Northamptonshire Age Concern – Engage Magazine – Summer 2024
The Summer 2024 edition of our Engage magazine is now available and can be read online here
Online resource launched for families across West Northamptonshire
A new online resource focused on providing families with a wealth of resources and local service information has been launched today by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC).
The Family Hubs website provides bespoke guidance to cater to the needs of families at every life stage; from conception and pregnancy, through to toddlers, school admissions and the teenage years. It offers a seamless experience, organising information by age range to facilitate easy access to relevant support.
The website provides comprehensive guidance and local service details tailored to meet the specific needs of the local community, whether they’re expecting a child, raising a toddler, or navigating the teenage years.
Currently in its initial phase, the Family Hubs website is set to evolve further with the addition of new features and expanded content over the coming months. WNC are also working closely with community organisations and partners to look at how it can extend this offer across all nine of our Local Area Partnerships (LAPs) in West Northants.
West Northamptonshire Council is committed to continually enhancing this resource to better serve the community, ensuring families have access to up-to-date and pertinent information.
Please do take the time to explore the Family Hubs website and discover the wealth of support available. Visit the Family Hubs in West Northamptonshire here:
The Family Hubs website provides bespoke guidance to cater to the needs of families at every life stage; from conception and pregnancy, through to toddlers, school admissions and the teenage years. It offers a seamless experience, organising information by age range to facilitate easy access to relevant support.
The website provides comprehensive guidance and local service details tailored to meet the specific needs of the local community, whether they’re expecting a child, raising a toddler, or navigating the teenage years.
Currently in its initial phase, the Family Hubs website is set to evolve further with the addition of new features and expanded content over the coming months. WNC are also working closely with community organisations and partners to look at how it can extend this offer across all nine of our Local Area Partnerships (LAPs) in West Northants.
West Northamptonshire Council is committed to continually enhancing this resource to better serve the community, ensuring families have access to up-to-date and pertinent information.
Please do take the time to explore the Family Hubs website and discover the wealth of support available. Visit the Family Hubs in West Northamptonshire here: Family Hubs
Cllr Fiona Baker, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education, at WNC said: “We are pleased to be launching the family hubs which provides an online tool to support families and their children right from the start of planning their pregnancy, through to their teenage years. The dedicated website page provides practical guidance for children of all ages, as well as details of local services to support families. We look forward to working with parents and carers to continue to develop the resources available to ensure they meet the needs of our communities.”
This website launch comes as part of a wider project focused on increasing early support and intervention for families and young people. Together with other local organisations, the Council is looking at the early help offer and how this can be strengthened to ensure there is the right, preventative support available including in-person Family Hubs, offering a place in local communities for families and young people to access. The first in-person Family Hub is set to open in Towcester later this year, with other locations in Northampton and Daventry to follow.
Click here for more information and to visit the family hubs webpage.
Contact Information
West Northamptonshire Council Communications Team
communications@westnorthants.gov.uk
WNC July Arts & Culture News
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Get ‘IN THE MOOD’ with BJC |
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Brackley Jubilee Choir (BJC) presents their Summer Concert, ‘IN THE MOOD’. Taking place on Saturday, July 13th, 2024, at 7:30 pm in the picturesque setting of St Peter’s Church on Church Road, Brackley, this promises to be an event the whole family can enjoy.
The concert lineup features a delightful mix of light music, including the charming piece ‘Captain Noah and his Floating Zoo’ by Joseph Horovitz and Michael Flanders. This whimsical composition, originally penned for children, tells the timeless tale of Noah and his Ark with wit and charm.
Tickets for the Summer Concert are priced at £15.00 for adults and £5.00 for children under 16, available in advance from Choir members or at the door. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the magic of live music in the heart of Brackley!
Brackley Jubilee Choir rehearse every Tuesday at 7.30 pm, the choir continues to delight audiences with its captivating performances, showcasing the rich musical talent of Northamptonshire. |
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Northampton Pride |
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Now in its 7th year, the event is organised by the Northampton Pride Committee and West Northamptonshire Council’s LGBTQ+ and Allies Forum and features live performances, walkabout entertainers, stalls, food and much more for people to participate in.
This year’s event will once again take place at University of Northampton’s Waterside Campus with a programme of entertainment and activities, which last year, saw thousands of people attend from Northamptonshire and surrounding areas, creating an unforgettable buzz within the town
Saturday 13 July @ Northampton Universities Waterside Campus 12pm to 6pm |
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July’s event listing’s |
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July at Yardley Arts |
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Creative opportunities @ Yardley Arts Summer classes and courses continue to mid-July, then Yardley Arts start a new season in September with an exciting range of options for those who enjoy being creative or want to learn a new skill in a friendly atmosphere at the Arts Centre. Fused Glass Lantern – Friday 12th July 10am to 2pm Children’s Saturday Art Club (Birthday Cake picture) – 13th July, 2pm to 4pm Watercolour painting (Glorious Gardens) – Monday 15th July, 1pm – 5pm
More information and bookings: www.yardleyarts.org and social media. |
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Wednesdays and Thursdays until 22nd August |
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Lamport House – Art Exhibition An exhibition to celebrate Lamport Hall and its 50th anniversary of being a charitable trust brings together work by 19 local artists produced for and inspired by the Hall itself! Organised by Northants and Rutland Open Studios and Lamport Hall, the exhibition in the historic stableyard (which recently featured in Netflix’s The Crown series) runs until 22 August and gives visitors a chance to explore what Lamport means for local artists and the impact the Hall has had on the local arts scene in recent years. There is a varied display of paintings, textiles, glass and mixed media on the theme of Inspired by Lamport.
The exhibition is open 10am to 3pm every Wednesday and Thursday from 3 April to 22 August in the stable yard and entry is free, although there is a charge for entry to the house and gardens.
Lamport Hall, Lamport, |
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Saturday 13 July |
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Pattishall – Picnic in the Park Bands, Beer & BBQ. Featuring one of Britain’s best ABBA tribute acts, The White Room, Similar Jones, Joe Miles, Dead Frequency and Bhangra Dancers along with a 2nd Stage run by the University of Northampton.
Picnic in the Park takes place on Saturday 13th July at Pattishall Hall and playing fields NN12 8NN. |
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Saturday 13 & 14 July |
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Crick – Scarecrow & Music Festival Go along to the Crick festival where there will be Handmade Craft and Gift vendors taking part in this year’s Crick Scarecrow Festival. All activities this year will be on Bury Dyke and the Marsh. The event is their 15th Annual Festival which takes place to raise money for local charities and support groups. If you would like to join in and book a place or would like further information please email stalls@crickfestival.com. Follow Crick Scarecrow Festival on facebook and keep up to date with all the event information. |
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Sunday 14 July |
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Flore Arts – Jazz in the Garden A fixture on the Flore Arts Calendar! Anticipating a programme of foot-tapping jazz and ragtime favourites in a relaxed garden setting. There is the opportunity to buy teas, cakes, soft drinks, Pimm’s, wine and beer. Just bring something to sit on (and perhaps your dancing shoes). Tickets: £15 (£5 under 18s). Please call Rosemary Read on 01327 341026 (between 9am and 6pm). 2.30pm: Gates open from 1.30pm |
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Thursday mornings talk – July |
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Northampton Museum & Art Gallery Thursday 4 July 10.30am – 12pm Sulgrave Manor & The Washington Family Speaker – Martin Sirot-Smith
Thursday 18 July 10.30am – 12pm Mata Hari – Spy or Scapegoat In 1917 Mata Hari was executed by the French as a German spy. Though she professed her innocence the British and French authorities thought otherwise. Who was right? Speaker – Philomena Liggins
Venue: 4-6 Guildhall Road, Northampton, NN1 1DP |
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Sunday 28 July |
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Abington Park Museum – Love Parks Week A one-day event in Abington Park, celebrating Love
Location: Park Ave S, Northampton NN1 5LW |
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Sunday 4 August |
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Evenley Wood Garden – Peter Pan This fast-paced, larger-than-life production contains all the ingredients Immersion’s loyal audiences have come to love and expect, including a laugh out loud script, heaps of audience interaction, a host of catchy songs, unforgettable characters, and maybe even the odd water gun or two!
With magic and mayhem throughout, this is one hair-raising adventure the family won’t want to miss!
Age suitability: 4+, 5pm, Sunday 4 August
Booking and ticket information
Location: Evenley Wood Garden, Evenley, Northamptonshire, NN13 5SH |
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Tuesday 13 August |
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Roadmender – Kiefer Sutherland Starring in iconic films such as “Stand by Me,” “The Lost Boys,” “Young Guns,” “Flatliners,” “A Few Good Men,” “A Time to Kill,” “Dark City,” “Melancholia,” “Forsaken,” and “They Cloned Tyrone.” He has also made a significant impact on television with leading roles in series like “24,” “Designated Survivor,” and “Rabbit Hole.”
In 2016, Sutherland expanded his artistic repertoire by releasing the first of three studio albums over five years: “Down in a Hole,” “Reckless & Me,” and “Bloor Street.” These albums were followed by an extensive touring schedule that saw him perform over 600 live shows.
Eager to return to the stage after pandemic restrictions, Sutherland played sold-out shows across Europe earlier this year, breaking attendance records for his time slot at various festivals. His enduring passion for both acting and music continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
7.30pm Showtime. Under 18’s must be accompanied by an adult. Venue: 1 Lady’s Lane, Northampton, NN1 3AH
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Fri 16 to Sun 18 August |
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Northampton Racecourse – Northampton Balloon Festival The annual Northampton Balloon Festival promises to be a spectacular event filled with excitement and fun for the whole family. Experience the breath-taking sight of colourful balloons filling the sky, creating a mesmerising display you won’t want to miss.
But that’s not all – the festival offers a wide range of attractions to enjoy. Delight in the variety of inflatable attractions, perfect for kids and adults alike. Savour delicious festival food from an array of vendors, offering everything from classic fair treats to gourmet delights. Quench your thirst at the well-stocked bars, providing a selection of refreshing beverages. Birds of prey displays and so much more. A day not to be missed.
Open from 12pm to 10.30pm each day. Location: Northampton Racecourse, Northampton, NN2 6JA
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Sunday 26 August |
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Everdon Village Green – Everdon Grand Fete A premier village fete in the south Northamptonshire area. With activities for all ages, people return time and again to picturesque Everdon to enjoy the August Bank Holiday.
For five decades, the Everdon Village Fete has been a celebration of unity, bringing together residents and visitors alike in a vibrant tapestry of stalls, games, and performances. From the laughter of children partaking in sack races to the melodies of local musicians filling the air, each year has woven new threads into the rich fabric of our shared history.
The main event kicks of at 2pm on the Village Green on the August Bank Holiday Monday. Daventry NN11 3BL
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PLEASE NOTE: the information in these listings is current at the time of issue. Please check with the organisations before attending events |
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Useful websites for events and places to visit: |
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Useful links for arts and culture funding bodies |
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The following websites offer a range of information about the funding support available to local groups and organisations:
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Town and Parish Newsletter – Jun’24
Please find below a link to the latest edition of the Town & Parish Briefing
Maidwell-Being – Next Event Saturday 8th June, 10-12noon
The next meeting will be held at Loder Hall on Saturday , 10-12noon.
Come along to see what it is all about !
Town & Parish Briefing – May’24
Please find below a link to the latest edition of the Town & Parish Briefing
Annual Report 23/24 – from Cllr Jonathan Harris
Brixworth Ward Councillor Jonathan Harris has published an Annual Report for 2023/24
You can download it here
WNC Consultations – SEND Funding and West Northants Carer Strategy 2024-29
Please visit the West Northamptonshire Consultation Hub for more information about all consultation or engagement activities and how to have your say.
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West Northamptonshire Council: SEND Funding Recommendations
West Northamptonshire Council Children and Young People’s Services are looking to gather feedback on the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) funding recommendations established following previous consultation and engagements. This makes up a final stage of consultation before presenting the arrangements to Northamptonshire School Forum in July, with the WNC SEND funding changes happening in September 2024.
Give us your views
Please visit the West Northamptonshire Council: SEND Funding Recommendations for further information and how to have your say.
This consultation closes midnight Sunday 2 June 2024.
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Consultation: Your views on the (draft) West Northants Carer Strategy 2024-2029
By working with local unpaid carers locally, West Northamptonshire Council has developed a new strategy on how we would like to support them. We recognise the increasingly important role that unpaid carers play and how together with partners, we should improve the help and support available to them. We would like your feedback on our draft Carer Strategy 2024-29.
Give us your views
Please visit the Consultation: Your views on the (draft) West Northants Carer Strategy 2024-2029 for further information and how to have your say.
This consultation closes midnight Thursday 30 May 2024.
Grant scheme launched to help people develop skills and find employment in West Northants
West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has launched a new grant scheme which aims to support local people to develop their learning and skills and help them get into work.
The Skills for Communities grant scheme is open to community, voluntary and social enterprise organisations that operate, or are prepared to operate, within the geographical area of West Northamptonshire and must be used to provide support to residents aged 16+ who are no longer in full-time education and who would like to develop existing or learn new skills.
Local voluntary and community organisations including registered charities, community interest companies and social enterprises are invited to apply for the grants of between £10,000 and £300,000.
Funded using £500,000 of UK Shared Prosperity Funding (UKSPF), a central part of the Government’s Levelling Up agenda, this grant funding will be available over the 2024/25 financial year and will be awarded to organisations who address an identified local need by supporting people to enter the world of work, including voluntary work.
Examples of how the grant can be used include:
- – delivering training towards qualifications or building life skills
- – improving communication skills and social skills
- – increasing confidence, work experience, coaching or other support
- – supporting literacy and digital skills
The Skills for Communities grant scheme compliments WNC’s existing Multiply programme which is already delivering numeracy skills to local people. The grants cannot be used to fund activity already supported through other funding streams such as the Education and Skills Funding Agency.
Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Town Centre Regeneration and Growth, said: “The Skills for Communities grant scheme is one of many ways in which we are actively investing in local people and communities to make West Northants the perfect place to live, work, visit and thrive.
“This grant funding will help to boost core skills and support those aged 16+ to progress in work whilst encouraging innovative approaches to reducing adult learning barriers, both of which will help more people into employment and support a thriving economy here in West Northants.
“I encourage all eligible Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise Organisations to submit an application for this funding.”
For more information email economy@westnorthants.gov.uk The guidance document and application forms will then be sent to you electronically.
The deadline for submitting your completed application to WNC is 5pm on Friday, 24 May 2024.
Contact Information
West Northamptonshire Council Communications Team
communications@westnorthants.gov.uk
Notes to editors
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) is a central pillar of the UK government’s Levelling Up agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.
The UKSPF underpins the Government’s agenda to support Levelling Up. Its primary goal is to build pride in place and increase life chances across all parts of the UK. These ambitions are built on three investment priorities:
- Communities and place
- Supporting businesses
- People and skills
Each area of the UK received a UKSPF allocation for local investment, with £5.4M awarded to West Northamptonshire.
To secure its allocation the Authority submitted an Investment Plan setting out delivery priorities aligned to local needs; aiming to tackle issues critical to West Northamptonshire’s growth, productivity, and economic inclusion. The plan, which was shaped through engagement and consultation with local partners and stakeholders and is underpinned by business intelligence and research data received Government sign off in December 2022.
For more information visit GOV.UK – UK Shared Prosperity Fund Prospectus.