Updates & Information: 21 Feb 2012

Faith Group Conference…Fri 24 Feb
Unite...Sat 25 Feb
Breathe City Church Leaders’ Meetings…25 & 27 Feb
2012 UCB Leaders’ Meeting
Audley Christian Viewpoint…Thurs 1 March
Toolbox...Sat 3 March
2012 Olympics “Get Set!”...Sat 3 March
2020Plus:Stoke…Thurs 8 March
“Big Brew”: Fairtrade Fortnight... Sat 10 March
Urban Church Conference…Fri 16 March
God, the Future and Me...Sat 17 March
Civic Prayer Breakfast...Fri 23 March
Friends of Bethesda - Easter Service...Sat 24 March
Encounter with Russ Parker…Weds 28 March
Unite… Sat 31 March
Hanley Elim: Forthcoming Events
Fresh Expressions Taster Day...Sat 12 May
Christian Vision for Men Gathering... Fri 29 June to Sun 1 July
Private Tuition Available for Foreign Languages Students
Get into Construction: Free Training Programme
Street Pastors: Looking for Volunteers
Nightchurch: can you volunteer?
Tender Ready Workshops
Ben’s Box Easter Resource
Gym and Activity Centre...YMCA North Staffordshire
Plan for Christmas 2012-It's a boy...pop gospel Christmas show
Inspirational Outreach Evenings with... Janey Lee Grace and Pam Rhodes
Updated: Mission Shaped Ministry
New Lent Course – Church Urban Fund
Christian Handyman Services
Heart 2 Heart
Stoke Minster
Free
Woman’s Group
Fountains Counselling Service
Access
RUBYGIRL UK
Do you have a van for RUBYGIRL UK?
Breakthru’ Counselling
The Lounge Booking
Healing Rooms
SALTBOX
Saltbox Database
Special offer: Youth group personal discovery weekend
Self Help Groups in Stoke-On-Trent
PhoneLink Volunteers Needed - Telephone befrienders needed
Vacancy: Personal Assistant at BCC
Vacancy: LIFT
Vacancy: Internships at The Potter’s House
Vacancy: UCB Marketing Coordinator
Vacancy: Chief Instructor at Whitemoor Lakes
Vacancy: Activity Instructor Training Scheme
Vacancy: Recruiting Volunteers
Vacancy: Volunteer CAMEO Luncheon Club –St Mark’s Basford
Vacancy: Position of Organist & Choir Leader
2012: Why not pray for a change?

*** Don’t forget to get involved with the 2012 year of prayer (last item below) - your support for this important 2012 prayer initiative will be vital. Check out the current prayer slots available in January by clicking on the following link & then choose January in the ‘select a month’ box: www.whynotprayforachange.co.uk/signup . You will simply need to register to then sign up for a prayer slot…I’ve already registered for some night watches in January…so, come & join me…register & get involved!


Every Blessing
Lloyd

Lloyd Cooke
Chief Executive
Saltbox Christian Centre

Supporting Church & faith groups
Supporting the elderly
Supporting ex-offenders
Supporting those in debt


Faith Group Conference… Friday 24 Feb

Stoke on Trent and Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Authority are committed to ensuring that all residents across the City and County live long, healthy and safe lives.

In line with this commitment, a conference is being staged to which all faith groups from across Staffordshire are being invited.

Date: Friday 24 February 2012
Venue: Fire & Rescue Service Headquarters
Time: 9.00am – 1.00pm

We have limited places available therefore an early response will be appreciated. You can send your reply by emailing olivebranch@staffordshirefire.gov.uk
In your reply, could you indicate the following:
Your attendance or not
Your role within your organisation and the age range/needs of the people that you visit
The purpose of your visit
This will greatly help us with the organising of this event.

Contacts for further information are Rebecca Gill or Jane Moss on 01785 898559 or email olivebranch@staffordshirefire.gov.uk


Unite… Saturday 25 Feb

A unique event for Christians and those seeking to know more about the Christian faith with special guests: Mandy Buckett testifying to God's goodness and answer to prayer following her son Tom's near fatal accident last year and his miraculous recovery.Gerald and Hazel Gleaves sharing the amazing things God has done in their lives.Date: Saturday 25 FebruaryVenue: Cornerstone Community Centre, Silverdale, ST5 6PFTime: 7pm
Free Entry & RefreshmentsFor more info 01782 776959 or e-mail je_ce_barber@hotmail.co.uk
Breathe City Church Leaders’ Meetings

· SY ROGERS on Saturday 25 Feb 7:30pm Campus: City. Tickets for this are £5 per person.

· Masterclass with SY ROGERS on Monday 27 Feb at 7:30pm Campus: City. Tickets are £25 per person.

If you would like further information, please email admin@breathecitychurch.com or to book your tickets call 01782 537079.


2012 UCB Leaders’ Meeting

Tea and coffee will be available on the day from 10.30am ready for an 11am start, beginning with a time of praise and worship, followed by the guest speaker & a buffet lunch.

· February 7 Tuesday STUART BELL - Ground Level & New Life Church, Lincoln
· March 8 Thursday DAVE SMITH - Kingsgate Community Church, Peterborough
· April 19 Thursday DAVE GILPIN - Hope City Church, Sheffield
· May 24 Thursday SOPHIA BARRETT - Audacious City Church, Manchester
· June 21 Thursday STEVE GAMBILL from Abundant Life in Bradford
· July 10 Tuesday PHILIP JINADU - Winning Ways & Woodlands Church, Bristol
· August 21 Tuesday JEFF LUCAS - Jeff Lucas International Ministries & Timberline Church
· September 20 Thursday NORMAN BARNES - Founder of Links International
· October 10 Wednesday DIANA STACEY - Grace Family Church, Liverpool
· November 7 Wednesday ROY TODD - Roy Todd Ministries & Junction 24 Church
· December 4 Tuesday SUZETTE HATTINGH - Voice in the City

UCB: You can receive further details and book a place now for all of the dates listed simply by emailing leadersdays@ucb.co.uk.


Audley Christian Viewpoint… Thursday 1 March

Audley Christian Viewpoint invites you and your Team of 4 or 5 players to our annual Cricket Club Village Quiz. This year with JIM LOWE our Christian “Cabaret” Speaker.

Date: Thursday 1 March
Time: 7.30 pm
Venue: Audley Cricket Club.

Tickets £6 includes hot pie and pea supper.

Call Wendy 01782 720381 or Ena 01782 722106.



Toolbox… Saturday 3 March

A morning full of ideas for all those who work with Children & Young People. Key Note Speaker Damian Wharton (National YFC Missions Director).

Date: Saturday 3 March 2012
Venue: St Andrew’s Church, 375 Weston Rd, Weston Coyney, Stoke on Trent. ST3 6HB
Time: 8.30am Registration & Breakfast to 2.00pm for a network

There is a £5 charge for the day. Please bring your own lunch; drinks will be provided.

You need to book beforehand, sending in your choice of workshops along with a cheque made payable to ‘Lichfield DBF’ to: North Staffs YFC, 11 Chapel Lane, Burslem, Stoke on Trent, ST6 2AB

Please mark your envelope ‘Toolbox’. You will receive a confirmation email and directions when we receive your booking. If you need to cancel your booking, please let us know as soon as possible.

For further details contact:

Mark Hatcher Lichfield Diocesan Youth and Children’s Adviser 01782 502822
Mark Hackney North Staffs YFC 01782 822200
Cathy Short Youth & Children’s Worker, St John’s, Stafford 07984 717802
Ben Topham Youth & Children’s Worker, St Lawrence Church, Biddulph, 01782 513891


2012 Olympics “Get Set!”... Saturday 3 March

How can you use the Olympics as a mission’s tool to impact your community?

International missions agency, More Than Gold, have organised a national Olympics tour will be visiting 17 UK locations including Stoke-on-Trent.

Who should attend? Churches are encouraged to bring a team to Get Set. It’s for all who play a key role in children, youth, outreach, events & more.

With ideas, inspiration & workshops:

· How to run a community festival
· Using sport to impact local people
· Building a prayer foundation for mission
· Torch Run updates

Date: Saturday 3 March
Venue: Port Vale FC
Time: 10.30am – 4.30pm
Cost: £10 per person

Register on-line at: www.morethangold.org.uk/getset


2020Plus: Stoke…with Mal Fletcher

Avodah Enterprises Ltd would like to invite you to the second 2020Plus: Stoke on Thursday 8 March. Avodah Enterprises Ltd has the privilege of welcoming Mal Fletcher, broadcaster and social commentator, who works extensively with national and international press to highlight the need for change and how business, civic and other leaders in a city can engage in this process.

Date: Thursday 8 March, 2012
Time: 7.30am - 10.00am
Venue: Breathe City Church, Leek Road, Stoke On Trent, ST2 8BY
Cost: Free

For more information about 2020Plus Project, Avodah Enterprises Ltd and to book your place, please go to: http://avodah.co.uk/2020plus/programme.php

Highlights from the first 2020Plus:Stoke event can be viewed on: http://2020Plus.net/stokevideo.aspx


“Big Brew”: FairTrade Fortnight... Sat 10 March

To celebrate Fairtrade Fortnight Wetley Rocks Methodist Church (A 520 Leek to Cellarhead) are hosting the "BIG BREW", a coffee morning on Saturday 10th March 2012 10am - 2pm.


Urban Church Conference… Friday 16 March

The Urban Church and Social Action conference includes a welcome by the Bishop of Stafford, and presentations from Tristram Hunt MP, Tim Bissett CEO of Church Urban Fund and Lloyd Cooke.

The day also includes a variety of workshops. A hot lunch will be provided.

Date: Friday 16 March
Time: 10am to 4pm
Venue: Christ Church, Fenton

The cost for the full day including lunch will be £25 per delegate or for 2 members of the same parish £20 each.

There may be an opportunity to visit Bethesda Chapel at the end of the day, which is currently being restored by the Historic Chapels Trust

To book a place on this event please contact Saltbox 01782 207200 or email ruth.watkinson@churchofengland.org


God, The Future and Me... Saturday 17 March

What is it?: Ecumenical event (C of E, Baptist, URC and Methodist etc) for young people aged 16-25+ who want to think about their calling.

Date: Saturday 17th March

Time: 10.30am-5.00pm with brunch served from 10.30am.

Venue: St Peter's House Chaplaincy, Manchester University, Oxford Road.

Costs £4. Book via St Peter’s House http://www.stpeters.org.uk/ or via facebook at “God, the Future and Me”.


Civic Prayer Breakfast… Friday 23 March

Everyone is invited to the 2012 Civic Prayer Breakfast. Join with leaders from different sectors across the city.

The 2012 guest speaker will be Tristram Hunt MP with the title “The importance of Faith in the City”.

The event will also include a special presentation to former Lord Mayors.

Date: Friday 23 March
Venue: King’s Hall, Stoke
Time: 7.30 - 9:30am
Tickets: £10 per person

For tickets or further information contact the Saltbox: rachael@saltbox.org.uk or telephone 01782 207200


Friends of Bethesda - Easter Service… Saturday 24 March

The Friends of Bethesda would like to invite you to an Easter Service. The service will be recorded by Radio Stoke to be transmitted on Easter Sunday morning. “We would love you to come and bring as many friends as possible”.

Date: Saturday 24 March
Venue: Bethesda Chapel, Albion Street, Hanley
Time: 2.00pm


ENCOUNTER…Wednesday 28 March

A city celebration with the inspirational Russ Parker. Join with Christians from across North Staffs to worship and pray together.
Come and hear more about the new Two Saints Pilgrimage route being developed from Chester to Lichfield.

Date: Wednesday 28 March
Venue: St. Mary’s CoE, Trentham
Time: 7.30pm

Contact the Saltbox for further details: 01782 207200


Unite… Saturday 31 March

A unique event for Christians and those seeking to know more about the Christian faith. Special guest, Jean Lupton.

After starting her business in 1977 she came to Christian faith following miraculous healing from injuries sustained in a serious road accident in 1983.

Date: Saturday 31 March
Venue: Tunstall Methodist Church & Centre, ST6 6EE.
Time: 7pm
Free entry and refreshments.

For more info 01782 776959 or je_ce_barber@hotmail.co.uk


Hanley Elim: Forthcoming Events

Celebratory weekends with guest speakers from our 50 year history.
· March 10th /11th; Arthur Thomas.
· April 14th /15th ; Jackie Griffiths
· May 12th /13th; Carol Cooper, Paul and Janice Finn
For more information ring 01782 279092 or visit http://www.hanleyelim.co.uk/


Fresh Expressions Taster Day... Saturday 12 May

Interested in fresh expressions of church for our changing culture? This event promises to be an exciting dip into all types of Fresh Expressions of church and not just mission shaped ministry.

Date: Saturday 12 May 2012
Venue: Trinity Methodist Church, Histons Hill, Codsall, Wolverhampton.

Speakers include Bishop Clive, George Fisher, Ron Willoughby and many others to be arranged.
Further information available from Anne Riddle, mission shaped ministry Administrator .

Tel: 01782 769532 or 07974 197806 E-mail: anne.riddle1@ntlworld.com Or visit: http://www.freshexpressions.org.uk/


Christian Vision for Men Gathering... 29 June to 1 July

A gathering for men from all over UK at Lynt Farm, Nr Swindon. Inspirational teaching, top class banter and great entertainment from top musicians will be some of things you can expect. Last year saw hundreds of men take stock of their busy lives and thrive in the great environment of The Gathering. Carl Beech, Graham Kendrick, Lyndon Bowring, Jon Burns and Steve Legg are just some of the leaders who will be hosting the biggest weekend in the CVM calendar.
Price for the weekend is £65 but will go up by £20 after the last day of this month. So book your place now. The gathering is from 29 June to 1 July and students with a valid NUS card can book for just £35.


Private Tuition Available for Foreign Languages

Local Christian tutors offering private tuition in the following languages: French, German, Italian and EFL (English as a Foreign Language). If you would like to take up a new language or build on existing skills, contact us at christiantutors@btinternet.com for more information. We are also keen to hear from other Christian tutors who can offer additional languages.


Get into Construction: Free Training Programme

If you are 16-25, unemployed and interested in a career within Construction, join our FREE training programme where you can:

· Gain valuable experience working on a construction site
· Give yourself the best chance of a career in construction
· Get a CSCS card - required to work in the construction industry
· Learn the basics of a variety of construction trades
· Improve your teamwork and communication skills and boost your confidence, interview skills and your CV at the same time
· receive six months' support after the programme to help you find a job

A Taster day will be held on Wednesday 29 Feb at Solihull College
The course runs from Monday 5–30 March 2012.

To register your interest or for more information contact The Prince’s Trust on 0121 772 9230 E-mail: Christine.sutcliffe@princes-trust.org.uk


Street Pastors: Looking for Volunteers

Stoke on Trent Street Pastors are looking to extend their voluntary work to cover schools in the Stoke on Trent area. This would entail being part of a team of two or three persons and being available as a team to be outside designated schools at school start and finish times. This might lead on to participating during the school day within schools that are willing to allow pastors to be involved. This may include talking to the children in their classes or even being in the playground during play times.

The age limits for this is 18+ with no upper age limit. This would be an ideal opportunity for people who have retired, either singles or couples, who find themselves with time on their hands and feel The Lord is calling them into some form of ministry.

Please prayerfully consider this, and if you feel you would like to give it a try please contact: terry.english50@gmail.com or phone 01782 683795.


Nightchurch: A chill out lounge for clubbers in Hanley

Open Fridays 10:30pm - late
Nightchurch is a Christian ecumenical organisation with volunteers from across North Staffordshire.We're seeking new, warm and friendly volunteers with a heart for 18 - 30's to come visit this exciting project. No previous experience required. All ages welcome.For more info, please contact: Mark & ClareNightchurch c/o The Saltbox • Gitana Street • Hanley • Stoke-on-Trent • ST1 1DY
m. 07535 242906 e. info@nightchurch.net t. 01782 207200http://www.nightchurch.net/ www.facebook.com/groups/nchurch


Tender Ready Workshops

There is a significant change in funding culture for voluntary organisations. This workshop will help you to understand what you need to do differently, identify actions that you need to take in order to get your service funded and to know what commissioners are looking for in tender applications.
There are various workshops running around the county. Please look below to find the one nearest you:

Tamworth
Date: Monday 27th February
Venue: Tamworth Library
Time: 10am – 4pm

Newcastle under Lyme
Date: Tuesday 6th March
Venue: NCVS resource room, 15 Andrew Place, Newcastle
Time: 10am – 4pm

Lichfield
Date: Wednesday 7th March
Venue: LDCVS, Mansell House, Bore Street, Lichfield
Time: 10am – 4pm

Staffordshire Moorlands
Date: Tuesday 13th March
Venue: SMCVS, High Street Offices
Time: 10am – 4pm

Cannock Chase
Date: Wednesday 14th March
Venue: Chase CVS
Time: 10am – 4pm

East Staffordshire
Date: Tuesday 20th March
Venue: ESCVS, Voluntary Services Centre, Burton
Time: 10am – 4pm

South Staffs
Date: Wednesday 22nd February
Venue: Codsall Community Fire Station
Time: 10am – 4pm

To book your place on any of the workshops contact:
skillbase@sdvs.org.uk Telephone: 01785 279938


Ben's Box: Easter Recourse

Church Army evangelist Frank McGregor, has written a children's storybook with craft resource for schools and churches to use in the run up to Easter. Trialled with great success last year at St. Luke’s Endon and John Baskeyfield primary schools, Ben’s Box is an imaginative reminder of the real meaning of Easter. The story can be the foundation for your school or church’s all- age celebration of Easter including your own Ben’s Box 4 Burma Easter Eggbox Eggs-hibition! - not only a great community craft project but also raising money for the children of Burma.

Ben’s Box tells the story of a Primary School’s Easter Competition - and the boy who wins first prize. Instead of their usual Easter Bonnet parade, the Headteacher asks the children to design their own Easter Egg boxes. These are to be displayed and judged at the special Easter assembly at the end of term. Not only is this to be a fun arts & crafts event but also a fundraiser for the children of Burma. The story follows Ben, a Young Carer, whose Mum is disabled and dependent on him. Busy and tired, and with arts & crafts not his favourite activity, Ben doesn’t think he has a chance in the competition ......until the night before the deadline he gets inspired!

To read a copy of the book for free online please visit the Ben’s Box website www.bensbox4burma.com/flipbook or contact Frank on 07952 318685, e-mail frankmcg@ntlworld.com for more information about how the book can be used.


Gym and Activity Centre...YMCA North Staffordshire

We are pleased to announce that our new Gym and Activity Centre is now OPEN!
Our gym is equipped with the very latest equipment with membership costing just £15 month or £3 pay as you go.

We also offer:
• North Staffordshire’s highest climbing wall
• An international standard indoor sports hall offering sports for all the family
• An award-winning boxing club
• Dance classes, spinning
• An outdoor floodlit football pitch
• Outstanding conferencing and catering facilities, including the area’s tallest conference venue, our all glass Sky Room facility

For sports and activities: Contact our Sports and Activities Team (Adrian Tilstone, Sue Lunt) on 01782 222 388 or email tracey.mears@northstaffsymca.org.uk

For conferences and hospitality: Contact our Hospitality Manager (Susan Foster) on 01782 222 376 or email susan.foster@northstaffsymca.org.uk


Plan for Christmas 2012-It's a boy...pop gospel Christmas show

Pop Gospel Christmas Tour Show 17 Nov to 29 Dec 2012.

An accessible and popular outreach event leading up to Christmas. Easy to invite non church goers to, it is a show filled with many famous songs of Cliff Richard, from both his pop and gospel music repertoires.

The show also offers a twist of “faith” as Will Chandler and Simon Goodall take the opportunity to share their faith. Includes the song “It’s A Boy” written by Simon Goodall for Cliff Richard.

To check availability or to book your event contact Will Chandler on 07780 664 808 or
e-mail Will : will@cliffasif.com.


Inspirational Evenings with…

Radio Two`s Janey Lee Grace
Janey is known to millions as Steve Wright`s daily sidekick on BBC Radio Two`s primetime weekday show. As a singer, Janey has toured with George Michael, Wham!, Boy George and Kim Wilde and enjoyed a top ten hit in 1992 as lead singer with Cola Boys 7 Ways To Love. She is the author of 5 books and is the founder of the 'Janey Loves' accreditation system for natural and eco products.

In An Evening with Janey Lee Grace she sings a selection of standards and songs from the pop charts and chats to Chris Gidney about her career and Christian faith, as well as many entertaining stories of the Hollywood stars and big name guests she has interviewed over the years.

Pam Rhodes - Your Best Loved Hymns
Pam is well known as the familiar face of BBC Television’s prime time SONGS OF PRAISE and now brings a unique Songs of Praise experience to your venue in this event designed especially for local churches as an outreach occasion.

The afternoon or evening offers an excellent mix of just over an hour of favourite hymns, interspersed with Pam`s fascinating and comical insights behind the flagship TV series now celebrating its 50th year. Pam adds her unique ability to create moving and enthralling interviews with her special guests chosen from your congregation who have a story to tell, adding a special touch to an inspiring and challenging experience.

If you think this fits your church’s strategy for outreach, please contact Nick Page - nickpage@shorehillarts.co.uk. For more information and for details of other inspirational evening opportunities go to: http://www.shorehillarts.co.uk/index.html


Updated: Mission Shaped Ministry

MSM is an exciting one year learning experience for those seeking to develop fresh expressions or wanting to see their existing churches re-shaped for mission.

The mission shaped ministry Leadership Team recently decided to postpone the MSM Wolverhampton 2012 start date to September 2012 to coincide with the Academic Year 2012 -2013. Therefore, the dates of the course are as follows:

Date: Saturday 22nd September 2012 through to Saturday 15th June 2013. Includes seven week nights.
Time: Saturdays run from 09.00 to 17.00, Wednesdays from 19.30-21.45.
Venue: Trinity Methodist Church, Histons Hill, Codsall, Wolverhampton, WV8 2ER.

Includes a residential weekend at Shallowford House, Norton Bridge, Nr Stone, ST15 0NZ.

£285 per person if booked before 12th May 2012, £299 after that, which covers all materials, refreshments and the weekend away. Financial support may be available.

Please contact Anne Riddle on 07974 197806 or 01782 769532 or anne.riddle1@ntlworld.com for further information about the course, including the dates for the year.

More details are also available from missionshapedministry.org/westmidlands12

New Lent course – Church Urban Fund

Are we washing our hands of England's poor?

Popular media often suggest that people living in poverty are lazy, feckless or manipulating the benefits system - a view shared by a large percentage of the wider public. But how true is this harsh assessment?

Church Urban Fund’s course explores five modern forms of poverty in England, using real-life stories from work that Church Urban Fund supports along with readings, prayers and reflections for each week of Lent. The course is ideal for small groups, youth groups, home study or weekly worship, and the weekly sections can also be used individually.

Download the Lent poverty course now.

Christian Handyman Services

General DIY, painting & decorating, tiling & no job too small.

For more info contact Paul Saunders on 07889 900411 or email pshservices@gmail.com

Heart 2 Heart…City Centre Lunchtime Prayers & Communion

Lunchtime prayers & communion for shoppers, workers and those with a desire to pray for Stoke-on-Trent.

Date: Every Thursday
Venue: The Lounge, Gitana Street, Hanley
Time: 12.45-1.30pm

For further details contact: 01782 534013

Stoke Minster

Evening Prayers every day in Stoke Minster at 5.15 p.m.

Lasts about 20 minutes.

All are welcome.

For more information contact David Lingwood: dp.lingwood@btinternet.com

Free

A group for adults with special needs or learning difficulties.

WHEN: Every third Sunday of the month – next meeting will be 18 March
VENUE: Penkhull Christian Fellowship, Franklin Road, Penkhull
TIME: 6pm

For more information contact Eleri on 07912 887026.


Woman’s Group

Are you, or do you know, an Asylum Seeker or Refugee with children?
Are you feeling isolated and lonely?
If so, then come to our Women’s Group:

Date: Every Wednesday
Time: 10.30am – 12.30pm
Venue: St Mark’s Church, Shelton, Snow Hill, ST1 4LJ

There are supervised Crèche facilities available for your child/children.

Please contact Julia Roberts at julhindi@yahoo.co.uk or call 07989 980016 for any further information or if you would like to co-ordinate delivery of provisions.

http://www.hanleyteamministry.org.uk/


Fountains Counselling Service

Fountains Counselling Service (formerly CCS) is a voluntary organisation staffed by qualified volunteer counsellors who are members of Christian churches in Stoke on Trent, Stafford and Cannock. The service is available to adults, individuals or couples, of any faith or no faith.

Our counsellors have experience in areas of anxiety, stress and depression, loss and bereavement, anger, abuse, marriage counselling and other relationship difficulties.
Appointments are made by contacting our coordinator on 07980 387847. If our coordinator is not available please leave your contact details and she will return your call as soon as possible.

For more information visit:
http://www.fountainscounselling.org.uk/


Access

Having a clear out? Access is a local Christian charity that needs your unwanted items for its on-line charity shop. We can sell anything but DVD's, CD's, PC/console games, books etc. are particularly in demand. We can also pick up items from you, if required.
Access reaches out to non-Christians through media, training and community action and any donated items would help us in our work.

For more information contact Steve Perry on 07914 488648 or email: steve@accessradio.biz


RUBYGIRL UK

“Her worth is more than jewels or rubies” - Proverbs 31

Rubygirl UK is a non-profit organisation based in Stoke-on-Trent, supported by national Christian charities NXT (North Staffs), The Message Trust (Manchester) & Oasis Trust (London) .

The aim is to engage, energise & empower teenage girls to realise their value, Reach their potential & in turn regenerate their world.

RGUK does this through a variety of creative media that fuse together youth culture & education, working with girls aged 13 plus in secondary schools, pupil referral units, alternative education provisions, church youth groups, festivals, youth offending institutions, hostels & other establishments that support young girls. RGUK delivers 'LOVE ME'- an innovative 4 week course to promote self esteem & aspirations in marginalised teenage girls, the REAL ME roadshow & many other creative products & services.

RGUK is presently looking to recruit 'RGUK REPS' who are passionate about inspiring teenage girls, making a difference to this generation & being trained up to deliver various facets of the RGUK products. The opportunity is initially to be a RGUK trainee giving as little or as much time as individually available, including a full training package as well as 'on the job' training. Post training there may be further 'paid' opportunities to work with RGUK.

For a RGUK TRAINEE application form & informal interview please contact our admin team on 07812 774 632 or visit http://www.rubygirluk.com/


Do you have a van for RUBYGIRL UK?

Rubygirl UK is URGENTLY in need of a small/medium SECOND HAND VAN (2 seater or more) to transport multi-media equipment & personnel.

Rubygirl has a growing ministry & work in the area but is struggling with transport to local schools, youth institutions etc.

If you can help or if you know someone who might be able to help, please contact Dawnie Deaville on 07812 774 632.


Breakthru’ Counselling

We are a local charitable organisation delivering counselling to individuals who are dealing with issues such as mental health, drug and alcohol or other addiction issues.

We are looking to provide support through churches to people who may have issues around mental health and or addiction, and whilst it is not Christian Counselling, can come from a background of faith and faith development within these areas.

For more information contact Kacey Scullion on 07957 846700.


The Lounge Booking

Need a place to hire for meetings or training days?
Why not book the Lounge in the heart of the city centre. £8 per hour.

Venue: The Lounge, Gitana Street, Hanley, ST1 1DY

For more information contact Rachael Dabbs on 01782 207200 or email Rachael@saltbox.org.uk


Healing Rooms

No appointment necessary and there is no charge

· What are healing rooms? For people in need of physical, mental or emotional healing to come and encounter the healing power of God through Jesus Christ.

· What do we offer? A trained, caring, ministry team who will listen and pray for you.

· When are we open? Every Wednesday

· Opening Times: 6:30pm – 8:00pm

· Place: Beacon House of Prayer, 550 High Street, Sandyford. ST6 5PD

For more info email: thebeaconinfo@btconnect.com


SALTBOX

Community Chaplaincy Project…working to rehabilitate ex-offenders

North Staffs Community Chaplaincy would like to say a big Thank You, on behalf of the vulnerable adults we support.

We are pleased to say we now have ample supply of most items requested, however we still required small wardrobes and coffee tables.

For further information contact us at Unit 19, Podmore Street, Burslem, ST6 2EZ or by phone on 01782 252708


Saltbox database

Sadly, in December the Saltbox experienced a computer server problem which resulted in us having to use an older edition of our database for our Christmas mailshot.

1. If you have been a regular recipient of the Saltbox newsletter for more than a year, you should continue to receive it as usual.
2. However, if you did not receive our Christmas Saltbox newsletter then could you please email Rachael with your home address to make sure that we have your correct details on file. Email Rachael@saltbox.org.uk or contact the office on 01782 207200.
3. We are also happy to receive requests from new folk who haven’t previously received our Saltbox newsletter. Therefore, please feel free to forward this email to you Christian friends & ask them if they would like to send us their details & we will include them in future mailings.


SPECIAL OFFER: YOUTH GROUP PERSONAL DISCOVERY WEEKEND

To celebrate 20 years since the opening of Pioneer Centre in October 1991 and the opening of the brand new Whitemoor Lakes Centre. Now extended due to overwhelming demand, to summer weekends. Over 1,100 young people benefitted so far.
We are offering the following to New Youth groups for a limited period only for any available weekends during May, June, July and August 2012.

- £99 inc vat per person for a 2 night stay.
- 4 instructed indoor and outdoor activity sessions such as high ropes, zip wires, climbing tower, archery, fencing and many more
- Full board in en-suit rooms to include Friday evening meal, Saturday breakfast, lunch and dinner and Sunday morning breakfast and lunch
- 1 free place for every 14 paying
- Available at Pioneer Centre & Whitemoor Lakes and only to groups whose membership is aged 8-21 yrs excluding leaders.

Although you would need a minimum of 24 people including leaders, smaller clubs could join together make it accessible to everyone.

Personal Discovery Weekends are priced specifically to be affordable at only £99 including VAT per person and provides a real opportunity for young people to discover more about themselves, their friends and others in their club in a safe, secure and comfortable environment.
If you are interested and wish to make a booking or require further details please contact Jon Munt on jonmunt@actioncentres.co.uk or 07714 307865.


Self Help Groups in Stoke-On-Trent

A number of partners are working to create a free to join online directory of self help groups. The aim is for this directory to be the definitive listing of self help groups in the Stoke on Trent area.

A self help group has been defined as “a group of people who have experience of a particular health issue or life situation. This may be their own experience or as a parent, family member, friend or carer. A group that is free to join and without hierarchy, and is independently run and organised by its members”.

David Potter of Self Help Nottingham is compiling the list on behalf of the partnership. If you represent, are a member of, or simply know of any self help groups that are serving the Stoke on Trent area please let David know by email: david.potter@selfhelp.org.uk or by telephone 0115 9111679.


PhoneLink Volunteers Needed - Telephone befrienders needed

Are you a ‘people person’? Are you a good listener? Can you spare an hour or two a week to offer a friendly ear to older and vulnerable members of society in Stoke on Trent?
PhoneLink needs you!
Telephone befriending is a rich and rewarding way to volunteer your time. No qualifications or experience necessary – though warmth, compassion and a sense of humour are a definite advantage!
To enrich your life and make a real difference locally, join us at PhoneLink.
Contact Zi Makhiwa for more information on 01782 265651 or email Zi@saltbox.org.uk


Vacancy: Personal Assistant

A position has become available for Personal Assistant to Senior Pastor at Breathe City Church. The successful applicant will work within an expanding staff team at Breathe City Church; a fast growing, dynamic church in the city of Stoke On Trent.

The position requires you to provide administrative support, managing appointments and maintaining diary, screening telephone calls and emails, organising travel arrangements, management of meetings, hosting visitors, liaising with clients, visitors, Trustees, Directors and staff.

The applicant should have at least two years experience and qualifications in one or more areas of administration, secretarial duties, business or management.

The applicant must have
• excellent written and oral communication skills
• excellent word processing and IT skills
• ability to work under pressure and tight deadlines
• excellent organisational and time management skills
• ability to research, digest, analyse and present material clearly and concisely
• excellent interpersonal skills
• the ability to work using their own initiative
• an honest and reliable work dynamic
• attention to detail
• flexibility and adaptability to manage a range of different tasks and to work extra hours to meet deadlines
• an understanding of confidentiality and the use of discretion.

Salary Range is £18800k and £26300k per annum.

Please apply with covering letter and CV by email to admin@breathecitychurch.com or in writing to Julie Cooksley, Breathe City Church, Campus: City and Offices, Leek Road, Stoke on Trent,Staffordshire, ST2 8BY.

Closing date for applications is 27.02.2012.


Vacancy: Lift

“Let’s Improve our Future Together”
Are you someone who could make a real difference to families with multiple and complex needs in Cheshire West and Chester and Cheshire East?

Are you highly skilled in project management, family supportive community development or administration? Looking for a new challenge?

Home-Start Central Cheshire, on behalf of LIFT, is seeking to recruit 4 self-motivated people to join our team of voluntary, community and faith sector partners, linked into the two Children’s Trusts.

Project Manager
You will have overall responsibility for the project with a budget of £900,000 over 3 years, to be delivered in accordance with the business plan and Home-Start Central Cheshire’s policies, procedures and standards.
Salary: £35,000 p.a.
Hours: 37 hours per week.

2 x Family Support Community Development Workers
Under the guidance of the Project Manager you will undertake proactive and targeted work, with other agencies and organisations, to identify families not generally accessing support, using the LIFT criteria basic assessment. You will support the referral of families to the most appropriate provision to meet their needs, supporting key worker organisations and capacity building other local organisations to enable them to deliver services more effectively.
Salary: £22,000 p.a.
Hours: 37 hours per week.

Project Administrator
You will provide an efficient, effective and quality support service for the application of Human Resources, financial and management processes.
Salary: £8,028 p.a.
Hours: 18.5 hours per week.

All posts are fixed term for 1 year in the first instance, with the possibility of annual renewal for a further 2 years (3 years in total), dependent upon continued funding from the Big Lottery after successful achievement of the project’s objectives year on year. Job-share and secondments will be considered.

For an information pack and application form, please email: homestartlift@hotmail.co.uk or telephone 01270 252719. For an informal discussion prior to application please telephone 07967627554.


Vacancy: Internships at The Potter’s House

We are looking for three enthusiastic individuals to be part of the team here at The Potter’s House: 21st Century Church for a year starting in September 2012.

Job Description
The Potter’s House: 21st Century Church is a growing church in Stoke-On-Trent aiming to be culturally relevant, reaching out to the community with the love of God. We have over twenty exciting ministries happening throughout the life of the church.

We are offering three internships, where individuals have the opportunity to gain experience in a variety of areas in the daily life of the church, helping them to develop necessary skills for their future career path.

The weekly programme will include teaching and training from in-house and guest speakers on spiritual and practical issues; taking part in prayer and staff meetings; developing skills in administration, finance, media & communication, serving and hosting across all departments of the church.

Applicants must have:
· Experience in being actively involved within church life
· Excellent written and oral communication skills
· Willingness to learn and apply that learning to their role
· Self-motivated and be able to work under own initiative as well as within a team
· Willingness to work flexibly within a developing environment with a ‘can do’ attitude.

The internship is for a fixed term contract to 31st August 2013.
12 ½ hours per week (flexible).
A bursary of £5,000 per annum will be paid.

Application forms from : - Lynne Frawley, The Potter’s House, The Bridge Centre, Birches Head, Stoke-on-Trent. ST2 8DD. Telephone: 01782 287902

Email: lynne.frawley@thebridgecentre.org.uk

Closing date for receipt of applications: Friday 24th February 2012
Interviews will be held: Tuesday 6th March 2012


Vacancy: UCB Marketing Coordinator

If you have passion, enthusiasm and the ability to work within a challenging, fast moving environment, this could be the job for you.

The job utilises the full breadth of marketing skills, from campaign research and analysis, marketing planning, developing marketing copy, multi-media promotion – on radio and TV, in print, on the web or via email – and assessing campaign effectiveness.

The ideal candidate will have a marketing degree or a minimum of two years marketing experience and be ready for a new challenge. The ability to use the Adobe Creative Suite would be an advantage but is not essential. A paramount attribute will be strong communication skills, both written and verbal and a positive flexible attitude to prioritising an extremely demanding and diverse work schedule.

This position is based at our Hanchurch site in Stoke on Trent

Salary: £19,000 - £22,000 per annum depending on skill and experience

Closing Date: Friday 24th February 2012

An application form and job description can be downloaded at ucb.co.uk/vacancies



Vacancy: Chief Instructor at Whitemoor Lakes

To oversee and manage the day to day running of the Activities team and delivery of activity sessions to user groups. To ensure all areas of the Centre’s activity programme are running according to the operating procedures and maintain the highest of health and safety standards.

The applicant should be organised, able to multitask, adaptable, self-motivated and a pro-active worker. Applicants should have the ability to relate with young people, the ability to work on own initiative, an outgoing personality and a keen sense of humour.

They should also have a Single Pitch Award qualification, UKCC Level 2 Coach qualification and First Aid Qualification.

Other desirable qualities would be experience in working with people from diverse backgrounds, delivering adventurous outdoor activity packages and personal development programmes. Also desirable would be experience of working in or managing trainee or junior staff, experience in policy development and standards monitoring.
If you are interested, please contact John Munt on 07714307865 or e-mail jonmunt@actioncentres.co.uk


Vacancy: Activity Instructor Training Scheme at Whitemoor Lakes

“Two years that will change your life!” Two years of training for young people aged 18-24.

Includes various awards and training opportunities.

Call John Munt on 01604 499 699 or email on jonmunt@actioncentres.co.uk.



Vacancy: Recruiting Volunteers

Have you ever thought of trying to attract volunteers from outside of your church to work alongside your own church staff and volunteers? Or, do you have people in your church who feel they need to volunteer out in the community for a few hours each week?

Contact the North Staffordshire Volunteer Centres to find out of any opportunities available. Contact Ken Down on 01782 683030 (Fax: 01782 683199) or email: kdown@vast.org.uk

Stoke-on-Trent Volunteer Centre Co-ordinator, The Dudson Centre, Hope Street, Hanley, ST1 5DD.

Or go to the do-it website at http://www.do-it.org.uk/ where they can advertise your volunteer opportunities.


Vacancy: Volunteer CAMEO Luncheon Club –St Mark’s Basford

The CAMEO Luncheon Club has been satisfying a fellowship and friendship need for a number of years and still proves popular. Volunteers are urgently needed to help in the kitchen on Wednesdays from 11.00am when lunch is provided for between 20 and 40 in the Church Hall.

For more info please contact Val Bayliss on 01782 612132.


Vacancy: Position of Organist & Choir Leader

Applications are invited for the position of Organist and Choir Leader at the Methodist Central Hall, Longton. Honorarium paid.

For details of the post and organ specification please contact the Central Hall office between the hours of 9am and noon Tuesday to Friday.

Longton Central Hall, The Strand, Longton, Stoke-on-Trent, ST3 2JH.

Tel 01782 313427
Email : centralhallmission@btconnect.com



Dear friends
In 2001 a national survey placed Stoke-on-Trent bottom of a list of 376 towns & cities in England & Wales.

On 31 October 2001, around 200 local Christians met together for a one-off prayer gathering using 2 Chron 7.14 as a basis for prayer, worship & sharing.

Many of you will know that this gathering became the springboard for the local 2C7 prayer movement. During the next seven years monthly city-wide prayer gatherings were supplemented with other seasons of united prayer. We organised weeks of unbroken 24-7 prayer, specific months of unbroken prayer & also two periods of 40 days of prayer & fasting.
I believe that one of the significant outcomes of our united praying was the emergence & raising up of the Beacon House of Prayer. Over the last decade such houses of prayer have been birthed in different parts of the UK. I am honoured to be able to say that God has gifted the Body of Christ in North Staffs with one of the best developed & best resourced prayer houses in the nation.
In 2012, the Beacon House of Prayer launches a year of unbroken prayer under the title “Why not pray for a change?”

I am writing this email to you to ask if you would consider individually supporting this strategic initiative?

There are two specific ways that individuals like you can practically get involved:

i) Pray where you are:
· Choose to pray & fast once a month (or once a week).
· No need to visit the Beacon HOP, simply pray & fast at home or work.
· Complete the simple form on the ‘get involved’ website section: www.whynotprayforachange.co.uk/get-involved

ii) Pray at the Beacon House of Prayer:
· We are looking for people who will register for a prayer watch weekly, fortnightly or monthly
· Visit for one or two hours
· Choose either day or night
· The Beacon need 100 local people to register – be one of the 100!
· Sign up on the website & then choose your specific dates & times: www.whynotprayforachange.co.uk/signup
If you would like to talk to one of the Beacon team call 01782 827238 or email: whynotpray@btconnect.com (see Cc above).

Finally, your local church can also get involved. The Beacon is looking for 25 local churches who will offer to come & pray on two Saturdays during 2012. Why not talk to your church leader & encourage them to think about getting more people praying from your church.

Having sought God together using the ‘IF’ from the Old Testament (2 Chron 7.14) many of us are now believing that we will see the promise of the ‘IF’ from the New Testament - “If you believe you will see the GLORY of God” (John 11.40). This year of unbroken prayer in 2012 may be part of the ushering in of such GLORY…to that end, let me encourage you to play your part & get involved.

Every Blessing
Lloyd
END