Main Subjects Page 1 Welcome to Rossendale Page 2 Transport and Getting Around Rossendale Page 3 Driving a Car in the U.K. Page 4 Housing and Renting Your Home Page 5 Your Rights and Responsibilities Page 7 Paying the Bills

Important Things to Do Page 9 Living Here and Your Health Page 10 Doctors

Page 1Page 1

1 Clinics 2 Dentists

Page 13 Pharmacists Page 14 Hospitals Page 15 Children’s Services Page 16 Day Care Providers Page 19 Schools Page 20 Primary Schools Page 21 Secondary and Special Schools Page 22 Working in the U.K. Page 23 The Worker Registration Scheme

Police Stations Page 24 National Insurance Numbers Working Holiday Makers Page 25 Visa’s Page 27 Workers Rights Health and Safety at Work Advice Surgeries Page 28 Welfare Rights and Consumer Rights Legal Advice Page 29 Solicitors Domestic Violence and Hate Crime Page 30 Libraries in Rossendale Page 31 English for Speakers of Other Languages

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Welcome to Rossendale We hope you enjoy living and working here and invite you to take a few moments to read through the following pages. This guide has been made to help you settle into our beautiful Valley and provide you with the important information you may need – from gaining employment, to looking for housing and finding schools for your children. We recommend you follow up the web links to get detailed information and should always take further advice based on your own situation. Where is it? Rossendale is one of the 14 districts which make up the County of Lancashire. It is a very special valley surrounded by the great scenery and beautiful countryside of the South and West Pennines Moors. It lies in the East of Lancashire and is made up of the towns of Rawtenstall, Bacup, Haslingden and Whitworth. It is half-way between the towns of Bury and Burnley and from the other direction between the towns of Blackburn and Todmorden. Other nearby places are the Cities of Preston and Manchester. Visit www.mario.lancashire.gov.uk to find maps and lots of other useful information. Nearby places to work or visit include Preston, Manchester and Bury. All these places are within easy reach of the Rossendale Valley. Preston is known for its wonderful Parks and Historic Buildings. It is close to the coastal town of Blackpool which is famous for its Pleasure Beach, rides, attractions and Blackpool Tower. Bury is known for its famous indoor and outdoor markets which offers even more shopping choices. Manchester, home of Manchester United Football Club, is one of the most exciting places in the United Kingdom. It has museums, galleries, theatres, clubs, shops, parks, events and entertainment all year round. Try visiting www.manchesteronline.co.uk for lots of really useful information and downloads about the City.

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Transport and Getting Around Rossendale The main bus operator is called Rossendale Transport. The bus shelters in Rossendale are red in colour. Information on fares and routes can be obtained by calling: 01706 212 337 Their website is www.rossendalebus.co.uk Another bus operator that runs through Rossendale is called Burnley and Pendle Travel. Their bus route is called the Witch Way and starts from Nelson and Burnley and arrives in Manchester City Centre. Information on fares and routes can be obtained by calling: 01282 427 778 Their website is www.burnleyandpendle.co.uk Lancashire County Council has a dedicated public transport information service called Traveline. They can be contacted by telephone on 0870 608 2 608 Should you not want to travel by bus around Rossendale or the nearby towns and Cities there are a number of Licensed Taxi Firm Cabs to choose from as listed below:

• A1 In Time (01706) 222233 • A&B Taxis (01706) 222263 • Airport Exclusive (01706) 854754 • Airwolf Taxis (01706) 831831 • AK Taxis (01706) 223500 • Arrows Taxis (01706) 227744 • Bacup Taxis (01706) 873354 • Castle Cars (01706) 212244 • Connections Taxis (01706) 831494 • Freds Taxis (01706) 220025 • GB Taxis (01706) 870146 • Gemini Travel (01706) 874477 • In Time Taxis (01706) 222233 • Kenyons Taxis (01706) 227726 • Millennium Taxis (01706) 224106 • Red Baron Taxis (01706) 222226 • Royal Taxis (01706) 831111 • Silverline (01706) 230230 • Village Taxis (01706) 854545 • Whitworth Taxis (01706) 343840

If you prefer to travel by train then the East Lancashire Railway offers a relaxed pace of travel through the scenic village of Irwell Vale but is best not taken if you are in a rush to get somewhere. This service runs between Rawtenstall and Bury. A Modern Tram system links Bury to Manchester. The Railway does not operate at all times during the week so it is best to check before you plan your journey. Contact: 0161 764 7790 or visit www.east-lancs-rly.co.uk for further details.

Manchester Airport provides a link to arrivals destinations from all over the world. For all your information needs call 0161 489 3000 or visit www.manchesterairport.co.uk

Piccadilly and Victoria are the main train stations in Manchester and provide a network to areas throughout the country. For travel details telephone National Rail Enquiries on 08457 484 950 or visit the website on www.networkrail.co.uk

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If you are travelling anywhere by Car, incuding Manchester you may wish to use an Online Route Planner. A good one to use is the AA Route planner at www.theaa.com/travel/index.jsp

Directions from Rawtenstall to Manchester if travelling by car

1. Start out at Rawtenstall A681 2. At roundabout take the 2nd exit onto the

A682 (signposted Bury, Manchester) 3. Continue forward onto the A56 4. Continue forward onto the M66 5. Leave the M66 at junction 4, then at the

roundabout take the 3rd exit, then join the M60 motorway (signposted Ring Road (W), Bolton, Preston, Liverpool)

6. Leave the M60 at junction 17, then at the roundabout take the 1st exit onto the A56, (signposted Prestwich, Manchester City Centre)

7. You will now be entering Whitefield 8. Continue forward onto Bury New Road A56 9. You will now be entering Prestwich 10. At the traffic signals carry on forward along

the A56 11. Continue forward onto Bury New Road -

A56. 12. Entering Salford you will carry on forward through the traffic signals A56 13. Continue forward onto Bury New Road - A56. 14. You will now be entering Manchester on the A56 15. At the traffic signals carry on forward (signposted Deansgate) and arrive at Manchester City

Centre. 16. Your total journey time depends on the road conditions but can be estimated at around 40 minutes

one way.

If you enjoy cycling Rossendale has a number of cycle routes and there are plans to build more. There are a number of cycle routes around Lancashire which give an excellent opportunity to take advantage of everything from rugged moorland to lush pastures. A full list of leaflets and useful guides can be obtained from www.lancashire.gov.uk/environment/cycling You may also want to visit www.sustrans.org.uk where you will be able to view the routes for the National Cycle Network. The National Cycle Network comprises many miles of traffic free routes and traffic calmed or minor roads. This website will show you colour coded cycle routes which will tell you how busy the roads are.

Driving a Car in the UK If you want to drive whilst you are in the UK you must have a valid driving licence and you must be over 17 years old to drive a car. During your first 12 months in the UK, you may use your own overseas full driving licence or an International Driving Permit.

Driving During Your first 12 months in the UK: Whether you are driving using an international driving licence, a UK licence or a full licence from your home country you are legally required to ensure that

• You have motor insurance covering you for the vehicle you are be driving. • The vehicle you are driving is roadworthy and if the vehicle has an age of 3 years or older, must

have a valid Ministry of Transport Certificate, (M.O.T.). • You have a valid full driving permit and can show it on demand. • You obey the laws of the UK with regard to driving, with particular regard for those relating to drink

driving and speeding.

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If you are driving in the UK for the first time you are advised to:

• Have at least three driving lessons (more if required) with a reputable driving instructor before you

purchase or obtain a car in order to familiarise yourself with the rules of the road. • Purchase a copy of the Highway Code, which is available from

www.tso.co.uk/bookshop/bookstore.asp or bookshops. This booklet has all the rules and regulations relating to driving in the UK.

Please note that workers and visitors from abroad are subject to the laws of the UK. Respect for the law and adherence to its requirements is expected during your time in the UK so you should make sure you know the law relating to driving before you get into a car when in this Country. The consequences of breaking the law and committing a motoring offence can be very serious. Penalties include fines, subsequent points placed on the driving licence and on reaching a certain amount of these points or commit specific offences would lead to disqualification from driving. If you do not have a licence or are disqualified, it follows that you will not have insurance. The penalties here are substantial and could also lead to imprisonment and the subsequent removal from the United Kingdom. If you intend to drive then it is advised that you visit the official Government website for Driving in Great Britain as a Visitor or New Resident at www.dvla.gov.uk and follow the links.

Housing and Renting your Home You may want to rent your home during your stay or visit in Rossendale. There are three main providers of rented accommodation: private landlords, local councils and housing associations. The main providers of rented accommodation in this area are Registered Social Landlords/Housing Associations and private rented accommodation. Private landlords Private landlords will normally rent their property at the market rate and their right to increase the rent depends on the type of tenancy. Make sure you get a tenancy agreement and read it carefully before committing to it. Many private landlords use an agent to deal with all their affairs, usually an Estate Agent. Estate Agents are excellent places to look if you are thinking about renting this type of property. They will normally place houses and flats to let in their shop windows or advertise them in the local newspapers. A private landlord will normally ask for a deposit. You should make sure that the condition of the property and any items of furniture are recorded in an inventory and the tenancy agreement states:

• how much the deposit is and who holds it • when money can be deducted from the deposit (for unpaid rent or damage to property) • when you will get the deposit back

Social Landlords/Housing Associations

If you need to rent somewhere to live, you may be eligible for housing association accommodation. Housing associations normally allocate their homes to those in greatest need on its list and property is often in great demand. There is usually a waiting list and you will need to fill out an application form to be placed on it. The largest provider of Social Housing in this area is called Green Vale Homes. Contact: 01706 836 333 or visit www.greenvalehomes.co.uk It is advised that you contact Rossendale Borough Council on 01706 877 076 to request a full list of Housing Associations who provide homes throughout Rossendale.

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Alternatively you may visit the Council’s website on www.rossendale.gov.uk or contact the Landlords direct given the contact list for the Housing Associations below:

• Anchor Anchor Trust , Milestone Place, 100 Bolton Road, Bradford BD1 4DH Tel: 01274 381600 (All sheltered housing for elderly)

• Housing 21

1 Staithgate Lane, Odsel, Bradford, BD6 1YA Tel: 01274 744190 (All sheltered housing for elderly)

• West Pennine HA

Pennine House, 77 Union Street, Oldham OL1 1JZ Tel: 0161 621 4120

• North British

North British, 89 Preston New Road, Blackburn Tel: 0845 604 4446

• Harvest Housing Harvest Housing Group Preston PO Box 593 West View, Haslingden (Flats for general needs) PR2 2WU Tel: 0845 345 0272

• Irwell Valley

Unit 2 Wadsworth Commercial Park Bridgeman Street Bolton, BL3 6SR Tel: 01204 451000

• English Churches English Churches Litchfield House, 82 Railway Road , Leigh, WN7 4AN Tel: 08450 707074

• Ashiana

Ashiana, Prospect House, Wharf Street, Eanam, Blackburn, BB1 1JD Tel: 01254 681453

• Northern Counties The Grange, Northern Counties, East Park Road, Blackburn, BB1 8AT Tel: 01254 267600

Your Rights and Responsibilities A tenancy doesn't just give you rights - it also brings responsibilities. It's important you stick to the rules and don't break your tenancy agreement, and to get advice as soon as possible if you have problems.

Not leaving your home empty It may sound obvious, but in order to keep your tenancy, you must actually live in it and use it as your main home. This does not mean you can't go on holiday but sometimes it will be worth letting your landlord know if you will be leaving it empty for a while, or they might think you've abandoned the property. Keeping up to date with your rent Rent is usually paid in advance, normally on a monthly or weekly basis. Check your agreement or ask your landlord to clarify how much rent you have to pay and the day of the week/month that it is due on. Taking care of the place Most tenants have some responsibilities regarding the upkeep of their homes. You should always look after the property as best you can and avoid causing damage to it, or to your neighbours' property. In general, landlords are responsible for repairs and maintenance of the exterior and the structure of the property, as well as the plumbing, wiring and central heating. They are also required to ensure that gas and electrical installations comply with safety standards. If you fall behind with the rent, your landlord may be able to evict you and make you pay the rent you owe. If you are having problems like this, get advice quickly.

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Not causing a nuisance

You should take care not to behave in an antisocial way that could upset or annoy your neighbours. Antisocial behaviour is a legal reason for eviction, regardless of what kind of tenancy you have. Antisocial behaviour can include things like:

• having the stereo or TV on too loudly • not keeping pets under control • allowing your children to be a nuisance • leaving rubbish piled up everywhere • making a lot of noise outside your home, or when you come in • using the house for illegal activities, such as drug dealing

As well as respecting your neighbours, you should not behave in an antisocial or aggressive way towards your landlord or any housing association staff you deal with. Being responsible for your household and visitors As well as not breaking any of the terms of your tenancy agreement yourself, you are also responsible for the behaviour of everyone in your household and of anyone staying with or visiting you. You could be help responsible, (and possibly evicted), if they cause damage or are antisocial, so don't be afraid to take control. Ending your tenancy properly If you want to move out, it is very important to end your tenancy properly first. You can't just post the keys through the letterbox and walk away. Otherwise you could end up still being liable for the rent, even though you're no longer living there. It may be possible to end your tenancy immediately if the landlord accepts this, (best to get their acceptance in writing), but you normally have to give your landlord the necessary notice.

Carrying out certain kinds of repairs Landlords are responsible for most repairs to the exterior or structure of a property. This means that problems with the roof, chimneys, walls, guttering and drains are the responsibility of the landlord. Landlords are also responsible for keeping the equipment for supplying water, gas and electricity in safe working order. Tenants often have responsibility for some minor repairs and maintenance. This usually relates to:

• internal decorations • gardens • furniture or equipment

If you rent your home from a Housing Association such as Green Vale Homes they will usually have a dedicated phone

line to deal with repairs otherwise you will have to contact your landlord/landlords agent directly. The telephone number for Green Vale Homes Repairs Direct Service is 0800 707 6666. An organisation called Shelter is able to give expert advice on most housing matters. Their regional office telephone number is 01253 874 324/01254 565 93 or visit their website on www.shelter.org.uk Alternatively you may wish to use the Citizens Advice Bureau, (CAB). This is an organisation that is able to give you free help and advice on a wide range of problems. The local C.A.B. is based in Bacup and can be contacted on 0870 124 3822 or you can visit their website on www.citizensadvice.org.uk Rossendale Borough Council may be able to help you. Telephone the switchboard on 01706 877 076 or call in to their ‘One Stop Shop’ at Rossendale Borough Council,Town Centre Offices, Lord Street, Rawtenstall, Rossendale, BB4 7LZ. Lancashire County Council are able to provide an Interpretation and Transalation Service to enable people whose first language is not English to access all Lancashire County Council services, and information about services. The qualified interpreters provide face to face interpretation in over 20 languages, and all other languages on request. Interpreters can be provided 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Contact 01772 534 420 or 01772 534 419 for further information.

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Paying the bills Most tenants have to pay the bills for electricity, gas, water and telephone, as well as paying council tax and getting a TV licence. Your tenancy agreement will say whether you are responsible for paying the bills or not. If you don't pay them, the services could be cut off and you may have to pay to be reconnected. Council Tax Council tax is a local tax in Britain. It is used to pay for local services such as libraries, the police, the fire brigade, and rubbish collection. The amount of Council Tax you will have to pay depends on their valuation band. Larger and more expensive properties will have a higher value and therefore attract a higher council tax. When you rent somewhere to live, ask whether the council tax is included in the rent. Who is responsible for paying Council Tax? There’s one Council Tax bill for each home. Usually it’s the owner-occupier, or the tenant living in the property, who has to pay the bill. Spouses and partners who live together are both responsible for paying the bill. You will need to Contact Rossendale Borough Council to tell them that you are living in your home so that they can register you for Council Tax. Council Tax and Moving If you move home you need to tell Rossendale Borough Council. This is so you don’t pay too much Council Tax for your old home and you pay the right amount for your new one. When you move:

• Tell Rossendale Borough Council the date you’re moving out so that they can adjust the bill for your old home, (you may get a refund).

• Tell Rossendale Borough Council, (or your new council if you’re moving to a different area), when you’re moving in so they can start the bill for your new home from the right date.

You are legally obliged to notify Rossendale Borough Council if you move address or if there is any other change in your circumstances within 21 days of the change. There is a change of address/circumstances form on the back of the Council Tax bill which you should complete and return to: Rossendale Borough Council, PO Box 40, Town Centre Offices, Rawtenstall, Rossendale, Lancashire, BB4 7NP. You may also wish to phone them on 01706 244 699. The Revenues and Benefits Service department of Rossendale Borough Council takes care of claims for Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit. Housing Benefit is administered by Local Authorities to help people on low incomes pay for rent and/or council tax. It takes into account your income, capital, other people in the household and their income and whether you or your family have any special circumstances such as illness or disability, when assessing your claim. For information as to whether you may be entitled to either Housing or Council Tax benefits you should call the Benefits Department on 01706 244 556 or write to them at Rossendale Borough Council, Benefits Department, P.O Box 188, Rawtenstall, Rossendale, Lancashire, BB4 7WB.

Important things to do There are several things you need to do as soon as possible once you've moved into your home.

Think safety first

• Make sure you know where the trip switches, water and gas mains valves are, as you may need to turn them off in an emergency. If you can't find them, ask the estate agent or landlord to show you where they are.

• Check that all the windows and doors lock securely. If you moving into rented property and want to fit extra locks or a security chain on the door, speak to your landlord first. They may do this for you if you ask.

• Check that the property has enough smoke alarms, that there's a fire blanket in the kitchen and that all gas and electrical appliances are safe. You should also work out how you would get out in an emergency.

• If you are renting, make sure you know how to contact your landlord in an emergency.

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If you are moving into rented property, check with the landlord that the property is insured before you move in. The landlord's insurance will only cover damage to the structure of the property and the landlord's own furniture, so you'll have to take out your own insurance for your personal belongings. Register with the Electricity and Gas Companies You must remember to register with the electricity and gas companies that supply the property as soon as you move in. Otherwise, if the person who lived in the property before you did not pay their final bill, you may be expected to pay what they owe. All you need to do is ring the supplier(s) on your first day, tell them that you have moved in and give them the number on the meter. The bill will be put in your name and you will be charged from that time onwards. Keep a note of the meter number in case you need to query your first bill. If you don't know who the supplier is ask you landlord or landlords agent. Alternatively:

• for gas, call the Transco Meter helpline on 0870 608 1524 • for electricity, call Energywatch on 08459 06 07 08

If the electricity and/or gas have been cut off, you may have to pay a connection charge to have the supplies reconnected. You will need to contact your supplier to find out how much this will be. There are different types of meter with the most common being the standard meter and prepayment meter.

• A standard meter is a basic meter which measures the amount of electricity you use in terms of the amount of energy used by a load of one kilowatt over the period of one hour. When this meter is installed, all electricity units are charged at the same rate, 24 hours a day

• Prepayment meters usually accept tokens or cards that can be bought or topped up at certain shops, including some garages and newsagents. If you stop paying for electricity and/or gas the supply will be cut off by a device fitted into the meter. The advantage of this kind of meter is that you can budget for how much electricity you use by paying for it before you use it.

Paying for your Water Bill As the occupier of the property you are living in, you will normally be responsible for paying water charges. The water bill is based on the rateable value of the property you live in. If someone shares accommodation, the liability is shared even if the bill is only in one name. An occupier who remains in a property after the person with whom they shared has left (for example, if partners have separated) may be held responsible for current charges and any arrears. There are different ways to pay for your water. Options include paying by cash, by a payment card at a Post Office or Paypoint Outlet or by direct debit through your bank. Your home may have a water meter fitted which means that you will just pay for the water you use. For many people, particularly those with small families, metering can be a good way of saving money and controlling the level of their bills. A meter may not be right for everyone but if you live alone, have small family or live in house with a high rateable value, you could save money on your water bill. The supplier of water in this area is United Utilities. Further details can be obtained by phoning them on 0845 746 2200 or by visiting their website on www.unitedutilities.co.uk

Get the telephone connected in your name You'll also need to register the phone in your name, to avoid paying the previous tenant's bills. Dial 150, (this is a free call), to British Telecom to arrange this. If the phone has been cut off, you may have to pay a connection charge to have it reconnected. Get a TV licence If you have your own television set, (or any other device used to receive or record television programmes, such as a video recorder, set-top box or a PC with a broadcast card), you'll need a valid TV

licence. It is against the law not to have one and could lead to a fine of up to £1,000. To find out current costs and ways to pay telephone 0870 241 6468 or go to the TV Licensing website on www.tvlicensing.co.uk Rubbish! Rossendale Borough Council has a refuse and recycling collection service which operates on an alternate weekly collection of refuse and dry recyclables. The majority of households have a wheeled bin for domestic refuse, ("green bin"), and a wheeled bin for dry recyclables, ("blue bin" for tins, glass and plastic). Paper is collected in a separate container. Find out when your rubbish is collected, where you should leave your rubbish bags or bins and where you can store rubbish in between collections. For more details contact the Refuse Section on 01706 878 660, 876 464 or 879 017.

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Living Here and Your Health If you are unwell or worried about your health or the health of anyone in your family, you should go to see you local doctor, called a General Practitioner (GP). The GP’s clinic is called a Surgery or a Health Centre. Doctors look after the health of people in their local community and deal with a whole range of health problems. They also give health education and advice on things like smoking and diet, run clinics, give vaccinations, contraception advice and carry out simple surgical operations. Doctors usually work with a team including nurses, health visitors and midwives, as well as a range of other health professionals such as physiotherapists and occupational therapists. If a Doctor cannot deal with your problem themselves, they'll usually refer you to a hospital for tests, treatment or to see a consultant with specialised knowledge. If you are coming to the UK on holiday or for a short visit, you must pay for any NHS hospital treatment needed during your stay. If you think you will have to pay for treatment, you are strongly advised to take out health insurance before your trip. If you come from a country with

which the UK holds a healthcare agreement, then you will not have to pay for treatment that is needed immediately for a condition that started after your arrival in the UK. The relevant authorities in your own country will have details of the arrangements covered by this agreement. You may be asked to give proof of your claim that you are on a short term visit, such as your passport or identity card, and/or travel documents. You will still have to pay the statutory NHS charges, such as prescription charges, unless you qualify for exemption from these. You will also have to join waiting lists for treatment where appropriate. While visiting the UK you may ask any GP practice within the local area, to be accepted as an NHS patient, as they are free to decide who to accept onto their list of NHS patients. They are more likely to accept you if you intend to live in the UK permanently. If the practice does not wish to accept you as an NHS patient, it may offer to treat you as a private patient for which you will have to pay charges. However, if you require emergency treatment (at a GP surgery, Accident & Emergency department, or Walk-In Centre) this will be given free of charge regardless of the length of your stay or your nationality. If you subsequently need to be admitted to hospital you will then be subject to NHS charges. For more detailed information about this and any other questions please contact The Customer Service Centre at The Department of Health on 020 7210 4850 or go to their website on www.dh.gov.uk Every individual living lawfully, looking for employment and on a settled basis in the UK has a right to be registered with a local Doctors surgery and visits to the surgery are free. You should register with a GP as soon as possible so that you can get medical care if you need it. To register you will need to give your name, date of birth, address and telephone number if you have one. Everyone in your family will need to be registered before they can be seen. You do not need to pay any money to register. It is important that you register your children with a doctor. If you are able to, please bring a record of the immunisations your children have had. Some GPs ask all new patients to have a health check. This will usually be carried out by a nurse. It is important that you go to this appointment even if you are well. If a practice will not register you, you can ask the local Primary Care Trust to assign you to a practice. In this area this is Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale Primary Care Trust. Services for Visitors or Temporary Residents If you are away from home in any part of the country and are in need of treatment, you can register with a GP for up to three months as a temporary resident. If you are an overseas visitor, more information can be found at www.doh.gov.uk/overseasvisitors

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How do I find out where my local GP, surgery or

health centre is? Contact NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or visit www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk

• You can visit www.nhs.uk • Telephone Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale

Primary Care Trust on 01282 619 909 or visit them at www.bprpct.nhs.uk

• Select the nearest address from the list below and contact them directly to make an appointment to register

• If you have any problems the surgery will be able to arrange an interpreter

Dr F Moujaes & Dr MA Mannan The Surgery, 7-9 Manchester Road, Haslingden, Rossendale, BB4 5SL Tel: 01706 215208 Dr K Rajasekeran Haslingden Health Centre, Manchester Road, Haslingden, Rossendale, BB4 5SL Tel: 01706 226705 Dr M Razzaque & Partners Waterfoot Health Centre, Cowpe Road, Waterfoot, Rossendale, BB4 7DN Tel: 01706 708861 Dr P Rishton & Partners Haslingden Health Centre, Manchester Road, Haslingden, Rossendale, BB4 5SL Tel: 01706 212518 Drs J Bachh, M Khan and K Mahm The Health Centre, Bacup Road, Rawtenstall, Rossendale, BB4 7PL Tel: 01706 211217 Irwell Medical Practice Irwell Medical Practice, Bacup Primary Health Care Centre, Irwell Mill, Rochdale Road, Bacup, OL13 9NR Tel: 0845 0540022 St James Medical Centre St. James Medical Centre, Burnley Road, Rawtenstall, Rossendale, BB4 8HH Tel: 01706 213060 How do I make an appointment? Before you visit your doctor or one of the nurses at the surgery you will usually need to make an appointment in person or by telephone. You can ask to see a male or female doctor or nurse, although this may not always be possible. You may have to wait a few days for a non urgent appointment. If you think you need to see the doctor urgently tell the receptionist when you make the appointment, and you will be seen that day if appropriate. If the doctor thinks you are too ill to come to the surgery, he or she may visit you at home. Please make sure that you arrive on time for your appointment and if you are unable to attend your appointment please make sure you cancel it. You may want to get advice from a Family planning clinic. Family planning clinics offer free confidential advice and information on contraception and sexual health. Clinics can be used by women, men and young people, (including those under 16 years of age). Most health authorities will also have services especially for young people. You can refer yourself or be referred by your GP or other health workers. You may need to book an appointment to see the doctor. Many clinics also run walk-in clinics so you may not need to make an appointment.

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Clinics will provide a range of services. Many will provide:

• advice about contraception • combined oral contraception - the progestogen-

only pill • progestogen injections • limited supplies of free condoms • free emergency contraception • advice about sexually transmitted diseases • cervical screening • unplanned pregnancy advice • free pregnancy tests • pre-conception advice and fertility awareness

information • fitting and checking of caps, diaphragms and

coils (IUD) Below is a list of Clinics in Rossendale of which one may be near to you. Please ring to check the opening times.

• Waterfoot Health Centre Family Planning Clinic, Cowpe Road, Waterfoot, Lancashire, BB4 7DN Clinic: 01706 708 860 Information: 01282 610 281

• Bacup "Step In" Clinic

KG's Café, King Street, Bacup, Lancashire OL13 0AH Clinic: 01706 870 053 Information: 01282 610 281

• Bacup Primary Health Centre Family Planning Clinic

(Upper Ground Floor), Irwell Mill, Rochdale Road, Bacup, Lancashire, OL13 9NR Clinic: 0845 054 0033 Information: 01282 610 281

• Rawtenstall Family Planning Clinic

Rawtenstall Health Centre, Bacup Road, Rawtenstall, Lancashire, BB4 7PL Clinic: 01706 708 720 Information: 01282 610 281

• Haslingden Health Centre Family Planning Clinic

27 Manchester Road, Haslingden, Rossendale, Lancashire, BB4 5SL Clinic: 01706 708 760 Information: 01282 610 281

For more information you can call the Family Planning Association on 020 7608 5240 or visit their home page on www.fpa.org.uk

What if I do not speak English? If you need an interpreter you must tell the receptionist when you make the appointment. Tell the staff which language you speak and they will book an interpreter for you or get an interpreter on the phone. It is important that you and the doctor understand each other so that he or she can make an accurate diagnosis of your problem. Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) If English is not your language of choice and you would like to find a

GP or medical service that speaks your preferred language, contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) on 0845 6031 068. PALS will be able to tell you which GPs or medical services in your area speak your language. If they are unable to locate a GP or service that speaks your language they will be able to arrange an interpreter for you. You can talk to PALS about other matters. They provide confidential advice and support to patients, families and their carers, and can provide information on the NHS and health related matters.

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Dental Health It is very difficult to access reduced cost dental services as all of the NHS dentists providing services for Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale PCT are not accepting new patients. NHS Dentist Charges There are three standard charges for all National Health Service (NHS) dental treatment. The maximum charge for a complex course of treatment is £189 but most courses of treatment will cost £15.50 or £42.40. The nearest dentists to Rossendale that are accepting new NHS patients are in Manchester and Salford as listed below: Kelly & Associates Pendlebury Health Centre, 661 Bolton Road, Pendlebury, Manchester, M27 4EJ Tel: 0161 794 1187 Mitchell C 311 Littleton Road, Salford, Manchester, M7 3TA Tel: 0161 708 9644 Should you not want to travel that far you will need to register with a private dentist. You will have to pay for any treatment. Here is a list of Dentists in Rossendale who may be able to help you as a private patient.

• Archer Hudson & Stansfield 311/315 Market Street, Whitworth, Rochdale, Lancashire, OL12 8PW Tel: 01706 353355

• Carling

386 Newchurch Road, Stacksteads, Bacup, Lancashire, OL13 0LD Tel: 01706 877001

• Denpoint Dental Care

1 Grane Road, Haslingden, Rossendale, Lancashire, BB4 5EB Tel: 01706 211559

• Denpoint Dental Care

26 Newchurch Road, Rawtenstall, Rossendale, Lancashire, BB4 7QX Tel: 01706 211314

• Denpoint Dental Care

600 Bacup Road, Waterfoot, Rossendale, Lancashire, BB4 7EU Tel: 01706 215235

• Hargreaves Dental Surgery

64 Manchester Road, Haslingden, Rossendale, Lancashire, BB4 5TE Tel: 01706 216243

• Mr C D Hudson

389 Market Street, Whitworth, Rochdale, Lancashire, OL12 8QL Tel: 01706 344577

• Mr D Allen

1a Bacup Road, Rawtenstall, Rossendale, Lancashire, BB4 7NG Tel: 01706 215627

• Rossendale Dental Health Centre

124 Burnley Road, Rawtenstall, Rossendale, Lancashire, BB4 8HH Tel: 01706 836130

• The Dental Surgery

9a St James Square, Bacup, Rossendale, Lancashire, OL13 9NH Tel: 01706 877864

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Emergency Dental Treatment If you need emergency dental treatment phone NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or log on to their website at www.nhsdirect.co.uk NHS Direct staff can also provide information on a wide range of healthcare topics – from helping you to find out more about diagnosed conditions and treatments to giving details of local health services. It is accessible 7 days a week 24 hours a day.

Pharmacists The doctor will give you a piece of paper called a ‘prescription’ if they want you to take medication. You will need to take the prescription to a Pharmacist who will give you the medicine the doctor wants you to take. You may have to pay. The cost of a prescription usually changes every year so it is best to check the current cost with your Pharmacist. Pharmacists, (sometimes called Chemists), are experts in medicines and how they work. They dispense your prescriptions, provide a range of services related to specific health issues. For example,

some may offer services such as diabetes testing, blood pressure monitoring, advice and guidance on giving up smoking, supply of continence products and needle exchanges. Below is a list of Pharmacies in Rossendale who you may wish to use. Boots the Chemist Ltd The Health Centre, Bacup Road, Rawtenstall, Rossendale, BB4 7PL Tel: 01706 225789 Boots the Chemists Ltd 9 Bank Street, Rawtenstall, Rossendale, BB4 6QS Tel: 01706 215900 Clayfields Chemist 316c Newchurch Road, Stacksteads, Bacup, Rossendale OL13 0UJ Tel: 01706 873155 Cohens Chemist 35/37 Deardengate, Haslingden, Rossendale, BB4 5QN Tel: 01706 216429 Haslingden Health Centre Pharmacy 27 Manchester Road, Haslingden, Rossendale, BB4 5SL Tel: 01706 214120 Helmshore Pharmacy 3 The Parade, Broadway, Helmshore, Rossendale, BB4 4HD Tel: 01706 219920 J and E Mills Ltd The Health Centre, Cowpe Road, Waterfoot, Rossendale, BB4 7DN Tel: 01706 224136 Knights Pharmacy St James' Medical Centre, Burnley Road, Rawtenstall, BB4 8HH Tel: 01706 215654 Lloyds Pharmacy Bacup Health Centre, Irwell Mill, Rochdale Rd, Bacup, OL13 9NR Tel: 01706 876201 Lloyds Pharmacy 3 St.James Street, Bacup, Rossendale, OL13 9NJ Tel: 01706 873522 Theiam Chemists 572 Burnley Road, Crawshawbooth, Rossendale, BB4 8AJ Tel: 01706 213714 For more detailed information on Pharmacists and general advice about a medical problem call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or visit www.nhs.co.uk and follow the links.

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Accident and Emergency Services (A&E) In most cases you will need to visit the doctor at your local surgery if you are unwell and need treatment. You should only go to hospital if:

• you have had an accident • the doctor feels you need to be seen at hospital and

arranges for you to go If you are taken ill suddenly and cannot wait until the next day to see a doctor, telephone the surgery. If the surgery is closed you will hear a message giving you another telephone number to ring for help. If you cannot speak any English, telephone NHS Direct on 08457 46 47 where an interpreter will be able to help you.

You may need to see a consultant if your GP thinks a specialist opinion is needed about your condition. A consultant is a specialist in the area of medicine that is to do with your health problem. If you need to see a consultant you have to go to a hospital to see the consultant, but you don’t have to stay in hospital. NHS hospitals have a range of services to treat rare, complicated and serious conditions. You may need to go to hospital for procedures that cannot be carried out in your GP surgery, such as scans, X-rays and surgery. Hospitals also carry out emergency treatment for serious injuries and life-threatening illnesses. Many hospitals have intensive care units for seriously ill people who need round the clock treatment. Hospitals have lots of different clinics to treat particular conditions. The numbers of clinics vary, depending on the size of the hospital, and some hospitals specialise in certain areas of medicine.

The nearest Hospitals with an A&E Department are listed below:

• Burnley General Hospital

Casterton Avenue, Burnley, BB10 2PQ Telephone: 01282 425071

• Fairfield General Hospital

General A&E Service Fairfield General Hospital, Rochdale Old Road, Bury, BL9 7TD Telephone: 0161 764 6081

• Rochdale Hospital General A&E Service Rochdale Infirmary, Whitehall Street, Rochdale, OL12 0NB Telephone: 01706 377777

• Royal Blackburn Hospital Haslingden Road, Blackburn, Lancashire, BB2 3HH Tel: 01254 293 588

• Royal Oldham Hospital

General A&E Service Rochdale Road, Oldham, OL1 2JH Telephone: 0161 624 0420

Other Hospitals you may be referred to, (but do not have an Accident and Emergency Department), include:

• Accrington Victoria Hospital Haywood Road, Accrington, Lancashire, BB5 6AS Tel: 01254 687342

• Rossendale General Hospital

Haslingden Road, Rossendale, Lancashire, BB4 6NE Tel: 017016 215151

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Getting to Hospital If you need are considered in medical need of non-emergency transport, a health professional can organise this on your behalf. The medical need for non-emergency transport must be decided by a doctor, dentist or midwife and will depend on your clinical condition. It also takes account of other factors, such as the availability of private or public transport and the distance to be travelled. Each patient should be able to reach hospital in a reasonable time, in comfort and without any harm to their health. When the Hospital sends you details of your appointment they will usually include a map and directions of how to get there. Alternatively you can visit www.nhs.co.uk and follow the link to hospitals where you will find detailed maps that can be printed.

What is an Emergency? An emergency is where one of the emergency services is needed immediately, for example if there is a fire, if someone is badly hurt or a crime is being committed. In an emergency ALWAYS phone 999. The call will be free of charge. When you phone 999, you will be asked which service you need. You have a choice of FIRE, POLICE or AMBULANCE. You will need to tell the operator:

What is needed? Where is it needed Why is it needed? Where are you?

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Children’s Services If you have children you can access the following services:

• Health Visitors • Children’s Centres - Surestart • Nurseries • Local Schools • Nursery Education

Health Visitors provide care, support and information to families and individuals of all ages, on a range of health and social care issues such as child care, child development, parenting support, behaviour management, nutrition, preventing ill health and living with disability. Access to their services is normally by referral from your Doctor. Children’s Centres provide multi-agency services that are flexible and meet the needs of young children and their families. The core offer includes integrated early learning, care, family support, health services, outreach services to children and families not attending the Centre and access to training and employment advice. The Children Centre contacts in this area are: Bacup & Stacksteads Children’s Centre Programme Manager, The Maden Centre, Rochdale Road, Bacup, Lancashire, OL13 9NZ Telephone: 01706 871748 www.madencentre.org.uk Haslingden Community Link & Children’s Centre Bury Road, Haslingden, Rossendale, Lancashire, BB4 5PG Telephone: 01706 230 116 www.haslingdencommunitylink.org.uk Staghills Children’s Centre Top Barn Lane, Newchurch, Rossendale, Lancashire, BB4 7UE Telephone: 01706 213 303 www.staghills.lancsngfl.ac.uk Alternatively you may find the following website very useful: www.surestart.gov.uk Nurseries and Day Care There are many providers of Early Years Education in the area. These are either maintained by the Lancashire Education Authority, provided privately or voluntarily. Those maintained by the Lancashire Education Authority are free. Those that are not maintained are funded by the Nursery Education Grant.

Helping with Costs Assistance towards the cost of private nursery/playgroup/childminder fees is available in the form of the nursery education grant. All children become eligible to receive the nursery education grant following their third birthday. The grant is not based upon how much income you have. It is payable to children attending a private setting that is registered by a government department called Ofsted to receive the funding. The grant is paid directly to the private nursery

provider to cover the cost of up to 5 x 2½ hour sessions per week for 11 weeks per term. There are three terms in the school year. The amount of grant will then be deducted from your bill each term. For further advice please contact Lancashire County Council Education Department on 0845 053 0000 or the Early Years and Childcare Team on 0800 1950137 (freephone). The childcare team will be able to provide you with information about registered childcare providers throughout Lancashire, tailored to your specific needs. Whether you are looking for a childminder to drop-off or collect your child from your local school, a nursery catering for special needs or dietary requirements, details of fees or opening hours, they will help.

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Day Care Providers There are different types of day care that are available Types of Day-care

• Full day care: over 4 hours a day in any non-domestic premises • Sessional Care: under 4 hours a day in any non-domestic premises • Out of School Care: over 2 hours a day before school, after school

or during the school holidays • Crèches: "Occasional" care for over 2 hours a day in permanent or

temporary premises.

Early Year Providers You may wish to take your child to the provider that is nearest to where you live. There are often limited places so it may not always be the case that your child will get into your first choice. Use the contacts list below to check availability, costs and opening times. Where information has been available it is indicated what type of care is offered. Bacup Holy Trinity Stacksteads Church of England Primary School Booth Road, Stacksteads, Bacup, OL13 0QW Tel: 01706 877025 LEA Maintained Primary School with a Nursery Class

Bacup St Mary's Roman Catholic Primary School Tong Lane, Bacup, OL13 9LJ Tel: 01706 873123 LEA Maintained Primary School with a Nursery Class

Bacup Nursery School Cowtoot Lane, Bacup, Rossendale, OL13 8EF Tel: 01706 873856 LEA Maintained Nursery School

Bay Childminding Network

The Maden Centre, Rochdale Road, Bacup, Rossendale, OL13 9NZ Tel: 01706 871740 Voluntary Provider Blossoms Private Day Nursery Ltd Vale Street, Off Todmorden Road, Bacup, OL13 9EL Tel: 01706 878632 Private Provider Bright Sparks St Mary's School, Lime Road, Haslingden, Rossendale, BB4 5NP Tel: 07810 744043 Voluntary Provider Cherry Tree Pre-school provides sessional care. Cherry Crescent Community Centre, Cherry Crescent, Rawtenstall, Rossendale, BB4 6DL Tel: 01706 229 153 Voluntary Provider Community Link Childcare Services provides full day care. Haslingden Community Link, Bury Road, Haslingden, Rossendale, BB4 5PG Tel: 01706 224848 and 01706 238350 Crawshawbooth after School Club provides out of School care. The Village Centre, Adelaide Street, Crawshawbooth, Rossendale, BB4 8PW Tel: 01706 830796 Voluntary Provider Crawshawbooth Pre-school Playgroup provides sessional care. The Village Centre, Adelaide Street, Crawshawbooth, Rossendale, BB4 8PW Tel: 01706 830796 Voluntary Provider Edenfield Village Pre-school provides full day care. The Community Centre, Exchange Street, Edenfield, Ramsbottom, BL0 0QH Tel: 07748 083 009 Voluntary Provider Educare for Early Years provides full day care. Holme Bank, New Hall Hey Road, Rossendale, BB4 6HL Tel: 01706 210660 Private Provider

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Flying Start Day Nursery provides full day care. 198 Burnley Road, Rossendale, BB4 8HH Tel: 01706 222 269 Private Provider Good as Gold Childcare Centre provides full day care. Gaghills House, Gaghills Road, Rossendale, BB4 9BB Tel: 01706 216763 Private Provider Goodshaw Kindergarten and Private Nursery provides full day care. Goodshaw Avenue, Crawshawbooth, Rossendale, BB4 8BY Tel: 01706 223 025 and 07771 590 794 Private Provider Greenhouse Farm Private Nursery provides full day care. off Clough End Road, Cribden Side, Haslingden, Rossendale, BB4 5UB Tel: 01706 217323 Private Provider Haslingden Hillside Nursery School Cedar Avenue, Haslingden, Rossendale BB4 5NH Tel: 01706 214162 LEA Maintained Nursery School Haslingden St James Church of England Primary School Regent Street, Haslingden, Rossendale, BB4 5HL Tel: 01706 214134 LEA Maintained Primary School with a Nursery Class Helmshore Pre-school provides sessional care. St Thomas Hall, Helmshore Road, Helmshore, Rossendale, BB4 4JR Tel: 07960 185 801 Voluntary Provider Hillside Kidz Club provides full day care. Hillside Nursery School, Cedar Avenue, Haslingden, Rossendale, BB4 5NH Tel: 01706 214 162

Maden Early Years and Childcare Centre Maden Baths, Rochdale Road, Bacup, Rossendale, OL13 9NZ Tel: 01706 871740 Voluntary Provider Newhaven Children’s Nursery provides full day care. Manchester Road, Haslingden,Bent Gate, Rossendale, BB4 6LN Tel: 01706 221 298 Private Provider Puddleducks Private Day Nursery provides full day care. 220 Helmshore Road, Haslingden, Rossendale, BB4 4DJ Tel: 01706 228 368 Private Provider Rawtenstall Kids Club provides full day care. 1-3 Greenfield Street, Rawtenstall, Rossendale, BB4 8JW Tel: 01706 835 077 Private Provider St Anne's Edgeside Church of England VA Primary School Ashworth Road, Waterfoot, Rossendale, BB4 9JE Tel: 01706 214081 LEA Maintained Primary School with a Nursery Class St James the Less Pre-School The Old School Room, Burnley Road, Rossendale, BB4 8HH Tel: 07901 886506 Voluntary Provider Staghills Nursery School Top Barn Lane, Newchurch, Rossendale, BB4 7UE Tel: 01706 213303 LEA Maintained Nursery School St Veronica’s After School Club provides out of school care. Raven Avenue, Helmshore, Rossendale, BB4 4EZ Tel: 01706 226315 The Hedgehog Club

Staghills Nursery School, Top Barn Lane, Rossendale, BB4 7UE Tel: 01706 213303 Voluntary Provider The Parish Nursery Lower Lane, Haslingden, Rossendale, BB4 5RA Tel: 01706 222788 Private Provider

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The Valley Childminding Network

The Maden Centre, Rochdale Road, Bacup, 0L13 9NZ Tel: 01706 871740 Voluntary Provider Torview School Playscheme, Haslingden provides out of school care. Torview School, Clod Lane, Haslingden, Rossendale, BB4 6LR Tel: 01706 214640 Whitewell Bottom Pre-School Group Community Centre, Whitewell Bottom, Rossendale, BB4 9LB Tel: 07821 393896 Private Provider Whitworth Playgroup c/o Hallfold United Reform Church, Hallfold, Whitworth, Rochdale OL12 8TL Tel: 01706 860492 Voluntary Provider Whitworth Tonacliffe Primary School Tonacliffe Road, Whitworth, Rochdale, OL12 8SS Tel: 01706 344609 LEA Maintained Primary School with a Nursery Class

Schools Children between the ages of 4 and 11 will attend Primary School and children over this age up to 16 will attend Secondary School. If you are moving into the area and know which school you would like your child to attend, you should approach the Head Teacher at the school directly and request a place. If a place is available in the correct age group then your child will normally be admitted. Each school produces a prospectus which will give you more information about the school and its activities. You can obtain copies of this from the school. If you want to visit the school, contact the school concerned to make arrangements to visit. Children who attend school are expected to wear a school uniform. The school you choose for your child will be able to give you information as to what is needed and where you will be able to buy a uniform.

Lancashire County Council supports children in school who do not have English as their first language. The Ethnic Minority Achievement Support Service is funded by the Government and is delivered across the county in nursery, primary and secondary schools by:

• providing support to schools with newly-arrived pupils from anywhere in the world (to whom English would be an additional Language)

• working with schools which have African or Caribbean heritage pupils

• working in partnership with minority ethnic community organisations to raise pupil achievement

For further information contact the Ethnic Minority Achievement Adviser at: Ethnic Minority Achievement Adviser Lancashire County Council, Preston, Lancashire, PR1 8RJ Telephone: 01772 533 788 If your child does not have a school place or you need more advice and assistance you can contact the admissions officer at your Area Education Office: Admissions Officer Area Education Office East Lancashire County Council, Area Education Office East, St. James Square, Accrington, Lancashire, BB5 0RE Telephone: 01254 220 742

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Primary Schools Bacup Brittania Community Primary School, Rochdale Road, Bacup, OL13 9TH Tel: 01706 874447 Bacup Holy Trinity C of E Primary School, Booth Road, Stacksteads, Bacup, OL13 0QP Tel: 01706 877025 Bacup Northern Primary School, Burnley Road, Bacup, OL13 8PY Tel: 01706 874154 Bacup Sharneyford Primary School, Todmorden Road, Bacup, OL13 9UQ Tel: 01706 873955 Bacup St. Marys Roman Catholic Primary School, Tong Lane, Bacup, OL13 9LJ Tel: 01706 873123 Bacup St. Saviours Community Primary School, Lane End Road, Bacup, OL13 9RR Tel: 01706 877900 Bacup Thorn Primary School, Cowtoot Lane, Bacup, OL13 8EF Tel: 01706 874027 Crawshawbooth Primary School, Burnley Road, Crawshawbooth, BB4 8AN Tel: 01706 228664 Edenfield C of E Primary School, Market Street, Edenfield, BL0 0HL Tel: 01706 823608 Haslingden Broadway Primary School, Broadway, Haslingden, BB4 4EH Tel: 01706 229832 Helmshore Primary School, Gregory Fold, Helmshore BB4 4JW Tel: 01706 213756 Haslingden Primary School, Ryefield Avenue, Haslingden, BB4 4BJ Tel: 01706 215947 St James C of E Primary School, Regent Street, Haslingden BB4 5HL Tel: 01706 214134 Our Lady & St Anselm’s Roman Catholic Primary School, John Street, Whitworth, OL12 8DB Tel: 01706 853545 Balladen Community Primary School, Linden Lea, Rawtenstall, BB4 6DX Tel: 01706 215233 Cloughfold Primary School, Peel Street, Cloughfold, Rawtenstall, BB4 7LJ Tel: 01706 213976 Newchurch C of E Primary School, Dark Lane, Newchurch, Rawtenstall, BB4 7UA Tel: 01706 229478 St Paul’s Constable Lee C of E Primary School, Hollin Lane, Rawtenstall, BB4 8HT Tel: 01706 215893 Water Primary School, Burnley Road East, Water, BB4 9PX Tel: 01706 216414 Waterfoot Primary School, Thornfield Avenue, Waterfoot, BB4 9AP Tel: 01706 215539 St Anne’s Edgeside C of E Primary School, Ashworth Road, Waterfoot, BB4 9JE Tel: 01706 214081

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St Bartholomew’s C of E Primary School, Hall Fold, Hall Street, Whitworth, OL12 8TL Tel: 01706 344631 St James-The-Less Roman Catholic Primary School, Unity Way, Rawtenstall, BB4 8SU Tel: 01706 216190 St John with St Michael C of E Primary School, Moss Side Street, Shawforth, OL12 8JB Tel: 01706 852614 St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Primary School, Huttock End Lane, Stacksteads, Bacup, OL13 7LD Tel: 01706 873177 St Mary’s C of E Primary School, Haslingden Old Road, Rawtenstall, BB4 8RZ Tel: 01706 216407 St Mary’s Roman Catholic Primary School, Lime Road, Haslingden, BB4 5NP Tel: 01706 214747 St Peter’s Roman Catholic Primary School, St Peter's Road, Newchurch BB4 9EZ Tel: 01706 229972 St Veronica’s Roman Catholic Primary School, Raven Avenue, Helmshore, BB4 4EZ Tel: 01706 226315 Stubbins Primary School, Bolton Road North, Ramsbottom, BL0 0NA Tel: 01706 822063 Tonacliffe Primary School, Tonacliffe Old Road, Whitworth, OL12 8SS Tel: 01706 344609

Secondary Schools Alder Grange High School, Calder Road, Off Hollin Lane, Rawtenstall, BB4 8HW Tel: 01706 223171 All Saints Roman Catholic High School, Haslingden Road, Rawtenstall, BB4 6SJ Tel: 01706 213693 Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School, Glen Road, Waterfoot, BB4 7BJ Tel: 01706 234500 Fearns Community High School, Fearns Moss, Stacksteads, Bacup, OL13 0TG Tel: 01706 873896 Haslingden High School, Broadway, Haslingden, Rossendale, BB4 4EY Tel: 01706 215726 Whitworth Community High School, Hall Fold, Whitworth, OL12 8TS Tel: 01706 343218

Special Schools Cribden House Community Special School, Haslingden Road, Rawtenstall, BB4 6RX Tel: 01706 213048 Tor View School, Clod Lane, Haslingden, BB4 6LR Tel: 01706 214640

School Transport Travelling expenses are normally only paid to pupils who attend the nearest suitable school and the distance from home is two miles or more by the shortest available walking route if your child is under 8 years of age, or three miles or more if your child is 8 years old or over. Different rules apply to children who need to attend a special school.

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Education Benefits Children in school may be entitled to educational benefits such as free school meals, school clothing or travelling expenses. For more information contact: Area Education Office East, Education Benefits Office, St. James Square, Accrington, Lancashire, BB5 0RE Tel: 01254 220 712 or 220 716

Tax Credits You may be entitled to Working Tax Credits and/or Child Tax Credits. Tax credits are payments from the government to help with everyday costs. If you're responsible for at least one child or young person who normally lives with you, you may be eligible for Child Tax Credit. If you work, but earn low wages, you may be eligible for Working Tax Credit. For more information and to make a claim contact the Tax Credit helpline on 0845 300 3900 or visit www.direct.gov.uk and follow the links.

Authorised and Unauthorised Absences Parents are responsible for the regular school attendance of their children. If your child is ill or unable to attend school for some reason, you will need to contact the school by telephone and/or letter to inform them. The school may then "authorise" this absence. If your child has been away from school for three days, (in some schools even sooner), without any parental contact, the school will send you a letter or make some other contact in order to check on the attendance. Such a letter could draw your attention to the fact that your child has been missing school without a reason. Such absences will be an "unauthorised" absence from school and it is unauthorised absences from school which carries with it the risk of prosecution. Please try to arrange dental, optician and medical appointments outside school hours, if possible. Where it is necessary to attend appointments in school hours, always notify the school in advance.

Working in the UK Already In the UK If you want to work in the United Kingdom, you should check that your status allows you to do so before taking up employment. Not everyone who comes to the UK is allowed to work. You can check if you are allowed to work by looking at the stamp in your passport. Examples of passport stamps can be found on the Immigration and Nationality Directorate website on www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk If you are still unsure you can get more information from a website set up by the Home Office, particular to this purpose, at www.workingintheuk.gov.uk If you want to apply to change your status, it is often not possible to change your status from inside the UK. You may need to leave the UK and apply for entry clearance. You can also refer to the Immigration rules and the Immigration Directorate's Instructions for full details. Your status may only allow you to stay in the UK for a limited time. In some cases, when the time is finished, you cannot apply to stay longer. If you are eligible to extend your stay in the UK, you will need to make an application before your original permission ends. Information on how to make an application, including application forms and details of where to send them are available from the working in the UK website. Coming to the UK - Entry Clearance If you are currently outside the United Kingdom, you may need to apply for entry clearance before you travel. The entry clearance process for the United Kingdom is run by UK visas through the British diplomatic posts around the world. The need to apply for entry clearance will depend on your current nationality and the scheme under which you wish to come to the United Kingdom. Once you arrive in the United Kingdom, you may have to register your stay with the Police. If you need to register, this requirement will be stamped in your passport. You must register within seven days of arriving in the United Kingdom. To register, you will need your passport and two passport-size photographs of yourself.

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The Police Stations in this area are:

Bacup Police Station Bank Street Bacup OL13 8GZ Haslingden Police Station Manchester Road Haslingden BB4 6QW Rawtenstall Police Office Lord Street RAWTENSTALL BB4 7LY There are two important telephone numbers that you need for contacting Lancashire Constabulary. 0845 1 25 35 45 is the number you should use for all non-emergency calls to the police. They will be able to deal with your enquiry and put you in touch with the right person. By using it correctly, you can help to make sure that the busy 999 system is available for genuine emergencies and it will connect you straight through to the Constabulary. 999 is the number to use when there is an emergency - for example, danger to life or a crime in progress. Please don't use 999 for non-emergency calls.

The Worker Registration Scheme Most nationals of the new member states (except Cyprus and Malta) who wish to work for more than one month for an employer in the UK need to register under the Worker Registration Scheme. Once you have been working legally in the UK for 12 months without a break you will have full rights of free movement and will no longer need to register on the Worker Registration scheme. You can then get a residence permit confirming your right to live and work in the UK. If you have already registered on the Worker Registration Scheme, and have been working in the UK for 12 months, you may now wish to apply for a residence permit. Further information is available on the Immigration and Nationality Directorate website on www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk. You should apply using form EEA1. If you need further information, please contact the Immigration and Nationality Enquiry Bureau on 0870 606 7766. How do I apply? How should I pay? You should complete application form WRS giving your name, address, date of birth, nationality and your employment details. The charge for a first application is £70. You must fill in the payment slip on the application form. To get Worker Registration Scheme application forms and multiple payment slips telephone 08705 210 224, (this number is ONLY for ordering application forms and guidance notes). Useful contacts Home Office Worker Registration Team Work Permits (UK) PO BOX 3468 Sheffield S3 8WA Tel: 0114 207 6022 Email: WPcustomers@ind.homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk Website: www.workingintheuk.gov.uk Immigration and Nationality Enquiries Bureau (INEB) Tel: 0870 606 7766 Department for Work and Pensions Tel: 0207 712 2171 Website: www.dwp.gov.uk Jobcentre Plus website: www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk

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National Minimum Wage Helpline

Tel 0845 6000 678 Newly Self-employed Helpline Tel 08459 15 4515 Health & Safety Executive HSE Infoline Caerphilly Business Park Caerphilly CF83 3GG Tel: 0845 3450055 Minicom: 02920 808537 Email: hseinfomationservices@natbrit.com Website: www.hse.gov.uk HM Customs & Revenue (HMRC) - Formerly Inland Revenue HMRC provides advice on taxation, National Insurance Contributions, National Minimum Wage, tax credits and Child Benefit. Visit: www.hmrc.gov.uk Trade Unions In many jobs there will be a trade union representing the rights of people who work there. These rights include: the right to the national minimum wage, the right to breaks, holidays and holiday pay; the right to health and safety protection; the right to join a union; the right to protection from unfair discrimination. If you have a problem, you should contact a trade union, or the TUC's 'Know Your Rights Line' on 0870 600 4882. You can get more detailed information about rights from: www.tuc.org.uk Learndirect Learndirect is an organisation that can provide free advice on English language learning in your area. There may be a charge for the courses that are available. Helpline: 0800 100900. National Insurance number To get a National Insurance number, you must make an appointment for an "evidence of identity" interview at the nearest Job Centre Plus Office. This is a government office which can be found in most large towns or city districts. You will need to take proof of identity (such as a passport) as well as evidence that you are working. The nearest offices in this area are: Bacup Jobcentre Plus Gladstone Street Bacup United Kingdom OL13 9JZ Telephone: 01706 705400 Rawtenstall Jobcentre Plus Bacup Road Rawtenstall Rossendale United Kingdom BB4 7NH Telephone: 01706 705100 For more detailed information you can visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk For information about services and benefits that may be available to you can also visit the website for the Department for Works and Pensions at www.dwp.gov.uk

Working Holiday Makers Different rules apply if you are a working holiday maker. The working holidaymaker scheme is an arrangement where a Commonwealth citizen aged between 17 and 30 can come to the United Kingdom (UK) for an extended holiday for up to two years. You can work, but only provided this is incidental to the holiday. The holiday should be the primary reason for your stay. You must get a visa before you travel to the UK as a working holidaymaker.

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How long can I stay?

You can stay in the UK for up to two years as a working holidaymaker, in line with the validity of your visa. We will count any time you spend outside the UK during that period as part of the permitted stay, and there is no provision for an extension of stay as a working holidaymaker to be granted beyond the validity of the visa on which you enter the United Kingdom. How much and what work can I do? You must intend to take work in the UK only as an incidental part of your holiday, so you must intend to spend no more than 12 months working, and to spend the rest of your stay on holiday. You can take most types of work including voluntary work, but you may not engage in any business, or provide services as a professional sportsperson. (Any other type of professional work is permitted.)You can choose when to work and when to take your holiday breaks as you wish, but you must not work for more than a total of 12 months or you will be breaking the conditions of your stay. People issued with a working holidaymaker visa before 8 February 2005 do not have any restrictions upon the amount or type of work that they may do. Do I need a visa as a working holidaymaker? You must get a visa as a working holidaymaker before you travel to the UK.

What is a visa? A visa is a certificate that is placed in your passport or travel document at a British mission overseas. The visa gives you permission to enter the UK. If you have a valid UK visa we will not normally refuse you entry to the UK unless your circumstances have changed, or you gave false information or you did not tell us important facts when you applied for your visa. When you arrive in the UK, an Immigration Officer may question you, so take all relevant documents in your hand luggage. How do I apply for a visa? You will need to fill in a visa application form VAF I (non-settlement). You can get a form free of charge from your nearest British mission overseas where there is a visa section, or from www.ukvisas.gov.uk You should check with your nearest British mission whether they can deal with your application. about the ways in which you can apply. How much money will I need to qualify as a working holidaymaker? You must be able to support and accommodate yourself adequately without recourse to State public funds. You must be able to show that you have enough money to pay the cost of at least your outward journey. You must also be able to show that you have enough money for your accommodation and living expenses for the first 2 months after arrival or for at least 1 month if you can show that you have arranged a job in advance which will adequately cover you accommodation and living expenses. You should get information about how much money you will need, for example through regional tourist offices or through UK websites, about the area in which you wish to stay. This will help you find out how much you may have to spend on somewhere to stay, travel and other basic living expenses. You will then have a clear idea of how much money you will need. What will happen when I make my application? The Entry Clearance Officer will check that they have all the information they need to make a decision. If they need more information they may ask you to come back with additional documents before they can accept your application. Once they have accepted your application they may need to interview you. You may stay in the UK as a working holidaymaker for two years from the date you enter: You should tell the Entry Clearance Officer when you plan to travel so that your visa can start from that date. The visa can start any time up to three months from the date of issue. What are public funds? As a working holidaymaker you must be able to support yourself and live without claiming certain State benefits.

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Can I apply to extend my stay once I am in the UK? You cannot extend your stay as a working holidaymaker. But you may be eligible to switch into work permit employment after 12 months in the UK where your occupation is on the list of designated shortage occupations. Working Holidaymakers may also switch into Innovators and the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP). Information on the work permit process and the charges involved is available on the working in the uk website at www.workingintheuk.gov.uk For advice and information about extending your stay in other immigration categories once you are in the UK Write to: Immigration and Nationality Directorate

Croydon Public Caller Unit, Lunar House, 40 Wellesley Road, CROYDON CR9 2BY Phone: 00 44 (0) 870 606 7766 (General enquiries) 00 44 (0) 870 241 0645 (for an application form)

Email: indpublicenquiries@ind.homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk Website: www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk

More advice and information For more advice and information about visas Write to: UKvisas

LONDON, SWIA 2AH Phone: 00 44 (0) 207 008 8438 (General enquiries) 00 44 (0) 20 7008 8308 (for an application form)

Website: www.ukvisas.gov.uk

Immigration Advisory Service (IAS) The IAS is an independent charity that gives free and confidential advice and help and can represent people who are applying for a visa for the UK. Write to: IAS

3rd Floor; County House, 190 Great Dover Street, LONDON, SE I 4YB Phone: 00 44 (0) 20 7967 1200 / 00 44 (0) 20 8814 1559 (Duty Office open 24 hours) Fax: 00 44 (0) 20 7403 5875

Email: advice@iasuk.org Website: www.iasuk.org

Drugs warning The UK has severe penalties against anyone found smuggling drugs. Drug traffickers may try to bribe travellers. If you are travelling to the UK avoid any involvement with drugs. Customs and Excise For advice on bringing personal belongings and goods into the UK Write to: HM Customs and Excise

Dorset House, Stamford Street, LONDON, SE1 9PY Phone: 00 44 (0) 845 0 10 9000

Website: www.hmce.gov.uk

The Commission for Racial Equality If you feel that because of your nationality or race that you are being unfairly treated you may want to contact the Commission for Racial Equality, (CRE). The CRE works for a just and integrated society, where diversity is valued. The CRE uses the law to give everyone an equal chance to live and work free from fear of discrimination, prejudice and racism. You can vist their website on www.cre.gov.uk or contact them at: Commission for Racial Equality St Dunstan's House, 201-211 Borough High Street, LONDON, SE1 1GZ Tel: 020 7939 0000 Fax: 020 7939 0001

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Workers Rights The current national minimum wage for employees over 22 is £5.05 per hour, workers aged 18 - 22 £4.25 per hour, and workers aged over 22 can be paid £4.25 per hour for the first 6 months whilst on an approved training programme. Workers do not work for more than 48 hours in any week unless they agreed in writing to these conditions with their employer prior to the work being done. Always read a contract thoroughly and do not sign anything until you have had time to read/ understand it. Do not start work without agreeing terms and conditions.

• All workers have a right to work in places where risks to their health and safety are properly controlled.

• The primary responsibility for this is down to the employer. • Workers have a right to join and be represented by a trade

union. • Both workers and employers have a legal responsibility to

look after health and safety at work together. Health & Safety at Work The Health and Safety Commission is responsible for health and safety regulation in Great Britain. The Health and Safety Executive and local government are the enforcing authorities who work in support of the Commission. The main aims of the Health and Safety Executive are reducing risks and protecting people. If you are concerned with a Health and Safety issue within your workplace you can confidentially contact the Health & Safety Executive language service. Assistance of interpreters will be available by telephoning 08701 545500. For all the information you need on the rights and responsibilities of employers and employees you can visit a dedicated website that has been set up by the Health and Safety Executive at www.hse.gov.uk/workers. The Trade Union Congress, (TUC), is an umbrella organisation of 70 affiliated Unions that represent nearly seven million working people from all walks of life. They campaign for a fair deal at work and for social justice at home and abroad. The TUC negotiate in Europe, and at home build links with political parties, business, local communities and wider society. The TUC have a dedicated website which aims to be a one-stop-shop for everything to do with your working life. This is called Worksmart and can be visited at www.worksmart.org.uk. This site also has very comprehensive information about your rights as a migrant worker which should give you all the answers and links to other sites you need. ACAS The Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service, (ACAS) aims to improve organisations and working life through better employment relations. They provide up-to-date information, independent advice, high quality training and work with employers and employees to solve problems and improve performance. For lots of really useful information you can visit their website at www.acas.org.uk The Citizens Advice Bureaux (CAB) provides free, confidential and independent advice. Advice is available face-to-face and by telephone. Most bureaux offer home visits and some also provide email advice. Their advice helps people resolve their debt, benefits, housing, legal, discrimination, employment, immigration, consumer and other problems and is available to everyone regardless of race, gender, sexuality, age, nationality, disability or religion. Your local CAB is: Bacup CAB 4 Rochdale Road, Bacup, Rossendale, Lancashire OL13 9NZ Telephone: 0870 124 3822 Fax: 01706 879016 01706 879016 - Money Advice also phone line All sessions are by appointment only. The Online Advice Service from the Citizens Advice Bureau is www.adviceguide.org.uk. It is able to provide information in English, Welsh, Bengali, Gujarati, Punjabi, Urdu and Chinese.

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Welfare Rights

Lancashire County Council’s Welfare Rights Service exists to help you with claims for the whole range of social security and local authority benefits and tax credits. This service offers free, confidential advice and help to the residents of Lancashire. You may need help claiming benefit. You may also need help with a review or an appeal. You can get either get advice over the telephone, arrange an appointment to come and see us or visit a drop-in session. They can arrange home visits if you are elderly, sick or disabled, care for a child or a person with disabilities. You can visit them at: www.lancashire.gov.uk/environment/welfarerights The nearest Welfare Rights Service for this district is: Liz Thomas, (Area Manager) 6-8 Birch Street, Accrington, BB5 1LG Telephone: 01254 301141 Email: accrington@lancswelfarerights.com

Where can I find out my rights as a Consumer? Trading Standards and Consumer Direct The Trading Standards Service protects the interests of consumers and businesses in Lancashire. It enforces consumer protection legislation and provides free advice to consumers and businesses. Trading Standards enforce legislation controlling the quantity, quality, price, description and safety of most goods and services. If you are experiencing difficulties with goods and services Trading Standards will provide free advice. In partnership with Consumer Direct North West the Trading Standards Service for Lancashire County Council provides free advice and assistance to consumers experiencing difficulties with goods and services. Telephone 0845 6001352 for Consumer Advice from the Trading Standards Agency or telephone Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06 or visit www.consumerdirect.gov.uk

Is there anywhere I can get free legal advice? Free legal advice may be obtained from solicitors under the Legal Help scheme, (formerly known as the advice and assistance scheme). To qualify under this scheme you must either: a) Be on Income Support or Income-based Jobseekers Allowance, or b) Otherwise if you have or receive money your gross income must not be more than £2,288 per month, (this figure increases if you have more than 4 children) and your "disposable income" must not be more than £632 per month. You will only be assessed on the income you receive in the month prior to seeing a solicitor, so if your income changes regularly it will only be your most recent monthly income which is considered. You will have to sign a "Legal Help Form". If you have a partner who is not the person you are bringing your case against then both your income and your partner's income are added together (tax and national insurance contributions are deducted) your joint incomes are looked at when deciding if you are entitled to Legal Help. If your joint disposable income is more than £632 per month you will not be eligible at all under the Scheme. However, you are allowed to deduct certain amounts from your weekly income if you are paying for a partner or children, (children includes a foster child) or dependent relative living in the same household. For more information contact the Citizen’s Advice Bureau Alternatively you may want to telephone a solicitor directly to ask them for more information about what legal help they can offer.

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Solicitors in Rossendale • Holt & Longworth 65 Bank St, Rawtenstall, BB4 7QN Telephone: 01706 213251 • Kestrolmiers 37 Burnley Rd, Rossendale, BB4 8EW Telephone: 01706 228844 • Mulderrigs 72 Bank St, Rawtenstall, BB4 8EG Telephone: 0800 052 3693 • Walker Crompton Halliwell 574 Bacup Rd, Rossendale, BB4 7HB Telephone: 01706 213565 • Woodcock & Sons West View/Princess St, Haslingden, BB4 6NW Telephone: 01706 213356 • Woodcock & Sons 3 Irwell Ter, Bacup, OL13 9AN Telephone: 01706 874487

• Woodcock & Sons 61 Bank St, Rawtenstall, BB4 7QN Telephone: 01706 225621

Domestic Violence If you are a victim of domestic violence and abuse you do not need to suffer in silence. There are places you can contact for free confidential help and advice. The Police have a dedicated Domestic Violence Liaison Officer, (DVLO), who works closely with other support agencies such as the Rossendale Domestic Violence Forum, (RDVF). The RDVF may be contacted on 01706 830 600 or visit their website at www.rdvf.co.uk In this area the DVLO is based in: Rawtenstall Police Office Lord Street RAWTENSTALL BB4 7LY Telephone: 01706 237413 You may want to visit the Lancashire Community Safety Website at www.saferlancashire.co.uk which provides information about this and other issues which effect the community, such as drugs awareness, reporting crimes, fly tipping and juvenile nuisance. Hate Crime Hate Crime is any incident motivted by the offenders dislike of your race, faith, gender, disabilit, sexual orientation or age. It is taken very seriously by local Police who have a dedicated Hate Crime and Diversity Unit which helps investigate incidents and provide support to victims of hate crime. If you have experienced hate crime you can report it. Contact: 999 in an emergency Local Police on 0845 1 25 35 45 Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 Pennine Police Diversity Unit on 01282 472190 Visit the website of the Lancashire Police at www.lancashire.police.uk for lots of really useful information and advice about this and other matters.

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Libraries in Rossendale You can join the library if you live, work or attend full-time education within Lancashire. You can join at any age and it is FREE! Lancashire County Council provides a service to minority ethnic communities. Titles can be ordered through any library and books in the follwing languages may be available: • Urdu • Gujurati • Bengali • Punjabi • Hindi • Chinese • Arabic • Kurdish • Russian • Czech • Pashto • Farsi • European languages Dual language children's books, including picture books, are also available. Books about different cultures are stocked, including a collection of materials on Black writing and history.

There are also booklists available for Asian and African Caribbean categories. Asian newspapers are available in some libraries and are available online at People’s Centres. People’s Centres provide access to computer hardware & software products as well as training opportunities. These are for anyone who has difficulty in using computers. Rossendale has a People’s Centre at Rawtenstall Library. Free public access to the internet, e-mail, Microsoft Office applications and CDRom is currently available in all of Lancashire's 84 static libraries Language courses on CD and audio-cassette are stocked and can be ordered through all libraries. Information on the library service can be made available in other languages. Staff with Asian language skills are available to help. For further information, please contact County Library Head Quarters on 01772 534077 The County Library website has lots of useful information and links at www.lancashire.gov.uk/libraries To contact the Library direct use the contact details below: Bacup Library St James Square, Bacup, Rossendale, OL13 9NH Tel: 01706 873324 Crawshawbooth Library Adelaide Street, Crawshawbooth, Rossendale, BB4 8PW Tel: 01706 224269 Edenfield Trailer Rostron Arms, 1 Market Place, Edenfield, Ramsbottom, Bury, BL0 0JZ Tel: 01706 827466 Haslingden Library Deardengate, Haslingden, Rossendale, BB4 5QL Tel: 01706 215690 Helmshore Trailer Broadway Crescent, Helmshore, BB4 4HW Tel: 01706 830429 Rawtenstall Library Queen's Square, Haslingden Road, Rawtenstall, BB4 6QU Tel: 01706 227911 Whitworth Library Lloyd Street, Whitworth, Rochdale, OL12 8AA Tel: 01706 853261

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English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Accrington & Rossendale College offers a variety of courses for people whose first language is not English. These courses take place in a wide variety of venues including The College, Mosques and Community halls. The College offers many courses which allow people to improve their language skills through a number of different ways, such as ESOL through Computing and ESOL through Crafts. The courses are designed to help improve language skills in a practical way, teaching you the things you’ll be able to use, such as filling in forms and gaining employment skills. If you'd like more information about what ESOL courses are availavble, what they involve and where they take place, chose from the three options below: Visit the College Website at www.accross.ac.uk and select ‘ESOL’ from ‘Adult and Community Learning’ Telephone 01254 354354 to request a copy of the latest ‘People Paper’ or send an email to info@accross.ac.uk Their address is Sandy Lane, Accrington, BB5 2AW Learn Direct Learndirect operates a network of online learning centres all over the UK which give access to a range of e-learning opportunities. Learndirect's flexible learning is available to individual adults wanting to improve existing skills or to learn new ones. Learndirect offers more than 550 different courses covering a range of subjects, including management, IT, Skills for Life and languages, at all levels. More than three quarters of the courses are available online allowing people to learn wherever they have access to the internet - at home, at work or at a learndirect centre.

The nearest learndirect centre in this area is: Kingfisher learndirect Centre Futures Park, Bacup, Rossendale, Lancashire BB4 8EQ Telephone: 01706 252300 To enquire about what learndirect courses are on offer call the helpline on 0800 101 901