May 2025

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Update from Leader, Ian Cooper

It’s a real honour to be writing to you as the new Leader of Staffordshire County Council.

It's been a busy and productive few weeks and I'd like to thank everyone at the council for a warm welcome. One of my first tasks has been to put together a strong Cabinet team. These are the councillors who will be making the big decisions about your council services going forward and you can find out who they are here. 

Together, they bring experience of care, education, community safety, transport, business and a real common sense approach. Their roles will be formally confirmed at the Full Council meeting on 22 May.

Together, we’re focused on delivering what matters most to you. That means making sure older residents get the care they need, that children are supported to learn, tackling potholes, and making Staffordshire a cleaner, safer place where people feel proud to live.

In the weeks and months ahead, I’ll be taking a close look at how the council works behind the scenes – making sure we’re spending wisely, and that your council tax is going where it’s needed most.

I will keep you updated on the progress. 

Councillor Ian Cooper

Could you be a foster carer? We're here to help

It's Foster Care Fortnight, and our fostering team are out and about across Staffordshire, ready to chat, answer questions, and help people take the first step towards becoming a foster carer. Find the locations and times here. 

Yesterday (13 May), we had the pleasure of hosting our second Fostering Star Awards. It was a special event to celebrate the amazing foster carers across the county, who open their homes and hearts to children who need them most.

One of the winners, John Fiteni, who is a short break carer said: "Children may not stay in our care for long, but they stay in our lives and our hearts."

We also asked some of our children in care what they look for in a foster carer. They’re not after millionaires or superheroes – they just want someone kind, who will help them feel safe.

If you think you have those qualities, please get in touch. We’ll give you all the support and training you need to become a foster carer.

To find out more, visit the Foster for Staffordshire website or call 0800 169 2061.

Leek Library refurbishment update

Plans to refurbish Leek Library are still moving ahead, but the dates for its temporary relocation have now changed.

The library was due to move into Moorlands House later this month while work took place at the Nicholson Institute. However, the refurbishment schedule has changed, so the move will now happen later this summer.

This work is part of a wider £4 million upgrade to the Nicholson Institute, which also houses the town’s museum and art gallery. The funding comes from a £17.1 million government grant for improving town centres.

We’re proud of our 43 libraries and continue to invest in them. Over the past 10 years, we’ve opened new libraries in Newcastle, Stafford, Codsall and Lichfield, and refurbished Burton and Tamworth.

Libraries are not just about books – they are places to learn, study, meet others and access vital services. That’s why we’re committed to modernising them.

Free mental health apps

Exams can be a really stressful time – and it’s not always easy to know where to turn for support.

That’s why we created the Young Person’s Mental Health section on the Staffordshire Health App Finder. It’s a free, easy-to-use website where young people in Staffordshire can find expert-approved mental health apps to help them manage stress, stay focused and look after their wellbeing.

Since launching in March, more than 4,000 people have used it, with a big increase during May.

We spoke to Evelyn from the Staffordshire Youth Union about how the apps helped her stay calm and focused during exams.

Watch her story here.

If you know a young person who’s feeling the pressure, share this with them – it could make a real difference.

Upcoming events in Staffordshire

We've been lucky with some lovely sunny weather weather - perfect for getting outdoors and exploring everything Staffordshire has to offer. From free family fun to music and theatre, there's something for everyone this month.

What's on this month:

• & Juliet (Regent Theatre): A fun-filled West End Musical packed with pop hits. What if Juliet's story didn't end with Romeo?
• Curious about Lichfield: Two treasure-hunt style walks full of quirky facts and hidden gems. Fun, accessible and perfect for all ages.
• Leek Arts Festival (Foxlowe Arts Centre): Enjoy live music, theatre, and art exhibitions in the heart of Leek.
• Guided Walk: Literary Legends of the White Peak (Ilam Park): A scenic 5.5-mile walk with stories of famous writers inspired by the Peak District. 
• Wicked Bank Holiday Event (Hales Hall): Free family event with kids' entertainment, live music, food and more. 
• Beer Festival & Traction Engine Rally (Caverswall Road Station): Steam train rides, live music, vintage engines and over 20 local beers.