February 2025

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Update from Leader, Alan White

This week marks National Apprenticeship Week, and I'm pleased to announce that Staffordshire will host the tenth Apprenticeship Graduation Ceremony on 15 July at the County Showground. This event celebrates the achievements of apprentices across 15 sectors and their contribution to our economy. 

As we head into February half term, there's plenty to enjoy across our county. Whether it's a walk through Cannock Chase or the Peak District, a visit to Alton Towers, or discovering the Trentham Monkey Forrest, our county offers a wide range of activities to enjoy.  

Wishing you all a fantastic half term!

National Apprenticeship Week

This week we are celebrating National Apprenticeship Week. It's a great chance to explore how apprenticeships can open doors for people of all ages and skill levels.

An apprenticeship is a real job, combining work with study, usually one day a week at college or university. With over 700 types available, including up to master's degree level. This makes it a great opportunity to gain real-world experiences and the skills you need to succeed. 

Meet Conor, a Junior Engineer at Capula in Stone. He's gaining hands-on experience in the growing energy sector while studying at the University of Staffordshire. He says, "No day is the same on an apprenticeship. It's a real job, and you can learn so many skills, especially communication."

Watch Conor talk about his apprenticeship at Capula.z

Countywide spending plan approved

Our budget for the coming year has been approved, with important investments planned for Staffordshire's roads, public spaces and services.

We’re committing up to £15 million more to repair potholes, improve drainage, and carry out preventative highway maintenance. This is on top of the extra £45 million we’ve allocated over three years to fix more roads.

We will spend £18 million to upgrade Cannock Chase Marquis Drive and Chasewater, and to improve the 92-mile Staffordshire Way. We will invest £5 million in updating and improving our libraries.

Council tax will increase by 4.99%, with 2.99% for general purposes and 2% specifically for social care. Staffordshire’s council tax remains the third lowest in the country for a county authority.

For full details, read the full spending plan here. 

Nominate a local carer for the Dignity in Care Awards

Nominations are now open for the 2025 Staffordshire Dignity in Care Awards.

You are invited to celebrate national Dignity Action Month this February by nominating a carer, work colleague, friend or family member for a special award.

Now in their eleventh year, the Staffordshire Dignity in Care Awards will open once again to recognise the best of the county’s care sector. 

Anyone working in adult care, paid or unpaid, along with care providers can be nominated in one of the eight different award categories.

Nominations close 28 April.

Family-friendly days out in Staffordshire during February half term

If you're looking for fun-filled activities this February half term, look no further than Staffordshire! There's plenty on offer for families across the county. 

• Alton Towers: The UK's biggest theme park is hosting a Pirate Takeover, where you can join in the adventure with scallywags, treasure hunts, and sea monster tales
• Trentham Monkey Forest: Meet the monkeys as they roam freely throughout the forest
• Lower Drayton Manor: Get up close with farm animals and enjoy the indoor and outdoor play areas
• Cannock Chase: Explore the woodlands, enjoy the Pedal and Play beginner mountain bike trail, and let off steam in the play areas
• World of Wedgwood: Get creative with pottery-making sessions