Project is holding an open day in Ardoch House to introduce the project to the local area and to promote its services and also to increase referrals from other agencies to the project.

For more information, contact Keira MacDougall or Dianne Ferguson on 0141 336 7272

Fire Safety Training

Wednesday 16th September 9:30 – 11:30am & 1:30 – 3:30pm Pollok Safety Centre

As part of the North Glasgow Fire and Alcohol Campaign, training will be provided to addiction workers of statutory and voluntary organisations to raise awareness of the risks of fires at home with their client base. Strathclyde Fire and Rescue will then follow this up with a home fire safety visit.

For more information, contact Jim McSorley on 0141 558 7744 or email [email protected]

Youth Artwork

Wednesday 16th September 6:30pm Woodside Halls

Young people from North Glasgow are invited to participate in art work and collage workshops to highlight the dangers of alcohol and drug misuse at the Youth Health Service, Maryhill Health centre at 6.30pm on the 10th September. The artwork produced will be on display at the centrepiece event at Woodside Halls.

For more information, contact the Youth Health Service on 0141 531 8718

North Glasgow Alcohol Support Services (part of the Glasgow Council on Alcohol) has recently rebranded – all in a bid to highlight the work they are doing to tackle alcohol and drugs misuse in the community. The hardworking team is now called the Alcohol and Drug, Prevention and Education North Team.

Alcohol continues to be the single greatest contributory factor to people dying in accidental house fires in Scotland. Last year 24 people needlessly lost their lives in alcohol related fires. In a bid to tackle the problem in North Glasgow a new partnership referral programme has been established by Strathclyde Fire and Rescue and North Glasgow Addiction Forum where members of the community who have alcohol or addiction problems are now offered free home fire safety visits.

Group Commander Eddie Renfrew, Strathclyde Fire and Rescue explained: “People experiencing alcohol and drug related problems are particularly vulnerable to accidental house fires. The focus therefore of this campaign is to reach as many people as possible through a referral process involving North Glasgow Addiction Forum and the Community Addiction Team.

alcohol and fire safety campaign

“Through the fire safety referral scheme we can highlight to clients the most common causes of alcohol related fires: like the careless use of cigarettes, matches and lighters or the misuse of cooking appliances and offer advice on how to avoid and spot the main fire hazards.

“We will also be raising awareness of the issues amongst the wider community at events like GRAND Week and a national television campaign called ‘Don’t Fuel Fire with Alcohol.”

Commander Renfrew ends by saying: “This initiative is all about reducing the number of accidental fires in North Glasgow and in doing so we will undoubtedly be saving the lives and improving the overall safety of partners and children living with a person experiencing alcohol or drug related problems.”

For more information contact Strathclyde Fire and Rescue on 0141 553 4426

If you would like to find out more about the work of Alcohol and Drug, Prevention and Education team or would like to access their training programme please contact Jim McSorley on 0141 558 7744

alcohol and drug preventionalcohol and drug prevention

Jim McSorley, team leader explains: “The work of the prevention and education team is all about focusing on reducing the harm associated with drug and alcohol misuse on an individual and community wide basis. We take an all-around approach to changing the culture around alcohol – we’re all about challenging attitudes and increasing the knowledge and information about alcohol and drugs so that individuals can make safer choices.

“We work in partnership throughout the community including schools where we run a tailored schools programme from P6 right up to S6. We also work with youth groups and projects like Operation Reclaim and others to raise awareness of drugs and alcohol issues amongst older teenagers. We also attend all the local community events like Fun in Park to increase understanding around drugs and alcohol.”

Jim continues: “Interestingly we don’t tend to run groups of our own but support the wider community initiatives and groups through training and campaign work. We find we can reach many more people by working in partnership. We’ve been actively involved in the North Glasgow Off License Campaign which aims to cut the supply of alcohol to under age drinkers as well as other initiatives like the Alcohol and Fire Safety scheme spearheaded by Glasgow Community and Safety Services and Strathclyde Fire and Rescue.” (read all about this below)

“Being a locally based project of The Glasgow Council on Alcohol also brings huge benefits to the communities we serve. The Alcohol and Drug, Prevention and Education North Team, for example, can quickly access other free services such as the Alcohol Counselling and the Young Persons’ Counselling project – offering vital counselling for people with alcohol problems as well as their friends and families.”

Jim ends by saying: “We’ve been actively involved in helping to co-ordinate GRAND week – Getting Real About Alcohol and Drugs – a fantastic range of events promoting positive health and lifestyle messages in a fun and interesting way. We hope as many people out in the community can come along- just check out the programme opposite - there will definitely be something interesting happening in your local area.”

Jim McSorley


Connect // safe north glasgow Connect // vibrant north glasgow

Fionna Hannah from Glasgow Community and Safety Services explains: “Additional funding from North Glasgow Community Planning Partnership allowed partners to hold this hugely successful event at the end of June. It was all about getting young people involved in a large scale, fun event where they felt safe and at the same time promoted positive health and personal safety messages.

The new Milton Community Campus played host to over 150 young people when Glasgow Community and Safety Services and other partners organised the Blue Light Disco.

blue light disco

unique safety partnership

Through the partnership Codia’s 3000 strong workforce of home carers will contact the fire service whenever they identify a homecare client whose circumstances indicate a vulnerability to the risk of fire.

Strathclyde Fire and Rescue then contacts the homeowner to arrange a visit and offer potentially life saving advice and, if required, fit a smoke alarm.

Group Commander Eddie Renfrew from Strathclyde Fire and Rescue said: “In recent years, we have recognised the need to work proactively to prevent the needless loss of life through domestic fires.

“Part of our vision towards making our communities safer places to live, work and visit is to provide every household within our communities free home fire safety visits where we will give advice and fit a 10 year smoke detector if required.

Strathclyde Fire and Rescue have agreed a unique partnership with Cordia – one of Scotland’s leading providers of home care services – to help identify clients requiring home fire safety advice.

“Our referral partnership with Cordia has allowed us to provide this service to a vulnerable sector of the community that has, for various reasons, been hard to reach.”

Fergus Chambers, Managing Director of Cordia (Services) LLP said: “I’m delighted that Cordia has been able to work in partnership with Strathclyde Fire and Rescue. The opportunity to provide access to vulnerable client’s homes is one that isn’t often available to the fire service and, as trusted care workers, we are delighted to help make this happen.”

Strathclyde Police are set to launch a major week long initiative aimed at reducing crime and making local people feel happier and safer within their own community.

Called Operation Cleansweep, it will run from Wednesday 16th September in the Milton, Saracen and Wyndford areas of North Glasgow and involves not only Strathclyde Police but also Culture and Sport Glasgow; Glasgow Community and Safety Services; local housing organisations; North Glasgow Community Health and Care Partnership and Strathclyde Fire and Rescue as well as members of the local community.

The initiative will be based in the Milton Community Campus on Liddesdale Road, Milton where local people can access support and advice as well as find out what services are available within their area. Furthermore, the initiative will incorporate the Milton Gala day on Saturday 19th September.

As well as work in the community, Strathclyde Police will also launch warrant raids; target drug dealers; tackle anti-social behaviour and gang violence and carry out stop searches.

Communities Inspector Austin Gaughan, from Saracen Police Office, said: “This is a great opportunity for the partner agencies, local organisations, voluntary groups and communities to work together to reduce crime and disorder and to improve their communities well being”.

operation cleansweep

For more information contact Austin Gaughan at Saracen Police Office on 0141 532 3900

“Entry to the disco was strictly controlled by Police Officers, by pre-purchase of a ticket via youth organisations and undertaking a breath test and a search. This enabled young people to feel completely safe and promoted positive messages that you don’t need drugs or alcohol to have a good time!”

Fionna ended by saying: “Approximately 150 young people came along from youth groups in Possilpark, Royston, Cadder, Ruchill and Milton. The range of activities on offer included DJ Ilias, Games Room, café area complete with Mocktails and fresh fruit. In addition, a chill out and information area gave young people the chance to chat with members of our team. The evening was rounded off with a prize draw which included a days sailing trip on the Clyde Challenger for eight young people, and iPod shuffles for the runners up.”

The Glasgow North East Community Champions Awards – held recently at Barmulloch Community Centre - recognised the efforts of the everyday heroes of Springburn, Sighthill, Roystonhill, Germiston, Blackhill, Hogganfield, Balornock, Barmulloch, Robroyston and Millerston.

stand up for the champions!

big man festival

Karen Moore, Director of The Waterways Trust Scotland explains: “This community based event is all about celebrating the regeneration that’s taking place around the Forth and Clyde Canal at Maryhill – the centrepiece of which is a giant sculpture of a man holding up a bridge which will provide a new crossing point over the canal.”

Karen continues: “During the day there will be a whole host of land and water-based activities including dragon boat racing, boat trips, canoe polo, dinghy sailing and canoeing taster sessions, model boats alongside performances by local artists and an exhibition of Kelpies and Big Man maquettes by artist Andy Scott. There will also be a floating stage featuring local bands and other entertainment. We’re expecting over 2000 people to attend the event so it should be a lively affair.”

The Trust is also encouraging local businesses, community groups and organisations to enter into the spirit of the day by putting forward a team to enter in the Dragon Boat Race.

Building on the huge success of the Big Man Festival held in Maryhill last year, organisers The Waterways Trust Scotland, have pledged to host a bigger and better event this year on the 20th September.

Speaking at the event, Bailie Jim Todd, Chair of the Glasgow North East Local Community Planning Partnership Board, told the packed community centre: “This event is all about recognising the many deserving members of our communities who work tirelessly to enrich their communities. We celebrate their commitment and efforts in making our neighbourhoods and communities a better place to live – they are indeed our community champions!”

Among those being recognised were community activist Evelyn Scott. Evelyn, who has campaigned on behalf of the people of Barmulloch for over 20 years, scooped the Public Service Individual Award. She collected the award from Strathclyde Police Chief Constable Steve House. A delighted and shocked Evelyn, said: “I’m really grateful and quite surprised. In fact, I was surprised even to have been nominated.”

Joe Fitzpatrick, a relentless community campaigner for 30 years, was the proud recipient of the Neighbour Award, which recognises local community heroes who have gone beyond the call of duty as simply a good neighbour.

Another individual who was recognised for improving the lives of those in the local community was Crew Commander Ian Duff. Ian has been a community firefighter in North Glasgow for 25 years where he’s made a huge impact in the local community by educating thousands of people of all ages about fire safety issues, and in turn helping to reduce anti-social behaviour.

Also celebrating their success was The Red Road Family Centre, which picked up the Team Award. Established 13 years ago, the centre provides help and support to families living in north Glasgow. Collecting the award on its behalf was the centre’s manager, Linda Fraser who said: “We are all absolutely delighted! We’ve been going for 13 years and have 21 members of staff. This award is a tribute to them all.”

Team Award Red Road Family Centre

Individual Award Evelyn Scott

Public Service Team Award Operation Reclaim

Neighbour Award Joe Fitzpatrick

Public Service Individual Award Ian Duff

Young Community Champion Award 200th Glasgow Boys Brigade

For more information contact Christine Donnelly on 01324 677821 or email [email protected]

Connect // vibrant north glasgowConnect // vibrant north glasgow


James Tonner, Club, Coach and Volunteer Development Officer for Culture and Sport Glasgow’s North Team takes up the story: “Volunteers are a major resource and can make a vital contribution to encourage others to lead richer and more active lives through sport.

Culture and Sport Glasgow’s Club, Coach and Volunteer Officers are currently working with local sports clubs and voluntary organisations to provide sport for local young people. The team have been active over the last year helping local clubs recruit new volunteers.

local karate club achieves top level awardOh Kami Karate Club – one of Glasgow’s top karate clubs – has just become the first club in Glasgow to receive the highest level of the Clubmark award from Culture and Sport Glasgow.

For more information on Oh Kami Karate Club call Gerry McDougall on 07966355306 or visit the club website www.glasgowkarate.net For more information on Clubmark call Steven Coulter, Club and Volunteer Development Officer, Culture and Sport Glasgow on 0141 287 5811

Steven Coulter, Club and Volunteer Development Officer at Culture and Sport Glasgow takes up the story: “Clubmark is a scheme set up by Culture and Sport Glasgow, and endorsed by Manchester United Manager Sir Alex Ferguson, to recognise and accredit clubs that are fully committed to providing their members with a safe, effective, inclusive and fun environment.

“Gaining this prestigious award demonstrates that the club is committed to developing sport at a community level and creating opportunities for talented performers to compete at a national level.”

Oh Kami Karate Club practice Shotokan karate, which is the most famous martial art in the world and has a long and successful history promoting fitness, discipline and self defence in all age groups, both male and female. The Club’s lead instructor, Gerry McDougall, 4th Dan Japan Karate Association , has been teaching in North Glasgow for over 25 years.

Gerry McDougall from Oh Kami Karate Club said: “We’re delighted to have reached the highest level in the Clubmark scheme as it demonstrates our commitment to providing the best possible experience for our club members.”

Oh Kami Karate Club now has clubs in John Paul Academy and Wallacewell Primary and is affiliated to Japan Karate Association Karate Do Shotokan, a Scottish association which in turn is directly affiliated to the Japan Karate Association, the worldwide governing body.

volunteering with culture & sport glasgow A new volunteering initiative aimed at getting local people more active and involved in sporting activities in their local communities is being spearheaded by Culture and Sport Glasgow.

James adds: “Whether you want to be a coach, helper or member of a committee, there is a place for you in a local sports club. You will receive some great training and also the support of the other members of the club to make you feel welcome. All of our local clubs rely on volunteers to keep them going and you don’t have to give up all your free time to help out. Even one hour a week will be greatly appreciated and could make all the difference to the club you assist.

For more information on the Club, Coach and Volunteer Programme or to speak to someone about volunteering in sport, then please call Culture and Sport Glasgow on 0141 287 3884 and ask to speak to James Tonner or Graeme Clee.

All four are very keen to make changes in their area for young people; from holding surgeries, to going abroad and representing young people internationally.

Julie Lennox, Member of Scottish Youth Parliament (MSYP) for Glasgow Springburn said: “I strongly believe that we as young people have the right to have our say and influence decisions that will affect us. I am dedicated to making Springburn a better place for everyone and ensuring that the young people of Springburn have their voices heard and are taken seriously.”

Julie was re-elected again this year in recognition for the work she has undetaken on behalf of Springburn’s young people and was named Member of the Scottish Youth Parliament of the year for 2009.

Julie talking about her experience of becoming MSYP said: “I’ve really enjoyed visiting local youth clubs and speaking to young people about issues they have in their area and letting them know what I’ve been up to as their MSYP.

north elects four new members to scottish youth parliamentWell done to the newly elected members of the Scottish Youth Parliament for North Glasgow:

•AmnaIqbalandJulieTrainer for Glasgow Maryhill

•JulieLennoxandKeenanAlexander for Glasgow Springburn.

summer fun in the park

The day kicked off with free fun activities throughout the park including mountain biking, bouncy castles, adventure courses, gladiator challenge, horse and dray rides, face painting, carrousels, bungee run and a giant climbing wall for all those thrill seekers.

Entertainment highlights this year included Kirkintilloch Pipe Band, Maryhill Integration Network who brought a touch of glamour to the day with their ‘World of Fashion, Dance and Entertainment’ display, showcasing colourful costumes, dance and music from across the globe, whilst Kirkintilloch Dog Display and professional falconers attracted the crowds. Local bands and musicians played out on the main stage throughout the day with performances from, Eddie Guthrie, Helter Skelter and Cheap Deal.

Glynis Boyle, Health and Wellbeing Worker with North Glasgow Healthy Living Community who organise the annual event said: “Alongside the entertainment we had over 45 local health and well being projects and organisations on hand giving local people the chance to learn about the latest services in their area as well as a chance to try new things and pick up freebies and goodie bags.

“North Glasgow Healthy Living Community would like to thank everyone involved in the event from funders to event volunteers – you’ve made Fun in Park one of the best family fun days out in Glasgow!”

The return of this years Fun in the Park event saw record crowds enjoy a fantastic day of fun activities for all the family.

For further information and details of MSYP’s work please contact Nisa Amir, Community Learning Worker (North), Culture and Sport Glasgow on 0141 276 0920

You can also contact your Members for the Scottish Youth Parliament by emailing them on:

I’ve also been involved in starting up and running a youth club and youth forum in Balgrayhill with support from Culture and Sport Glasgow Youth team and have been holding random street surgeries speaking to everyone and anyone about anything. I have also had the privilege of representing Springburn and Scotland at the CIVICUS World Youth Assembly and World Assembly in Glasgow as well as representing Scotland at the World Youth Congress in Canada last August. It’s been a fantastic all round experience.”

Members for Springburn: [email protected] [email protected]

Members for Glasgow Maryhill: [email protected] [email protected]

Oh Kami Karate Club

Connect // vibrant north glasgow Connect // vibrant north glasgow


Audrey Whitelaw who heads up the North Team explains: “The Comunity Action Team has a unique remit which includes promoting road safety, school travel plans, recycling, environmental and health awareness in an integrated schools approach. Since we work largely within schools we are in a unique position to promote all aspects of road safety, health awareness and environmental issues at the same time – working with pupils, staff and parents to get key messages across. For example we often promote road safety through cycling training, traffic trails and our Junior Road Safety Officers – all of which promotes road safety and encourages more outdoor activity and healthier lifestyles. We also encourage children to think about reducing waste and to recycle more and in doing so reduce their impact on the environment “

community actionGlasgow City Council’s Land and Environmental Services Department has recently established a new city wide Community Action Team to spearhead road safety, recycling, environmental and health awareness campaigns across the wider community and local schools.

saracen exchange moving aheadSaracen Exchange – the £15m redevelopment of a once derelict site just off Saracen Street in Possilpark – is one step closer to coming to fruition. Outline planning permission for the entire development is expected to be granted shortly and detailed designs for the new Possilpark Health Centre and Glasgow North Regeneration Agency’s (GNRA) Business and Learning Centre are shortly to be drawn up.

Cathy Lang Chief Executive of GNRA said: “Local residents will have spotted the signage announcing the forthcoming project – the first visible signs of a development that will transform the way Saracen Street looks. The area will be massively upgraded and the new buildings will create an exciting new gateway into Possilpark town centre.

If you would be interested in finding out more about the Community Action Team you can telephone Audrey Whitelaw on 0141 287 9040

Derek Speirs from Glasgow City Council explains: “Here in North Glasgow we have four area committees: Maryhill/Kelvin & Canal and Springburn North East. Each of the Committees has an area budget that provides funding, normally up to £10,000, to local community and voluntary organisations for projects that stimulate or support local community activities. Area budgets provide funding for a wide range of projects as long as they can clearly show how they will benefit an area or community in North Glasgow. One local organisation that has benefited from the financial support of the Canal Area Committee is the Coach House Trust.”

Paul Trainer from the Trust takes up the story: “The Trust works with local people who have perhaps experienced problems with addiction or have learning difficulties. We teach carpentry skills and produce bespoke pieces of furniture which we then sell in our shop on

Great Western Road. We recently received £8,000 worth of funding from the Canal area committee which we used to purchase new woodworking machinery. This new equipment has allowed us to develop new skills and take on more people to our programme – it’s made a huge difference to our operation and the trainees we support.”

Examples of the type of activities that have been funded in the past include:- purchase of equipment, environmental improvements, engagement of professional tutors or instructors, short-term/pilot projects, holiday play schemes, activity programmes, start-up grants or transport costs for day trips.

local funding supports trustGlasgow City Council’s Area Committees help support the work of local community and voluntary organisations through their area budgets and are on the look out for more community projects to fund.

Gregor Leishman, the new CRG Support Worker for North Glasgow explains: “CRGs provide a voice for the community in relation to improving public services, planning for better services and the improvement of communities generally.”

“The CRGs provide a way for the real issues to be heard and discussed while helping to find ways to address these issues. Recent discussions have included, first thoughts for Growing a Healthier Glasgow, Community Service provision and proposals for community growth in Robroyston. All of which can have an impact on the local community.”

Gregor continues: “My focus is to give members the support they need to fully participate in improving public services – this includes sharing their skills, knowledge and experience. Through development sessions and training we’re building the skills and confidence of CRG members so they can influence decisions and have a real say in how services are delivered and how they can be improved.”

Gregor ends by saying: “We are always looking to recruit new members and are particularly keen to see more residents from among our young people and Black and Minority Ethnic communities involved in the CRG. We want to build on the commitment and passion of the CRGs to date and will warmly welcome new faces to ensure the CRGs are invigorated and vibrant! So the more community involvement the better!”

Ensuring the community has a voice when it comes to local decision making and improving public service delivery is an active role for the Community Reference Group, or CRG for short.

If you are interested in applying for funding, or would like more information on the Area Budgets, contact Derek Speirs at the Council on 0141 287 3532 or at [email protected]

Can you hear us?

If you would like to find out more or would like to join the CRG then please contact Gregor Leishman, Community Reference Group Support Worker, Culture and Sport Glasgow on 0141 276 0920 or email [email protected]

Further information is available at www.glasgownorth.org

“Phase one of the development consists of a 30,000 sq.ft. Health Centre for NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and a 12,000 sq. ft. Business and Learning Centre for GNRA. These new buildings will later be joined by a local housing office and new retail facilities. With outline planning permission imminent we can now start to draw up detailed designs to make the vision come to life. The community will have their chance to make comments as the design starts to evolve. We hope to start detailed design of the buildings in September and all being well building work should commence in Spring 2010.”

GCC Land & Environmental Services Community Action Team

Gregor Leishman and the CRG

4th-10th OctoberAlcohol Awareness WeekWatch out for Alcohol Information and advice stalls in Tesco, Maryhill Shopping Centre and Tesco, St RolloxGet advice on how to ‘Get more out of your day’

October School Week 12th-16th

Glasgow North Regeneration Agency Road Show 11:00am – 2:00pm at various locations throughout the weekMonday 12th October Barmulloch Community CentreTuesday 13th October Molendinar Community CentreWednesday 14th October Roystonhill Community CentreThursday 15th October The Courtyard, Westercommon DriveFriday 16th October Maryhill Community Centre

Get advice on, employment, self-employment, opportunities for young people 16-18, training and qualifications.Even if you are not ready to start work why not pop along and speak to our staff to find out what opportunities are available to you.Take part in our prize draw – local businesses have provided prizes from hairdressers, beauticians and clothes designers.We will also have some fun activities for the children so why not pop along.Call Glasgow North Regeneration Agency on 0800 917 0198

Connect // events north glasgow

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Thursday 22nd October Access North Glasgow Community Portal Relaunch – www.accessnorthglasgow.comGlasgow North Enterprise Learning & Conference Centre

Thursday 22nd 1:00pm – 3:00pm

The website where you can find out what is happening in your

area is currently going through a redesign. You are invited to

the relaunch event. Come along and browse the new site,

leave suggestions about what you would like to see

available and find out how to get involved.

Call Glasgow North Regeneration Agency

on 0800 917 0198

From 7th SeptemberToonspeak weekly workshops for young people aged 11+

Wyndford Recreation Centre Tuesday 6:30 – 8:00pm

Cowlairs Community Kabins Tuesday 6:30 – 8:00pm

Balgrayhill Community Centre Wednesday 6:30 – 8:00pm

St Paul’s Church, Blackhill Wednesday 7:30 – 9:00pm

Rainbow Hall, Royston Thursday 6:30 – 8:00pm

For more information please call 0141 552 0234

or email [email protected]

Thursday 17th SeptemberOpen day at Balgrayhill Learning Centre – 139 Balgrayhill Road, Springburn pop along and see what’s on!

Saturday 19th SeptemberRosemount Flexi Centre is taking part in Doors Open Day

102 Royston Road, Royston

Official opening of Milton Community Campus and Milton Community Homes Gala Day. Saturday 19th 11:30 – 4pm

Come along on the day for a free family fun day out of sports,

dance performances, face painting and much, much more!

For more information call Culture and Sport

Glasgow on 0141 276 0920

Jobs & Opportunities Fair – Glasgow North Enterprise Learning & Conference CentreThursday 17th 10:00am – 4:00pm

Further info on Page 2

Even if you are not ready to start work why not pop along

and speak to our staff to find out what is available for you.

You might also want to take the opportunity for a free

relaxing massage.

Call Glasgow North Regeneration Agency on 0800 917 0198

This magazine is produced on behalf of North Glasgow Community Planning Partnership by: Glasgow North Regeneration Agency, St Rollox House, 130 Springburn Road, Glasgow G21 1YL Tel: 0141 552 5413 Email:[email protected]

Connect is funded by:

Documents

Connect: Issue 9