I am exceptionally proud to be Leader of this local authority and how the community embodies our ethos of great place, great
lifestyle and great sport.

Therefore with Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) discussions continuing with fellow local authorities and the government, our priority will always be you, the residents of the Borough, so you can continue to receive high quality services and low Council Tax.

A Full Council meeting in March saw a majority of Councillors vote to not join the Nottingham City Council area in any restructure and you can read more on this below.

Now, our brilliant free events season is here. In the coming weeks and months look out for Proms in the Park on June 28, a Film and Food Festival on July 12 and Lark in the Park on August 6, there’s something for everyone.

Meanwhile in Cotgrave and Keyworth we are investing over £5m in leisure centre improvements as we refurbish with energy efficiency in mind and great new facilities such as new studios for group exercise and poolside changing rooms.

The feedback has been great so far and adds to the investment in Bingham and Rushcliffe Arenas in recent years. We want to continue to make health and wellbeing opportunities available to as many residents as possible for a better quality of life.

We always want to listen where we can improve services so look out for more opportunities on our website at rushcliffe.gov.uk to give your views or thoughts. The environment is key for us too and recycling more wherever we can so look out for the latest on kerbside glass recycling too, as we role out new dedicated bins to you at home later this year.

Enjoy your summer.

Cllr Neil Clarke MBE
Leader of The Council

Upgrades to Cotgrave Leisure Centre and Keyworth Leisure Centre underway!

Our £5.2m investment in refurbishments and energy efficient improvements at local leisure centres are progressing with Cotgrave Leisure Centre welcoming newly opened facilities and works now underway at Keyworth Leisure Centre.

Cotgrave Leisure Centre has received significant investment in enhancing its facilities and decarbonisation with a new low carbon air source heat pump unit, which is delivering an innovative and pioneering application of green technology, along with solar panels on the roof.

The centre has also recently welcomed a new changing places toilet, wider corridors, fully refurbished poolside and changing rooms, and the provision of two enhanced dedicated studios, one for group exercise and one spin classes.

Keyworth Leisure Centre will receive essential roof repairs to enhance the site in line with RBC’s Leisure Strategy and will also benefit from internal refurbishment throughout including the pool area.

Works include a new updated layout that will see the existing toilets moved to make way for a larger modern gym.

Residents will be able to enjoy a refreshed reception and seating area to provide a welcoming environment and improved views
to watch children’s swim lessons whilst having a hot or cold drink.

In the changing rooms, lockers and cubicles will be replaced and the floor tiles will be renewed, and the centre will benefit from
new doors, lighting and redecoration to complete its new look.

This is a significant scheme of improvement works which will see the centre close for around 10 weeks through the summer months. Our leisure provider, Lex Leisure are working closely with users to communicate changes and relocate activities to other venues were possible.

Our Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Wellbeing, ICT and Member Development Cllr Jonathan Wheeler said: “The improvements are on track and getting very positive feedback from leisure centre users. They are a valuable resource for the community, promoting fitness and wellbeing, teaching children to swim, and providing a friendly social space.

“These new enhancements will help to keep the leisure centres modern and sustainable, serving the community for many years to
come.”

Cotgrave Leisure Centre – the latest benefits

Brand new group exercise studio with new equipment
Brand new indoor cycling studio with new Group Exercise bikes
Brand new swimming pool changing village
Brand new reception area
Refurbished sports hall including brand new flooring

Fitness

We now offer over 30 group exercise classes per week in the new studios as well as a large fitness facility offering cardio vascular, functional and free weights zones.

Your membership also includes swimming and can be used at Rushcliffe Arena, Bingham Arena and Keyworth Leisure Centre. Our brand new changing village now is the perfect opportunity to enrol onto our swimming lesson programme.

Under full Swim England guidance we offer a comprehensive learn to swim programme for all ages and abilities. Please call 0115 989 2916 for more information.

Our newly refurbished sports hall offers a range of different activities for the community.

From badminton, netball, table tennis and football, public bookings are available seven days a week.

Children's Parties

We are pleased to confirm we are now taking children's party bookings again in our sports hall. Our ever popular inflatable parties are back and we are delighted to be able to host them in the newly refurbished facility.

For more information on any of the services and facilities we offer at your new centre please call us on 0115 989 2916 or visit us at leisurecentre.com/cotgrave-leisure-centre?

Glass recycling at the kerbside on its way!

Rushcliffe households are set to benefit from new Simpler Recycling rules that will see kerbside glass collections introduced from outside your home from later this year.

By March 2026, all councils in Nottinghamshire will have the collection in place and we plan to roll out the new 180 litre grey bins with purple lid bins to you from Autumn 2025. We anticipate collections will then start from December 2025 and be collected every six weeks.

Collection dates for the new bin will be detailed on a new collection calendar that we distribute each year at the end of November. However, we plan to collect the new bins on the same day as your current grey bin collections.

The Simpler Recycling changes are all part of central government plans announced in 2023 which intends to ensure all homes in
England recycle the same materials at the kerbside outside your home.

The great news is that under this new service the glass will be collected more simply as mixed glass. This will mean it can be colour sorted at the reprocessor meaning we can continue to help your glass be remanufactured into new glass bottles and jars.

Existing bring bank sites for glass and Tetra Pak items will also be reviewed as we appreciate most residents will now be able to recycle their glass from home meaning trips to the recycling sites will no longer be necessary.

Further work will be undertaken on the best collection options for communal bin stores and flat complexes where different receptacles for glass and other recyclables may be more appropriate.

A weekly kerbside food waste collection service is also set to be introduced in October 2027 by all district and borough Councils in Nottinghamshire. However until then, there is still the opportunity to recycle your waste food by using home wormeries and other sustainable methods. Find out more at rushcliffe.gov.uk/home-composting

Our Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Environment and Safety Cllr Rob Inglis: “Thank you to everyone who already utilises our glass bring banks that has helped Rushcliffe have the best recycling rate in the county.

“Importantly, just like with bring bank recycling, this move to dedicated glass recycling bins will ensure that the glass collected will continue to be made into new glass jars and similar items that could be back on the shop shelf within six weeks.

“As well as being a valuable resource, it also means glass can be kept separate and not contaminate paper and cardboard.

“A consistent Notts wide waste system will mean we retain the existing single mixed blue recycling bin for most of your remaining recyclables.

“From March 2026 as part of the national Simpler Recycling initiative, even more materials will be able to be placed in your blue recycling bin including cans, plastic bottles, pots, tubs and food trays, Tetra Pak, and foil however we will continue to update
residents on these changes later in the year.

“These new changes should provide a further opportunity for you to help us reach even closer to a 60% recycling rate by the time food waste collections are launched.”

We also hope to introduce a new collection service for soft plastics such as plastic bags and clingfilm later in 2027, but until then please continue not to place these in your blue bin.

Most businesses must now recycle glass and a range of wider materials in their own trade waste collections under new legislation. Business owners can find out more at rushcliffe.gov.uk/businesswaste

Have you got any questions on the new glass bin? Visit rushcliffe.gov.uk/simplerrecycling

Wild Boys 80s band set to headline Proms in the Park!

80s hits band Wild Boys will headline our free annual award-winning Proms in the Park celebration which returns
to Bridgford Park in West Bridgford on Saturday June 28, in conjunction with national Armed Forces Day.

The band, who have played alongside The Human League will blast out iconic songs from the likes of Duran Duran, Tears for Fears and Queen will feature and the event will be hosted by presenter Charlie Burley.

A day full of music and fun is the name of the game, and from 12.30pm to 9pm, we will be welcoming a diverse range of local groups through to national artists to entertain event goers.

The event is free with no tickets or booking required and follows on from scooping a Nottinghamshire County Council Boots and Beret award last year.

Proms in the Park also gives you the chance to support our local Armed Forces and representatives from the Royal British Legion, with 208 Squadron ATC based here in the Borough and HMS Sherwood both set to attend this year.

Alongside our Armed Forces Community Covenant, we are proud to be showcasing this event with the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal as this year’s official charity. Local sports clubs and partners, including Nottingham Rugby will all also be in attendance.

Refreshments will include hot and cold drinks, a licensed bar, ice cream, confectionery and a variety of hot food.

The stage programme is as follows (Note - programme subject to change – please see rushcliffe.gov.uk/promsinthepark for the latest updates):

12.30pm-2pm: Nottingham Concert Band
2.30pm-3pm: Wonderful World of Charlie – Keyworth teenage singer/songwriter
3.30pm-4.30pm: Mansfield Drummers
4.45pm-5.30pm: Nottingham Community Choir
5.45pm-6.45pm: Lady Rose duo
7.30pm-9pm: Wild Boys

For more information visit rushcliffe.gov.uk/promsinthepark

Discover the fantastic free Film and Food Festival!

West Bridgford will host the fantastic new Film and Food Festival on Saturday July 12, as residents and visitors alike will have the chance to experience an array of flavour-filled stalls and some favourite flicks courtesy of funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

Based at Bridgford Park from 12.30pm to 9.30pm* and in conjunction with Broadway Cinema and East Midlands Film Hub, there
will be three feature films:

2pm: Ratatouille (PG) – the children’s Pixar favourite from 2007, the films will be complemented by a host of cookery demonstrations, including a chance to make chef’s hates

5pm: Wonka (PG) – the 2023 modern day musical fantasy prequal to the famous Chocolate Factory film

7.30pm: Bridget Jones − Mad About The Boy (15) – the latest instalment of the popular romantic comedy films

*Visit rushcliffe.gov.uk/filmandfoodfestival for the latest.

Free Lark in the Park returns this August!

Our ever-popular free Lark in the Park is back this summer on Wednesday August 6 featuring over 40 fantastic stalls and attractions at Bridgford Park in West Bridgford from 10am to 4pm.

There will be an incredible amount of family fun on offer including inflatables, circus skills, soft play, storytelling, sports sessions and free singing and dancing shows.

There will also be food and drink stalls and charity and community stands, packed with useful freebies and information on a range
of services and activities offered through local organisations.

Visit rushcliffe.gov.uk/larkinthepark for more information.

Bees arrive at Rushcliffe Oaks this summer

Summer is upon us and has brought the arrival of some lovely bees to the grounds at Rushcliffe Oaks adding some new friends to the wonderful local habitats.

Their introduction is with the aim to significantly increase the biodiversity across the site and the surrounding areas as the Crematorium continues with the environment at its heart.

The bees are being looked after by David Turner-Brown, a local fully qualified beekeeper, and whilst their hives won’t be in public areas, make sure you look out for them if you visit the site in the coming months.

Over the past year the team at Rushcliffe Oaks have also been making a buzz with an open day held in April to coincide with a one-year anniversary and a memorial service held in December for the second year running was again well attended.

The site continues to develop and improve and all feedback is logged and considered and improvements made when they can be.
Manager Rhonda Churchill and the team listen closely to what families and visitors have to say. They have also visited funeral directors and celebrants to ask for feedback on their experiences.

It’s been overwhelmingly positive with the addition of some great ideas for improvements. Works carried out on the back of this are:

A new path off the flower court area to help those with mobility issues
Words to hymns displayed on the screens
Rearrangement of the flower stands to make more room for families to exit the chapel
Repainting of Woodland Hall, the Waiting Room and Lobby
Additional stone added to the path at the bottom of the site and make it easier to walk on

There is also now a monthly ‘Chance to chat café’ an opportunity to chat and open up the conversation around bereavement.
Look out for the next café date on the Oaks Facebook page, simply search Rushcliffe Oaks on the channel.

For more information visit rushcliffeoaks.co.uk

Exciting works at West Park in West Bridgford for an even better venue

Exciting new changes are planned at West Park on Loughborough Road in West Bridgford.

The Cricket Ground’s art deco pavilion, created by local cricket philanthropist Sir Julien Cahn in the 1920s, will be receiving a full refurbishment this year.

Works undertaken will include measures to improve the building’s energy efficiency such as the installation of a new air source heat pump, insulation and windows as part of our commitment to be carbon neutral by 2030. There will also be modernisation of the venue’s internal decoration.

The pavilion will reopen in the late summer or autumn this year providing a multifunctional space available to hire for meetings, parties and regular clubs and classes.

It will host WI-FI and upgraded AV equipment to meet the changing needs of our communities and the perfect place to hold your event.

To view the facilities offered at Sir Julien Cahn Pavilion visit rushcliffevenues.co.uk

Also at West Park, a five-lane cricket practice net facility is now open for hire which has been made possible thanks to funding support from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and IG Group.

Tennis courts at both West Park and Bridgford Park have also returned to our management and you can now book all cricket and tennis facilities at book at Rushcliffe Borough Council | Pitchbooking

RBC proposes no part of Rushcliffe should join Nottingham City

The Council propose no part of Rushcliffe should join Nottingham City and residents should have a say on any final proposal for changes to local councils.

That was the opinion of a majority of Councillors at our Extraordinary Meeting in March that considered recommendations on the future of local Councils in Nottinghamshire, following announcements on Local Government Reorganisation (LGR).

New Unitary Councils could replace the current authorities, which would undertake all the services both tiers of councils currently deliver.

Three core options were finalised among all Notts Council leaders but it was accepted that some councils may still wish to continue
to explore additional proposals.

Therefore a report was presented at the meeting that saw us recommend the interim plan submitted to the Government should
include an additional fourth option which would see Nottingham City stay as it is and the rest of Nottinghamshire split into two smaller councils. A majority of Councillors voted to include this fourth option.

Leaders agreed that the next stage ahead of a final submission in November would require a more detailed analysis of individual options.

Our Leader Cllr Neil Clarke said: “My first priority is the residents of the Borough and the high quality of services they enjoy in
the Borough and the County, while keeping Council Tax low. We do not want to see any reduction in services or any potential large
increase in Council Tax.

“I emphasise our priority will always be the residents and to ensure our stable financial management remains fit for sustainable
excellent services in the future, with high quality services remaining at the top of our agenda.

“The work will proceed over the rest of the summer to work together with other councils in the hope that a final submission can be
agreed for the end of November.”

Update from Rushcliffe Inspector Tim Cuthbert

“Hello again from the Rushcliffe Neighbourhood Policing team.

You may have seen on our Facebook pages and blogs that our quarterly priorities were set for April to June 2025. They are;

1 – Burglary
2 – Shop Theft
3 – Drug supply and associated ASB

We’ve chosen to focus on the above due to a rise in burglaries in early 2025. Thankfully, after some significant arrests, we’ve managed to reduce the numbers of offences, however I’m keen to stay on top of those issues.

Given we have better weather coming in to the summer months, please be aware of simple crime prevention measures which are available on our website and ensure your property is left secure when you’re out. Even first floor windows left insecure when you’re not in can be an opportunity for a criminal. Likewise, with shop theft, we’ve seen an increase in reporting of thefts, and we’ll continue to focus on our most prolific offenders, targeting them with the use of criminal behaviour orders on conviction too.

After a very successful quarter targeting drug crime in early 2025, with numerous warrants executed around drugs importation,
cultivation, and class A supply, I’m keen to build on that success in the next few months and ensure the ASB associated with drug
crime is also targeted through patrols and stop search opportunities.

In other areas of work, I’ve commissioned a community impact assessment for football policing in Rushcliffe, where we consulted with various local representatives, gaining feedback on the impact of matchdays, and where Police can better understand the challenges of local residents to reduce the impact of football matches on the local community. Issues around road & bridge closures were raised, as well as parking matters, and associated ASB. All of this will feed into the match day planning of games in the future.

Finally, we welcomed three new PCSOs to the area to increase our numbers from May 2025. Two of the officers will be based at West Bridgford to assist in high visibility patrols and engagement around the centre, and one officer will be based from Cotgrave covering Rushcliffe South.

Thanks again for the public’s support for the Police. It isn’t taken for granted!”

Inspector Timothy Cuthbert
Neighbourhood Policing Inspector for Rushcliffe

We’re continuing to invest in our play parks

We’ve invested more than £1 million in our parks and open spaces over five years, welcoming refurbishments and new inclusive play equipment for all children to have fun and play.

Earlier this year, Bridgford Park in West Bridgford introduced a series of new accessible play features including an inclusive seesaw, wheelchair-accessible roundabout and pod swing along with auditory sensory play items such as eco chimes and an eco-rain maker.

Bridgfield Teen Park aimed at older children, has also welcomed a host of new features including a climbing structure, balancing trim trail, social hammocks and wooden benches.

Additional inclusive equipment includes a teen workout unit featuring monkey bars and a climbing net, birds nest steel swing and teen shelter. The site has also benefited from equipment refurbishments, ground works and resurfacing.

The improvements since 2021 have been at our Council owned sites, including many in West Bridgford and at Rushcliffe Country Park with other parks across the borough often maintained by Town and Parish Councils and other organisations.

Further refurbishments and updated equipment at West Park and Abbey Park in the town are planned for later this year.

The investment is supported by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and follows the results of our survey where residents and parkgoers’ shared their views on what they want to see with features at their local parks.

Our Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Leisure & Wellbeing, ICT & Member Development Cllr Jonathan Wheeler said: “It’s great to see local families and visitors enjoying brand new play facilities at our parks.

“New accessible equipment such as wheelchair-friendly roundabouts and inclusive seesaws are important to help ensure all children can enjoy our play parks.

“Our investment in community play demonstrate our commitment to enhancing the quality of life for our residents and visitors.”

Works have been completed by playground equipment supplier Proludic Ltd based in Bunny, who have designed the updated features.

Sign up to e-billing for your Council Tax today

As we aim to be even more Carbon Clever and produce less paper as a Council, switch over today to an e-bill for your Council Tax today.

Register at rushcliffe.gov.uk/ebilling and in minutes you can have your council tax, billings, balance, outstanding instalments and other correspondence at your fingertips.

Switching to e-billing will save you time! It means you can access information regarding your account by logging into your online account any time and we will email you when a bill is ready for you to view, replacing any paper copies.

It’s the simple and quickest way to check your balance, when your next instalment is due or set up a direct debit, 24 hours a day,
seven days a week instead of only having our normal office hours to contact us on your query.

It also further eliminates the risks to privacy and identity fraud that can arise if paper correspondence is lost or stolen.

Our Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Portfolio Holder for Finance, Transformation and Governance Cllr Davinder Virdi said:

“I would encourage all residents to switch to e-billing and give yourself the more convenient way to check your Council Tax account.

“Our Environment priorities too means e-billing is vital to ensure we do all we can to reduce paper usage printing and postage.”

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Environment

Join Rushcliffe Country Park’s Wildlife Day this summer!

The Friends of Rushcliffe Country Park invite you to join their wildlife day later this year on Wednesday August 27 from 10am to 3pm!

In the company of local wildlife experts, Park Rangers and the Friends group, the event is looking to add to their number of different species found in the park, which currently stands at an astonishing 1,857.

Species records from the group began in 1996, since then visitors and volunteers at various activities such as the National Heritage project (2006), BioBlitz (2010 and 2022), Wildlife Day (2024), moth trapping evenings, fungi forays, and specialist surveys in various fields, have added to the total. The total continues to increase as Rangers and volunteers find and recognise species new to the Park.

The Country Park was originally boggy grassland, which was drained and by the 1860s became fields containing two ponds, Little and Big Fowemer.

In 1940 the land was requisitioned and became the Ruddington Depot, a bomb making factory and ammunition store. In 1945 it was repurposed and became a site for selling Army surplus vehicles until 1983 when it was decommissioned.

After much debate it was decided to create a Country Park using 85 hectares of land. In 1989 all the buildings were razed and the repurposed rubble used as hardcore to recontour the landscape of the park, in the process Fowemer Hill rose seven metres, the ‘lake’ was dug, lined and filled with water,140,000 trees planted and the park opened to the public in 1993.

Over the years the wildlife has found its own way back, ready for us to discover. Come and help explore it even further! Simply meet at the play area on the day or email countrypark@rushcliffe.gov.uk for more information.

Become a Tree Warden for your local area!

If you’re passionate about the environment, have you considered becoming a Tree Warden volunteer to make a difference in your parish?

Trees provide a habitat for wildlife, help to regulate climate and contribute to clean air and water. They provide shade and shelter for people, are effective noise buffers and absorb pollutant.

They’re also appreciated for their beauty and can help to boost people’s health and wellbeing.

If you’re interested in becoming a Tree Warden, you can be appointed by your Parish Council to:

Be contact and support for all things tree related in their local area
Protect trees by reporting on early signs of pests, disease and vandalism
Gather information, survey and record information about trees important for wildlife and the heritage of the parish
Help look out for more opportunities to plant more trees in the local community and enhancing the environment for parishioners
Help to find grant funding for local tree planting projects
Get involved in campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of trees

Our Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Environment and Safey Cllr Rob Inglis said: “We’re encouraging residents to volunteer your time and make a difference by becoming a local Tree Warden to plant, protect and promote your local trees.

“No training or experience in tree management is needed – just a love of trees and a few hours to spare.

“We will help to provide support and guidance for all tree wardens by providing training courses, networking opportunities, links to funding opportunities and more. “Town and Parishes will also be on hand to help with information and advice including health and safety and insurance. They will also invite you to meetings and report on any tree related matters.

“Join the growing network tree champions who care passionately about trees and become the eyes and ears for trees in your area by signing up!”

For more information about the Tree Warden Scheme and how it could benefit your parish or town council, contact us by calling 0115 981 9911 or email environmentalissues@rushcliffe.gov.uk

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Services

Great rates on bulky waste collection or getting rid of pests this summer!

We have great rates on collecting your unwanted large or bulky waste items or getting rid of unwanted pests at your property.

Bulky waste or large unwanted items

We offer a competitive rate for items and provide a reliable collection and safe disposal service at fully licensed facilities.

Book a date and find out more at rushcliffe.gov.uk/bulkywaste

Please remember to place your items outside your property in a place where we can access them as near as possible to where the collection vehicle will pass, but not on a pavement, road or other public area.

Advice before you employ any waste carrier

Remember, before hiring any individual or company, ensure you check the individual or company is a registered waste carrier you
are employing to avoid your unwanted goods contributing to local fly-tipping.

Waste carriers are registered by the Environment Agency and you can also check someone is registered by calling 03708 506 506

Pest control service

Our Environmental Health service meanwhile offers treatments for many pest types including fleas, rats, mice, bedbugs and wasps.

Pest treatments start at £20 or £10 if in
receipt of any means-tested benefit.

Rats – inside, one day response and outside two day response.

Treatments include a maximum of three visits, the first visit is to assess and lay bait, the second three weeks later to assess take-up of bait and lay more if required and a third visit to remove any bait boxes and unused bait.

If, after discussion with the Pest Control Officer, it is decided that more than three visits are required then a further charge would be incurred.

Mice – three day response time. An infestation of mice can be particularly difficult to control because of the rate at which they breed. In order to prevent infestations occurring, all gaps greater than 5mm should be sealed using mortar, mesh or brush strips and any vegetation growing upwards and into the roof of a property should be cut back.

Wasps – five day response time, maximum one visit. Spraying of a single nest with a powder insecticide. If additional separate nests are identified before or during treatment then these can be treated at an additional reduced cost.

Garden waste collections

For less than 91p a week! We’ll collect your garden waste saving you time, money and hassle.

No need for trips to the recycling centre
No need to mess up your car with bags of garden waste
No cleaning up afterwards

Visit rushcliffe.gov.uk/paygardenbin or call 0115 981 9911

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Healthcare

Older and Wiser guide rolled out across South Notts

A guide dedicated to supporting older people in South Nottinghamshire with their health and wellbeing has been rolled out across health and care settings in South Nottinghamshire.

As we grow older, life presents us with new challenges and opportunities. This booklet provides valuable information and support to help people as they navigate this stage of life with confidence and grace.

The guide was the brainchild of Gedling GP Caroline White, who was supported by the Phoenix Programme and South Nottinghamshire Place-Based Partnership to develop and produce it.

She says: “I created this resource to support colleagues across health and care in South Nottinghamshire in their care of older people. It has been carefully written in patient friendly language and has lots of information focusing on maintaining health and independence in older age, seeking support and care planning.

“The content in the booklet has been coproduced with patient groups, community and hospital colleagues and I am delighted that I am now able to share it more widely.”

This guide is now available at GP practices and other community settings in South Nottinghamshire, but you can also download it here.

To get the latest on work happening across Rushcliffe and South Nottinghamshire, you can sign up to the South Notts Place-Based Partnership (PBP) newsletter by emailing: Antonia.smith2@nottshc.nhs.uk

Find out more about the South Notts PBP at healthandcarenotts.co.uk/care-in-my-area/south-nottinghamshire-pbp

Let's Live Well in Rushcliffe Challenge

Take charge of your health – one activity at a time

Join the Let’s Live Well in Rushcliffe Challenge, running from June to September and open to patients registered with a Rushcliffe GP.

This is your chance to explore a wide range of free wellbeing and health education sessions, designed to support your physical, mental,
and emotional health.

How it works:

Attend 9 different activities from the Rushcliffe Social Prescribing Hub programme.

Collect a sticker for each different activity you try and there’s one sticker per activity type – e.g. attending 4 breathwork sessions still
earns 1 sticker. The challenge is about trying new things! Complete the challenge by the end of September to earn a reward!

From cooking and creativity to mindfulness, peer support, and physical activities – there’s something for everyone.

Weekly Drop-In – Your Gateway to Better Wellbeing

Start your journey with our friendly drop-in session, held every Monday from 10am to 12pm (term time only) at the West Bridgford
Young People’s Centre.

No booking is needed – just walk in, grab a cuppa, and speak to one of our experienced Social Prescribing Link Workers.

We’ll take the time to understand what matters to you and help connect you with the right activities, services, or support. Whether you’re dealing with stress, looking to get more active, feeling isolated, or just curious about what’s on offer, we’re here to help.

You’ll also have the chance to meet like-minded people in a relaxed and welcoming space and learn about the fantastic programme of free wellbeing sessions available across Rushcliffe – many of which you can count towards your Let’s Live Well in Rushcliffe Challenge!

From health workshops and creative groups to peer support and movement sessions, there’s something for everyone – and the drop-in is the perfect first step.

Summer highlights include Forest bathing, paddleboarding. open water swimming, walking football and cricket, guided wellbeing walks, yoga, breathwork, and willow weaving.

Booking is required for all sessions except the drop-in.

Visit: rushcliffehealth.org/sp-hub and Follow: @RushcliffeSP on Facebook

Sign up to our newsletter at nnicb-nn. rushcliffesocialprescribing@nhs.net for updates on sessions, pop-ups and wellbeing news.

Together, let’s live well in Rushcliffe – for better health and stronger communities.

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Sport

Local sports clubs awarded £500 Workforce Grants

This year we launched a new grant scheme for Rushcliffe based sports clubs to help support the training, development and retention of volunteers and staff at local sports clubs. The initiative provides funding for workforce-related areas such as coaching, officiating, grounds maintenance and safeguarding training.

We’re pleased to announce West Bridgford Colts Football Club and Gedling and Sherwood Cricket Club have each received a £500 grant to support their workforce development plans, that highlight their commitment to strengthening their volunteer base and enhancing sustainability.

At Gedling and Sherwood Cricket Club, based at The Regatta Way Sports Pavilion in Gamston, the funding is being used to upskill up to six volunteers in ground management and the volunteers are now completing the Grounds Maintenance Association (GMA) Level 1 Cricket Grounds Maintenance accredited training.

West Bridgford Colts FC is using the grant to ensure that all new coaches at the club complete their safeguarding qualifications,
complying with new FA requirements and helping make football safe, fun, and inclusive.

Our Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Wellbeing, ICT and Member Development Cllr Jonathan Wheeler said: “We’re pleased to award these grants to these two outstanding clubs helping them to ensure they continue to thrive by investing in their volunteers and staff.

“Both successful applicants submitted detailed project plans outlining how the funding can help develop their workforce and become more sustainable by training their volunteers and staff.

“Rushcliffe is a great place for sport and has so many brilliant athletes and clubs here from across a diverse range of sports and we’re committed to supporting our sporting community through these grants along with our Elite Athletes grants and FANS scheme.”

Upgraded facilities for great get togethers at Edwalton Golf Centre!

An upgraded meeting and function room is available to hire at Edwalton Golf Centre for meetings, fitness sessions, baby classes and much more!

Visitors can also enjoy recent £100,000 refurbishments and new equipment at the site offering ‘more than just golf’ with a café, pool table and lounge area where they can relax and enjoy a catch up with friends.

We have invested in the facilities off Wellin Lane NG12 4AS, in the village which included a refreshed food and drink menu offering freshly made quality pizzas from its pizza oven and a selection of new draft beer and ales.

The golf centre is also hosting weekly classes held in their versatile recently refurbished function room which is also home to new highchairs for the clubhouse to cater for family groups.

Caterpillar Music are among those who run sessions including music, sensory and movement classes for 0 to 4 years olds.

Any groups or organisations interested in hiring the meeting room can email craig.saxelby@glendalegolf.co.uk for further information.

The venue also has a defibrillator situated outside the building and is accessible 24/7 for anyone who should need it.

The life-saving equipment has been installed as part of our Safe Hearts in Sport initiative, supported by Shared Prosperity Funding from the UK Government.

Our Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Wellbeing, ICT and Member Development Cllr Jonathan Wheeler said: “Edwalton Golf Centre is a fantastic venue with a lovely café for meetups or a place to relax after a round or two of golf!

“The meeting and function room has free wifi and is available for anyone to hire. It’s great to see businesses such as Little Glow Rushcliffe hosting family-friendly baby classes in the flexible space.

“Alongside our café, lounge area and meeting room, the golf centre has a terrific nine-hole main course, par 3 course, driving range and putting green. Come and visit and enjoy all the facilities on offer!”

Visit Edwalton Golf Centre today! glendalegolf.co.uk/edwalton-golf-centre

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Business

Free business support for local enterprise!

Small and medium size enterprises (SMEs) based in the Borough can access free business support services through our partnership with Nottinghamshire County Council.

Businesses can contact expert business advisor Dawn Fear, who will be able to provide in depth advice and guidance on a range of issues relating to your business.

Dawn will also be holding business surgeries where local SMEs can book free one hour appointments to get more in-depth advice and signposting to further support or possible funding.

For more information on what’s available, please contact Dawn at dawn.fear@nottscc.gov.uk or visit our website at rushcliffe.gov.uk/
businesssupport

RBP get digital with spring event

Rushcliffe Business Partnership held their second quarterly event of the year, in May focusing on digital topics such as cybersecurity, AI and smart website design.

Over 40 businesses were there to take tips from the three expert speakers:

David Hanley (Red Penguin Group) – Cybersecurity
Jack Follis (QBD) – Smarter Web Design
Jonathan Worsley (JWDM) – Creative AI for Business

RBP’s quarterly events, sponsored by East Midlands Chamber and the Red Penguin Group, provide local SMEs with real life, practical tips that they can take back to their businesses to drive improvement and growth.

RBP members get discounted tickets to our four quarterly events throughout the year – one of many benefits of becoming a business partnership member. To find out more or become a member visit rbpbusiness.org/join-rbp

Alternatively, the partnership also hosts free monthly networking events in West Bridgford and Ruddington, where business can connect with each other in a relaxed environment. Check out upcoming networking events at rbpbusiness.org.uk/events

Start Up support for local entrepreneurs to turn your idea into business!

Are you thinking about starting your own business or looking to grow your newly established venture? The Start Up Programme, delivered locally by NBV, is here to help you turn your business idea into a thriving enterprise.

This programme offers a tailored blend of expert-led workshops and personalised one-to-one support, specifically designed for aspiring entrepreneurs, early-stage businesses, and small enterprises with growth ambitions.

What’s on offer:

“Starting in Business” Workshops Interactive two-day sessions covering the fundamentals of launching a successful business, including planning, marketing, pricing, finance, and how to create a sustainable, carbon-neutral enterprise.
Dedicated Business Advisers Experienced professionals available for one-to-one mentoring and support, helping you navigate challenges, build a strong business plan, improve operations, adopt new technologies like AI, and explore funding opportunities.
Locally Focused Support Businesses in Rushcliffe benefit from a dedicated local adviser ensuring delivery complements existing services and aligns with regional priorities.

By working closely with the Council's Economic Development team, NBV ensures the support you receive is relevant, responsive, and impactful. Whether you’re just getting started or taking your business to the next level, this programme is designed to help you succeed.

Get in touch today to find out how the Start Up Programme can support your journey in business. Email: enquiries@nbv.co.uk call
0115 964 8494 or register at nbv.co.uk/register

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Community

Sharphill Community Hall set to commence building soon

Construction of Sharphill’s new Community Hall in Edwalton has now started!

It will see the creation of a new focal point for the local area, complementing and supporting the new communities being created.

It will be home to a meeting room, open plan community room, kitchen, publicly accessible toilets for use by allotment and community park users and a small storage facility for use by the Friends of Sharphill Woods and is expected to open before June next year.

The new hall located off Rose Way will create nine full time employment positions during the build and will enhance community facilities available locally, in line with our Leisure Strategy.

With environmental considerations in mind, a PV Solar array will be positioned on its south facing roof and an air source heat pump installed to ensure the structure is as carbon clever as possible.

27 parking, six disabled spaces and five cycle spaces will be created for hall visitors as part of the development.

The facility is part of phase seven of Vistry Homes’ and Countryside Properties development.

Former land owner Mr Brian Wells has been thanked by the partners for his assistance in supporting legal agreements to allow
construction to commence on the hall.

Our Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Planning and Housing Cllr Roger Upton said: “It’s very positive news that construction of the new centre can shortly commence and preparatory ground works have already started.

“The new community hall will be a modern and accessible meeting place which we are sure will quickly become the heart of this
new community where local residents can hold events, meetings and celebrations.

“We have also carefully listened to the community and the venue will also be a really useful storage facility for the Friends of Sharphill Woods, supporting their valuable ongoing work.”

Your CVS Launches as the New Community and Voluntary Service for Rushcliffe

A new era for local communities has officially begun with the launch of Your CVS - the new Community and Voluntary
Service supporting Newark, Sherwood, Rushcliffe, Broxtowe and Gedling.

Your CVS has been established to strengthen, support and connect the incredible network of voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise organisations working tirelessly across these districts.

With a clear mission to empower grassroots action and champion community voices, Your CVS will act as a central hub for collaboration, advice, training, funding guidance and volunteering.

Louise Casey, Chief Executive of Your CVS, said: “We’re thrilled to launch Your CVS and provide a fresh, united approach to supporting the voluntary and community sector across these four diverse and vibrant districts. We understand the unique challenges and opportunities facing each area, and we're here to listen, learn, and help local organisations and volunteers thrive.”

Your CVS will be offering a wide range of services including:

Capacity-building support and bespoke training for local groups
Guidance on funding applications and governance
Volunteer recruitment and coordination through a new digital platform
Advocacy and representation at a local, regional, and national level

The creation of Your CVS represents a proactive response to the growing need for sustainable support structures for the third sector, especially in the wake of ongoing cost-of-living challenges and increased demand on community services.

“This is about being rooted in the heart of our communities,” added Louise. “Your CVS is not just a service provider—we’re a partner, a connector and a passionate advocate for the people and organisations making a difference every day.”

Organisations and individuals interested in finding out more, accessing services, or getting involved can visit yourcvsnotts.org or email info@yourcvsnotts.org

To view the facilities offered at Sir Julien Cahn Pavilion visit rushcliffevenues.co.uk

Get peace of mind for you or your loved ones with a Home Alarms service

Our Home Alarms service can give you peace of mind for you or your loved ones to ensure they can reach help easily in their time of a medical or other emergency at home.

The alarms provide security, reassurance and independence 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for hundreds of people across the
Borough and neighbouring areas all for just the price of a coffee every week, with prices frozen for 2024/25.

A pendant is worn on a neck cord or wrist with a trigger that can be pressed to call us when help is needed.

It’s ideal for individuals of any age including those with health problems, disabilities or mobility issues, survivors of domestic abuse,
or who live alone or feel isolated, providing choices and independence for you and your family.

The service has averaged a remarkable 100 per cent customer satisfaction rating for nine consecutive years.

To find out more about the service, please visit rushcliffe.gov.uk/homealarms or email customerservices@rushcliffe.gov.uk

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Rushcliffe Reports