Bracknell

Bracknell Residents looking for New Year bargains are being warned to make sure they are fully aware of the small print before taking up credit deals.

In a survey of high street shops, Bracknell Forest Borough Council’s trading standards found 26 per cent were advertising credit deals which did not comply with the law.

Retailers are required to display a typical annual percentage rate (APR) if advertising credit deals – for example a set monthly repayment. Displaying an APR allows customers to compare credit rates, make an informed choice, and makes sure customers are not tricked into deals which appear to be interest free.

Trading standards found the illegal advertising included free interest for the first 12 months and then an annual agreement of up to 30 per cent APR.

The advertising has been raised with the shops' head offices, and trading standards may take further action if they continue to use illegal advertising.

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Bracknell Leisure, Corporate Services and Public Protection, said: It is important that customers in Bracknell Forest are not being misled into taking out expensive credit deals.

While some shops have already corrected their advertising, we are continuing to monitor the deals being advertised in our local shops and will consider further action if we continue to find these important regulations are still being breached.”

For more information and advice about buying on credit and other consumer issues, visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/tradingstandards or call 01344 352000.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Environmental health officers have investigated more than 800 complaints about noisy neighbours and removed more than 130 abandoned cars this year to ensure the borough is kept a pleasant place for residents and visitors.

Between April 2006 and April 2007, the Bracknell Council removed about 130 abandoned cars from around the borough. Using new powers under the Clean Neighbourhood and Environment Act 2005 the Council was able to fine offenders and recover its costs.

Fixed penalty notices worth £300 and costs worth £50 were charged to Paul Symonds of Hamlet Street, Bracknell; John Paul Guyett of Hazelton Road, Liverpool; and Irene Kavuma of Nutley, Bracknell.

During the same period Bracknell officers have been mediating between residents to resolve problems with noisy neighbours. However, in some cases the Council had no option but to take people to court under the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

In two recent cases heard at Maidenhead Magistrates’ Court, Jane and Brian Maimbia of Great Hollands were fined £300 each with costs of £125 and Mathew Lewis of Cunworth Court, Bracknell, was fined £300 with £250 costs for failing to comply with legal notices.

David Steeds, Head of Bracknell Environmental Health and Safety, said: We always prefer to work with residents to resolve problems, rather than being forced into taking people to court.

”However, where the need is proven and we don’t get the co-operation we are seeking we do not hesitate to use the powers available.”

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Leisure, Corporate Services and Public Protection, said: There are some things in life that are just plain unacceptable, anti-social behaviour for example, whether from excessively noisy neighbours or people abandoning cars, things that mar our quality of life.

It is for that reason that the Council works hard to make sure the borough is a clean and quiet place for us to live, visit or work."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

It was a typical Saturday afternoon for Bracknell Bernard and Beatrice Coxhead. The racing was showing on the television and the oil was being heated for dinner. And like many of us on a lazy afternoon they fell asleep in front of the box.

It was a neighbour who first noticed the black smoke coming from their home in Winkfield Manor, a Bracknell Forest Borough Council run sheltered accommodation in North Ascot.

Inside their cottage, Mr and Mrs Coxhead (aged 77 and 84 respectively) had woken to the fire and after the second attempt had managed to smother the flames.

Mr Coxhead said: "The smoke was unbelievable. It was incredible how much came from the oil."

The couple both suffered from severe smoke inhalation and were taken to Heatherwood Hospital for observation.

He said: "The hospital wanted us to stay overnight but we returned home that night. But since our cooking appliances didn't work Forestcare came in, talked to us and then took us to Sandhurst."

The couple were taken to Council run Broadway House in Sandhurst where they were given a guest flat and meals.

Mr Coxhead said: "I needed to be closer to Heatherwood for my hospital appointments, so the Housing Scheme Manager took us back [to Winkfield Manor] to a guest room."

The couple were grateful to return to familiar territory and especially to be reunited with their beloved cats Tammy, Tommy and Twinkle, as well as their budgerigar and fish.

Mr Coxhead said: "The cats were a little sooty but fine after the fire."

While their home in Winkfield Manor is being repaired the couple will be given temporary accommodation of a bungalow in Brackenbank. A removal company, organised by the Bracknell Council, will do the packing and take the couple's furniture to the new lodgings. An Assistant Care Manager from Adult Social Services at the Council will take them and their pets to their new home.

Mr Coxhead said: "We have been shown the bungalow and it is lovely.

"We have been treated very good by everyone. It's an accident we could have done without but these things happen.

"We can't fault anyone in the Council who have helped us. We haven't been criticised and they couldn't have been more helpful.

"We can only say thank you to every single person who have helped us."

Christine Stacey, Winkfield Manor Scheme Manager, said: "This was a terrible thing to happen to Bernard and Beatrice.

"When we realised that they could not use their kitchen we quickly sought alternative accommodation.

"They have been involved in all the decisions throughout the process and they were glad to find a bungalow in the area of their choice.

"We will continue to be in constant contact with them to ensure their needs are met."

Cllr Dale Birch, Executive Member for Bracknell Adult Services, Health and Housing, said: "I am sorry to hear that Mr and Mrs Coxhead have been through such an ordeal.

"However with the support and help from the Council, they have been able to move from their damaged home into a bungalow.

"It is testament to the dedication and commitment to caring the Adult Social Services and Housing team have for the residents of Bracknell Forest.

"I wish Mr and Mrs Coxhead all the best in their new home."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Residents are being asked for their feedback on a wide ranging five year plan to enhance and improve cultural services across Bracknell Forest.

Residents are to be asked for their views on the plan - known as Life Is For Living Two - which aims to continue making Bracknell Forest a stimulating and enjoyable place to visit, and a thriving community where people are happy to live and work.

Themes contained in the plan include enhancing town centres, villages and neighbourhoods; improving the sense of belonging and community spirit; and supporting and improving a range of high quality facilities and services.

Life Is For Living - the first cultural strategy - ran from 2002 to 2007 and contained wide ranging plans to improve everything from sporting facilities; to arts, crafts and music; and voluntary activities.

Improvements included better facilities at the Bracknell Council's sports and leisure centres, the restoration of Lily Hill Park, Heritage Open Days and the creation of a creative arts network. As a result of the plan, over £5.5million of external funding was raised and spent on cultural projects right across Bracknell Forest.

Vincent Paliczka, Director of Environment and Leisure, said; "I strongly encourage individuals and organisations to spend some time considering this document and letting me know their thoughts as their views are really important in shaping the strategy and action plan."

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Bracknell Leisure, Corporate Services and Public Protection, said: Life Is For Living Two contains a variety of aims to improve the life and culture within Bracknell Forest. Any input we receive will be crucial to making the improvements our residents want.”

To read and comment on Life Is For Living Two, visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/culturalstrategy,or for a hard copy call 01344 351750.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Owlsmoor Primary School is a good school say inspectors from the Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted).

The Ofsted inspection team visited the Bracknell Forest Borough Council school in November and their report gives it a grade two, good school rating.

The report says: “This is a good school. Parents say that their children are happy here and make good progress in their learning.

“Good pastoral care contributes to pupils' good personal development and well-being.

“Pupils say that they enjoy school and show this in their above average attendance, the good behaviour of the great majority and their willingness to join in with all that the school has to offer.”

The inspectors' key findings in summary are:

* Pupils' good attitudes help them to take advantage of the good teaching and learning and good curriculum, so that they achieve well;
* standards are generally above average by the end of Year 6, in almost all subjects;
* leadership and management are good. The headteacher has quickly identified the strengths for the school to build on and the areas that it needs to improve. he is successfully supporting staff and governors to develop a self-critical approach that sharply identifies areas needing improvement;
* the school has introduced new systems, which are already beginning to have a beneficial impact, for example, by providing more regular review of each pupil's progress;
* the track record and continued focus on raising standards demonstrate a good capacity for further improvement;
* pupils have a strong awareness of safety and develop their independence well because teachers encourage them to solve problems and rise to challenges;
* pupils have a good understanding of healthy lifestyles and eagerly take part in the good opportunities for sport; and
* the children realise the importance of a balanced diet and can say which contents of their lunch boxes are most and least healthy.

Richard Blackmore, Headteacher at Bracknell Owlsmoor Primary School, said: "I am pleased that the Ofsted inspectors recognised the strengths of our good school and the hard work and commitment shown by pupils, staff, governors and parents.

”The recommendations for improvement are areas which we have already begun to work on including the need to raise standards in science."

Tony Eccleston, Director of Bracknell Education, Children's Services and Libraries, said: "Owlsmoor Primary School is a good school which serves its community and its pupils very well and I am pleased the inspectors have highlighted the hard work of the headteacher and his team.

"The school is providing a good education and this is clearly shown in the pupil’s achievements as they progress through the school."

Cllr Alan Ward, Executive Member for Bracknell Education and Libraries, said: "I am happy the Ofsted inspectors have recognised that Owlsmoor Primary School is a grade two, good school.

“This Ofsted report shows there is good leadership, teaching and achievement in the school and I congratulate Richard and his team for the great job they are doing."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Residents across Bracknell borough are urged to give their views about the Council’s plans to promote race equality over the next three years.

The draft of Bracknell Forest’s new race equality scheme has now been published and the Council is seeking comments about it.

Promoting equal opportunities for everyone who lives, works or uses services in the borough, acting in a fair and equitable manner and ensuring the Council meets individual needs appropriately are key concerns.

Significant progress has already been made under the previous race equality scheme and Bracknell Council hopes to continue to improve, ensuring people from different racial backgrounds have the same life opportunities, access to services and treatment.

The updated version of the race equality scheme aims to give a clear basis for how the Council’s values and commitment to equality will be put into action.

Cllr Alan Kendall, Executive Member for Community Cohension, said: “It is important that the Council works with local people to ensure the new scheme is a success, so your views are important to us.

"We want to ensure that the Council and its services are open and accessible to the entire community."

For more information visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/res or call Caroline Little on 01344 352325.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Foster children and their families had an evening of Christmas cheer yesterday (Tuesday 18) thanks to Bracknell Forest Borough Council and Waitrose.

Every year the Bracknell Council's Family Placement Team, which arranges foster care and adoption in the borough, organises the party for children who have been fostered and their foster families.

This year over 20 families joined in the fun at a brilliant party which was made successful thanks to Waitrose's generous donation of toys for children in care.

The party was held at the Rowan's Children's Centre in Pondmoor Road, Bracknell.

Santa dropped in at the party and wished all the children a very merry Christmas. He delivered the presents, details of which remain under wraps but they incude an array of toys and games.

Various companies throughout the borough also donated prizes for the prize draw at the end of evening.

Tony Eccleston, Bracknell Director of Education, Children's Services and Libraries said: "The generous support from Waitrose as always makes a teriffic difference to children in care.

"Being able to celebrate in a family setting like this can help children get closer to their foster families and gives them the opportunity to be just like other children at this time of year."

Cllr Dr Gareth Barnard, Executive Member of Children’s Services, said: "Foster families do a tremendous amount of work for the children they look after.

"This party is a way of saying a small thank you to them as well as helping the children enjoy a little extra for Christmas.

"The foster carer Christmas party is always special and I'd like to say thank you to Waitrose for their generous support which is sure to make the party even more memorable."

Some 800 foster carers are currently needed in the south east. Anyone can apply to be a foster carer and the Family Placement Team offers flexible fostering options to suit you, your family and your lifestyle.

A fostering and adoption evening will be held on Monday 21 January at the Bracknell Family Centre, Warfield Road. For more information contact the Family Placement Team on: 01344 351582 or complete an no-commitment online expression of interest form at www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/fostering

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

School children from Broadmoor Primary School had themselves a merry time when they sung in the Princess Square shopping centre in Bracknell on Tuesday (18th December).

Around 25 children got up on stage and sung in front of Bracknell shoppers, proud parents and friends in a bid to spread seasonal cheer. They performed songs from their own school performance of Peter Pan, which went down with cheers and enthusiastic clapping from the audience.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council with the help of Bracknell Regeneration Partnership offered young people the chance to perform in the town centre this Christmas and show off their talents to a captive audience.

Earlier this month, 10-year-old Charlie Purnell from Bracknell sung Christmas songs in a swing style to an audience in Princess Square.

Graham Mountford, Town Centre Manager for Bracknell Forest Borough Council, said: "There have been many events organised in the town centre this Christmas to delight and amaze shoppers. This is no different and gives young local talent the chance to show off their skills to family and friends."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Visitors to Horseshoe Lake and Moor Green Lakes in Sandhurst will be able to learn more about the sites and their wildlife now two new information boards have been installed.

The large boards were jointly funded by Bracknell Forest Borough Council and from Heritage Lottery money awarded to the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership, which is made up of councils bordering the River Blackwater.

A central feature of both boards is the large colour site maps showing visitors where they can go and what to look out for – this includes footpaths and bridleways, bird viewing hides, car parks and local places of interest. In addition they show examples of the wildlife that can be seen in the area, including birds like wigeon and lapwing as well as other creatures such as butterflies and dragonflies.

Christine Reeves, from the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership, said: "These boards have been designed to enhance the experience for everyone visiting and looking for wildlife in the Blackwater Valley, so we are pleased to have been able to work with Bracknell Forest Borough Council to produce them.

"This collaboration is a good example of partnership working, which is an important part of everything we do.”

Cllr Iain McCracken, Bracknell Forest Borough Council's Executive Member for Leisure, Corporate Services and Public Protection, said: These sites are wonderful habitats for wildlife and we want to make sure all our residents and visitors to the lakes can enjoy them to their full potential.

”I hope these informative signs are a valuable source of information for all visitors to this attractive part of the borough.”

Also, new members are being invited to join the Bracknell Forest's Local Countryside Access Forum - set up to help residents get the most from the borough's open spaces.

It is an advisory group to the Bracknell Council which includes people with interests in conservation, rights of way, heritage, health, disabled access, walking, cycling or horse riding. The forum is particularly interested in new members to represent the needs of disabled people.

For more details call Sally Coulson on 01344 354118 or visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/lcaf

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Residents are being urged to give their views on draft budget proposals published by Bracknell Forest Borough Council as it faces difficult times ahead.

The Bracknell Council will again receive a disappointing grant from the Government and faces below inflation increases for the next three years.

This means tough decisions need to be made and it is more important than ever that Bracknell residents take part in the consultation to make sure the Council gets it right.

Residents have already told the Council that keeping the borough's streets clean and green is important to them. Therefore the Council plans to spend an extra £100,000 from next year to improve street cleaning and grounds maintenance.

Other investments the Bracknell Council sets out in its plans for the next three years in line with the priorities of local people include:

* £47.9 million to upgrade and maintain school buildings (including external funding);
* £1.6 million to support vulnerable adults;
* £4.8 million to improve and maintain highways, foot paths and cycleways;
* £800,000 to support the regeneration of the town centre.

However, the Council also needs to make significant savings to make its budget balance and has been working hard to look at how it can continue to reduce spending and be more efficient - for example by entering joint contracts with other councils.

Some of the ways the Council is considering doing this include:

* Looking at the options for the future management of the borough's leisure facilities to ensure investment can be continued while keeping costs down;
* Reducing the support given to the music education in schools (balanced by some increase in Government grant);
* Modernising the home care support service to improve support for dementia and long term conditions;
* Reducing the opening times of its payment counter service as more and more residents prefer to use alternative methods such as direct debit, online, telephone payments and Pay Point.

Cllr Paul Bettison, leader of the Bracknell Council, said: "We are proud that the Council has always offered good value for money for the borough's residents and that we have one of the lowest council tax rates in the country. However, we are facing challenging times as we work to meet increasing demand for our services and increasing resident expectations while being subject to real term reductions in the money we have to spend. Therefore, it is more important than ever that as many people as possible take part in our budget consultation."

As part of the budget consultation, the Council will be sending a questionnaire to a representative sample of 1,500 residents to get their views.

The full budget proposals together with the questionnaire will also be available online from December 19 www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk for all residents to take part. Views need to be submitted to the Council by 30 January 2008.

The final decision about the budget and the council tax rate will be made at a meeting of full Council on February 27.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Residents enjoyed some festive frolics during an environmentally friendly event at Heathlands.

Staff at the Bracknell Forest Borough Council residential home decided to forego sending Christmas cards this year, saving on paper, and invest their money into a Christmas party for residents.

Cllr Mrs Gill Birch, Mayor of the Borough of Bracknell Forest, and her consort, Cllr Dale Birch, were the guests of honour during the festivities at the Wildridings-based centre and spent time chatting with residents over a glass of sherry.

The choir from Wildridings Primary School also visited the home and filled the rooms with the joyful strains of traditional Christmas carols.

Linda Parsons, Manager of Heathlands, Bracknell said: “The staff decided that it was greener not to send each other Christmas cards this year. So we all put money into a kitty and decided to use it to fund a party for our residents.”

Heathlands was awash with tinsel and twinkling lights for the special day, with party food, tea and biscuits and even sherry on the menu.

Cllr Mrs Birch said: “It was a wonderful party at Heathlands. The staff did a fantastic job of spreading Christmas cheer.

“The school choir was absolutely delightful as they sang some of my favourite carols.

“I wish all the residents and staff at Heathlands a very merry Christmas and a prosperous new year.”

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Retailers are being reminded that fireworks to celebrate the New Year can only be sold to the public from Boxing Day to New Year’s Eve.

New laws have been introduced in an attempt to stop anti-social noise and nuisance with fireworks being let off throughout the night over extended periods.

Fireworks can now only be bought around firework night, Diwali, New Year and Chinese New Year, and must not be let off between 11pm (1am at New Year) and 7am. Specialist retailers can sell fireworks throught the year.

Following the end of the firework night sale period – which ran from October 15 to November 10 – Bracknell Forest Borough Council’s trading standards officers visited 10 local businesses to make sure they were following the law.

Only one shopkeeper sold fireworks, while two others said they would attempt to supply the officers with fireworks. These businesses have since been given official warnings.

Rob Sexton, Head of Bracknell Trading Standards and Services, said: When fireworks are bought out of season, they are often the source of nuisance and anti-social behaviour.

We will continue to make sure traders are following the law and ensure fireworks are only sold during the permitted times.”

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Leisure, Corporate Services and Public Protection, said: While many of us enjoy watching fireworks, it can be annoying and anti-social when they are constantly being let off long after the specific event.

We will continue to ensure that traders adhere to the new laws so that we can all enjoy the festivities”

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

In a bid to beat last year's record level of festive recycling, Bracknell residents are being given a clear plastic bag for excess paper and card again this Christmas.

The Bracknell bags, which were due to be delivered in early December, can be used for all the extra cardboard and wrapping paper used over the festive period which will not fit in the kerbside boxes.

Christmas trees will also be collected by the Bracknell Council’s garden waste vehicles. Please remove all decorations and leave close to the kerbside - without blocking the pavement - on recycling collection day . They do not need to be in brown wheelie bins or biodegradable sacks, but will be composted with garden waste - so please do not leave in plastic bags.

After Christmas last year in Bracknell Forest a record 1,500 tonnes of waste was recycled, including 250 tonnes of glass bottles, 845 tonnes of card and paper and 414 tonnes of Christmas trees and foliage. However 3,022 tonnes of waste was sent to landfill sites - 20 per cent higher than other winter months

Four tonnes of Christmas cards from Bracknell Forest was collected and recycled by the Woodland Trust. Residents can again recycle their cards in January at Tesco, WH Smith and Marks & Spencer.

Due to the bank holidays on Tuesday, December 25, and Wednesday, December 26, and then on Tuesday, January 1, there are also revised refuse and recycling collection dates.

Bracknell Residents who would normally receive a collection on a Monday should place their refuse or recycling at the kerbside on Saturday, December 22; and residents who usually have their refuse or recycling collected on a Tuesday should place their refuse or recycling at the kerbside on Christmas Eve - one day early.

All other residents will have their refuse or recycling collections one day late.

Collections will take place as normal on New Year’s Eve, and as there are no collections on New Year’s Day, all other collections will be one day late.

If you do have additional refuse and recycling, it can be taken to the Longshot Lane civic amenity site, which is open to residents from 8am-6pm and is only closed on Christmas Day.

Cllr Mrs Dorothy Hayes, Executive Member for the Bracknell Environment, said: "I would like to thank Bracknell Forest residents for their hard work recycling last Christmas and throughout this year.

”Please have a wonderful Christmas, and try to remember to recycle as much as you can over the seasonal period.”

Please refer to your recycling calendar or visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/whereyoulive to find out which weeks your recycling or landfill waste will be collected; and for further information on refuse and recycling, call 01344 352000 or visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/abc

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Falcons have won another haul of gold medals – this time at the South East Team Gym Open Tournament.

Bracknell Leisure Centre’s gymnastics club, who won the National British Team Gym Championships in April, took part in the competition in Crawley last weekend.

The Bracknell gymnasts - all aged seven to 12 - performed floor, trampette, trampette vault and tumble routines to judges and audiences from across the country. The competition was good preparation for the team who will be on home soil on February 24 when their next national competition takes place at Bracknell Leisure Centre.

Head coach Stuart Woods said: While some of their scores didn’t reflect their performance in the floor and trampette, the team fought back with a fantastic tumble routine which gained excellent marks. The competition was very tough but the team managed to stay focused and perform exceptionally.”

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Leisure, Corporate Services and Public Protection, said: The Falcons have proved their talents yet again, and I would like to congratulate them for their continued success.

I hope they can win in front of their home crowd when the next national competition takes place in Bracknell in February.”

For more details on how anyone can get started in gymnastics or in Team Gym at Bracknell Leisure Centre, call 01344 454203, or visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Forest’s young people once again have the chance to make their mark locally, nationally and globally by standing as a candidate for the UK Youth Parliament (UKYP) in 2008.

Any young person aged 11-18 who lives or goes to school in Bracknell Forest is eligible to put themselves forward as a candidate for the elections that will take place in January.

The successful candidate will represent the Bracknell borough as one of 400 members of the UK Youth Parliament set up to give young people the opportunity to influence adult decision makers.

Prospective candidates need to complete an application form with a 100-word statement outlining why they should be chosen as Member of the Youth Parliament (MYP) for Bracknell Forest.

Elections will be held in the borough's secondary schools and Bracknell & Wokingham College at the beginning of February when students will vote to elect one of the candidates. Their statements will be posted at polling stations to help voters make their choice.

Results will be declared at the Hilton Hotel on February 15. A Deputy Member will also be elected.

The newly elected MYP and a deputy will work throughout the year with the Bracknell Forest Youth Forum to take part in meetings and activities to promote the welfare, development and the views of young people.

They will also meet up with borough councillors on a range of issues and attend regional and national meeting of the UKYP.

Cllr Dr Gareth Barnard, Executive Member for Children's Services, said: "Being a MYP is the perfect opportunity for a young person to make their mark and put Bracknell Forest on the map.

Candidates must convince their peers that they are committed to being a MYP and they need the ideas and confidence to talk about local issues in the national arena.

Whoever is elected will have to work hard but they will also have a fantastic opportunity to speak for young people in the borough.

I am confident that, as ever, we will have a strong field for the elections in January.”

Candidate packs and application forms are available from all secondary schools and Council run youth centres. Deadline for applications is 11 January 2008.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Beavers and biscuits were on the Christmas list for Bracknell Ladybank Residential Home residents during a visit from the 2nd Bracknell Scout group.

Last month residents of the Bracknell Forest Borough Council run care home were visited by the Lumberjacks and Mounties Beaver groups.

Consisting of almost 50 boys aged between six and eight years, the Beavers visited Ladybank as part of obtaining their Friendship Challenge badge.

The eager Beavers met with residents and asked them a variety of questions including "what life was like before television?"

Jan Pearson, Assistant Beaver Scout Leader, said: "The children were also keen to find out the residents age, with most being proud to respond.

"The Beavers then gave them Christmas hampers filled with tea, biscuits and a beaver made out of toilet roll."

After the children had finished chatting to the residents, everyone sat down for an entertaining game of bingo.

Ruth Halliday, Unit Manager for Ladybank, said: "The residents absolutely loved the visit from the Beavers and talked about it long after the visit had concluded.

"It really brightened up their day."

Cllr Dale Birch, Executive Member for Bracknell Adult Services, Health and Housing, said: "It's fantastic to see the Beavers bridging the gap between generations. I am sure both sides learnt a lot from each other.

"I am sure the visit by the Beavers to Ladybank will be fondly remembered by residents for a long time to come."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

With only a few shopping weeks left until Christmas, Bracknell Town Centre is helping shoppers get into the festive mood with a Mardi Gras-style carnival evening this Thursday 13th December.

The Bracknell party starts at 4.30pm - and runs through until 8pm when the shops close - with a lively and unusual line-up of entertainment for people to enjoy whilst they do any last minute gift buying.

There will be a host of breathtaking acts; from acrobats cascading down on ribbons from the ceiling in Princess Square to skilful street-jugglers. There will be music and dancing throughout the evening, and a lithelimbo dance troupe will not only put on an exciting display but will also be encouraging shoppers to see how low they can go.

Louisa Wright-Wastell from Bracknell Regeneration Partnership, said "Christmas is a magical time of year and we want to make sure that any shopping trips are fun for all the family.We celebrated the traditional with our Victorian evening, so the carnival evening is all about excitement, energy and fun. The shops are open late and there's free parking from 5pm, so there's really no excuse not to join in the party!"

Graham Mountford, Bracknell Town Centre Manager, said: “This Christmas in Bracknell promises to be fun, entertaining and thrilling, so shoppers really can have an enjoyable time in the town when they are choosing Christmas presents.”

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Voluntary and not for profit organisations in Bracknell Forest are invited to apply now for the Community Care Small Grants scheme for 2008/9.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council is offering up to £5,000 for organisations dedicated to improving the life of vulnerable people in the borough.

To be eligible for the grant organisations must show that vulnerable adults in Bracknell Forest will benefit from the proposed service and fit in with the key values of the Council’s Social Services and Housing department.

These key values include:

* Promoting equality
* Promoting social inclusion
* Providing quality
* Providing choice
* Promoting independence

Cllr Dale Birch, Executive Member for Bracknell Adult Services, Health and Housing, said: It can be difficult for organisations, especially smaller or less well-know groups, to secure financial support or sponsorship and that sometimes, it may be these very same community-based organisations that are best placed to deliver services or run projects directly to and within communities.”

For more information, or to obtain an application form, contact Alison Cronin on 01344 351301 or alison.cronin@bracknell-forest.gov.uk. A limited number of grants are available. Applications must be received by Monday, December 31.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Forest Borough Council is offering good services for adult and community learning say inspectors from the Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted).

The Ofsted inspection team visited the Bracknell Council in October and their report gives it an overall grade three, satisfactory rating.

The report says that the quality of provision is good and achievement and standards are good, both given a grade two rating.

It also says: Family learners develop good personal skills and community learners develop good specific knowledge and vocational skills.

Learners are highly motivated.

The inspectors' key findings in summary are:

* Bracknell Teaching and learning are good. Teaching is well planned with a good range of appropriate teaching methods which are used to promote learning.
* Learning resources are good. Learning materials are of a good quality and many tutors use information learning technology effectively.
* Assessment is good on practical courses. The recognition and recording of learners’ progress and achievement by tutors on non-accredited programmes is insufficiently developed.
* The Council’s response to social inclusion is satisfactory. Good initiatives are in place to engage new learners from targeted areas.
* Support for learners is good. Staff and tutors are responsive to individual learner needs. Information, advice and guidance to learners in relation to courses and progression opportunities is satisfactory.
* Initial assessment is appropriate for learners on literacy and numeracy courses.
* Leadership and management is satisfactory overall. Operational managers are particularly effective in delivering the programmes offered. The Council’s strategy and development plan is clear.
* The Council has successfully increased new learners from targeted areas.
* Partnership arrangements are satisfactory overall. Quality improvement and the monitoring of subcontracted provision are satisfactory. Equality of opportunity is satisfactory.

Tony Eccleston, Director of Bracknell Education, Children’s Services & Libraries said: "I am pleased that the Ofsted inspectors recognised that the Council is a providing a good service to residents and there are many areas we are doing very well at.

"During 2006-07 we enrolled 1969 learners onto 578 courses. The Council offers subjects for all abilities and I am pleased the Osted report highlights the wide ranging courses we offer."

"The recommendations for improvement are areas which we have already begun to work on including the need to improve our assessment of learners and record learners’ progress and achievements."

Cllr Alan Ward, Executive Member for Bracknell Education and Libraries, said "The inspectors have quite rightly commented on the Council’s strengths including good teaching and support for learners."

This Ofsted report shows there are good quality courses available from the Council and I hope we continue to improve adult learning to benefit residents.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Forest children continue to achieve well and better than many children across the country at Key Stage two according to new results.

Results published yesterday by the Department for Children, Families and Schools highlights how well 7-11 year old pupils at primary schools in the borough are doing.

Overall, the percentage of Bracknell pupils attaining the national expectation in English, mathematics and science (level four or above) remained broadly similar to 2006 with results in science improving. Results are in line with or above national averages.

Although results in mathematics declined slightly, the hard work of teachers and local authority support have resulted in real improvements in many schools.

All schools remain above the nationally expected level of performance in English.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council is focusing its work on schools where results have not improved in line with local trends, including support for subject leadership, the use of the revised teaching frameworks and a strengthening of assessment and pupil tracking.

All Bracknell schools are involved in learning networks where the local authority is encouraging schools to work together and explore collaborative ways of working to provide children with exciting learning experiences.

Tony Eccleston, Director of Children’s Services, Education and Libraries said: We are delighted to see the improvement in our schools through the work of teachers, support staff, the local authority and parents.

Whilst the performance tables provide some information about some elements of a school, as ever I urge parents and carers to visit our schools to see for themselves the wide range of educational opportunities that our schools provide.”

Councillor Alan Ward, Executive Member for Bracknell Education said: "I would like to congratualte the borough's children, teachers, parents and carers on all their hard work which is reflected in these recent results.

"Bracknell Forest's results continue to be higher than the England average and I am sure we will continue to further improve!"

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Forest Borough Council is offering good services for children and young people say inspectors from the Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted).

The Ofsted inspection team visited in October for the Bracknell Council’s annual performance assessment (APA) and their report gives it an overall grade three, good rating.

The APA is an annual inspection that Ofsted are required to carry out within each local authority.

The APA makes judgements about:

* Bracknell Council’s children’s services and the specific contributions they make to improve outcomes for children and young people
* The contribution services make to improving the five outcomes for children and young people
* The Council’s capacity to improve these services

The inspectors' key findings in summary are:

Overall effectiveness of children’s services - Grade 3, good

The report says that Bracknell children’s services have made an increasingly good contribution to the lives and achievements of the borough’s children and young people. It highlights a number of key factors such as listening to the voice of children and young people, the drive to improve services for children in care and children with learning difficulties/disabilities and the way in which the needs of children with English as an additional language are taken into account.

Be Healthy – Grade 4, outstanding

The APA noted this area of work as outstanding. The health of children and young people is good. There are some effective programmes in place to support health needs of children and young people which include programmes on teenage pregnancy, healthy schools and reducing smoking.

Stay Safe – Grade 3, good

The contribution of the Bracknell authority to improving outcomes for children in this respect is good. There is a strong commitment to making the borough a safe place for children; traffic accidents are low and there are good levels of safety in schools and in pre-school settings. The Local Safeguarding Board provides effective multi-agency direction and oversight through its business plan.

Enjoy and Achieve – Grade 3, good

The contribution of the Council’s services to improving outcomes for children and young people in this aspect is good. In 2006, at the end of Years 2, 6 and 11 there was an upward trend in attainment, making the local authority one of the most improved in the country.

Make a Positive Contribution – Grade 3, good

The contribution of the Council’s services to improving outcomes for children and young people in this aspect is good. The Council is committed to encouraging children, young people and their families to be actively involved in decision-making and to help shape the provision of services in the area.

Achieve Economic Wellbeing – Grade 3, good

The contribution of the Bracknell Council’s services to improving outcomes for children and young people in this aspect is good. Ofsted inspections in 2006 judged all secondary schools to be satisfactory or better in relation to economic well-being.

Capacity to Improve – Grade 3, good

Many strengths identified in this section including the Children and Young People’s Plan and the review, service management and good use of finances, good leadership. Good prioritisation was also acknowledged with a view that key areas for development are well known and understood.

Results from the APA inspection will be presented to the Executive next Tuesday (18 December).

Tony Eccleston, Director of Bracknell Education, Children’s Services & Libraries said: "I am very pleased that the APA inspectors recognised that the Council is a providing good services to children and young people.

We are especially pleased that the inspectors graded us as outstanding for contributing to children being healthy.

"The recommendations for improvement are areas which we have already begun to work on including the need for more foster carers for young people with complex needs, the need to improve boys’ attainment in schools and work to further reduce the number of warnings, reprimands and convictions of looked after children and young people."

Cllr Alan Ward, Executive Member for Bracknell Education and Libraries, said "I would like to congratulate all staff involved in children’s services for this excellent inspection report.

The Council works very hard to make sure that children’s services are making a good contribution to the lives and achievements of its residents.

This is clearly shown in this report which rightly highlights the Council’s good work for children and young people."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Residents can make a fresh start in 2008 with exciting courses this New Year at Bracknell Leisure Centre.

Courses for the jam-packed spring term start on January 7, and include more than 75 stimulating sports courses for young Bracknell people. Exciting children’s courses include trampolining, team gym, ballet, tumblers and football classes run by Chelsea FC.

For teenagers looking to get into fitness there are balance, circuits, cycling and TeenWorX sessions for 11-16-year-olds. The teen sessions are designed to introduce participants to the physical, mental and social benefits of following a health-related physical activity programme.

Adult courses include tai-chi, tap dancing, squash, trampolining and ladies multi-sports, plus the return of other popular sporting activities such as pilates, yoga and badminton.

For those who don't mind getting wet there are more than 300 swimming courses for all ages from six months up to adults. All abilities are well catered for, from nervous non-swimmers through to more advanced swimmers.

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Bracknell Leisure, Corporate Services and Public Protection, said: Once again, Bracknell Leisure Centre has put together a superb range of courses to appeal to a wide range of tastes and abilities.

If you want to recover from the excesses of Christmas and enjoy a happy and healthy 2008, why not see what Bracknell Leisure Centre can offer.”

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Forest Borough Council's benefits service was found to be "excellent" in a recent inspection by the Benefit Fraud Inspectorate (BFI).

The assessment was carried out as part of the Government's Corporate Performance Assessment (CPA) and will contribute to Bracknell Council's overall CPA rating.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council’s benefits service received an overall performance score of ‘excellent’, with the Audit Commission score rated four out of four. Last year the Council was rated as three out of four.

The assessment said the Council had maintained its excellent performance in claims administration, security and resource management, while there was improvement from 2006 in user focus.

The report noted that: “The Council had improved its performance in handling requests for reconsiderations and reviews, and appeals using external resources.”

The BFI based the assessment from a range of sources including:

• Best Value Performance Indicators and performance measures
• Self-assessment and evidence provided by the Council
• BFI’s CPA 2006 report
•Discussions with senior officers at the Council

Ian Davey, Director of Bracknell Social Services and Housing, said: “It is fabulous news that we have been given an excellent rating for our benefits services.

"I'm extremely pleased the inspectors have recognised our commitment and dedication to maintaining and improving our service. We will continue to work at achieving the best possible result again in 2008.”

Cllr Dale Birch, Executive Member for Adult Services, Health and Housing, said: "The excellent rating is great news but we are not complacent and we will continue to ensure improvements are made so the benefits service we have is the best possible for the residents of Bracknell Forest.”

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Christmas can be the busiest time of the year, not just for shoppers but for thieves as well. John Oblein, crime reduction adviser for Bracknell Forest local police area, has some practical advice to help people avoid becoming victims of crime.

“At this time of year we often give thieves more opportunities to profit from our lack of care. Having your belongings stolen is always upsetting, but it is especially hurtful when it’s the Christmas presents for loved ones that go missing.

“Unless you are doing all your seasonal shopping on the internet or by mail order catalogue, you will probably be using your car and parking near the shops. The thief knows this too and can prey on parked cars with obvious shopping left on view. Try to keep it down to one trip to and from the parked car and avoid leaving tempting parcels on view. Choose a car park that is well lit, has parking stewards on duty and CCTV as well. Some car parks have the ‘Park Mark’ quality assurance award, which means they have achieved a good standard of security and will have signs around to show their status.

“If you drive to a distant shopping centre and use a mobile ‘sat nav’ to find your way there, always take it off the windscreen and keep it with you. It is also wise to wipe off the distinctive sucker ring from the glass, a sure invitation to the thief.

“When you get home, be careful as you unload the car and don’t leave the doors or tailgate open. It has happened that items have disappeared from cars as quickly as the time between trips indoors.

“When the Christmas tree has been dressed, presents left under the tree have sometimes been the invitation to a burglar to break in and steal them. It is doubly heartbreaking not only to lose the presents, but also to be unable to replace them in time for Christmas day.

“If you have any crime prevention questions, you can find most answers on www.crimereduction.gov.uk. Alternatively, call Thames Valley Police on 08458 505 505 and ask for the crime reduction adviser for your area.”

Thames Valley Police ~ Bracknell

Make your family Christmas a special one and visit The Bracknell Look Out Discovery Centre this December.

The Bracknell entertainment got underway on December 1 with the seasonal Christmas show Who Stole Christmas?

Come and meet the Good Science Fairy and the Naughty Goblin. With surprises all the way what better way to start the festive season. The show is on until January 6, and costs £1.70 extra to the centre's entrance fee.

On Saturday, December 8, and Sunday, December 9, is The Look Out’s famous weekend for all the family. Father Christmas, with his elves and fairies, will be in his fabulous grotto from 10am – 4pm.

All this plus 80 amazing hands on science exhibits A giant floor piano, drums from around the world, an incredible hot air balloon and hydrogen rocket are all at The Look Out for the whole family to enjoy.

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Bracknell Leisure, Corporate Services and Public Protection, said: "A visit to The Look Out - no matter what time of the year - is always great fun and educational but in December it takes on that special Christmas-time feel and paves the way our children to prepare for Santa's arrival.

”As well as making discoveries in the interactive science and nature exhibition; children can make sure Father Christmas is fully aware of what they would like to find in their stocking this year.”

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Residents are being invited to comment on plans to make sure all new buildings in Bracknell Forest are as environmentally friendly as possible.

The draft Bracknell Sustainable Resource Management Supplementary Planning Document calls on developers to design new buildings with high levels of energy efficiency, conserve water and incorporate renewable energy sources like solar panels.

The plan also includes measures for minimising the environmental impact when a building is being constructed - like pollution and waste.

The plan is being written because buildings use not only resources like energy and raw materials during construction, but generate waste and emissions when in use.

Figures show that the construction industry is responsible for nearly a third of all cases of industrial pollution, and the energy used in constructing, occupying and operating buildings leads to about half of all greenhouse gas emissions in the UK, which then contributes towards climate change.

The plan will form part of Bracknell Forest’s Local Development Framework, a wide-ranging set of planning documents which will take over from the local plan and run until 2026.

Cllr Mrs Mary Ballin, Executive Member for Bracknell Planning and Transportation, said: "There is a lot developers can do to make sure their new buildings minimise their impact on the environment.

"Once we have fully considered your views, this document will mean everyone from developers, householders and the Council will be constructing more environmentally friendly buildings.”

The full consultation document can be downloaded from the Council’s website www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/ldf or call 01344 352000. Comments should be received by January 11.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Trading standards officers from Bracknell Forest Borough Council are committed to reducing illegal sales of age-restricted products by local businesses

This follows previous Bracknell campaigns which show that nearly half of test purchases resulted in a sale; and also the recent rise in the legal age for buying cigarettes from 16 to 18.

Age restricted sales also apply to alcohol, lighter fuel and solvents, knives, fireworks and computer games.

The Bracknell Council has been working to educate traders on the relevant laws and how to prevent sales; and issued card readers which can verify e+ cards which are part of an approved proof of age scheme.

If businesses are found to be selling age restricted products they can find themselves facing a range of enforcement measures including a caution, on the spot fine, prosecution with a fine or imprisonment and even the loss of a trade with the removal of the licence to sell alcohol.

Rob Sexton, Head of Bracknell Trading Standards and Services, said: Traders in Bracknell Forest have a legal and moral responsibility to make sure age-restricted products are not sold to children and young people.

”We will be working even harder to make sure traders across the borough know, understand and comply with the law."

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Leisure, Corporate Services and Public Protection, said: We have a duty of care to our children and young people and any age restricted sales is unacceptable which is why we have an ongoing commitment to reduce these illegal sales."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

The dangers of drink driving will be seen in Bracknell town centre on Saturday in a hard hitting campaign to reduce road casualties in the run up to Christmas.

Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service will be cutting would-be victims from the wreckage of a mock road accident in Charles Square, Bracknell to highlight the dangers to motorists.

The event is among a series of activities being undertaken by Bracknell Forest Borough Council and the Thames Valley Safer Roads Partnership

Bracknell Motorists will be able to see information on drink driving, talk to road safety professionals and the emergency services and take part in a prize quiz on drink driving and the highway code. It is taking place on Saturday, December 1, from 10.30am to 12noon.

Statistics for 2006 show that 108 people were killed or seriously injured in the Thames Valley region as a result of drivers who under the influence of alcohol.

Cllr Mrs Mary Ballin, Executive Member for Bracknell Planning and Transportation, said: Drinking and driving is extremely dangerous and the Council is pleased to be working with other members of the Safer Roads Partnership to highlight the issue.

”I hope people passing will see and learn how serious drinking and driving is.”

Meanwhile, young people have the chance to gain their first experience behind the wheel of a car at the Council’s latest Motorwise course.

The day is open to young people aged 16 and over and is designed to encourage safe driving,by increasing awareness of hazards, understanding of motoring laws and the possible impacts if you are involved in an accident.

The next session will be at Edgbarrow Sports Centre, Crowthorne, on Thursday, December 20, from 9.30am to 4.30pm.

To book a place on Motorwise, please call 01344 351212. Places are limited so book early.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Bracknell Adult social care services are good and have promising prospects for improvement according to inspectors.

The Bracknell Council's adult social care services were recently inspected by the Commission for Social Care Inspectors (CSCI) and a report released today (Thursday, November 29) rated services as two out of three stars.

All councils across the country are judged in the same areas of service and marked from 0 stars for poor performers to three stars for outstanding services. Bracknell Forest's two star score is an improvement from last year's one star rating and follows a steady modernisation programme of support and care services.

The official report says Bracknell adult social care is good and its capacity for improvement is promising.

Quality of life, making a positive contribution, freedom from discrimination or harassment, economic well-being, maintaining personal dignity and respect are all areas where the Council is providing good services. Health and emotional well-being and choice and control were rated as excellent by inspectors.

Key strengths outlined in the Bracknell report included:
- clear leadership;
- high quality and modernised services which are helping people to live at home;
- excellent support from Councillors and Senior Officers following the housing transfer ballot;
- strong financial management;
- a clear and developed understanding of local social care.

The report also noted the modernisation programme introduced by the Council, had already helped to significantly improve services and proposals under that plan would further modernise adult care services in the future.

The two star rating follows a series of successes for the Bracknell Social Services and Housing department over the past few months which has seen the dementia team scoop two national awards at the Skills for Care Accolades; Heathlands residential home rated as excellent by inspectors; and a pioneering agreement with national employment agency A4e signed to provide work opportunities for people with disabilities.

Ian Davey, Director of Bracknell Social Services and Housing, said: "We have been working tirelessly to improve adult care services for the people of Bracknell Forest over the past 10 months, in order to provide the care, support and advice they need and have told us they want.

"I'm extremely pleased the inspectors recognised our commitment to modernise and improve our services at the start of the year and that we have kept that promise. The two star rating is excellent news and we will continue to work on that to provide an even better service where necessary."

Cllr Dale Birch, Executive Member for Bracknell Adult Services, Health and Housing, said: I'm delighted the inspectors have recognised the hard work of staff and the strong management of the department, which has really helped improve and modernise the services we offer. Our service users and their carers and families often tell us we are doing a great job for their relative or friend and it is especially nice when all that hard work is recognised by inspectors.

"The two star rating is great news but we are not complacent and we will continue to ensure improvements are made so the services we have are the best possible for the residents of Bracknell Forest.”

Bracknell Forest Borough Council

Victims of Bracknell domestic violence can now find sanctuary in their own homes thanks to a new scheme from Bracknell Forest Borough Council.

The Bracknell Forest Sanctuary Scheme offers support to those experiencing domestic violence or the threat of domestic violence, as an alternative to temporary accommodation.

By providing additional Bracknell security to the home, victims are able to feel safe and avoid relocating or possible homelessness. Victims often have to move home due to the fear of repeat incidents and can become isolated from family, friends and other support networks. Using the Sanctuary Scheme to make the home safer may be the answer to avoid further upheaval moving can cause to family life and children's schooling.

The scheme has been developed by the Council in partnership with Thames Valley Police and agencies within the Bracknell Forest Domestic Violence Forum.

Nationally, one in four women and one in six men will suffer domestic violence in their lifetimes. Domestic violence is a crime - it is unacceptable and should not be tolerated. Domestic violence accounts for 16 to 25 per cent of all violent crime.

Sophie Crowe, Domestic Violence Co-ordinator for Berkshire East, said: "It's important to raise awareness of domestic violence in Bracknell Forest so that victims know where to go for help, how to report domestic violence, and what help and support there is available to them so they, and their children, can start to live a safer life.

"The Sanctuary Scheme is an important step forward for the borough and allows survivors of domestic violence to remain in their home with additional security, rather than feeling they have to move away from their friends and family."

Every Sanctuary Scheme is tailored to accommodate the needs and circumstances of the individuals involved. The service is discreet and confidential.

The scheme can involve measures such as setting up a sanctuary room (often the main bedroom) with a solid door installed with large steel hinges, two mortice bolts and a memo door viewer. Other security measures which can be fitted include window locks, smoke alarms and window or door grilles.

Ian Boswell, Bracknell Community Safety Manager, said: "The Sanctuary Scheme helps victims to remain in their home and limits upheaval to the family

“Domestic abuse is unacceptable and at the Council we have a comprehensive strategy to support victims, train people dealing with victims, help the Crown Prosecution Service and police prosecute perpetrators and provide support to witnesses of domestic abuse.”

Sunday, November 25, marked the start of 16 days of national action to end violence against women as part the International Day Against Violence Against Women campaign. As a part of the campaign white ribbons are sold. The white ribbon is a symbol that one will not commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women.

Locally, members of the Bracknell Forest Domestic Violence Forum will be taking part in Thames Valley Police's Happier, Safer Christmas campaign and will be at the Meadows Shopping Centre in Sandhurst on Wednesday, December 5. White ribbons will be on sale with proceeds going directly to Berkshire Women's Aid who provide outreach support and refuge accommodation. Forum members will also be able to provide information and advice about local domestic violence support.

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Leisure, Corporate Services and Public Protection, said: "Domestic violence is an appalling crime whether it is physical, mental or emotional abuse.

"We want everyone who lives in Bracknell Forest to be able to go home and not fear they are going to be abused, which is why a scheme like this is so important.

“The help and advice that will be available locally during the 16-day campaign will help to reinforce the message that domestic violence will not be tolerated and victims do not have to suffer in silence."

For more information about domestic violence and abuse, a full list of national and local support agencies, and details of the Bracknell Forest Sanctuary Scheme, please visit the domestic violence pages on the Bracknell Forest Borough Council website http://www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/domesticviolence

To report domestic violence to Thames Valley Police, call 999 in an emergency or 0845 8 505 505 in a non emergency.

To speak with someone in confidence or for outreach support, call Berkshire Women's Aid on 01189 504003. Men suffering domestic violence and abuse may wish to speak to Victim Support in confidence on 01344 411 411.

Men, if you are worried about your abusive behaviour, you can choose to stop. Call the Changing Ways East Berkshire and Wokingham Perpetrator Programme on 07818 054563.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council