kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-05--Families reunite in Kidderminster care home's visitor pod

A 'VISITOR pod ' has been set up in the garden of a Kidderminster care home to allow families to see their elderly relatives for the first time since the coronavirus lockdown .
The ban on care home visitors was lifted last month , but with the government advising that visits now take place outdoors , staff at The Gables in Broomfield Road were faced with a conundrum as the home 's garden is regularly used by residents with dementia .
Inside the new visitor pod at The Gables care home in Kidderminster The Gables manager Kim Northwood said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ without purpose , it is difficult to segregate any area of the home off for safe visits .
`` We did think of using the residents ’ individual rooms at first , but that would create issues in itself as residents could leave the families in the room and wander off .
Also everything within that room would then need a thorough deep clean after each visit to limit cross infection which would be a massive undertaking throughout the day for the care staff to complete.
” To allow family visits to safely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a portable visitor pod from company Taylex , which has been set up in the home 's garden .
The pods come with wipeable walls , meaning staff can easily clean down the pods between visits .
The portable visitor centre has been set up in the care home 's garden Kim said : `` Having the visitors centre has meant that we can thoroughly clean between visits much easier - and it 's much more cost effective .
`` It means that all our residents are safe and families can come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a safe environment .
“ Since having the visitors pod we can already see the impact this is having on our residents and the families who have been desperate to come and see their family member .
`` We have throughout the pandemic kept in touch via Zoom , Microsoft Teams , WhatsApp and a Facebook portal , but they are no substitute for face to face meeting with their family member albeit through a screen .
“ We have made it comfortable and homely and it now looks like two lounges @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a drinks station for them.
” The care home has set up a booking system for visitors , with three one-hour slots a day and an hour set aside in between visits for cleaning .
The Gables is allowing one family member at each visit and plans to reassess the situation and possibly increase to two family members after four weeks .
Inside one of the Taylex visitor pods Kim said : “ Residents ’ families have been so supportive throughout the pandemic and we have remained Covid free and want to remain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has made a huge difference to Sandra Newell , whose mum lives at the home .
She said : “ The Gables have done amazing job keeping the home Covid-free and keeping me updated about my mum , but it ’ s not like seeing her for myself .
`` Having this opportunity now means the world for me to see her face to face after four months of not seeing her .
`` I ’ m happy that visitors will not be going into the home .
It ’ s a wonderful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them enough .
”

The ban on care home visitors was lifted last month, but with the government advising that visits now take place outdoors, staff at The Gables in Broomfield Road were faced with a conundrum as the home's garden is regularly used by residents with dementia.
Inside the new visitor pod at The Gables care home in Kidderminster
The Gables manager Kim Northwood said: "When you have dementia residents wandering without purpose, it is difficult to segregate any area of the home off for safe visits.
"We did think of using the residents’ individual rooms at first, but that would create issues in itself as residents could leave the families in the room and wander off. Also everything within that room would then need a thorough deep clean after each visit to limit cross infection which would be a massive undertaking throughout the day for the care staff to complete.”
To allow family visits to safely go ahead, The Gables has invested in a portable visitor pod from company Taylex, which has been set up in the home's garden.
The pods come with wipeable walls, meaning staff can easily clean down the pods between visits.
The portable visitor centre has been set up in the care home's garden
Kim said: "Having the visitors centre has meant that we can thoroughly clean between visits much easier - and it's much more cost effective.
"It means that all our residents are safe and families can come and see their residents knowing that it is a safe environment.
“Since having the visitors pod we can already see the impact this is having on our residents and the families who have been desperate to come and see their family member.
"We have throughout the pandemic kept in touch via Zoom, Microsoft Teams, WhatsApp and a Facebook portal, but they are no substitute for face to face meeting with their family member albeit through a screen.
“We have made it comfortable and homely and it now looks like two lounges. In the family side we have a drinks station for them.”
The care home has set up a booking system for visitors, with three one-hour slots a day and an hour set aside in between visits for cleaning.
The Gables is allowing one family member at each visit and plans to reassess the situation and possibly increase to two family members after four weeks.
Inside one of the Taylex visitor pods
Kim said: “Residents’ families have been so supportive throughout the pandemic and we have remained Covid free and want to remain that way."
The visitor centre has made a huge difference to Sandra Newell, whose mum lives at the home.
She said: “The Gables have done amazing job keeping the home Covid-free and keeping me updated about my mum, but it’s not like seeing her for myself.
"Having this opportunity now means the world for me to see her face to face after four months of not seeing her.
"I’m happy that visitors will not be going into the home. It’s a wonderful facility, I can’t thank them enough.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-05--Teenager seriously injured on M5 motorway near Oldbury

A TEENAGER has been taken to hospital after suffering serious injuries on the M5 motorway near Oldbury this morning ( Wednesday August 5 ) .
The teen , who was said to have been on foot , was hit by several cars between junction 3 at Halesowen and junction 2 ( the Oldbury interchange ) at around 11.15am , according to police .
Paramedics from the Hazardous Area Response Team were sent to the scene and were backed up by an ambulance , the Midlands Air Ambulance Critical Care Car , two paramedic officers and the Midlands Air Ambulance from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ board .
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said the boy suffered `` serious injuries '' and he added : `` He was assessed and treated at the scene before being taken on blue lights to Birmingham Children ’ s Hospital ; the doctor from the air ambulance travelled with the boy to hospital .
“ There were no other patients.
” The M5 was closed in both directions between junctions 2 and 3 following the incident , which happened just before junction 2 , but all lanes have since reopened .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ended up on the motorway were at an early stage .
Anyone with information can contact officers via Live Chat on the force website , or call 101 , giving log number 1469 of 5 August .

The teen, who was said to have been on foot, was hit by several cars between junction 3 at Halesowen and junction 2 (the Oldbury interchange) at around 11.15am, according to police.
Paramedics from the Hazardous Area Response Team were sent to the scene and were backed up by an ambulance, the Midlands Air Ambulance Critical Care Car, two paramedic officers and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford, which had a doctor on board.
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said the boy suffered "serious injuries" and he added: "He was assessed and treated at the scene before being taken on blue lights to Birmingham Children’s Hospital; the doctor from the air ambulance travelled with the boy to hospital.
“There were no other patients.”
The M5 was closed in both directions between junctions 2 and 3 following the incident, which happened just before junction 2, but all lanes have since reopened.
Police said enquiries about how the boy ended up on the motorway were at an early stage.
Anyone with information can contact officers via Live Chat on the force website, or call 101, giving log number 1469 of 5 August.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-05--Amazon Go: 30 physical shops to open across the UK with no tills

Amazon is set to open about 30 physical retail shops across the UK - and they won ’ t have checkouts for paying .
The news comes in the wake of the announcement that the tech and retail giant would be expanding its online grocery offering , taking on traditional online supermarket delivery services .
Where will the shops be ?
According to the Sunday Times newspaper , Amazon will be launching over 10 Amazon Go convenience stores across the UK , with a potential further 20 to follow .
It ’ s not yet clear where these stores will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ likely to be rolled out in London .
Reports also suggest that Amazon is considering opening stores near to transport hubs to capture the commuter market .
With the coronavirus pandemic creating a major shift in homeworking , however , this idea may be reconsidered .
What will the shops stock ?
Amazon Go stores are already in operation in the US , in Chicago , San Francisco and New York , with most of these shops focusing on convenience foods .
However , Amazon recently opened a 1,000 square metre Amazon Go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to a large supermarket like Tesco .
It ’ s likely the new UK shops will follow the same model , stocking convenience foods .
However , with the technology used in-store , the idea is that stores could stock pretty much anything .
How do the stores work ?
Customers will gain access to the Amazon Go stores with their Amazon Go app , with cameras in-store keeping track of what you buy , then charging your account accordingly .
The stores will have some staff employed to stack shelves , check @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bryan Roberts , a retail analyst who has visited Amazon Go in the US told The Guardian newspaper that while the experience was novel , he wasn ’ t sure how popular the stores would be in the UK : `` It 's brilliant technology and experience , but Amazon are not very good at running shops .
`` If you have got a local captive audience , all of whom have got the app and can walk in and walk out , it 's great . ''
Roberts also suggested to The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Go store in order to market technology to other retailers .
There are some rumours that the giant may work with UK supermarket Morrisons to keep stores stocked .
Some experts believe the introduction of Amazon Go stores in the UK will put pressure on traditional supermarkets .
Some , such as Tesco and Sainsburys , have already begun to experiment with cashless systems in-store .
Waitrose and the Co-op have also trialled apps which allow customers to pay with their mobile phones .

The news comes in the wake of the announcement that the tech and retail giant would be expanding its online grocery offering, taking on traditional online supermarket delivery services.
Where will the shops be?
According to the Sunday Times newspaper, Amazon will be launching over 10 Amazon Go convenience stores across the UK, with a potential further 20 to follow.
It’s not yet clear where these stores will be, but the first one is likely to be rolled out in London.
Reports also suggest that Amazon is considering opening stores near to transport hubs to capture the commuter market.
With the coronavirus pandemic creating a major shift in homeworking, however, this idea may be reconsidered.
What will the shops stock?
Amazon Go stores are already in operation in the US, in Chicago, San Francisco and New York, with most of these shops focusing on convenience foods.
However, Amazon recently opened a 1,000 square metre Amazon Go Store in Seattle which is more akin to a large supermarket like Tesco.
It’s likely the new UK shops will follow the same model, stocking convenience foods.
However, with the technology used in-store, the idea is that stores could stock pretty much anything.
How do the stores work?
Customers will gain access to the Amazon Go stores with their Amazon Go app, with cameras in-store keeping track of what you buy, then charging your account accordingly.
The stores will have some staff employed to stack shelves, check IDs and other tasks.
However, Bryan Roberts, a retail analyst who has visited Amazon Go in the US told The Guardian newspaper that while the experience was novel, he wasn’t sure how popular the stores would be in the UK: "It's brilliant technology and experience, but Amazon are not very good at running shops.
"If you have got a local captive audience, all of whom have got the app and can walk in and walk out, it's great."
Roberts also suggested to The Guardian that Amazon may be using the Go store in order to market technology to other retailers.
There are some rumours that the giant may work with UK supermarket Morrisons to keep stores stocked.
Will other supermarkets introduce similar systems?
Some experts believe the introduction of Amazon Go stores in the UK will put pressure on traditional supermarkets.
Some, such as Tesco and Sainsburys, have already begun to experiment with cashless systems in-store.
Waitrose and the Co-op have also trialled apps which allow customers to pay with their mobile phones.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-05--No rise in coronavirus deaths in Worcestershire care homes

THE number of `` all settings '' coronavirus deaths in Worcestershire has seen no increase and has stayed at 528 , the latest figures show .
Nobody in the county died in a care home or any other setting outside of a hospital due to coronavirus between July 17 and July 24 according to new data published by the Office for National Statistics ( ONS ) .
The total number of all settings coronavirus deaths in Worcestershire stayed at 528 after no new deaths in the county ’ s hospitals were confirmed on Tuesday ( August 4 ) .
So @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus in Worcestershire ’ s hospitals - 278 in the acute hospitals trust and 28 in the health and care trust .
The latest ONS data shows where people died with coronavirus mentioned on the death certificate and in what setting they died .
The figures for Worcester show 62 people have died throughout the city including 28 in hospital , 27 in a care home , four at home , two in a communal establishment and one in a hospice .
Figures for Wychavon show 110 people have died including 49 in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , five at home , four in a communal establishment , two in a hospice and one elsewhere .
A total of 47 people have died in Malvern , 24 of which took place in hospital , 20 died in a care home , two at home and one in a communal establishment .
Figures for the rest of the county show 133 people have died in Bromsgrove including 74 in hospital , 54 in a care home , four elsewhere and one in a communal establishment .
The figures for Wyre Forest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including 65 in hospital , 39 in a care home , nine at home and two in a communal establishment .
In Redditch , 60 people have died from coronavirus including 49 in hospital , eight in a care home , two at home , and one in a communal establishment .
As of Monday ( August 3 ) , there had been 2,429 confirmed coronavirus cases in Worcestershire .
The most cases have been confirmed in Bromsgrove with 541 followed by 435 in Wychavon .
Worcester has had 414 confirmed cases , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ data .
The number of confirmed cases in Malvern was 231 at the start of the week and the number of cases in Redditch was 394 .
Wyre Forest has had 414 confirmed coronavirus cases so far .

Nobody in the county died in a care home or any other setting outside of a hospital due to coronavirus between July 17 and July 24 according to new data published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
The total number of all settings coronavirus deaths in Worcestershire stayed at 528 after no new deaths in the county’s hospitals were confirmed on Tuesday (August 4).
So far, 306 people have died of coronavirus in Worcestershire’s hospitals - 278 in the acute hospitals trust and 28 in the health and care trust.
The latest ONS data shows where people died with coronavirus mentioned on the death certificate and in what setting they died.
The figures for Worcester show 62 people have died throughout the city including 28 in hospital, 27 in a care home, four at home, two in a communal establishment and one in a hospice.
Figures for Wychavon show 110 people have died including 49 in hospital, 49 in a care home, five at home, four in a communal establishment, two in a hospice and one elsewhere.
A total of 47 people have died in Malvern, 24 of which took place in hospital, 20 died in a care home, two at home and one in a communal establishment.
Figures for the rest of the county show 133 people have died in Bromsgrove including 74 in hospital, 54 in a care home, four elsewhere and one in a communal establishment.
The figures for Wyre Forest show 115 have died across all settings including 65 in hospital, 39 in a care home, nine at home and two in a communal establishment.
In Redditch, 60 people have died from coronavirus including 49 in hospital, eight in a care home, two at home, and one in a communal establishment.
As of Monday (August 3), there had been 2,429 confirmed coronavirus cases in Worcestershire.
The most cases have been confirmed in Bromsgrove with 541 followed by 435 in Wychavon.
Worcester has had 414 confirmed cases, according to the latest Public Health England data.
The number of confirmed cases in Malvern was 231 at the start of the week and the number of cases in Redditch was 394.
Wyre Forest has had 414 confirmed coronavirus cases so far.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-05--MP responds to concerns about money spent helping people abroad

FEW can fail to have been stunned by the appalling devastation in Beirut , shattered by a colossal explosion in the port area of the city .
It is one of the outcomes of social media that we can see extensive film of the explosion itself and the aftermath .
Coming on the back of the Covid-19 problems faced in Lebanon , the devastation merely adds to what was already the extraordinary strain local public and health services .
The international response is still to be established , and at the time of writing , the UK is yet to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But it is one of the UK ’ s greatest achievements that we are a world leader in meeting our responsibility as a first world nation to help those across the globe who need help .
We are already helping extensively with refugee camps in Lebanon and neighbouring Syria , tackling the man-made crisis of the Syrian civil war .
Indeed , after the US , we do more than any other country and as a proportion of our national wealth , our commitment to the Syrian crisis is second to none .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as I receive regular emails from constituents concerned that charity is not beginning at home .
Our international aid budget is just a fraction our national expenses , and tiny compared to our health budget , or our work and pensions , education etc .
Recently , this has come to the fore again , with recent commentary in the press about asylum seekers being put up in a hotel in Bromsgrove , and a daily tally of those crossing the channel .
But it is worth remembering that the global rules @ @ @ @ @ @ @ both the authors of , and enthusiastic to uphold – is clear on all these points .
Refugees are only classified as such until they reach their first point of sanctuary .
Onward travel from a refugee camp defines them as economic migrants and thus subject to all our immigration rules .
However , asylum seekers have different rights and once in the UK and claiming asylum , have a right to have their claim heard .
And we need to accommodate them .
There is no doubt that some game the system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or destroying documentation to make themselves stateless , so our responsibility .
This is why we have a co-ordinated , global approach to refugees , and international development .
Everyone is far better off in their own , safe and prosperous , home .

It is one of the outcomes of social media that we can see extensive film of the explosion itself and the aftermath.
Coming on the back of the Covid-19 problems faced in Lebanon, the devastation merely adds to what was already the extraordinary strain local public and health services.
The international response is still to be established, and at the time of writing, the UK is yet to announce what we will be doing.
But it is one of the UK’s greatest achievements that we are a world leader in meeting our responsibility as a first world nation to help those across the globe who need help.
We are already helping extensively with refugee camps in Lebanon and neighbouring Syria, tackling the man-made crisis of the Syrian civil war.
Indeed, after the US, we do more than any other country and as a proportion of our national wealth, our commitment to the Syrian crisis is second to none.
I know this is not without controversy, as I receive regular emails from constituents concerned that charity is not beginning at home.
Our international aid budget is just a fraction our national expenses, and tiny compared to our health budget, or our work and pensions, education etc.
Recently, this has come to the fore again, with recent commentary in the press about asylum seekers being put up in a hotel in Bromsgrove, and a daily tally of those crossing the channel.
But it is worth remembering that the global rules based order – something that we are both the authors of, and enthusiastic to uphold – is clear on all these points.
Refugees are only classified as such until they reach their first point of sanctuary. Onward travel from a refugee camp defines them as economic migrants and thus subject to all our immigration rules.
However, asylum seekers have different rights and once in the UK and claiming asylum, have a right to have their claim heard. And we need to accommodate them.
There is no doubt that some game the system, claiming asylum without a legitimate case, or destroying documentation to make themselves stateless, so our responsibility.
This is why we have a co-ordinated, global approach to refugees, and international development. Everyone is far better off in their own, safe and prosperous, home.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-06--£550k boost for new skills centre at Kidderminster College

£550,000 in government funding has been invested to build a new construction and automotive skills centre in Kidderminster .
Kidderminster College is one of 12 Worcestershire sites to benefit from a share of £12 million from the Getting Building Fund , aimed at projects which can be started quickly and completed within 18 months to aid economic recovery after the coronavirus lockdown .
Andy Dobson , principal of Kidderminster College , said : “ We are delighted to be receiving this investment , which shows the government ’ s confidence in the college and will allow us to fit out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ construction and automotive training in Kidderminster .
“ These will be key sectors for the economic recovery of Wyre Forest , and we know there is a real need in our area for the kind of training we will be able to provide both for employers and for young people .
“ We ’ re also very grateful for the support of Worcestershire LEP , who have helped us secure this funding to make a difference locally.
” Hoobrook Island , which is considered one of the county ’ s congestion hotspots , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fund towards further improvements to ease traffic build-up in the area .
Councillor Ken Pollock , Worcestershire County Council ’ s cabinet member for economy and infrastructure , said : “ This funding is great news for the county and great news for its economic recovery .
“ The additional £12 million investment into the county will make a big difference , and with a large portion of it allocated to schemes we ’ re delivering as a county council , it will allow us to push forward in ensuring these schemes help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
”

Kidderminster College is one of 12 Worcestershire sites to benefit from a share of £12 million from the Getting Building Fund, aimed at projects which can be started quickly and completed within 18 months to aid economic recovery after the coronavirus lockdown.
Andy Dobson, principal of Kidderminster College, said: “We are delighted to be receiving this investment, which shows the government’s confidence in the college and will allow us to fit out a much needed new skills centre for construction and automotive training in Kidderminster.
“These will be key sectors for the economic recovery of Wyre Forest, and we know there is a real need in our area for the kind of training we will be able to provide both for employers and for young people.
“We’re also very grateful for the support of Worcestershire LEP, who have helped us secure this funding to make a difference locally.”
Hoobrook Island, which is considered one of the county’s congestion hotspots, will also receive £1.3 million from the fund towards further improvements to ease traffic build-up in the area.
Councillor Ken Pollock, Worcestershire County Council’s cabinet member for economy and infrastructure, said: “This funding is great news for the county and great news for its economic recovery.
“The additional £12 million investment into the county will make a big difference, and with a large portion of it allocated to schemes we’re delivering as a county council, it will allow us to push forward in ensuring these schemes help the economy get back on its feet.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-06--Gap in special needs provision leaves Kidderminster girl with no school

A GAP in the school provision for children unable to cope in mainstream education means an 11-year-old girl from Kidderminster will be unable to attend school next term .
Mum-of-five Katherine O ’ Sullivan is fighting to secure a special needs school place for her daughter Georgina Jones-White , who suffers with a rare genetic condition , after the local authority said the placement would be an “ unreasonable public expenditure ” .
Georgina has a chromosomal duplication condition , which causes autism symptoms including sensory issues and learning difficulties , as well as severe depression and physical pain , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ needs could be met in a mainstream setting .
Mum Katherine , 43 , said : “ I was fighting for a long time to get my daughter a care plan and eventually the local authority did an assessment and I got the EHCP in June , but they put Baxter College down as her mainstream placement .
“ My daughter is meant to be starting secondary school in September but we ’ ve been told she is only working to a year four level .
`` The New Elizabethan School offered her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they said she would have to be put back - but the local authority said that would be an unreasonable expenditure on the public purse .
`` Baxter College has since had a Zoom call with my daughter and said they would not be able to offer her the one to one support to meet her needs .
I will not send her to a school that can not give her what she needs .
“ Georgina has a lot of issues - she ’ s double incontinent , which is very difficult @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
She also suffers with extreme physical pain and has sensory difficulties which means she will collapse if there is a lot of noise , bright light or lots of people around her . ''
Katherine added : “ She can ’ t go to Wyre Forest School because she is not severely physically or mentally disabled , but there ’ s no way she could cope in a mainstream setting .
She doesn ’ t have severe behavioural issues - she 's a quiet girl , so she falls in that gap @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suitable for children like my daughter .
`` This is a fight not just for my child but for other children as well .
I know so many parents who can not get suitable placements for their children . ''
Katherine is now appealing the local authority 's decision , but may need to wait until January for a tribunal - meaning Georgina will be unable to start school in September .
Stephen Brown , from Wyre Forest Labour , said : “ I ’ ve seen the assessments for Georgina , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and her rare genetic condition .
“ She deserves to have support for her special educational needs in the most appropriate setting and it ’ s evident this won ’ t be found in mainstream education .
“ Such support will help Georgina make proper progress and mitigate her own anxieties , as well as those being experienced by her mum too .
It ’ s a very stressful situation for the family .
No one should have to battle it out like this .
“ Frankly , it beggars belief that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is suitable for mainstream education .
This is about the council wanting to save money , nothing else .
Councillor Marcus Hart , Worcestershire County Council ’ s cabinet member for education and skills , said : “ Parent carers have a right to ask for a particular educational setting for their child and we aim to meet this preference where ever possible .
“ Where we have not been able to meet parental preference we continue to work with parent carers along with the suitable and appropriate school as closely as possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effective support in place for the child .
“ This is a sensitive matter and there are complex issues to be considered and we will work with the family to try and resolve them .
”

Mum-of-five Katherine O’Sullivan is fighting to secure a special needs school place for her daughter Georgina Jones-White, who suffers with a rare genetic condition, after the local authority said the placement would be an “unreasonable public expenditure”.
Georgina has a chromosomal duplication condition, which causes autism symptoms including sensory issues and learning difficulties, as well as severe depression and physical pain, however Worcestershire County Council has said her needs could be met in a mainstream setting.
Mum Katherine, 43, said: “I was fighting for a long time to get my daughter a care plan and eventually the local authority did an assessment and I got the EHCP in June, but they put Baxter College down as her mainstream placement.
“My daughter is meant to be starting secondary school in September but we’ve been told she is only working to a year four level.
"The New Elizabethan School offered her a place in their junior school - they said she would have to be put back - but the local authority said that would be an unreasonable expenditure on the public purse.
"Baxter College has since had a Zoom call with my daughter and said they would not be able to offer her the one to one support to meet her needs. I will not send her to a school that cannot give her what she needs.
“Georgina has a lot of issues - she’s double incontinent, which is very difficult for a mainstream school to deal with. She also suffers with extreme physical pain and has sensory difficulties which means she will collapse if there is a lot of noise, bright light or lots of people around her."
Katherine added: “She can’t go to Wyre Forest School because she is not severely physically or mentally disabled, but there’s no way she could cope in a mainstream setting. She doesn’t have severe behavioural issues - she's a quiet girl, so she falls in that gap in between. There is no provision suitable for children like my daughter.
"This is a fight not just for my child but for other children as well. I know so many parents who cannot get suitable placements for their children."
Katherine is now appealing the local authority's decision, but may need to wait until January for a tribunal - meaning Georgina will be unable to start school in September.
Stephen Brown, from Wyre Forest Labour, said: “I’ve seen the assessments for Georgina, which are very powerful evidence of her disability and her rare genetic condition.
“She deserves to have support for her special educational needs in the most appropriate setting and it’s evident this won’t be found in mainstream education.
“Such support will help Georgina make proper progress and mitigate her own anxieties, as well as those being experienced by her mum too. It’s a very stressful situation for the family. No one should have to battle it out like this.
“Frankly, it beggars belief that the council could even begin to think Georgina is suitable for mainstream education. This is about the council wanting to save money, nothing else.
“Georgina deserves better.”
Councillor Marcus Hart, Worcestershire County Council’s cabinet member for education and skills, said: “Parent carers have a right to ask for a particular educational setting for their child and we aim to meet this preference where ever possible.
“Where we have not been able to meet parental preference we continue to work with parent carers along with the suitable and appropriate school as closely as possible to reach a mutual agreement with the effective support in place for the child.
“This is a sensitive matter and there are complex issues to be considered and we will work with the family to try and resolve them.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-06--Temperatures set to soar in Wyre Forest as UK heatwave hits

TEMPERATURES are set to soar tomorrow , reaching 29°C in Wyre Forest , with parts of the UK becoming hotter than the Caribbean .
Here ’ s the weather forecast for the rest of the week in Worcestershire .
After a largely dry but cloudy start to today ( Thursday , August 6 ) , it will brighten up with some sunny spells at times .
Feeling warm in the sunshine with lighter winds than yesterday - maximum temperature of 24 °C .
Sunny spells during the evening will give way to a dry night with clear spells and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ overnight .
Friday will be dry and sunny and it will feel hot .
A few clouds will bubble up through the afternoon , turning the sunshine hazy - maximum temperature 29 °C .
The Met Office said : “ After an unsettled start to the week in places , it will turn drier and much warmer across many parts of the UK later this week , with hot conditions developing across southern areas.
” The following few days should stay largely dry with sunny spells though there could be a few showers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ locally hot .

Here’s the weather forecast for the rest of the week in Worcestershire.
After a largely dry but cloudy start to today (Thursday, August 6), it will brighten up with some sunny spells at times.
Feeling warm in the sunshine with lighter winds than yesterday - maximum temperature of 24 °C.
Sunny spells during the evening will give way to a dry night with clear spells and the odd isolated mist patch - remaining warm overnight.
Friday will be dry and sunny and it will feel hot. A few clouds will bubble up through the afternoon, turning the sunshine hazy - maximum temperature 29 °C.
The Met Office said: “After an unsettled start to the week in places, it will turn drier and much warmer across many parts of the UK later this week, with hot conditions developing across southern areas.”
The following few days should stay largely dry with sunny spells though there could be a few showers on Sunday, feeling warm throughout and locally hot.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-06--Kidderminster vet warning after dog poisoned by cannabis in park

A WARNING has been issued to dog owners after a spaniel was poisoned from eating cannabis it found in a local park .
Cocker spaniel cross Toby needed critical care at a specialist vets after he became unable to walk following a walk in Areley Kings Village Hall park with owner Emma Long on Monday .
Emma , who lives in Stourport , said : `` We often meet up with a little group of dog walkers to let the dogs off in the park and it has never been a problem , but within hours of getting back on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lots of funny movements and he seemed a bit glazed , which is not like him at all .
`` I put him on the floor and he could n't walk .
He did n't have any functions at all so I knew something was wrong . ''
Emma took six-year-old Toby to Vets4Pets in Kidderminster , where he was put on a drip , but sadly his condition continued to deteriorate .
`` The vets referred him to the Willows Specialist Centre in Solihull where he was put in ICU overnight , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ started to respond and he was well enough to come home the next day .
`` They told me he was suffering from cannabis poisoning .
Someone must have left a stash in the park and Toby , being an inquisitive spaniel , must have eaten it .
`` The whole experience was very frightening and emotionally draining .
`` Luckily I got him to the vets as quickly as possible and everyone at Vets4Pets was amazing and referred him very quickly .
I ca n't praise them enough .
It could have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Long with Toby after his ordeal '' Hopefully this will let others know what the symptoms of this poisoning are - it was like Toby had had an anaesthetic .
He was having involuntary urination , his legs had gone , he could n't move and his eyes were glazed .
`` It 's very sad that someone would leave something like this for anyone to find .
My fear is that next time it could be a child . ''
Vets4Pets has also issued a warning for dog owners walking at Areley @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Facebook reads : `` Toby came to see us on Monday after his owner became concerned about his behaviour following his morning walk around the park at Arley Kings Village Hall .
`` He had become weak and reactive to noise .
He was seen by our vet Olivia as an emergency and he was immediately admitted as we were concerned he had ingested a poison of some sort but it was impossible to tell what .
`` Unfortunately despite supportive care , Toby 's condition deteriorated throughout the day with his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ collapsed and so the decision was made to refer him to Willows Specialist Centre for critical care management .
`` He was supported throughout the night and thankfully made a full recovery but Willows diagnosed suspected marijuana ingestion .
`` The only place he could have picked this up was at Arley Kings Village Hall park so please be careful when walking any dogs off their lead .
`` If they become disorientated or over-react to loud noise , please ring your vet immediately as these are the early symptoms of marijuana ingestion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a check up and we 're pleased to say he is showing no lasting effects and is back to his bouncy self .
His owner very kindly bought in some gifts of thanks as well . ''

Cocker spaniel cross Toby needed critical care at a specialist vets after he became unable to walk following a walk in Areley Kings Village Hall park with owner Emma Long on Monday.
Emma, who lives in Stourport, said: "We often meet up with a little group of dog walkers to let the dogs off in the park and it has never been a problem, but within hours of getting back on Monday, I noticed Toby was making lots of funny movements and he seemed a bit glazed, which is not like him at all.
"I put him on the floor and he couldn't walk. He didn't have any functions at all so I knew something was wrong."
Emma took six-year-old Toby to Vets4Pets in Kidderminster, where he was put on a drip, but sadly his condition continued to deteriorate.
"The vets referred him to the Willows Specialist Centre in Solihull where he was put in ICU overnight," said Emma. "Thankfully he started to respond and he was well enough to come home the next day.
"They told me he was suffering from cannabis poisoning. Someone must have left a stash in the park and Toby, being an inquisitive spaniel, must have eaten it.
"The whole experience was very frightening and emotionally draining.
"Luckily I got him to the vets as quickly as possible and everyone at Vets4Pets was amazing and referred him very quickly. I can't praise them enough. It could have been a lot worse.
Owner Emma Long with Toby after his ordeal
"Hopefully this will let others know what the symptoms of this poisoning are - it was like Toby had had an anaesthetic. He was having involuntary urination, his legs had gone, he couldn't move and his eyes were glazed.
"It's very sad that someone would leave something like this for anyone to find. My fear is that next time it could be a child."
Vets4Pets has also issued a warning for dog owners walking at Areley Common.
A post from the vets on Facebook reads: "Toby came to see us on Monday after his owner became concerned about his behaviour following his morning walk around the park at Arley Kings Village Hall.
"He had become weak and reactive to noise. He was seen by our vet Olivia as an emergency and he was immediately admitted as we were concerned he had ingested a poison of some sort but it was impossible to tell what.
"Unfortunately despite supportive care, Toby's condition deteriorated throughout the day with his heart rate dropping and him becoming more collapsed and so the decision was made to refer him to Willows Specialist Centre for critical care management.
"He was supported throughout the night and thankfully made a full recovery but Willows diagnosed suspected marijuana ingestion.
"The only place he could have picked this up was at Arley Kings Village Hall park so please be careful when walking any dogs off their lead.
"If they become disorientated or over-react to loud noise, please ring your vet immediately as these are the early symptoms of marijuana ingestion.
"Olivia saw Toby back today for a check up and we're pleased to say he is showing no lasting effects and is back to his bouncy self. His owner very kindly bought in some gifts of thanks as well."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-06--Man with links to Kidderminster wanted for skipping court

A MAN is wanted by police after he failed to appear in court charged with drug offences .
Brandon French @ @ @ @ @ magistrates in Kidderminster on Tuesday , August 4 but failed to attend .
The 23-year-old @ @ @ @ @ .
French has links to the Kidderminster , Worcester and Birmingham areas .
West Mercia @ @ @ @ @ the public for information on French 's whereabouts .
A police spokesman said : `` @ @ @ @ @ in locating wanted man Brandon French .
The 23-year-old is wanted on warrant by officers @ @ @ @ @ at Kidderminster Magistrates ' Court on Tuesday ( August 4 ) on drug related offences @ @ @ @ @ to Worcester , Kidderminster and Birmingham .
`` Please contact us on 101 if you @ @ @ @ @ him . ''

Brandon French was due to appear before magistrates in Kidderminster on Tuesday, August 4 but failed to attend.
The 23-year-old is charged with drug-related offences.
French has links to the Kidderminster, Worcester and Birmingham areas.
West Mercia Police are now appealing to the public for information on French's whereabouts.
A police spokesman said: "We are appealing for help in locating wanted man Brandon French.
The 23-year-old is wanted on warrant by officers after he failed to appear at Kidderminster Magistrates' Court on Tuesday (August 4) on drug related offences.
"Brandon has links to Worcester, Kidderminster and Birmingham.
"Please contact us on 101 if you have information or have seen him."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-06--'Mystery seeds in the post': Warning issued after cases reported in the UK

Security fears have been sparked after numerous cases of people around the world reported receiving mysterious 'seed packages ' with unknown contents .
Thousands of shipments of seeds are said to have arrived at homes in New Zealand , the US , Canada and Europe , with 100 cases in the UK .
The origin of the seeds is unknown , and this has sparked biosecurity fears among officials .
International investigations have been launched in order to uncover the source of the seeds , as well as to determine the reason they 've been posted .
What do the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recipients show that the packaging of the seeds varies , with some packages marked as containing a `` toy '' , others bearing Chinese characters , and some marked as `` rose stud '' earrings - likely in order to evade security checks .
Alarmingly , the shipments are addressed to recipients by name , suggesting that there may have been a data breach .
The US Department of Agriculture ( USDA ) has asked recipients of the seeds not to plant them while it works out the source and nature of them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Plant Health Agency ( Apha ) of the Department for Environment , Food and Rural Affairs is similarly investigating reports of the seeds .
An Apha spokesperson said : “ Biosecurity is of vital importance and we have robust checks in place to protect our plants and wildlife , including for online plant sales .
We are currently investigating packages of seeds marked as ‘ ear studs ’ sent to people in the UK .
Anyone who has received such seeds should not plant them and instead report them to us.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The most likely explanation for the seeds is that they 're collateral in a so-called 'brushing scam ' .
A brushing scam occurs when people are sent items unsolicited by online sellers to generate a transaction and thus support fake reviews to boost their business or product .
Some officials fear that the seeds could be an invasive species , such as Japanese knotweed , intended to introduce disease , pathogens or otherwise compromise national security .
Where should any reports be made to ?
Members of the public across the UK should @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Thousands of shipments of seeds are said to have arrived at homes in New Zealand, the US, Canada and Europe, with 100 cases in the UK.
The origin of the seeds is unknown, and this has sparked biosecurity fears among officials.
International investigations have been launched in order to uncover the source of the seeds, as well as to determine the reason they've been posted.
What do the seeds look like?
Photographs posted by recipients show that the packaging of the seeds varies, with some packages marked as containing a "toy", others bearing Chinese characters, and some marked as "rose stud" earrings - likely in order to evade security checks.
Alarmingly, the shipments are addressed to recipients by name, suggesting that there may have been a data breach.
The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has asked recipients of the seeds not to plant them while it works out the source and nature of them.
In the UK, the Animal and Plant Health Agency (Apha) of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is similarly investigating reports of the seeds.
An Apha spokesperson said: “Biosecurity is of vital importance and we have robust checks in place to protect our plants and wildlife, including for online plant sales. We are currently investigating packages of seeds marked as ‘ear studs’ sent to people in the UK. Anyone who has received such seeds should not plant them and instead report them to us.”
Where have the seeds come from?
The most likely explanation for the seeds is that they're collateral in a so-called 'brushing scam'.
A brushing scam occurs when people are sent items unsolicited by online sellers to generate a transaction and thus support fake reviews to boost their business or product.
Some officials fear that the seeds could be an invasive species, such as Japanese knotweed, intended to introduce disease, pathogens or otherwise compromise national security.
Where should any reports be made to?
Members of the public across the UK should report suspicious seeds to PlantHealth.Info@apha.gov.uk


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-06--Kidderminster Harriers fans set record for season ticket sales

MORE season tickets than ever before were sold in the first 24 hours of going on sale on the Kidderminster Harriers website .
Boss Russ Penn has already shaped a good portion of his squad for the new season and with the club ’ s board overseeing a range of new improvements at Aggborough – including a new ticketing platform and an extensive overhaul of the stadium pitch .
Penn is optimistic for an October restart , and that momentum is clearly being felt and shared amongst the club ’ s fans , too , with a phenomenal reaction to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hours , Harriers fans snapped up a record-breaking 100 season tickets – the highest opening day of sales in recent memory .
Commercial manager Paul Biggerstaff said : “ Russ Penn has made some fantastic signings during the off-season and the future looks extremely bright .
“ We ’ ve seen a great response to our fundraising campaigns with over £10,000 raised during the toughest of times and we ’ re extremely grateful to all who have contributed .
“ Now is the time to really get behind the club and pledge support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ football season in a very long time.
” The National League recently confirmed that , while the intention is for fans to be allowed inside grounds to usher in the start of another season of competitive football , it is likely that numbers allowed will be lowered to begin with .
As such , by purchasing season tickets , Harriers fans are ensuring they will be prioritised wherever possible in the event that the capacity at Aggborough Stadium is temporarily reduced .
Fans are able to make their purchase from the comfort of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the new easy-to-use platform in partnership with Kaizen Ticketing .
In addition to priority entry to all home league matches , a Harriers season ticket includes matches played at Aggborough by Wolves U23 and youth teams next season , discounts with local business and plenty more .
Fans looking for further information can visit harriers.co.uk/seasontickets .

Boss Russ Penn has already shaped a good portion of his squad for the new season and with the club’s board overseeing a range of new improvements at Aggborough – including a new ticketing platform and an extensive overhaul of the stadium pitch.
Penn is optimistic for an October restart, and that momentum is clearly being felt and shared amongst the club’s fans, too, with a phenomenal reaction to season ticket sales.
In just 24 hours, Harriers fans snapped up a record-breaking 100 season tickets – the highest opening day of sales in recent memory.
Commercial manager Paul Biggerstaff said: “Russ Penn has made some fantastic signings during the off-season and the future looks extremely bright.
“We’ve seen a great response to our fundraising campaigns with over £10,000 raised during the toughest of times and we’re extremely grateful to all who have contributed.
“Now is the time to really get behind the club and pledge support for what is arguably the most anticipated football season in a very long time.”
The National League recently confirmed that, while the intention is for fans to be allowed inside grounds to usher in the start of another season of competitive football, it is likely that numbers allowed will be lowered to begin with.
As such, by purchasing season tickets, Harriers fans are ensuring they will be prioritised wherever possible in the event that the capacity at Aggborough Stadium is temporarily reduced.
Fans are able to make their purchase from the comfort of their own home by logging on to the new easy-to-use platform in partnership with Kaizen Ticketing.
In addition to priority entry to all home league matches, a Harriers season ticket includes matches played at Aggborough by Wolves U23 and youth teams next season, discounts with local business and plenty more.
Fans looking for further information can visit harriers.co.uk/seasontickets.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-07--Stourport M&Co saved from closure

Stourport M&Co saved from closure

M & CO ’ s long-established store in Stourport has been saved from closure following a financial restructure of the business .
The Lombard Street shop is one of more than 200 M & Co outlets across the UK to be saved following a financial restructuring exercise which has preserved more than 2,200 jobs .
The company , which has had a presence in the town for over 12 years , appointed administrators in April as the coronavirus outbreak forced the closure of most UK retailers for almost four months .
M & Co ’ s chief executive Andy McGeoch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that best way to save most jobs and most stores was to enter administration , with a new company acquiring the assets of the old business , and this process has now been finalised .
`` Covid has been by far the biggest challenge our family business has faced in almost 60 years , and I am really pleased that we have been able to maintain a presence in over 200 communities “ Covid-19 means many people don ’ t feel comfortable travelling on public transport or visiting busy city centres and that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Street stores like M & Co .
`` That ’ s why we are looking at ways of working in partnership with other local retailers to highlight the tremendous range of shopping that can be found in communities like this all over the country .
“ Local economies rely to a huge degree on their town centres and we have seen too many High Streets hollowed out by successive shop closures .
`` More and more people are beginning to realise that , if they don ’ t support their town centres , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ takes a hit , so we are proud to be playing a part in the drive to shop locally .
“ The response from our customers during lockdown was phenomenal .
We had a steady stream of requests for updates via M & Co ’ s Facebook pages , with some customers even posting letters through the doors asking when we were reopening .
`` It ’ s hugely encouraging to hear our customers say how much they have missed us after months away.
” The administration process , which is being managed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reduced from 265 to 218 stores , with around 380 redundancies from a total workforce of over 2,600 .

The Lombard Street shop is one of more than 200 M&Co outlets across the UK to be saved following a financial restructuring exercise which has preserved more than 2,200 jobs.
The company, which has had a presence in the town for over 12 years, appointed administrators in April as the coronavirus outbreak forced the closure of most UK retailers for almost four months.
M&Co’s chief executive Andy McGeoch said: “It quickly became clear that best way to save most jobs and most stores was to enter administration, with a new company acquiring the assets of the old business, and this process has now been finalised.
"Covid has been by far the biggest challenge our family business has faced in almost 60 years, and I am really pleased that we have been able to maintain a presence in over 200 communities
“Covid-19 means many people don’t feel comfortable travelling on public transport or visiting busy city centres and that can be good news for local High Street stores like M&Co.
"That’s why we are looking at ways of working in partnership with other local retailers to highlight the tremendous range of shopping that can be found in communities like this all over the country.
“Local economies rely to a huge degree on their town centres and we have seen too many High Streets hollowed out by successive shop closures.
"More and more people are beginning to realise that, if they don’t support their town centres, everyone’s quality of living really takes a hit, so we are proud to be playing a part in the drive to shop locally.
“The response from our customers during lockdown was phenomenal. We had a steady stream of requests for updates via M&Co’s Facebook pages, with some customers even posting letters through the doors asking when we were reopening.
"It’s hugely encouraging to hear our customers say how much they have missed us after months away.”
The administration process, which is being managed by Deloitte, will see the estate reduced from 265 to 218 stores, with around 380 redundancies from a total workforce of over 2,600.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-07--REVIEW: West Midlands Safari Park, Sea Life Centre - 'new normal' family days out

It ’ s a summer the like of which we ’ ve never known .
And while lockdown meant families spent more time together than perhaps ever before , some of the places they would go for days out were just not available .
So we thought it would be a good idea to visit these popular attractions and report back on just what the ‘ new normal ’ is like there… So , what ’ s new ?
: Booking .
And signs !
Lots of signs !
The signs are super cute too , waddling penguins demonstrating the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be practising .
Booking is super-important – the park has a limit on numbers so if you turn up unannounced , particularly on weekends ( we went on a Sunday , which was pretty busy ) , you might be disappointed .
Otherwise , it ’ s the things you would expect – lots of hand sanitisers and wash stations , additional portable toilet blocks have been added , contactless payments preferred to cash .
At the leisure park , the amusements have reopened but are cleaned after each ride – this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a longer wait than usual as there are fewer parkgoers than normal .
Some attractions – such as the Twilight Cave – remain closed but most everything is open .
The shows are on – we saw the excellent Sea Lion show – although the crowds are much smaller with seats , including entire rows , needing to be left empty to ensure social distancing .
But there are several shows a day so as long as you queue a few minutes early , you will probably get in .
You only really @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lemur Walk – when I asked why , apparently it is for the safety of those particular animals .
They are cute too – so make sure you take masks and don ’ t miss out on that !
And what ’ s the same ?
: The safari park itself is pretty much unaffected , obviously – after all , you ’ re in your own family bubble in your car as you drive around !
You can still feed some of the animals , with the giraffes particularly peckish – indeed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ keep your window half-shut , else you might end up with a greedy giraffe ’ s head in your lap… not that that happened to me of course… Overall verdict : This was a really enjoyable day out .
Like most places , it ’ s not cheap – between £100-130 for a family of four depending on whether you buy amusement wristbands – but parents will be used to that !
You know how to cut down the costs , take your own food and drink , etc .
I had never @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and so did the kids .
We felt safe throughout with all the measures that had been put in place .
So , what ’ s new ?
: I had a little more trepidation over this visit because of the fact it is wholly indoors but the Sea Life Centre is much less busy than people who have previously visited will remember .
That ’ s because – much like at the Safari Park – they have implemented a booking system that limits the number of people in the centre , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was .
There ’ s far more space to move around and you actually have more time to view the exhibits rather than feeling you need to rush about because you have loads of people waiting behind you .
We visited before temperature checks and face masks were made compulsory but those measures will apparently be introduced shortly .
There were social distancing 2m markings on the floor and walls throughout , as well as instructions that benches are only to be used by family members in the same bubble .
Understandably @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the end of the trail is closed but the fact that the 4D cinema remains shut was a slight disappointment – hopefully they can work out how to reopen that safely .
And what ’ s the same ?
: The exhibits remain just as wonderful as ever – from the peerless penguins to the scary sharks , from the over-excitable otters to the tremendous turtles .
There ’ s the always-impressive ocean tunnel that rounds off your visit and I was pleased to see the rockpool – where you can touch small @ @ @ @ @ @ @ open .
Overall verdict : The Sea Life Centre is always a fun place to go and the kids will never tire of seeing the penguins , sharks and turtles in particular .
The compulsory booking system ensured there were not too many centregoers present during our visit and there were plenty of facilities and instructions to help everyone feel safe .
The only downside was the fact that the cinema and play area were closed meant your time there was probably 30 minutes to an hour less than it would usually be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ almost £90 for a family of four – it ’ s a bit steep for a morning out so get checking those cereal boxes for the entry discounts all we parents know and love !
We 'll be adding more reviews throughout the summer so keep checking back !

And while lockdown meant families spent more time together than perhaps ever before, some of the places they would go for days out were just not available.
That’s slowly changing with restrictions gradually lifting.
So we thought it would be a good idea to visit these popular attractions and report back on just what the ‘new normal’ is like there…
West Midlands Safari and Leisure Park
Where: Spring Grove Road, Bewdley, Worcs, DY12 1LF
When: Opening times vary – check www.wmsp.co.uk for details.
So, what’s new?: Booking. And signs! Lots of signs!
The signs are super cute too, waddling penguins demonstrating the sort of social distancing we all need to be practising.
Booking is super-important – the park has a limit on numbers so if you turn up unannounced, particularly on weekends (we went on a Sunday, which was pretty busy), you might be disappointed.
Otherwise, it’s the things you would expect – lots of hand sanitisers and wash stations, additional portable toilet blocks have been added, contactless payments preferred to cash.
At the leisure park, the amusements have reopened but are cleaned after each ride – this does not necessarily mean too much of a longer wait than usual as there are fewer parkgoers than normal.
Some attractions – such as the Twilight Cave – remain closed but most everything is open.
The shows are on – we saw the excellent Sea Lion show – although the crowds are much smaller with seats, including entire rows, needing to be left empty to ensure social distancing. But there are several shows a day so as long as you queue a few minutes early, you will probably get in.
You only really need facemasks for the gift shops and Lemur Walk – when I asked why, apparently it is for the safety of those particular animals. They are cute too – so make sure you take masks and don’t miss out on that!
And what’s the same?: The safari park itself is pretty much unaffected, obviously – after all, you’re in your own family bubble in your car as you drive around!
You can still feed some of the animals, with the giraffes particularly peckish – indeed, take note of the instruction to keep your window half-shut, else you might end up with a greedy giraffe’s head in your lap… not that that happened to me of course…
Overall verdict: This was a really enjoyable day out.
Like most places, it’s not cheap – between £100-130 for a family of four depending on whether you buy amusement wristbands – but parents will be used to that!
You know how to cut down the costs, take your own food and drink, etc. I had never been before and really enjoyed it, and so did the kids.
We felt safe throughout with all the measures that had been put in place.
National Sea Life Centre, Birmingham
Where: The Water’s Edge, Brindley Place, Birmingham, B1 2HL.
When: Mon-Fri 9:45am-4pm; Sat 9.30am-6pm; Sun 9.30am-5pm
So, what’s new?: I had a little more trepidation over this visit because of the fact it is wholly indoors but the Sea Life Centre is much less busy than people who have previously visited will remember.
That’s because – much like at the Safari Park – they have implemented a booking system that limits the number of people in the centre, and actually makes the experience more enjoyable than it was.
There’s far more space to move around and you actually have more time to view the exhibits rather than feeling you need to rush about because you have loads of people waiting behind you.
We visited before temperature checks and face masks were made compulsory but those measures will apparently be introduced shortly.
There were social distancing 2m markings on the floor and walls throughout, as well as instructions that benches are only to be used by family members in the same bubble.
Understandably, the kids’ play area at the end of the trail is closed but the fact that the 4D cinema remains shut was a slight disappointment – hopefully they can work out how to reopen that safely.
And what’s the same?: The exhibits remain just as wonderful as ever – from the peerless penguins to the scary sharks, from the over-excitable otters to the tremendous turtles.
There’s the always-impressive ocean tunnel that rounds off your visit and I was pleased to see the rockpool – where you can touch small sea creatures like starfish – is still open.
Overall verdict: The Sea Life Centre is always a fun place to go and the kids will never tire of seeing the penguins, sharks and turtles in particular.
The compulsory booking system ensured there were not too many centregoers present during our visit and there were plenty of facilities and instructions to help everyone feel safe.
The only downside was the fact that the cinema and play area were closed meant your time there was probably 30 minutes to an hour less than it would usually be.
At £21.95 a ticket – so almost £90 for a family of four – it’s a bit steep for a morning out so get checking those cereal boxes for the entry discounts all we parents know and love!
Alton Towers
Where: Alton, Staffordshire ST10 4DB
When: 10am-7pm daily – opening times may vary so check www.altontowers.com before visiting.
So, what’s new: A fair bit, from the moment you arrive in fact – there’s no monorail now, which means a walk from the car park to the theme park rather than the lazier option.
Pre-booking is essential as the number of guests allowed in the park at any time is capped – and there are temperature checks for all. Don’t go if you think you have a fever – as you won’t get in!
You need face masks for some rides (and shops) – my wife forgot hers in one queue but a helpful member of staff was able to provide one. There’s a lot for staff to get their heads around with the new rules but they were as cheerful as ever.
Because of the regulations – fewer people per ride on some rides, etc – the queues (always an issue at themes park anyway) seemed slightly longer than normal.
And what’s the same: The rides, pretty much! There’s no mixing of bubbles (families) in the same rows, which means a few gaps, but other than that the rides, big and small, are as they were.
Toilets, shops, restaurants, refreshment kiosks are all open – and the kiddies’ shows in CBeebies Land are on too, complete with socially-distanced seating. Sadly there are no photos and hugs with the characters now, but that’s understandable.
Overall verdict: There’s nothing like a theme park visit to get you feeling something approaching back to normal.
The kids absolutely looooooved it – Wicker Man and Nemesis being out 8-year-old’s favourite while our 4-year-old adored Go Jetters in CBeebies Land plus the Driving School in the main park – and we adults had great fun too.
There’s the odd frustration, of course, with the queues but, hey, we handled being stuck at home for three months so a half-hour wait for a rollercoaster isn’t the end of the world.
We'll be adding more reviews throughout the summer so keep checking back!


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-07--Cash boost for improvement projects at Kidderminster schools

IMPROVEMENT projects at two Kidderminster schools have been given the green light after funds were made available by government .
King Charles I and Foley Park Primary are among 580 school building projects set to receive a share of £560 million announced by the Prime Minister last month to help the nation bounce back from the pandemic by investing in schools to help teachers deliver a high standard of education and create jobs .
The funding will allow King Charles I School to replace electrical switch gear and a distribution board , while Foley Park 's cash boost will pay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gavin Williamson said : “ As we work towards all children returning to school in September , this investment in our school and college buildings helps create modern environments that lend themselves to great teaching , making sure every child has the opportunity to fulfil their potential .
“ We have worked at great speed to release this additional £560 million of condition funding to schools for projects this year to kick-start the economy and transform the buildings so vital for excellent teaching .
“ We have now allocated over £2 billion this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ school buildings , paving the way for our new transformative ten-year school building programme starting later this year with over £1 billion funding for the first wave of 50 schools.
” The 580 building projects will share £180 million in funding and the remainder of the £560 million will go to local authorities , larger multi-academy trusts and large voluntary-aided school bodies to spend on improving the condition of their schools .
These building projects will be more environmentally-friendly and employ the latest construction methods – creating highly skilled jobs and providing a @ @ @ @ @ @

King Charles I and Foley Park Primary are among 580 school building projects set to receive a share of £560 million announced by the Prime Minister last month to help the nation bounce back from the pandemic by investing in schools to help teachers deliver a high standard of education and create jobs.
The funding will allow King Charles I School to replace electrical switch gear and a distribution board, while Foley Park's cash boost will pay for fire reform works.
Education secretary Gavin Williamson said: “As we work towards all children returning to school in September, this investment in our school and college buildings helps create modern environments that lend themselves to great teaching, making sure every child has the opportunity to fulfil their potential.
“We have worked at great speed to release this additional £560 million of condition funding to schools for projects this year to kick-start the economy and transform the buildings so vital for excellent teaching.
“We have now allocated over £2 billion this year to improve the condition of our school buildings, paving the way for our new transformative ten-year school building programme starting later this year with over £1 billion funding for the first wave of 50 schools.”
The 580 building projects will share £180 million in funding and the remainder of the £560 million will go to local authorities, larger multi-academy trusts and large voluntary-aided school bodies to spend on improving the condition of their schools.
These building projects will be more environmentally-friendly and employ the latest construction methods – creating highly skilled jobs and providing a boost for the construction sector.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-08--5 Worcestershire reality TV stars- and where they are now

Reality TV stars such as the X Factor and Britain ’ s Got Talent have given a platform to some very talented singers- some of which hail from right here in Worcestershire .
From Harry Styles to Charlie Green , here are five reality TV stars you probably didn ’ t know came from Worcestershire - and an update about what they are up to in their lives .
Charlie Green Charlie is from Droitwich Spa and made it to the Britain ’ s Got Talent semi-final when he was just 10-years-old .
He wowed the judges with his sophisticated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Charlie has still kept up with his singing career and has toured in numerous countries .
Also on Britain ’ s Got Talent was Worcester born Pippa Langhorn .
She made it to the semi-finals of the show in 2011 by singing Operatic music with Buddy , her dog .
Pippa is still singing and can be hired for formal events and parties .
In July of this year , Buddy was hit by a car and Pippa set up a GoFundMe to cover his £5000 medical bills- luckily , he has had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This singer and song writer first found fame on The X Factor in 2010- and she was actually raised in Malvern .
She finished in fourth place on the show and went on to produce ‘ Want U Back ’ and ‘ Swagger Jagger ’ .
Cher is still producing music- her latest single ‘ Lost ’ received more than 1.9 million views on YouTube .
She gave birth to a baby girl , Delilah-Rae , in 2018 .
Becky was born in Bewdley and appeared on the BBC show ‘ The Voice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ judges with her rendition of John Legend ’ s ‘ Ordinary People ’ .
Although she only made it to the semi-finals , Becky has had a lot of success , producing dance anthems ‘ Wish You Well ’ and ‘ Heaven On My Mind ’ with Sigala .
This singer and song writer needs no introduction- but did you know he was raised in Redditch ?
He first found fame on the X Factor in 2010 , when he formed one fifth of pop band One Direction .
The band went on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on to produce solo music Styles has had a successful music career- his latest album is Fine Line , featuring the hits ‘ Watermelon Sugar ’ and ‘ Falling ’ .
He has also tried his hand at acting , starring in the 2017 movie ‘ Dunkirk ’ .

From Harry Styles to Charlie Green, here are five reality TV stars you probably didn’t know came from Worcestershire - and an update about what they are up to in their lives.
Charlie Green
(Facebook/Charlie Green)
Charlie is from Droitwich Spa and made it to the Britain’s Got Talent semi-final when he was just 10-years-old.
He wowed the judges with his sophisticated singing voice.
Twelve years later and Charlie has still kept up with his singing career and has toured in numerous countries.
Pippa Langhorn
(Credit: YouTube/ Britain's Got Talent/ITV)
Also on Britain’s Got Talent was Worcester born Pippa Langhorn. She made it to the semi-finals of the show in 2011 by singing Operatic music with Buddy, her dog.
Pippa is still singing and can be hired for formal events and parties.
In July of this year, Buddy was hit by a car and Pippa set up a GoFundMe to cover his £5000 medical bills- luckily, he has had the surgery and is in recovery.
Cher Lloyd
(Credit: Instagram/cherlloyd)
This singer and song writer first found fame on The X Factor in 2010- and she was actually raised in Malvern.
She finished in fourth place on the show and went on to produce ‘Want U Back’ and ‘Swagger Jagger’.
Cher is still producing music- her latest single ‘Lost’ received more than 1.9 million views on YouTube.
She gave birth to a baby girl, Delilah-Rae, in 2018.
Becky Hill
almost feels like Heaven On My Mind was made for sunny summer days like these! anyone else looking forward to the weekend? ☀💕 @SigalaMusic https://t.co/Q13ZBwytmg pic.twitter.com/nTuWtZR62n — Becky Hill (@BeckyHill) July 30, 2020
(Credit: Twitter/@BeckyHill)
Becky was born in Bewdley and appeared on the BBC show ‘The Voice’ in 2012.
She impressed the judges with her rendition of John Legend’s ‘Ordinary People’.
Although she only made it to the semi-finals, Becky has had a lot of success, producing dance anthems ‘Wish You Well’ and ‘Heaven On My Mind’ with Sigala.
Harry Styles
(Credit: Twitter/@Harry_Styles)
This singer and song writer needs no introduction- but did you know he was raised in Redditch?
He first found fame on the X Factor in 2010, when he formed one fifth of pop band One Direction.
The band went on hiatus in 2015 and the boys went on to produce solo music
Styles has had a successful music career- his latest album is Fine Line, featuring the hits ‘Watermelon Sugar’ and ‘Falling’.
He has also tried his hand at acting, starring in the 2017 movie ‘Dunkirk’.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-08--I'm a Celebrity UK: Ruined castles where the ITV show could take place

ITV have confirmed that the 20th series of I ’ m A Celebrity ... Get Me Out of Here !
will swap the Australian jungle for a 'ruined castle ' in the UK .
The show will take place later this year and will be broadcast live every night from a ruined castle in the countryside , but so far have declined to give any indication as to where in the UK it will be filmed .
It was reported last month that the show could be filmed in the Scottish Highlands , however ITV have yet to confirm if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Dec will host the series , bringing viewers all the news and excitement of the day .
Following the news - we 've put together a list of 'ruined castles ' across England , Scotland and Wales where the show could possibly take place .
How will the new series work ?
As on the regular series , viewers will see the celebrities undertake gruelling trials and fun-filled challenges to win food and treats in the lead up to one of them being crowned , for the first time ever , King @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have ITV said ?
Kevin Lygo , ITV ’ s director of television said : “ We announced last week that we were doing all we could to make the series and I ’ m thrilled that we can bring the show to viewers albeit not in the jungle .
We have a great team both on and off screen and I know they will produce a hugely entertaining series ” .
Richard Cowles , director of Entertainment at ITV Studios said : “ We pulled out all the stops to try and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Unfortunately , due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and despite us looking at many different contingencies , it became apparent that it just wasn ’ t possible for us to travel and make the show there .
`` However , we are all really excited about a UK version of I ’ m A Celebrity .
While it will certainly be different producing the show from the UK , the same tone and feel will remain .
“ Our celebrities will probably have to swap shorts for thermals but they can still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rice and beans and plenty of thrills and surprises along the way ” .
ITV say that more information about the new series will be released in due course .

The show will take place later this year and will be broadcast live every night from a ruined castle in the countryside, but so far have declined to give any indication as to where in the UK it will be filmed.
It was reported last month that the show could be filmed in the Scottish Highlands, however ITV have yet to confirm if this will be the case.
Ant and Dec will host the series, bringing viewers all the news and excitement of the day.
Following the news - we've put together a list of 'ruined castles' across England, Scotland and Wales where the show could possibly take place.
They include:
Dunstanburgh Castle, Northumberland, England
Bodiam Castle, East Sussex, England
Warkworth Castle, Northumberland, England
Restormel Castle, Cornwall, England
Richmond Castle, North Yorkshire, England
Longtown Castle, Hereford, England
Launceston Castle, Cornwall, England
Dunnottar Castle, Stonehaven, Scotland
Harlech Castle, Gwynedd, Wales
Dinefwr Castle, Carmarthenshire, Wales
Tantallon Castle, East Lothian, Scotland
White Castle, Monmouthshire, Wales
Spynie Palace, Moray, Scotland
How will the new series work?
As on the regular series, viewers will see the celebrities undertake gruelling trials and fun-filled challenges to win food and treats in the lead up to one of them being crowned, for the first time ever, King or Queen of the Castle.
What have ITV said?
Kevin Lygo, ITV’s director of television said: “We announced last week that we were doing all we could to make the series and I’m thrilled that we can bring the show to viewers albeit not in the jungle. We have a great team both on and off screen and I know they will produce a hugely entertaining series”.
Richard Cowles, director of Entertainment at ITV Studios said: “We pulled out all the stops to try and make the series happen in Australia.
"Unfortunately, due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and despite us looking at many different contingencies, it became apparent that it just wasn’t possible for us to travel and make the show there.
"However, we are all really excited about a UK version of I’m A Celebrity. While it will certainly be different producing the show from the UK, the same tone and feel will remain.
“Our celebrities will probably have to swap shorts for thermals but they can still look forward to a basic diet of rice and beans and plenty of thrills and surprises along the way”.
ITV say that more information about the new series will be released in due course.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-08--Heatwave: Six ways to cool your house down - and the common mistakes to avoid

It might be hotting up outdoors - but if you ’ re stuck inside and struggling to keep cool there are a variety of things to do to make your room cooler .
We 've put together a handy heatwave guide to help .
Although the first thing you might want to do on a warm and sunny day is to open the curtains and let some air in through the windows , this can sometimes make a room hotter .
If the temperature is hotter outside than inside , then you could just be letting warm air in .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ windows , try to do so in a way which will encourage a through draft .
Opening a lower window from the cooler side of your house and an upper window from the hotter side can help , making sure that all doors and windows are open from one end of the house to the other in order to let the air easily move through .
During the night , the temperature tends to fall , so if it ’ s possible , open your bedroom window a little to let a cooling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a wet sheet in front of an open window can also help to bring the temperature in the room down .
Lights can emit extra heat that can make your room warmer , so if it ’ s not dark outside , turning them off can help to keep a room cooler .
Similarly to light bulbs , electrical appliances radiate heat which can make an already warm room even hotter .
Unplug your phone , tv and other devices that may be radiating heat and don ’ t charge them overnight if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as you sleep .
If your bedroom is warm and you ’ re finding it too hot to sleep , using cotton or linen sheets can help .
This is because they are breathable fabrics and better at keeping you cool than materials such as polyester .
This also counts for clothes , so wearing a cotton or linen top and trouser will be cooler than heavier fabrics .
If you have time when changing your sheets , you can put them in the freezer for around 15 minutes beforehand , so they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into bed .
Make sure you place your sheets in a plastic bag before putting them in the freezer to make sure nothing spills on them and that they remain clean .
A fan can be a good way of cooling a room down , and is a popular choice with many when the mercury rises .
Placing a bowl of iced water in front of the fan can also be an extra step in keeping a room cool .
This will make the air feel cool as the ice evaporates .
6 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A hot shower , the washing machine and the dishwasher all produce steam which can cause humidity and make a room feel even warmer .
Use them as little as possible when a room is already too warm .

We've put together a handy heatwave guide to help.
1) Close the curtains and windows
Although the first thing you might want to do on a warm and sunny day is to open the curtains and let some air in through the windows, this can sometimes make a room hotter.
If the temperature is hotter outside than inside, then you could just be letting warm air in.
However, if you do open the windows, try to do so in a way which will encourage a through draft.
Opening a lower window from the cooler side of your house and an upper window from the hotter side can help, making sure that all doors and windows are open from one end of the house to the other in order to let the air easily move through.
During the night, the temperature tends to fall, so if it’s possible, open your bedroom window a little to let a cooling breeze in as you sleep.
Hanging a wet sheet in front of an open window can also help to bring the temperature in the room down.
2) Turn the lights off
Lights can emit extra heat that can make your room warmer, so if it’s not dark outside, turning them off can help to keep a room cooler.
3) Turn electrical appliances off
Similarly to light bulbs, electrical appliances radiate heat which can make an already warm room even hotter.
Unplug your phone, tv and other devices that may be radiating heat and don’t charge them overnight if you’re trying to keep cool as you sleep.
4) Use cotton or linen sheets
If your bedroom is warm and you’re finding it too hot to sleep, using cotton or linen sheets can help.
This is because they are breathable fabrics and better at keeping you cool than materials such as polyester.
This also counts for clothes, so wearing a cotton or linen top and trouser will be cooler than heavier fabrics.
If you have time when changing your sheets, you can put them in the freezer for around 15 minutes beforehand, so they’ll feel cool when you get into bed.
Make sure you place your sheets in a plastic bag before putting them in the freezer to make sure nothing spills on them and that they remain clean.
5) Fan
A fan can be a good way of cooling a room down, and is a popular choice with many when the mercury rises.
Placing a bowl of iced water in front of the fan can also be an extra step in keeping a room cool. This will make the air feel cool as the ice evaporates.
6) Avoid things that can cause humidity
A hot shower, the washing machine and the dishwasher all produce steam which can cause humidity and make a room feel even warmer.
Use them as little as possible when a room is already too warm.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-08--Kidderminster and Stourport Specsavers become more deaf friendly

A NEW scheme to help people with hearing loss communicate more easily is being trialled by Specsavers stores in Kidderminster and Stourport .
The Wyre Forest branches are among 20 stores taking part in the Please Speak Clearly initiative , which is backed by national charity Hearing Dogs for Deaf People .
As well as free Please Speak Clearly badges - designed for people who are hard of hearing so anyone they meet understands that they might be struggling to hear - the store is making changes to the customer journey to ensure that it is an easy and stress-free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ especially when communicating with people wearing protective masks .
This includes the introduction of speech to text apps for in-store tablets , so conversations can be clearly displayed on-screen if a customer is struggling to hear or lip-read .
Craig Sadler , audiology director at Kidderminster and Stourport , said : `` With stores now able to offer routine testing with new safety measures in place , including PPE and masks , we need to think about how we can effectively communicate with and assist our customers with hearing loss .
`` As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and can happen to anyone at any age , it can be difficult at times to know who may need a bit more help .
`` This scheme supports our ongoing work with Hearing Dogs , to help remove the stigma often associated with hearing loss , so it is viewed in the same way as vision loss – it shouldn ’ t be a hidden issue as it affects one in six people in the UK in some form .
`` We hope this trial is a huge success and it becomes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that we can roll it out to more Specsavers stores throughout the UK . ''
David Robson , a spokesman for Hearing Dogs for Deaf People , said : `` While face coverings are a sensible precaution for reducing the spread of coronavirus , they unfortunately have the unintended consequence of creating a huge barrier for deaf people who rely on lip-reading .
`` It is really important for those who lip-read to be able to see other people ’ s mouths and faces , so with so many people wearing face coverings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ banks and hospitals , it becomes incredibly difficult for deaf people who rely on lipreading to access the same information as other people , which not only makes life much harder for them but can also pose a safety risk .
`` Specsavers ’ Please Speak Clearly initiative will help to make life easier for people who rely on lip-reading , and we would encourage anyone who is struggling with the communications barriers associated with face coverings to visit the store to collect their free badge . ''

The Wyre Forest branches are among 20 stores taking part in the Please Speak Clearly initiative, which is backed by national charity Hearing Dogs for Deaf People.
As well as free Please Speak Clearly badges - designed for people who are hard of hearing so anyone they meet understands that they might be struggling to hear - the store is making changes to the customer journey to ensure that it is an easy and stress-free experience for anyone with hearing loss, especially when communicating with people wearing protective masks.
This includes the introduction of speech to text apps for in-store tablets, so conversations can be clearly displayed on-screen if a customer is struggling to hear or lip-read.
Craig Sadler, audiology director at Kidderminster and Stourport, said: "With stores now able to offer routine testing with new safety measures in place, including PPE and masks, we need to think about how we can effectively communicate with and assist our customers with hearing loss.
"As hearing loss is not always visible, and can happen to anyone at any age, it can be difficult at times to know who may need a bit more help.
"This scheme supports our ongoing work with Hearing Dogs, to help remove the stigma often associated with hearing loss, so it is viewed in the same way as vision loss – it shouldn’t be a hidden issue as it affects one in six people in the UK in some form.
"We hope this trial is a huge success and it becomes something the entire community will support so that we can roll it out to more Specsavers stores throughout the UK."
David Robson, a spokesman for Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, said: "While face coverings are a sensible precaution for reducing the spread of coronavirus, they unfortunately have the unintended consequence of creating a huge barrier for deaf people who rely on lip-reading.
"It is really important for those who lip-read to be able to see other people’s mouths and faces, so with so many people wearing face coverings in places like shops, supermarkets, banks and hospitals, it becomes incredibly difficult for deaf people who rely on lipreading to access the same information as other people, which not only makes life much harder for them but can also pose a safety risk.
"Specsavers’ Please Speak Clearly initiative will help to make life easier for people who rely on lip-reading, and we would encourage anyone who is struggling with the communications barriers associated with face coverings to visit the store to collect their free badge."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-08--Home Instead Kidderminster takes us behind the business

Who are you ?
Laura Baber When did you open and why ?
We opened in June2014 , to make a difference to the lives of older people .
Following many years in the construction industry , Laura decided it was time for a change and wanted to do something more rewarding with an organisation who shared the same values .
Tell us about your business ?
We are a local home care organisation , providing a tailored service to seniors in the Wyre Forest .
We offer to all of our clients ; visits no less than 60 minutes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ uniform , personal visits , we match CAREGivers to our clients , and offer companionship led care .
Everything to us is personal .
How did you decide on the name ?
We trade as Home Instead Senior Care ; this name comes from the fact that our clients prefer to stay home instead of being anywhere else .
Who works there ?
We have a team of 40 made up of ; director , registered care manger , administrator , care coordinator , recruitment & development coordinator , care quality liaison , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your customers ?
Individuals who want to stay at home , but require some support to maintain their independence .
What is your most memorable / proudest moment in business ?
It ’ s always a proud moment when one of our client ’ s relatives ; tells us how much they appreciate the care given to their loved one and how much it has changed their lives .
What are your ambitions for the future ?
To support as many individuals as we can in our local community , to enable them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as giving employment of a rewarding role to the local community .
Anything else ?
We are involved in a large number of organisations in the community ; Melissa our community coordinator volunteers at Dementia Cafes as well as being on the board of Kidderminster Dementia Action Alliance .
She enjoys being able to help people in the wider community and volunteering her time .
Melissa also offers Dementia Friends information sessions for local businesses and we would love more of the community to become Dementia Friends and understand more about dementia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Shuttle has launched its Love Local Business to support businesses coming out of the lockdown .
If you would like your business included call 01905 742372 or email dale.godliman @ localiq.co.uk .

PHONE: 01562 754757
EMAIL: Office.kidderminster@Homeinstead.co.uk
ADDRESS: Gemini House, Stourport Road, Kidderminster
WEBSITE: www.homeinstead.co.uk/kidderminster
SOCIAL Media: www.facebook.com/HIKidderminster /www.instagram.com/homeinsteadseniorkidderminster
OPENING Hours: Monday to Friday 9am-5pm
Who are you? Laura Baber
When did you open and why? We opened in June2014, to make a difference to the lives of older people. Following many years in the construction industry, Laura decided it was time for a change and wanted to do something more rewarding with an organisation who shared the same values.
Tell us about your business? We are a local home care organisation, providing a tailored service to seniors in the Wyre Forest. We offer to all of our clients; visits no less than 60 minutes introductions to their CAREGiver team, no uniform, personal visits, we match CAREGivers to our clients, and offer companionship led care. Everything to us is personal.
How did you decide on the name? We trade as Home Instead Senior Care; this name comes from the fact that our clients prefer to stay home instead of being anywhere else.
Who works there? We have a team of 40 made up of; director, registered care manger, administrator, care coordinator, recruitment & development coordinator, care quality liaison, senior CAREGivers, CAREGivers.
Who are your customers? Individuals who want to stay at home, but require some support to maintain their independence.
What is your most memorable / proudest moment in business? It’s always a proud moment when one of our client’s relatives; tells us how much they appreciate the care given to their loved one and how much it has changed their lives.
What are your ambitions for the future? To support as many individuals as we can in our local community , to enable them to stay at home instead. As well as giving employment of a rewarding role to the local community.
Anything else? We are involved in a large number of organisations in the community; Melissa our community coordinator volunteers at Dementia Cafes as well as being on the board of Kidderminster Dementia Action Alliance. She enjoys being able to help people in the wider community and volunteering her time. Melissa also offers Dementia Friends information sessions for local businesses and we would love more of the community to become Dementia Friends and understand more about dementia and how it affects people.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-09--Severn Valley Railway will spend thousands repairing landslip

A MAJOR funding boost from the Severn Valley Railway 's charitable trust will be spent repairing a serious landslip near Highley .
The heritage railway will use £120,000 from donors to stabilise land at Sterns , between Highley and Bridgnorth , by installing drainage to direct rainwater away from the line .
Repairs are already under way after the railway suffered a serious landslip which , if left unchecked , would result in the closure of the line to passenger trains .
The SVR ’ s infrastructure manager , Chris Bond , said : `` We are hugely grateful to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there would be a likelihood that we would have to cease passenger trains between Highley and Bridgnorth once the winter weather returns .
Work to repair a serious landslide on the Severn Valley Railway at Sterns , near Highley .
Photo by Matt Robinson '' That would have isolated the engineering hub at Bridgnorth from the rest of the railway , which in the current circumstances could have been catastrophic for the financial viability of the SVR .
`` The stabilisation of the area will maintain the required safety and permit full line @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been released by the trust to complete the restoration of Great Western Railway 's Hawksworth coach 2242 .
The money will bring forward the introduction of of the 2242 into traffic .
The work will ensure that the railway ’ s historic GWR coaching set includes a large brake vehicle in its formation which is needed to accommodate prams , bicycles and other large equipment .
It will allow the vehicle to be brought into service in 2021 .
Shelagh Paterson , trust director of development at the SVR charitable trust , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be able to fund these two projects , thanks to the generosity of our donors .
`` One will ensure the continued safe operation of the Railway , and the other will extend its accessibility to all members of the community .
”

The heritage railway will use £120,000 from donors to stabilise land at Sterns, between Highley and Bridgnorth, by installing drainage to direct rainwater away from the line.
Repairs are already under way after the railway suffered a serious landslip which, if left unchecked, would result in the closure of the line to passenger trains.
The SVR’s infrastructure manager, Chris Bond, said: "We are hugely grateful to the charitable trust. Without this project there would be a likelihood that we would have to cease passenger trains between Highley and Bridgnorth once the winter weather returns.
Work to repair a serious landslide on the Severn Valley Railway at Sterns, near Highley. Photo by Matt Robinson
"That would have isolated the engineering hub at Bridgnorth from the rest of the railway, which in the current circumstances could have been catastrophic for the financial viability of the SVR.
"The stabilisation of the area will maintain the required safety and permit full line journeys to be maintained.”
Another £12,000 has been released by the trust to complete the restoration of Great Western Railway's Hawksworth coach 2242.
The money will bring forward the introduction of of the 2242 into traffic. The work will ensure that the railway’s historic GWR coaching set includes a large brake vehicle in its formation which is needed to accommodate prams, bicycles and other large equipment.
It will allow the vehicle to be brought into service in 2021.
Shelagh Paterson, trust director of development at the SVR charitable trust, said: "We are delighted to be able to fund these two projects, thanks to the generosity of our donors.
"One will ensure the continued safe operation of the Railway, and the other will extend its accessibility to all members of the community.”