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On the starting blocks!for a special year of music and sport

Spring 2012

FOr everyOne living in the stirling cOuncil area

4 taxi! How to tell the difference from a private hire 5 access all areas – do you know the outdoor code?6 meet the local young swimmers who are hoping for olympic glory8 Help us achieve our food waste recycling targets10 “Key” date for tenants as they move into their stylish new homes12 your council, your vote – make sure you’re registered to cast your vote

14 Great pull-out guide to what’s on across our area16 you’re hired! Businesses urged to take on apprentices18 partnership working means better services for residents 20 raploch is getting ready to make a Big noise! 22 stirling community Hospital’s minor injuries unit is a major success 24 a year in review: stirling’s successful 2011 26 find out how to contact your local councillor

What’s inside…

About…Stirling magazine is published by stirling council.editor: susan cunningham email: cunninghams@stirling.gov.uktel: 01786 443360design and editing: connect communications, studio 2001, mile end, paisley pa1 1Js.tel: 0141 561 0300Visit: www.connectcommunications.co.ukprinted on 90gsm (cover), 70gsm (inside) fsc® paper

Plain EnglishStirling recently achieved “approved by” status from the plain english campaign. the campaign encourages organisations to communicate in a helpful, straightforward way and avoid jargon. if you have any suggestions about how we can keep improving Stirling, please get in touch at stirlingmagazine@stirling.gov.uk

Formatscopies of articles are available by request in a range of other languages, large print and on audio tape. to request articles in any of these formats. please email or write to stirling, or call 0845 277 7000.

Contactto contact stirling council, please call 0845 277 7000, text: 07717 990 001, email: info@stirling.gov.uk, visit us online at www.stirling.gov.uk or write to stirling council, Viewforth, 14-20 pitt terrace, stirling fK8 2et.

With the worst of winter hopefully behind us and spring just around the corner, it’s a time for looking forward to new starts and fresh challenges.

The year ahead will be a vibrant and important one for our area. Already, a string of high-profile summer events are on the horizon, including a global audience for Raploch’s amazing Big Noise orchestra as the children are centre stage at the Scottish launch of the massive London 2012 Festival. And a team of specially nominated local torchbearers will be honoured with carrying the Olympic Torch into the heart of the Crianlarich, Tyndrum, Bridge of Allan, Dunblane and Stirling communities as part of its UK tour.

And, as the Olympic and Paralympic Games unfold, there will be the excitement of cheering on local heroes who have trained and honed their skills in Stirling.

It’s a year for us to strengthen our position as part of the new Scottish Cities Alliance, too. Working in partnership with Scotland’s other cities can make the voices of all six louder. It will also highlight the things that make Stirling special – our extraordinary history and enviable tourism and food and drink sectors, and the great work under way in new areas such as sports science.

Finally, Thursday 3 May sees the Scottish Local Council Elections – your chance to vote for the councillors who will represent you over the next five years.

This issue of Stirling has all the information you’ll need about the poll, including a reminder about how to check you’re registered to vote. And you can find out what to do if you’d like to stand as a candidate, too.

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“The year ahead will be a vibrant and important one, with a string of high-profile events on the horizon”

stirling council leader

Graham Houston

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Stirling magazine brings you current news and stories from across stirling’s public sector organisations. please let us have your comments and ideas for future issues by emailing stirlingmagazine@stirling.gov.uk

On the coverolympic hopeful kerry Buchan at Stirling’s national Swimming Academy with Sophie Monteith, 6. Sophie’s getting excited about the olympics as well as the Big noise concert in raploch!

www.facebook.com/stirlingcouncil www.twitter.com/stirlingcouncil

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wA year in review: Stirling’s 2011

From multimillion-pound investments to a beautifully restored royal palace, the creation of a state-of-the-art new healthcare facility to piping hot Hogmanay celebrations, 2011 was a busy year across the Stirling area. Stirling looks back at some of the highlights that made it a year to remember for local residents, businesses and visitors

January 2011

Work gets under way on a £400,000 streetscape project to improve Stirling’s historic old town. The improvements to Corn Exchange Road and Baker Street are part of the Vital Stirling initiative, which has already seen work completed in Port Street and Friars Street.

February 2011

Stirling Council and Ogilvie Construction Limited begin construction of a new £2.9 million Recycling and Waste Management Facility at Lower Polmaise, near Fallin. As the council works towards meeting Zero Waste targets, the new facility will receive all recyclables and waste collected from households, and will enable sorting of quality materials to be reused and recycled, diverting as much as possible away from landfill sites, which costs the Council£2 million every year.

March 2011

Clackmannanshire and Stirling Councils appoint two Heads of Joint Services. The roles of Belinda Greer, Head of Joint Education Services, and Deirdre Cilliers, Head of Joint Social Services, each span both councils, increasing capacity to improve services and workmore efficiently.  

April 2011

Stirling Business Panel hosts its second annual Spring Trade Fair at Castle Business Park. Sponsored by the Stirling Observer and Central FM, participants in the business-to-business event can visit nearly 60 stands and take part in speed networking sessions.

May 2011

Customer First in Port Street opens its doors for the first time – a handy city centre hub to pop in and make payments, get help with filling in forms, hand in documents and get advice face to face from the friendly customer service advisers. HM Revenue and Customs and Visit Scotland staff are also available.  

August 2011

Stirling Development Agency signs a deal to bring Waitrose to the city. It will be joined by TK Maxx at Burghmuir near the Craig’s roundabout. Plean Country Park’s annual Bark in the Park is a howling success and another chance to promote the council’s Bag it and Bin it message supported by the Dogs’ Trust.  

September 2011

Stirling and Clackmannanshire Councils encourage local residents and businesses to take part in a survey to help provide evidence for a bid for Scottish Government funding to provide high-speed broadband across both council areas.    

October 2011

The council’s building standards team is awarded the internationally recognised ISO 9001 certificate for customer service by the British Standards Institution – one of the first building standards teams in the country to achieve this honour. This month also sees the council’s own customer service staff awards ceremony.

November 2011

As part of its drive to work together with local communities to be ready for whatever winter brings, the council supplies extra shovels to community councils. This month also sees the publication of a positive Best Value Audit report highlighting Stirling Council’s clear vision for the area and strong political and management leadership.

June 2011

Stirling Castle’s magnificent renaissance royal palace reopens to the public following an ambitious £12m renovation. More than a decade of research and craftsmanship has gone into the revamp to ensure the palace appears as it would have done in the 16th century whenit was home to James V and his Queen, Mary of Guise. Also this month, the council sets the pace in recycling and is named as one of the top-performing councils in the UK, with local people recycling almost half of their waste. New initiatives this year will help us do even more.

November 2011

As part of its drive to work together with local communities to be ready for whatever winter

New initiatives this year will help us do even more.

November 2011

December 2011

Eddi Reader and the Red Hot Chilli Pipers headline a great Hogmanay Party at Stirling Castle Esplanade – heralding an exciting 2012.

the Red Hot Chilli

July 2011

The brand-new Forth Valley Royal Hospital in Larbert – Scotland’s largest-ever NHS construction project, serving 300,000 citizens across the local area – is officially opened by HM the Queen.

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Did you know?

Recycling facts

Stirling Council has a current recycling rate of approximately 56 per cent

for household waste and is

one of the top-performing

councils in Scotland.This is due to an effective

waste and recycling service AND local people

proactively recycling. The overall participation

rate for the blue box (dry

recycling scheme) in Stirling

is 78.2 per cent. More than 32,000

households also have access

to a weekly food waste recycling service. However,

the overall participation rate for food waste recycling in Stirling is only

28 per cent.Stirling Council is finding

out what can be done to improve the food waste recycling service, so we can

encourage more people to

recycle their food waste.

We’ve been

listening

Stirling Council has been

listening to your views about the current food waste recycling service. Recently, we carried out a

survey across the local area.A team of researchers

spoke to 450 people at their

doorsteps in October and

November 2011 to find out

what you thought of food

waste recycling.The survey found that just

under half (48 per cent) of

all households across the Stirling area recycle food

waste; 12 per cent have lapsed (started then stopped); and 40 per cent

have never recycled food waste.

Food waste recyclers

For the people who were

recycling their food waste,

How can we improve our food waste recycling service? We’ve

been asking local people their views

Feeding the debate about

food waste recycling

you tickWhich box wouldthe service was highly regarded. The satisfaction

and reliability of this service, and the usefulness

of the caddy, were rated as either very good or good by 93 per cent, 90 per cent and 98 per cent of respondents.

Lapsed food waste

recyclers

The results of our survey showed that some people

have stopped recycling their

food waste. The main reasons were problems with

smell (47%) and concerns

about hygiene or attracting

vermin or other pests. Some people (15%) mentioned not having a kitchen caddy, and a similar

number told us they didn’t

like the current system, or

reported that their caddies

had been lost or had blown

away.

Non food waste

recyclers

These respondents had never recycled their food

waste. The main reason (44%) was not having a caddy. Some felt they didn’t

produce enough food waste

to make it worthwhile recycling, and smaller numbers mentioned being

put off by concerns over hygiene or smell. Feeding

food waste to birds or pets

and composting were other

reasons given for not taking

part in the scheme.

The opportunity to in-

crease food waste recy-

cling

Half of people not recycling food waste (lapsed and non food waste

recyclers) said they would

be willing to start or restart recycling their food waste if the current service was changed.

The next steps

The council is currently holding some focus groups with food waste recyclers, lapsed food waste recyclers and non-

food waste recyclers to

further explore what would help people to recycle more food waste

and improve the current

service.Tell us about your experience with the

Food Waste Recycling Service:

email info@stirling.gov.uk or

call 0845 277 7000 For more information about

food waste visit www.stirling.

gov.uk/householdwaste

Does your household recycle

food waste? – food waste recycler

Did you recycle your

food waste but stopped?

– lapsed food waste recycler

Have you never recycled food

waste? – non food waste recycler

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FACT70% of domestic

waste recycled by

2025 – that’s the national

target for Scotland. And

food makes up a large

chunk of our day-to-

day waste.

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Steadfast Stirling“Steadfast as the rock” was chosen as our area’s motto in november following a public vote, and will now be added to the Stirling coat of arms. thanks to Stirling readers who took part in the poll after the story in our winter issue.

Whiskies galore!if you’ve been known to enjoy the occasional dram, here’s a date for your diary. the first-ever Spirit of Stirling Whisky Festival will be held on Saturday 12 May in the city’s

Albert Halls. Acknowledging

the importance of whisky to the tourism sector, the event will celebrate the quality and variety of whiskies from the Stirling area

and beyond. Distilleries and brands confirmed so far include anCnoc, Arran, Balblair, glenfarclas, glenglassaugh, glengoyne, old pulteney, Bruichladdich, tomatin, glen garioch, Auchentoshan, Bowmore, Dalmore and Jura.

Don’t miss the chance to take a whisky taste-tour of Scotland without leaving Stirling.

Slainte!

Tickets are on sale now at www.spiritofstirlingwhiskyfestival.co.uk

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Swan lakethis serene image shows why the university of Stirling campus was recently voted the second-most picturesque in the uk in a poll carried out by AllAboutCareers.com

If you’d like to see your view in Stirling, email it with a little background information to stirlingmagazine@stirling.gov.uk

Customers have their sayA touch-screen in our Customer First centre in port Street is allowing customers to give quick and easy feedback. to date, 89 per cent of customers using the screen say they are very or fairly satisfied with the customer service they receive.

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taxis and private hires

Taxis and private hire vehicles serving the Stirling Council area are now being issued with new badges and vehicle plates to improve security and give the fleet a more professional corporate and distinctive appearance.

Plates and badges are green for taxi vehicles and purple for private hire vehicles.

There has now been a change to signage allowed on all vehicles. Apart from official plates, they can now only have one sign on each front door. This must be of a restricted size, identify the company and give a phone number. For taxis, an email address can also be given.

If you have any comments or questions about taxi and

private hire licensing, contact the Licensing Team on 0845 2777000 or licensing@stirling.gov.uk

in brief

appropriate adult serviceA service supporting adults at risk who come into contact with the police has been relaunched.

the Forth valley Appropriate Adult Service is delivered by self-employed members of the community who have experience of supporting vulnerable adults. they operate independently of the police, and support people when they are interviewed as victims, witnesses, suspects or accused.  

the service is managed and funded by a partnership of Central Scotland police, Clackmannanshire Council, Falkirk Council, Stirling Council and nHS Forth valley.

help to beat the bogus callersCentral Scotland police Community Safety Department and Stirling Council Social Services are working on a scheme to help people stay safe in their homes. the telecare Bogus Caller Scheme supports vulnerable people at risk of being targeted by bogus callers. A telecare/MeCS community alarm unit is installed in the home, connected to the council’s 24-hour contact centre.

For information, call the Community Safety

Department on 01786 456000 or Social Services, Assessment and Care Management on 01786 471177.

new start for east plean primaryWork has begun on a new east plean primary School. the school was hit by a serious fire in november 2010 and for some months classes were held each day at the raploch Community Campus while a temporary teaching village was constructed.

the brand new building is set to be ready to welcome children in october.

Smart signage for fleet

At a glance:

taxi or private hire? taxis – white or silverprivate hires – any other colour

taxis – green plate and driver badgeprivate hires – purple plate and driver badge

taxis – can sit in a taxi rankprivate hires – illegal to sit in a taxi rank

taxis – can be hailed in the street

private hires – must be pre-booked and must display two ‘pre-Booked only’ signs, one on each side

taxis – one sign on each front door with company name, logo, phone number and/or email address, plus a roof signprivate hires – one sign on

each front door with company name

and/or logo, plus phone number.

Did you know?

Customer information cards will

soon be appearing inside taxis and

private hire cars. These will give the

vehicle’s age, when it was last tested

and when its next test is due.  All

vehicles are regularly tested, with

the frequency increasing with

the age of the vehicle.

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Forum needs youDo you have an interest in countryside access? Would you like to get involved in how countryside access is managed locally?  

Stirling Area local Access Forum covers the area within the Stirling Council boundary, but outside the loch lomond and trossachs national park. it’s made up of four groups of people who represent paths users, landowners and managers, community groups as well as local and national organisations.

Members meet four times a year to discuss ways of

improving and managing public access to the countryside.

the work includes advising the council and others on public rights of access law and other rights of way issues, as

well as contributing to the development of strategies and plans such as the Stirling Council Core paths plan.

the forum is looking for new members. All you need is a desire to become involved and to work with others to achieve a common purpose.  

If you would like to join, or for more information,

please contact the Access Team on 0845 277 7000 or email transportplanning@stirling.gov.uk. www.stirling.gov.uk/countrysidelocalaccessforum

new orchards for pleanStirling Council’s rangers Service worked with Friends of plean Country park to plant new orchards at the park last month.  

Funding from the Central Scotland green network Development Fund has allowed 21 trees to be planted.  

the aim is to encourage local people, visitors and schools to enjoy and get involved in looking after the orchards, which are also a rich habitat for birds and insects.  

older apple trees, some possibly from victorian days, were pruned and grafts taken in the hope of encouraging new growth.

Our cars go electric!Stirling Council has joined with the Carbon Trust for a three-year energy awareness campaign to save energy, lower CO2 emissions and save money across the organisation. As part of the initiative, three electric cars have recently been added to the council’s fleet of vehicles.

Key points to remember:respect others – paths are for everyone’s enjoyment.   • Expect to meet people on foot, on bikes or

on horseback.   • Always keep dogs and horses under control. • Reduce your speed if you are on a bike and know

there might be other people in the area.  • Walkers should listen out for bike bells and calls. • Don’t do anything that could be dangerous to

other users, such as putting sticks across paths.

Think about your route – if it’s been raining, consider changing your route to avoid churning up an already muddy path.

Take responsibility for your dog

– avoid fields with livestock in them as dogs can worry sheep and cows. Keep clear of lambs, too. Always “bag it and bin it” and clear up after your dog.

Make sure the access rights apply

– some areas, for example privacy areas around houses and school playing fields, are excluded from the Code.

Know the Code before you goOutdOOr access

The beautiful green spaces right on our doorstep across the Stirling area are there for everyone to enjoy.

The law gives us the right of responsible, non- motorised (mobility scooters are allowed) access to most land in Scotland. However, with that right come responsibilities.

The Scottish Outdoor Access Code sets out guidelines to help walkers, cyclists, horse riders and canoeists – even paragliders! – think about their actions and how they affect others and the environment.

You can find out more at the Scottish Outdoor Access Code www.outdoor access-scotland.com or contact the

Stirling Council Access Team on transportplanning@stirling.gov.uk or 0845 277 7000. Watch an advert about the Code at www.snh.org.uk/SOACvideo/

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spOrting stirling

The University of Stirling is host to one of five British Gas Intensive Training Centres (ITC) and the only centre in Scotland. British Swimming established the ITC network to create world-class swim training environments in the build up to the Olympic Games in 2012 and beyond; it is run through partnership with the University, Scottish Swimming, British Swimming and sportscotland.

The swimmers are supported by the sports science expertise available at the university, a key strength of the Stirling economy.

The ITC programme is delivered by Rob Greenwood, previously head coach to the Gallicia Performance Squad in Lancashire. Scottish Swimming’s Stirling Performance Squad underpins the ITC programme, coached by Ian Wright, a former head coach at leading Scottish club, Warrender Baths Club.

Here, Ian tells Deborah Kilpatrick about Stirling’s top swimmers and their preparations for the Olympic trials in March:

“Seventeen of Stirling’s top swimmers will go to the trials. Seven or eight have a chance of getting through. They have

to get a time better than the top 16th in the world and come first or second in their heat to make it. Our swimmers are on the up – we hope we can make the team.

“Our target is to get three or four of them in. It’s hard for each of them – you can’t control what your opposition does on the day.

“If they get on the team, it’s realistic to say they are aiming for the podium – if you get into the top 10, you have a chance. Being in a relay team often means there’s more likelihood of getting a medal.

“The seven with the best chance are Jak Scott, Rob Baile, Ryan Bennett, Josh Walsh, Lewis Smith, Doug Woodstock, Kerry Buchan and Clare Dawson. Clare has swum for Ireland in the World Championships, so she could get on the Irish team, perhaps making the relay.

“We started the season early on 5 August. In September 2011 we were doing altitude training in Arizona. This January, we trained in Singapore for three weeks.

“Every week, training consists of 10 sessions of two to two-and-a-half hours in the pool as well as six land

training sessions such as strength and conditioning,

circuits and running. They swim about 60k a week and 70-80 per cent of that is working on technique.

“They have to spend so long in the pool because humans haven’t evolved to be in water – you have to work on it and spend time there to become efficient and develop good technique.

“The last four–five weeks of preparation are about

reducing the training load. The athletes should start to feel fresher and fitter.

“Much of the preparation coming up to the trials is psychological. They’re anxious, but that’s positive, because the anxiety comes from adrenaline.

“The hugeness of the event will raise it to another level – the world will be watching and they’ll be swimming in the Olympic pool.

“The trials will be the biggest swimming event to be held in Britain. Usually there are 500 people at a swimming competition, but there will be thousands at the trials.

“That alone will be a great experience. Even the ones who don’t make it through will be able to look back and realise that in time. They’ll be able to say: ‘I was part of that.’”

ian Wright, Scottish swim coach, tells Stirling about our top swimmers’ preparations for the olympic trials

ready to make an Olympic splash!

olympic torch the olympic torch will travel through the Stirling area on 9 and 13 June. on 9 June it will be in Crianlarich and tyndrum on its way to inverness via glencoe. on 13 June, it will light up Stirling, going through Bridge of Allan to Dunblane before heading along raploch road to Corn exchange road and Stirling Castle. the torch then travels back to raploch, along Albert place, before heading out of Stirling via Bellfield road, Borestone place and the Bannockburn Heritage Centre.

swim coach ian Wright with Kerry Buchan

stirling university is home to the national swimming academy. “the centre is the result of partners working together to provide a world-class environment,” said ian. “the swimmers have access to a physio, strength and conditioning coach, nutritionist, psychologist and sports scientist.”

Fancy a swim at The Peak?Prices start at £3.00

Visit the-peak-stirling.org.uk or tel 01786 273555 for details

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Jak Scott

Born:1991From: edinburghOccupation: Student studying Accountancy with Business law university of Stirling; swimmer preferred stroke: freestyleMajor competitions attended: represented great Britain at the FinA World long Course Championships (sixth 4 x 200m Freestyle relay) 2011; silver medal at the Delhi Commonwealth games (4 x 200m freestyle relay) 2010sporting goal: to make an olympic podium

Kerry Buchan

(main picture, left)Born: 1987From: StonehavenOccupation: Full-time swimmerpreferred stroke: 100m and 200m breaststrokeMajor competitions attended: Commonwealth games 2006 & 2010 (finalist at both); Commonwealth Youth games 2004; european Championships 2006 (placed fourth in Women’s 200m breaststroke); World Short Course Championships 2008British Champion in 2007 on all three breaststroke eventsMultiple Scottish champion at age group and senior level over the past 10 yearssporting goal: to qualify for the 2012 olympic games and 2014 Commonwealth games

ryan Bennett

Born: 1990From: CambridgeOccupation: Student studying Sport and exercise Science at university of Stirling; swimmer preferred stroke: 100m and 200m backstrokeMajor competitions attended: British trials 2011 (won two bronze medals) 2010 Commonwealth games double finalist (seventh in both events for england); selected for england Commonwealth games team; Scottish Short Course Champion; Scottish long Course Champion; national Senior Champion; gold medal at British university Short Course Swimming Championships (100m and 200m backstroke); silver medal at British university

Short Course Swimming Championships (50m backstroke); silver medal at British university Short Course Swimming Championships (4 x 50m Medley relay)2009 national Senior 100m backstroke champion; Youth gold medal winner in men’s 4 x 200m front crawl relay; tri nations: three gold and three bronze medals, setting backstroke age record; five medals at the British universities Championshipssporting goal: to compete at olympic games for great Britain

Joshua Walsh

Born: 1991From: preston, lancashireOccupation: Student, Sport and exercise Science university of Stirling, swimmer

preferred stroke: Front crawlsporting achievements: 2011: selected for great Britain for the FinA World

Championships (4 x 200m freestyle relay alternate);

selected for the great Britain squad; four gold medals at the British universities Championships; three silver medals at the British universities Championships 2010: two bronze medals at the english open national Championships; competed for great Britain at the european Short Course Championships (10th); two bronze medals at the British universities Championships; one silver medal at the British universities Championships sporting goal: to represent my country at an olympic games

Lewis

Smith

Born: 1988From: edinburghOccupation: Student, Sports Studies at university of Stirling; swimmerpreferred stroke: individual medley (iM)sporting achievements: 2011: gold medal at the ASA national Championships (400m iM); represented great Britain at the World university games (fifth) 2010: silver medal

Delhi 2010 Commonwealth games (4 x 200m

Freestyle relay); finalist Delhi 2010 Commonwealth games (400m iM); Scottish national

Champion (200 and 400 iM); triple silver

Medalist BuCS long Course Championships 2009: 16th at the World Championships (400m iM); represented team gB at the european Short Course Championship; silver medal at the British Championships (400m iM); silver medal at the British Championships (200m iM); silver medal at the British Championships (400m freestyle) 2008: represented team gB at european Short Course Championships; represented team gB at the international tri nations in Canadasporting goal: to win an olympic medal.

ian’s top fitness swimming tips

• It’s important to grasp the basics of technique. lots of pools offer instruction.• If you haven’t done much swimming before, try to do 20-30 minutes. When you’re used to it, swim for an hour. if you can do about 50-60 lengths (a mile of a 25m-pool is 64 lengths), you’re doing well. • Try to make your strokes longer and stay relaxed – don’t fight the water.• Wear goggles and get your face in the water. When people swim along with their heads up, it’s still good because they’re enjoying being in the water and moving, but it’s not swimming for fitness. You need to get your heart rate up.

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Did you know?

recycling facts

Stirling Council has a current recycling rate of approximately 56 per cent for household waste and is one of the top-performing councils in Scotland.

This is due to an effective waste and recycling service AND local people proactively recycling. The overall participation rate for the blue box (dry recycling scheme) in Stirling is 78.2 per cent.

More than 32,000 households also have access to a weekly food waste recycling service. However, the overall participation rate for food waste recycling in Stirling is only 28 per cent.

Stirling Council is finding out what can be done to improve the food waste recycling service, so we can encourage more people to recycle their food waste.

We’ve been

listening

Stirling Council has been listening to your views about the current food waste recycling service. Recently, we carried out a survey across the local area.

A team of researchers spoke to 450 people at their doorsteps in October and November 2011 to find out what you thought of food waste recycling.

The survey found that just under half (48 per cent) of all households across the Stirling area recycle food waste; 12 per cent have lapsed (started then stopped); and 40 per cent have never recycled food waste.

Food waste recyclers

For the people who were recycling their food waste,

How can we improve our food waste recycling service? We’ve

been asking local people their views

Feeding the debate about

food waste recycling

FACT70% of domestic

waste recycled by

2025 – that’s the national

target for Scotland. And

food makes up a large

chunk of our day-to-

day waste.

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food waste recycling

you tickWhich box would

the service was highly regarded. The satisfaction and reliability of this service, and the usefulness of the caddy, were rated as either very good or good by 93 per cent, 90 per cent and 98 per cent of respondents.

Lapsed food waste

recyclers

The results of our survey showed that some people have stopped recycling their food waste. The main reasons were problems with smell (47%) and concerns about hygiene or attracting vermin or other pests. Some people (15%) mentioned not having a kitchen caddy, and a similar number told us they didn’t like the current system, or reported that their caddies had been lost or had blown away.

Non food waste

recyclers

These respondents had never recycled their food waste. The main reason (44%) was not having a caddy. Some felt they didn’t produce enough food waste to make it worthwhile recycling, and smaller numbers mentioned being put off by concerns over hygiene or smell. Feeding food waste to birds or pets and composting were other reasons given for not taking part in the scheme.

The opportunity to in-

crease food waste recy-

cling

Half of people not recycling food waste (lapsed and non food waste recyclers) said they would be willing to start or restart recycling their food waste if the current service was changed.

The next steps

The council is currently holding some focus groups with food waste recyclers, lapsed food waste recyclers and non- food waste recyclers to

further explore what would help people to recycle more food waste and improve the current service.

Tell us about your experience with the

Food Waste Recycling Service: email info@stirling.gov.uk or call 0845 277 7000 For more information about food waste visit www.stirling.gov.uk/householdwaste

Does your household recycle food waste? – food waste recycler

Did you recycle your food waste but stopped? – lapsed food waste recycler

Have you never recycled food waste? – non food waste recycler

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A Stirling Council housing development designed to meet the needs of adults with learning disabilities has welcomed its first tenants.  

The six flats, a respite flat suitable for someone who uses a wheelchair, a ground-floor staff support hub and three family homes have been built on the site of the former Torbrex House by Cruden Building & Renewals Ltd, and partly funded by the

Scottish Government. The council’s housing services worked closely with social services colleagues to design properties to meet the needs of each tenant.

New tenant Duncan Turner said: “I’d like to thank Stirling Council for my lovely new home. I’m looking forward to being more independent and I’ll enjoy living by myself and meeting my new neighbours.”     

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Welcome homes! the first tenants at a new housing development at torbrex for people with learning disabilities have picked up the keys to their new properties

“I’m looking forward to being more independent and I’ll enjoy living by myself and meeting my new neighbours”

council electricians craig lapworth and Gary fraser up on the roof with

fes electricians alexander stein and scott christie

rental properties snapped up in riverside

Stirling Council, in partnership with the national Housing trust and Bett Homes, recently offered new properties to rent for leases up to five years in the riverside area of the city.

Mid-market rental properties are more expensive than normal council rents, but generally less expensive than the private rented sector.

they are aimed at applicants who can afford to pay a higher rent and who can manage independent living without the need for additional support.

the offer has proved very popular, and all sixteen flats were quickly leased. they are a mix of one and two bedroom properties, all furnished with white goods, carpets and curtains. rents range from £80 to £102 per week.

Stirling Council does not own the flats, but allocates and manages them. tenancies will be let initially for six months, and from then on a month-to-month basis. After five years the company owning the properties will sell the flats, and sitting tenants given the option to either buy the property or move out.

As a result of the success of this scheme the council will be looking for further opportunities to provide properties for mid rent. those interested should phone 01786 442997 for more details and look out for the advertisements in the local press.

Welcome to your new home: tenant claire matheson

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Ho

us

ing

Did you know?

Each home has been designed

and constructed to a very high

standard to meet the needs

of individual tenants

left: the striking new torbrex homes are built to an energy efficient design to reduce heating costs

Below: duncan in his brand-new kitchen

Below centre: housing services worked closely with social services on the project

tenants in council houses in Stirling will be hoping for sunny weather – after their homes were fitted with solar panels.

they are the first in a pilot scheme, agreed by the council last year, to generate “green” electricity in council houses and buildings from solar power.

A variety of council-owned buildings including schools, offices, houses, a community centre and library will benefit from the solar scheme to test their effectiveness.

this will include monitoring energy savings and potential

income generated from Feed-in and export tariffs before any large-scale adoption of renewable energy technologies.  

the first 16 council flats on Middlemuir road, Stirling, have now had solar panels

installed by FeS renewables ltd, aided by council electricians. each flat has had eight or nine panels fitted.

Councillor Alasdair Macpherson, housing portfolio holder, said:  “By introducing renewable technologies in council homes, we can help tackle fuel poverty by reducing energy costs while contributing to national targets for renewable energy generation and carbon reduction.

“the renewable technology pilots are complementing the existing roll out programme

upgrading heating systems to high-energy efficient boilers that are also addressing fuel poverty by reducing energy costs to our tenants.”

He added:  “We’re also delighted that our electricians are involved in this development and hope that the future installations will create jobs and retraining opportunities.”

Money generated from the feed-in tariffs for housing stock pilots will be reinvested in council housing.  

the pilot schemes will be monitored over a six to nine-month period.  

Bright prospects for solar scheme

“By introducing renewable technologies in council homes we can help tackle fuel poverty”

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scOttish lOcal cOuncil electiOns

On Thursday 3 May, you will be asked to vote for councillors to represent you on your local council.

Your local council is responsible for providing public services including:

• education• care for the elderly• housing• recycling and waste collection.Each council in Scotland is divided

into smaller areas called wards, and each ward has either three or four councillors who are elected to represent you and your local community.

This election uses a proportional voting system called the Single Transferable Vote (STV) system, and instead of marking a cross on the ballot

paper, you use numbers to show your choices. The system is

explained in more detail at www.aboutmyote.

co.uk

How do I fill in the ballot paper?

For this election, you will need to vote using numbers. Your ballot paper will list all the candidates standing to be councillors in your ward.

You will be asked to number the candidates in order of your choice using 1, 2, 3 and so on.

You can choose how many candidates to number. You don’t have to number every candidate. As long as you number at least one, your vote will be counted.

Put the number 1 in the voting box next to your first choice.

Put the number 2 in the voting box next to your second choice.

Put the number 3 in the voting box next to your third choice. And so on.

You can make as many or as few choices as you wish.

Can I vote?

To be able to vote in this election, you must be 18 or over on 3 May 2012 and:

• a British citizen living in Scotland• a qualifying Commonwealth

citizen* living in Scotland, or• a European Union citizen living

in Scotland.British citizens living overseas can’t

vote in the Scottish local elections.

You have to be registered to vote by Wednesday 18 April to vote in the local council elections.

Am I registered to vote?

If you are not included in the Register of Electors you won’t be able to vote in these elections and any future referendum or election.

All households were sent a registration form last autumn. If it was not returned with details of all current electors, you may not be registered.

You can check if you are registered by telephoning 01786 892289 or emailing stirling@centralscotland-vjb.gov.uk

If you are not registered, forms are available in local libraries or can be downloaded from www.aboutmyvote.co.uk Completed forms must be received by the Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) by 18 April at the latest.

*Qualifying Commonwealth citizens are those who have leave (permission) to enter or remain in the UK, do not need to have such leave or are treated as having such leave.

Have your say on 3 MayMake sure you’re registered to vote in the local council elections

how do i find out if i’m on the electoral register?Check the register in libraries and some council offices, or call 01786 892289.

When do i need to register by?the deadline is 18 April for the 3 May elections.

how do i get the right

forms to register? Forms to register or to vote by post can be collected in local libraries, requested by telephoning 01786 892289 or emailing Stirling@centralscotland-vjb.gov.uk or downloaded from www.saa.gov.uk/central

are there any changes to stirling area polling places

for this election?the only change will be in wards 4 (polling district SS425) and 5 (polling district SS505) who normally vote at the Albert Halls. voters will instead be using the guide Hut, glebe Avenue.

When will i get my polling card?they will be sent out late March/early April.

How to register to vote

Are you part of a community or other group that would welcome a visit from one of our electoral registration team to answer your members’ queries about registering to vote or applying for a postal vote? We can help with filling in registration and application forms. the team will also be happy to explain how the local council voting system works.

if you would like to arrange a visit contact russell taylor, Depute

electoral registration officer, on 01786 892207 ero@centralscotland-vjb.gov.uk More information and application forms are available on www.saa.gov.uk/central

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WAyS OF VOTING

There are three ways of voting:

In person on Thursday 3 May

Most people vote in person at their polling station, which is

often a nearby community centre, hall or school. It

is straightforward and a member of staff will always help if

you are not sure what to do. You will receive a

poll card by post telling you where your polling station is. It is often a nearby school or community centre. If you don’t receive your poll card, you can contact the council to find out where your polling station is.

Polling stations are open from 7am to 10pm. Please make sure you arrive in plenty of time. As long as you are in the queue by 10pm, you will be given a ballot paper.

By post

Anyone who may be away from home or too busy to vote on 3 May and who is not already a postal voter can apply now. Application forms

are available to download from www.aboutmyvote.co.uk or can be collected in local libraries or can be posted to you if you phone 01786 892289.

You will need to provide your signature and date of birth on your postal vote application form. You will need to provide these again when you send back your postal vote at the election.

When you send back your postal vote, your signature and date of birth will be compared to those in your postal application form, and if they don’t match, your vote may not be counted.

If signing the same way each time can be difficult for you, perhaps for example because of ill health, contact the ERO and ask for a “waiver”. This would mean you would only need to supply your date of birth when returning your security statement and ballot paper.

You can chose to have your ballot paper sent to a different address from your registered address including an address abroad. Before choosing to have the ballot paper sent to your chosen address, you have to be

aware that they will be posted about 23 April and need to be received before close of poll at 10pm on 3 May.

If you do not receive it, you can get a replacement from the council up to 5pm on Thursday 3 May.

By proxy

If you can’t get to the polling station and are unable to vote by post, you can appoint a proxy (someone you trust to vote on your behalf ranking the candidates in your chosen order).

Applications to appoint a proxy are available from the ERO by telephoning 01786 892289 or emailing stirling@centralscotland-vjb.gov.uk

The application must state a reason why you cannot vote in person or by

post, along with your signature and registered address and the name

and address of the person you are appointing as your proxy.

You need to check that the person you appoint is willing and able to vote in

the election as your proxy. Unless they are a close relative

a proxy is limited to voting for only two electors in any election.

If you have any questions, please go to www.aboutmyvote.co.uk or call

our helpline on 0800 3 280 280.

it could be an extension of activities you are already part of, such as voluntary work with a local community group, being a member of a school parents’ Council, or having a role in a trade union.

or it could be because you feel public

services in your local area should be improved. Whatever your motivation, becoming a councillor puts you in a position where you can make a difference to other people’s lives. to find out how you could become a candidate

in the council elections: email elections@stirling.gov.uk or tel 01786 443370. www.electoralcommission.org.uk/guidance/resources-for-those-we-regulate/candidates-and-agents the deadline for nominations is 4pm, 29 March 2012.

Have you thought of becoming a councillor?

need some help?

Stirling.gov.uk14

What’s on Your essential pull-out guide to upcoming events in our area. For more information, visit www.stirling.gov.uk

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Sunday Monday WednesdayTuesday

Adult Learners’ Week

schOOl’sOut!

the easter

hOlidaYs run

FrOM 2-13 april

14-18 MayScout

Community Week

What are your suggestions

for projects in our area?

community.week@scouts.org.uk

www.scouts.org.uk/

scoutcommunityweek

Polling cards for May 3 elections begin to be sent out

Easter Mondayroll your egg on Dumyat

Action Dayverge planting. Countryside rangersCheck details at www.facebook.com/ stirlingcouncilrangers

Last date for registering to vote

Last date for proxy vote applications

Cuckoo about Birds!Sunday 6 May, 10am-noon. Mugdock park, free. Join this ranger-led walk as we listen out for and learn about the habits of these fantastic birds. Booking essential 0141 956 6586.

Wake Up to Birds at Low MossSunday 20 May, 5am-6.30amFree. Booking essential 0141 956 6586.

rise With the lark as

We listen Out FOr the

FaBulOus daWn

chOrus. learn aBOut

WhY Birds sing and put

YOur id skills tO the

test On this ranger-

led Walk in the hidden

geM that is lOW MOss.

Wellies are essential

Dumyat Hill Race 7pm, Stirling university

Want beautiful skin? Ditch the facecream, listen to your granny and wash your face in the dew!

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Your essential pull-out guide to upcoming events in our area. For more information, visit www.stirling.gov.uk

cOlOur keY:sports events

Outdoor eventsschool and bank holidays

tourism, theatre etc

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Ma

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Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

Martin Taylortolboothrecognised as the world’s foremost exponent of solo jazz guitar playing. £15www.martintaylor.com

Spirit of Stirling Whisky Festival Albert Halls

Drymen Show

Council elections

tuMMY ruMBling?

the stirling Farmers’

Market is on today –

enjoy fresh, local produce, delicious

home baking and more

Action Dayverge planting. Countryside rangersCheck details at www.facebook.com/ stirlingcouncilrangers

100th anniversary of sinking of Titanic

Housing Open DayAlbert Halls10.30 am-2pmAll welcome

Last date for registering to vote

The Campbells of Greepe and Special Guests tolbooth, 8pmFive voices, one family, nine Mòd gold medals, three generations! £12/£10

Last date for proxy vote applications

Phil Bancrofttolbooth, 8 pmA prime mover on the Scottish jazz scene with an interactive, highly moving, multi-media jazz celebration. £10/8www.philbancroft.com

Evening Song LenzieSaturday 24 May, 7pm-8.30pm Free.Booking essential 0141 956 6586.

24 May

if being an early bird isn’t for

you, then why not come along

on this crepuscular avian walk

as we listen out to the evening

chorus? learn about why birds

sing and put your iD skills to the test

Dumyat Hill Race 7pm, Stirling university

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Are you looking for work? Considering a career change? Maybe you’re getting ready to leave school, college or university, or thinking about starting your own business.  Or perhaps you’re facing redundancy and want to look at new ideas and options.

Whatever your situation, the Stirling Careers and Jobs Event will have something to offer.  Exhibitors will include local employers, recruitment agencies, training providers and support organisations, as

well as specialist job search, career, business start up, volunteering, tax, welfare and benefits advisers.

A number of people attending last year’s successful event left with job applications and interviews already in place, as well as benefiting from a wealth of expert advice.

High attendance numbers and great feedback from both attendees and exhibitors have led to the event becoming a popular annual fixture. The date also coincides with the end of the school term and academic year, so young people will be able to come along to explore future career paths.

craFt WOrkshOp

Stirling reporter Deborah Kilpatrick dusts off her knitting needles and takes part in a workshop at one of Stirling’s oldest and best-known family firms.

knitting’s become trendy over the last couple of years, with celebs sporting wool and needles as the latest accessories and knitting cafés and groups springing up everywhere.

i decided – slightly behind the times – to jump on the bandwagon with a learn to knit workshop at Stirling institution McAree Brothers.

McAree’s has been part of the old town’s landscape for 132 years, seeing generations of disgruntled school children being trailed in at the end of the summer holidays for that year’s uniform.  But it’s not just about blazers and ties – tiers of shelves

groaning under the weight of

multi-coloured wools, yarns, silks, buttons and other goodies turn the shop into an Aladdin’s Cave for crafters.

Denise Fraser, an expert painter and textile artist from thornhill, took on the daunting task of teaching three newbies how to knit a scarf.

it took a bit of time for me to grasp how to cast on the stitches in the first place, but once i was up and going, the tea and chat was flowing and i got into a bit of a rhythm, i was surprised at how quickly a cosy, chunky scarf started to appear.

the nice thing about knitting in a group is the sociable side – you’re sitting having a bit of a

natter, but producing something at the same time.

My daughter watched the scarf’s progress with fascination over the next few evenings at home and seemed very taken by me doing something "mumsy” for a change. three nights later it was done – a bit wonky, but definitely a scarf. i might go on and do an ipod cover next. Any takers?

Stirling

careers and jobs

A wealth of advice and info

under one roof.

Thursday 10 May,

Albert Halls, Stirling

10 am - 4pm Free entry,

all welcome

Make a date in your diary for careers event

WHAT THEy SAID...

Here are a few comments about last year’s event.

“i liked the fact that you could find out about available jobs and speak to local  employers.”

“i gained a lot of information on training opportunities and careers advice.”“it saved hours of searching on the web. i have a wealth of knowledge on where to go from here – and a job interview!”

the event is sponsored by the Stirling Observer and Central FM. www.stirling.gov.uk/jobsevent

Have a whirl at a knit and a purl!

Keeping it in the family

lucy Baily, managing director of McAree Brothers, is the great-granddaughter of one of the original founders of the company.

She said: “our company was founded in 1878 by three brothers and the shop was originally in Baker Street, but moved to king Street more than 100 years ago. We now have three shops: Stirling, Falkirk and edinburgh.

“We are also one of the biggest uk companies on the internet for knitting wool. We have been awarded the origin Craft Award Best knitting Shop in Scotland two years running. our workshop area in Stirling is new. So far, people have come from all over Scotland to our workshops and we even have some people from england booked in – they’re organising their holidays around it!”

keep your eye on www.mcadirect.com/shop/workshops-c-82.html for details of upcoming events.

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This spring, Stirling employers are being encouraged to create 101 apprenticeships in 100 days and help young people between 16 and 25 make the move into a job.

The challenge has been set by Stirling’s local More Choices More Chances Partnership, part of a Scotland-wide drive to reduce the number of young people not currently in education, employment or training.

Full support and guidance is given to both employer and candidates and both benefit from the initiative – the employer gains a keen new recruit, and the young person their first step on the career ladder.

For more information about the 100 Days challenge

and how to get involved, contact Rowan Maguire or Marie McGrath on 01786 442719, email maguirero@stirling.gov.uk or mcgrathm@stirling.gov.uk

great meals out at your fingertips

A smart new resource developed by Stirling Council in association with the Stirling Food & Drink Forum is coming soon for local food and drink businesses and everyone who wants to enjoy all that eating out in the local area has to offer.

the Stirling Food & Drink iphone app will include information on food and drink outlets across the Council area.

 “You’ll be able to search by location, price and type, and view special offers, too,” said the council’s tourism executive Jason Clark.

“With the huge growth in smartphone use, this app will make it easy for visitors and local people to check the wide range available when looking for a great meal out.”

Jason is keen for local food and drink businesses to get in touch so their information can be included:  “there is no charge, so appearing on the iphone app is a great chance to reach potential customers in a cost-effective way.”

For more details, please email Jason at

clarkj@stirling.gov.uk or call 01786 442532

Apprentice scheme is a boost for employers

apprenticeships

Your business could benefit by up to £2000 if you employ a Modern Apprentice.

employers now stand to receive up to £2000 if they employ a young person as a Modern Apprentice, in addition to the funding contribution

which is available towards the young person’s training.

the Scottish government’s employer recruitment incentive (eri) is available to employers taking on:• any 16-19 year old who is recruited as a Modern Apprentice or has progressed to a Modern Apprenticeship• people aged 20 and over who have been unemployed for at least three months • unemployed who are beginning a Modern Apprenticeship.

eri is also available to employers recruiting an

employee who comes into one of these groups:• everyone moving on from a national training programme to a job • all 16-24 year olds who have moved on to a job following specific employability provision delivered by Barnardos and Action for Children.

For more information about the Employer

Recruitment Incentive, go to sds.co.uk/eri or phone the Skills Development Scotland’s Employer Helpline on 0800 783 6000.

Help to create 101 job opportunitiesChallenge encourages businesses to give local young people a chance by offering them an apprenticeship

case studY

Sheree Morrison spoke to Stirling about her apprenticeship as an Admin trainee with Stirling Council’s Assets and Support team.

Hi Sheree – how’s

it going?

it’s going really well. everyone i work with has been very friendly and helpful, and i’ve been welcomed into the team.

What difference has

this opportunity

made for you?

Since starting with the council, i’ve learned a lot of skills, and gained experience working in a busy office environment. it means i can gain an apprenticeship in business and administration while earning money at the same time. i think this will make it easier to get

employment at the end of my contract.

Hopes for the future?

i hope to be able to use my qualifications and the experience i’m gaining to secure a full-time office-based job.

What do you enjoy

the most?

i like the variety of the work, which changes each day. i’m always being faced with new challenges, which will help me gain even more experience.

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the Stirling Area Access panel (SAAp) is looking for volunteers who are able to spare a little time to help. the panel is an independent group aiming to improve access to buildings, the countryside, open space, the environment and all services for everyone in our local area.

“We believe that access is critical to the empowerment of individuals and allows them to live a full life with the same choice, control and freedom as any other citizen,” explained Chairman robert Dick.

“the Access panel includes disabled people who are experts in accessibility issues through their own day-to-day experience of confronting the barriers which exist in daily life, so we’re able to give advice based on personal experience and local knowledge.

“SAAp is the only organisation

in Stirling doing this type of work. We work closely with the Council and other organisations on equality issues and consult and advise on issues such as disabled parking, dropped kerbs, good access to buildings, proper signage and countryside paths.”

If you would like to become a volunteer with SAAP, or

would like more information about the panel, please get in touch with Lee Stevenson on 01786 469916 or email leestevenson@sventerprise. org.uk

New support for volunteers Stirlingshire voluntary enterprise is the new face of volunteering and social enterprise in the Stirling area.

last year, CvS Stirling and Stirling volunteer Centre wound up and became part of a new organisation – Stirlingshire voluntary enterprise (Sve). Staff, resources and roles all transferred to Sve, and a new board of

directors is now in place.  

All the services that CvS and the Stirling

volunteer Centre used to provide are still available.

Are you a member of a voluntary organisation? Are you looking to setting up a new group but don’t know where to begin? Are you looking for funding advice and information? Are you

looking for help in writing and amending constitutions?

Sve can offer support, advice and information.

Please get in touch at:Stirlingshire Voluntary

Enterprise, Norman MacEwan Building,Cameronian Street Stirling FK8 2DX. Opening hoursMonday-Friday 9am-4.30 pm. Tel 01786 469916.

in briefMeals on wheelsFrom April, people in Bannockburn and eastern villages who receive Meals on Wheels will be taking part in a six-month pilot scheme to try out a new-look prepared meals service.

the new service will offer a wider choice of dishes, including meals suitable for people with special dietary or cultural requirements, and because food is delivered frozen, it gives customers the flexibility to decide when they would prefer to have their meal. Social Services staff will be visiting people who currently receive a meals service before the pilot begins to assess their requirements.

During the trial, the current Meals on Wheels service will continue as usual in other areas.

council thanks foster carersAn awards ceremony to acknowledge the invaluable work and commitment of the Stirling area’s foster carers was hosted recently by Stirling Council.

Foster carers provide a range of support – from temporary respite for a couple of weekends a month to full-time care. Some are long-term foster carers.

the needs of the child and the foster carer are paramount, and demand for different types of foster care changes constantly.

If you could offer a child a loving and

stable home and would be interested in finding out more about foster care, please contact 01786 443676 or email adoption-fostering@stirling.gov.uk

Help improve life for disabled people

Access for AllAccessibility improvements at Dunblane railway Station, as well as stations in Dyce, Shotts, newton and rosyth, were announced in December as part of the Department for transport and transport Scotland’s £370 million Access for All funding scheme.

the changes will help make the railway more accessible to

disabled people and other passengers with impaired mobility such as parents pushing prams.

the improvements will be confirmed following network rail feasibility studies on each of the five stations over the coming months, but could include lifts, step-free access to platforms and more disabled parking.

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Deirdre Cilliers joined Central Regional Council in 1988 and at local government reorganisation in 1996, she became Head of Adult Care at Clackmannanshire Council. She has been Chief Social Work Officer for Clackmannanshire since 2001. In October 2011, Deirdre became responsible for the ground-breaking shared services project for social services in Stirling and Clackmannanshire. Here, she talks about how she will help to ensure that we provide faster, earlier support for vulnerable people and help people to live independently.

deirdre, how is your new role different from your former post?The role is significantly different because I now have a real focus on integrating the two services and engaging with staff to raise awareness of the new agenda. At the moment, I’m meeting as many staff as possible to ensure that everyone is sharing our vision of putting the customer at the heart of everything we do. At the same time, we still have to deliver the best service we can to the people living in Stirling and Clackmannanshire on a day-to-day basis.

how will merging the two services improve things for people who come into contact with social services?Stirling and Clackmannanshire are

both relatively small local authorities, so by joining up we are creating additional capacity and can streamline our services to ensure that we have better outcomes for people who live in both areas. The joint service means there are more opportunities for specialist services to be developed and what we have agreed is that we will be taking the best of both worlds – sharing skills, experience and best practice so that we get the best service across the board.

What are the most important aspects of the service we provide?The most important aspect is that we are able to provide a more comprehensive and coherent service for our customers. There are two particular points that the social services managers have established that will guide all our work: the customer is at the heart of everything we do and that we are going to value our staff as we take them through this transition. These

are the two most important threads at the moment.

What message do you have for people who come into contact with social services?I want to reassure Stirling readers that the very reason we are doing this is in order to provide a better service, and everyone involved is very aware of that. Change isn’t easy, but it is going to be worth it because there will be better outcomes for people using our services and that is the thing we are all

most focused on.

The best of both Working in partnership

means better services for our vulnerable residents

“We will be taking the best of both worlds, sharing skills, experience and best practice so that we get the best service across the board”

worlds

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the Big nOise

Raploch young people are getting ready for the Big Noise Orchestra’s big day on 21 June as part of the pre-Olympics celebrations.

Gustavo Dudamel and The Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra of Venezuela will perform a spectacular outdoor concert in the heart of a Scottish community transforming itself through their El Sistema philosophy – and Raploch’s Big Noise will be special guests.

This outdoor performance marks the opening of the London 2012 Festival in Scotland and will be one of the Cultural Olympiad highlights UK wide.

It is set to be one of the most thrilling concert experiences of the year and a joyful celebration of social hope and artistic beauty.

Since 2008, the children of Raploch have been learning to play together in Big Noise – inspired by and partnered with Venezuela’s Fundación Musical Simón Bolívar, commonly known as El Sistema. World-famous Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel is patron of Big Noise.

The Big Concert comes at the end of The Big Visit, a four-day residency in which the Venezuelans will work with the children, leaving an enormous artistic legacy to the community.

The concert itself, featuring

a full performance by The Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra, is being staged by Sistema Scotland in association with Creative Scotland, London 2012 Festival, Stirling Council, EventScotland, and the Southbank Centre.

A spectacular outdoor

venue and stage will be created in Raploch, accommodating hundreds of musicians and thousands of spectators.  

Gustavo Dudamel said: “I’ve watched over the years as the programme in Raploch has grown, as teachers from Venezuela have travelled to

Music, maestros!‘outstanding’ folk band are hitting the high notes

no More Cages are a young folk band featuring the best up-and-coming school-age musicians from the Stirling area.

Members of the tolbooth traditional Music Workshops (funded by the Youth Music initiative through Stirling Council education) have been honing their skills alongside tutors and top trad and folk maestros lori Watson, Claire Mann, innes Watson and, previously, ewan Macpherson.

no More Cages’ first tour took place in november 2011 as part of the Scottish Music Centre’s Hit the road tour, building up experience of touring.

they also played on the Danny kyle open Stage, part of Celtic Connections Festival: 80 bands are selected from 250 applications to perform and it has helped launch many careers.

no More Cages came in the top 10 winners – as one of the youngest bands performing, this is a testament to their talent, commitment, enthusiasm and energy.

liz Clark, who organises the Danny kyle open Stage, said: “no More Cages were just magic… loads of talent and they should go far. i look forward to seeing them coming through for years to come!”

Celtic radio said they were “outstanding”.

If you would like to hear No More Cages,

you’ll find their tunes at www.nomorecages.bandcamp.com  You can also contact them at nomorecagesband@gmail.com To find out more about the Traditional Music Workshops at the Tolbooth, contact the Tolbooth Box Office on 01786 274000.

“Stirling is proud of Big noise and honoured to welcome these illustrious guests from venezuela, who have given so much to us already. We guarantee a warm welcome to an audience we hope will come from far and wide.”Councillor Graham Houston, leader, Stirling Council For further information, contact George Anderson Call: 07900 891691 Web: www.makeabignoise.org.uk

our talented young musicians are set to make a Big noise this summer

A warm welcome awaits

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Scotland to help support this tremendous project.

“It was after a visit by my wife in 2009, hearing her enthusiasm, when I realised that we must find a way to bring the magic of the Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra of Venezuela to Raploch, but also to share the excitement of what they are building in Raploch with my orchestra, and the world.

“Life is about experience – and I think this concert, in this setting, is going to be a BIG experience!”

Richard Holloway, chairman Sistema Scotland that runs Big Noise, said: “I am excited that the visionary genius behind this wonderful

movement, Maestro José Antonio Abreu, will also be with us.

“We’ve longed for the day when he might come to see how we have applied his ideas at the heart of Scotland.”

Three evenings a week and five mornings in the holidays, the corridors of the Community Campus resound with music as they’re taken over by the young musicians of Big Noise. Deborah Kilpatrick visits to join in the music making…

“Big noise maximises what you get out of learning to play an instrument – self-confidence, discipline, learning how to co-operate and be a good citizen – because we put the children in an orchestra straight away,” george Anderson of Sistema Scotland tells me.

“usually it takes years before you join an orchestra. We see the orchestra as a classroom for life. the children are immersed in music.”

it was the day after Burns’ night when i visited and the musicians were getting into the spirit of it, taking turns to join a ceilidh. My daughter and her friend, tagging along for the trip, were welcomed in for a burst of the gay gordons before joining some of their new friends at the craft tables in the foyer, an area where the children can go for some down time.

going straight in to the intensive music sessions after a long day at school can be tiring, but Big noise recognise this and the kids i saw were upbeat and energetic. Sometimes there

are up to 17 different “sectionals” or groups preparing their parts for the concert in June, and they come together at other times.

“everyone gets a place in the orchestra,” george says. “We give them easier or more difficult pieces, depending on their ability.

“it won’t only be kids playing at the concert, though. there will be two major pieces of work by one of the world’s most spectacular orchestras, with two of the best international conductors.

“it’s a unique opportunity to see something like this here in Stirling.”

in one room, an intermediate group sing their hearts out under the guidance of an enthusiastic piano-playing Spanish instructor; in the next, a brass section treats us to a rendition of the Flintstone’s theme tune on tuba.

i’m struck by the dedication of the children. none have to be told to join in. each also sits and waits quietly for their turn to play – “it’s a big part of the discipline,” george explains.

parents start to gather, signalling the end of the session.

parent Charlotte Stewart says: “i wasn’t sure about it at first, but once it started, we all thought it was fantastic.”

Hannah tait, a young cello player, sums it up: “i like Big noise.”

The orchestra that welcomes all abilities

Music, maestros!rehearsing some

midsummer magic: children from

raploch’s Big noise picture: marc marnie

the children are learning a variety of skills through the Big noise

tickets are available from the tolbooth in Stirling, Hub tickets in edinburgh, and ticketweb. Most adult tickets cost just £12 with tickets for those aged 16 and under costing £5. A limited number of tickets are available in a tiered seating area, all at £25.

tickets

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Thousands of people have already taken advantage of the speedy treatment time in the minor injuries unit (MIU) at Stirling Community Hospital.

Latest figures show that the average waiting time is less than half that at the emergency department at Forth Valley Royal Hospital in Larbert.

You don’t need to make an appointment and most

patients who attend the MIU are diagnosed and treated within the hour.

On one day, for example, a patient with a sprained foot stayed just 27 minutes at Stirling MIU. At about the same time, a patient with a

similar injury waited two-and-a-half hours at Forth Valley Royal Hospital.

The minor injuries unit is open from 9am to 9pm seven days a week and is now located on the ground floor of the former

thousands of patients are benefiting from quicker treatment at the walk-in minor injuries unit at Stirling Community Hospital

A major

result!

public have a say on Stirling Community Hospital

nHS Forth valley has been finding out what the public think about the new community hospital in Stirling.

Members of the local nHS public partnership Forum recently conducted a survey asking a series of questions about cleanliness, tidiness and whether people can find their way around.

Hearing what people think will help to further improve the community hospital and ensure that anyone who attends has a positive experience.

the hospital is currently handling between 400 and 500 outpatient appointments a day, and also cares for patients attending X-ray and the minor injuries unit.

Meanwhile, work is continuing on further changes to the hospital.

Following the relocation of the minor injuries unit to revamped accommodation on the ground floor of the former maternity unit, work is now under way to demolish the Queen elizabeth Wing, as planned.

the upper floors of the former maternity unit are also being refurbished to prepare for the transfer of inpatient services from Bannockburn Hospital, which are due to move across in May/June 2012.

“The average waiting time is less than half that at the emergency department at Forth Valley Royal Hospital”

above: 11-year-old Victoria mcGregor from Bridge of allan checks out an X-ray of her wrist in the miu

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maternity unit, which is accessed via the Bellfield Road entrance.

The unit is staffed by advanced nurse practitioners, who can prescribe medication and provide treatment for a wide range of minor injuries.

These include minor burns and scalds, infected wounds, sprains and strains, cuts and grazes, minor eye and ear injuries and minor head and neck injuries. Staff can also arrange X-rays for suspected broken bones and apply plaster, if required.

If you need advice or treatment for a minor

injury after 9pm, please contact NHS 24 on 08454 24 24 24 who can direct you to a GP out-of-hours, if required.

Free eye test sets its sights on nursery school pupils

eYe tests

Children across Stirling are benefiting from a new eye test which could help them start school with the best sight possible.

the free eyesight check-up is being offered to nursery school children in the year before they start school and could pick up the early signs of an eye problem.

the fun 10-minute test is carried out by an orthoptist and involves matching pictures or letters and following lights. it looks for eye problems such as a squint, muscle imbalance and vision problems such as lazy eye.

if any problem with a child’s

eyesight is suspected, they will be referred to the hospital orthoptist for further tests.

New scanner installed to improve bone healthBOne scanner

A new scanner has been installed in Forth valley royal Hospital to allow patients from Forth valley to have their

bone health assessed locally.

A DXA scanner

measures a

patient’s bone density to help diagnose conditions such as osteoporosis and identify the most appropriate treatment to reduce the risk of further fractures.

people are often unaware that they have fragile bones until the time of a first fracture. Approximately 40,000 people aged over 50 in Forth valley are expected to

have a fragility fracture in their lifetime.

initially, the service is being offered to patients from Forth valley between the ages of 50 and 75 with a fracture.

earlier diagnosis of osteoporosis can help patients manage their condition by making changes to their diet and physical activity plans.

it may also halt the progression of the disease and avoid serious disability.

Below: the new scanner can help identify potential bone problems

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w A year in review: Stirling’s 2011

January 2011

Work gets under way on a £400,000 streetscape project to improve Stirling’s historic old town. the improvements to Corn exchange road and Baker Street are part of the vital Stirling initiative, which has already seen work completed in port Street and Friars Street.

February 2011

Stirling Council and ogilvie Construction limited begin construction of a new £2.9 million recycling and Waste Management Facility at lower polmaise, near Fallin. As the council works towards meeting Zero Waste targets, the new facility will receive all recyclables and waste collected from households, and will enable sorting of quality materials to be reused and recycled, diverting as much as possible away from landfill sites, which costs the Council £2 million every year.

May 2011

Customer First in port Street opens its doors for the first time – a handy city centre hub to pop in and make payments, get help with filling in forms, hand in documents and get advice face to face from the friendly customer service advisers. HM revenue and Customs and visit Scotland staff are also available.  

September 2011

Stirling and Clackmannanshire Councils encourage local residents and businesses to take part in a survey to help provide evidence for a bid for Scottish government funding to provide high-speed broadband across both council areas.    

October 2011

the council’s building standards team is awarded the internationally recognised iSo 9001 certificate for customer service by the British Standards institution – one of the first building standards teams in the country to achieve this honour. this month also sees the council’s own customer service staff awards ceremony.

June 2011

Stirling Castle’s magnificent renaissance royal palace reopens to the public following an ambitious £12m renovation. More than a decade of research and craftsmanship has gone into the revamp to ensure the palace appears as it would have done in the 16th century when it was home to James v and his Queen, Mary of guise. Also this month, the council sets the pace in recycling and is named as one of the top-performing councils in the uk, with local people recycling almost half of their waste. new initiatives this year will help us do even more.

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wFrom multimillion-pound investments to a beautifully restored royal palace, the creation of a state-of-the-art new healthcare facility to piping hot Hogmanay celebrations, 2011 was a busy year across the Stirling area. Stirling looks back at some of the highlights that made it a year to remember for local residents, businesses and visitors

March 2011

Clackmannanshire and Stirling Councils appoint two Heads of Joint Services. the roles of Belinda greer, Head of Joint education Services, and Deirdre Cilliers, Head of Joint Social Services, each span both councils, increasing capacity to improve services and work more efficiently.  

April 2011

Stirling Business panel hosts its second annual Spring trade Fair at Castle Business park. Sponsored by the Stirling Observer and Central FM, participants in the business-to-business event can visit nearly 60 stands and take part in speed networking sessions.

August 2011

Stirling Development Agency signs a deal to bring Waitrose to the city. it will be joined by tk Maxx at Burghmuir near the Craig’s roundabout. plean Country park’s annual Bark in the park is a howling success and another chance to promote the council’s Bag it and Bin it message supported by the Dogs’ trust.  

November 2011

As part of its drive to work together with local communities to be ready for whatever winter brings, the council supplies extra shovels to community councils. this month also sees the publication of a positive Best value Audit report highlighting Stirling Council’s clear vision for the area and strong political and management leadership.

December

2011

eddi reader and the red Hot Chilli pipers headline a great Hogmanay party at Stirling Castle esplanade – heralding an exciting 2012.

July 2011

the brand-new Forth valley royal Hospital in larbert – Scotland’s largest-ever nHS construction project, serving 300,000 citizens across the local area – is officially opened by HM the Queen.

learn more about your councillors on our website www.stirling.gov.uk/councillors

Your Councillors

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For access to all Stirling Councilservices phone the contact centre on:01786 443322 or 0845 277 7000 • text: 07717 990 001visit www.stirling.gov.uk or email info@stirling.gov.uk

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Bailie tony ffinchConservativeemail:

tonyffincht@stirling.gov.uk

councillor paul owensLabouremail:

owensp@stirling.gov.uk

provost fergus WoodSNPemail:

woodf@stirling.gov.uk

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councillor alistair BerrillConservativeemail:

berrilla@stirling.gov.uk

Bailie Graham lambieportfolio Holder for education

SNPemail: lambieg@stirling.gov.uk

Bailie colin o’BrienLabouremail:

obrienc@stirling.gov.uk

WArD 3 dunBlane and BridGe of allan

councillor callum campbellConservativeemail:

campbellc@stirling.gov.uk

councillor colin finlayLabouremail:

finlayc@stirling.gov.uk

councillor david GossLib Dememail:

gossd@stirling.gov.uk

council leaderGraham Houstonportfolio Holder for policy,

strategy and social careSNPemail: houstong@stirling.gov.uk

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castle

councillor John HendryLabouremail:

hendryj@stirling.gov.uk

councillor Graham reedLib Dememail:

reedg@stirling.gov.uk

councillor Jim thomsonportfolio Holder for environment

and sustainabilitySNPemail: thomsonj03@stirling.gov.uk

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stirlinG West

councillor neil BennyConservativeemail:

bennyn@stirling.gov.uk

depute leader scott farmerportfolio Holder for economy,

tourism and financeSNPemail: farmers@stirling.gov.uk

Dates of meetings are online at www.

stirling.gov.uk/meetings or contact us by phone at 0845 277 7000

learn more about the Scottish and uk governments online at www.scotland.gov.uk and www.direct.gov.uk

CONSTITuENCy MSPs

stirlinG

Bruce craWFOrd SNPtel: 01786 471899email: Bruce.crawford.msp@ scottish.parliament.ukweb: www.brucecrawfordmsp.orgsuite 3:3, Wallace House, maxwell place, stirling fK7 7rp

clacKmannansHire and dunBlane

keith BrOWn SNPtel: 01259 219333email: Keith.Brown.msp@ scottish.parliament.ukweb: www.keithbrownmsp.comconstituency office: 80 mill street, alloa fK10 1dy

LIST MSPS

mid scotland and fife

claire BakerLabourtel: 0131 348 6759email: claire.Baker.msp @scottish.parliament.uk

annaBelle eWingSNPtel: 0131 348 5066email: annabelle.ewing.msp@scottish.parliament.uk

MurdO FraserConservativetel: 0131 348 5293email: murdo.fraser.msp@ scottish.parliament.uk

jOhn parkLabourtel: 0131 348 6753email: John.park.msp@ scottish.parliament.uk

Willie rennieLib Demtel: 0131 348 5803email: Willie.rennie.msp@scottish.parliament.uk

richard siMpsOnLabourtel: 0131 348 6756email: richard.simpson.msp@ scottish.parliament.uk

elizaBeth sMith Conservativetel: 0131 348 6762email: elizabeth.smith.msp@ scottish.parliament.uk

MEMBEr OF PArLIAMENT

stirlinG

anne McguireLabourtel: 01786 446515email: anne.mcguire.mp@parliament.ukweb: www.annemcguiremp.org.ukconstituency office: 22 Viewfield street, stirling fK8 1ua

councillor andrew simpsonLabouremail:

simpsona3@stirling.gov.uk

Ward 6 stirling east

Bailie ian BrownLib Dememail:

browni@stirling.gov.uk

councillor corrie mcchordLabouremail:

mcchordc@stirling.gov.uk

councillor steven patersonportfolio Holder for empowerment and citizenship

SNPemail: patersonst@stirling.gov.uk

Ward 7 Bannockburn (Bannockburn, cowie, plean)

councillor margaret Brisley Labouremail:

brisleym@stirling.gov.uk

councillor alasdair macphersonportfolio Holder for Housing

SNP email:macphersona@ stirling.gov.uk

councillor Violet Weir Labouremail:

weirv@stirling.gov.uk

Representing you in parliament

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Active Stirling 0300 028 0101

Central Scotland Fire & rescue Service HQ tel: 01324 716996

Central Scotland police tel: 01786 456000

Falkirk Community Hospital 01324 624 000

Floodline tel: 0845 988188

Forth valley College tel: 0845 634 44 44

Forth valley royal Hospital tel: 01324 566 000

Housing repairs 0800 027 5888

Hydro electric tel: 0800 300000

Macrobert Arts Centre tel: 01786 467155/466666

nHS 24 08454 24 24 24

nHS Forth valley tel: 01786 463031

Quantum Meters tel: 0845 6066766

Scottish enterprise Forth valley tel: 01786 451919

Scottish power tel: 0845 2727111

Scottish Water tel: 0845 6008855

Stirling Community Hospital 01786 434 000

university of Stirling tel: 01786 473171

trAnSCo (gas emergencies) tel: 0800 111999

traveline tel: 0871 2002233

your councilyour voiceyour votethe Scottish local Council elections are on Thursday 3 May. Make sure you’re registered to vote by Wednesday 18 April to be able to have your say on the day

Forms to register or to vote by post are available from www.saa.gov.uk/central or www.aboutmyvote.co.uk or email ero@centralscotland-vjb.gov.uk

Forms are also available in your local library.

if you are not on the electoral register, you will need to complete a voter registration form and send it to your local electoral registration office to arrive by Wednesday 18 April.

THurSDAy

3May