Welcome to SPJARA!

Very local news -
​and SPJARA news
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SPJARA consultation - tell us your views 

We think it's important that all local people are aware of what SPJARA is trying to do for the area and for its community. So we propose a slightly revised strap line as follows: 

“Working for the interests of all local residents"

And to describe our work as being of four kinds:

o   We help to protect and improve the environment within and around our area 
o   We seek to strengthen the local community within and around our area
o   We help local people to meet, socialise and support good causes
o   We get things done, working with others wherever possible.

Please send any comments you may have on these proposals to spjara.org@gmail.com by 19 July

Bath Road. Extra pedestrian Social Distancing space

Gloucestershire County Council will introduce a Social Distancing scheme on the Bath Road. The work is intended to be completed by Friday 29th May.

The scheme will provide additional space for pedestrians by reallocation of road space currently used for on-street parking.

The full description of the works is available here... 

'Thank You' to the University

The Park Campus belongs to the University of Gloucestershire but they kindly allow local residents to use this lovely space. It's a privilege at any time, but especially so when we all need somewhere to exercise - to walk, run or kick a ball with the kids - during the lockdown. SPJARA chair, Clair Chilvers, has written to the Vice Chancellor, Stephen Marston, to thank him on behalf of local residents. An excerpt:
"It's very important for our physical and psychological health. Just being able to see the primroses in flower and the signs of spring is very cheering".

The Bath Road shops

Now, more than ever, we realise what a great set of shops we have on the Bath Road. Click here to find out the latest information we have on things like
  • Priority hours for the elderly
  • Opening hours
  • Restrictions on purchases 
Note that, like everything else these days, the information is subject to change at short notice.
Please email us spjara.org@gmail.com to suggest additions.

The Bath Road Utility boxes - a bit of good news!

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SPJARA has helped pay for the decorating of two new utility boxes in Bath Road - see here
SPJARA comments on two recent planning applications

- we object to a proposed extension in Tryes Road
- we like a new house proposed for Painswick Road

details here .....

Our Apologies...

​Because of the Coronavirus situation, we have to postpone:
  • SPJARA visit to Star College on 21st May
  • SPJARA AGM 10th June
When things are clearer, we will publish the new dates

Garden Party Latest..

We had hoped that our Garden Party might proceed, but it does seem that for a variety of reasons, it would not be appropriate. Instead, we are mulling over a lower-key, socially-distanced event. It won't be the same, but it might raise a smile and lift the spirits.
​Check back here for details......
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About Cheltenham Connect:
Cheltenham Connect is run entirely by volunteers and aims to help strengthen the residential and business community of South Cheltenham. Everyone from across the town and further afield is welcome to join in with any of our events.​

Useful info from Cheltenham Connect
SPJARA works closely with Cheltenham Connect and so we have provided a link here to their weekly Newsletter which contains quite a lot of useful local information. Read the latest edition here...

How to avoid scammers posing as NHS contact tracers

The next step of the UK's battle against coronavirus has been rolled out, months after it was abandoned because the system couldn't cope with the influx of cases. Contact tracing, where anyone who tests positive for Covid-19 is quizzed about their recent movements, and people who have been in close proximity with them are contacted and told to self-isolate, has been launched.

NHS test and trace: how it works

The NHS test and trace service: ensures that anyone who develops symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) can quickly be tested to find out if they have the virus, and also includes targeted asymptomatic testing of NHS and social care staff and care home residents helps trace close recent contacts of anyone who tests positive for coronavirus and, if necessary, notifies them that they must self-isolate at home to help stop the spread of the virus We are introducing this service to help return life more to normal, in a way that is safe and protects our NHS and social care.

Community Volunteer Scheme

SPJARA has introduced a 'good neighbour' scheme during the pandemic. Anyone who, for any reason needs to self-isolate can avail of this free service.
Learn more......
SPJARA widens its shopping service to include NHS staff in the SPJARA area!​
Learn more.......

Recognition for Volunteers!

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New 'reserve and collect' library service to be launched

Libraries have been closed since March in response to the Covid-19 pandemic and cannot be fully reopened yet. The new service will ensure customers can request books, DVDs and other available materials that they would like to borrow and book a slot for collection.

The Council's Community Hub

If you are self-isolating or know of a vulnerable or elderly neighbour, consider the facilities provided by Gloucestershire County Council's Community Health hub. Everything is clearly explained there and the form is quite simple to complete.
Before doing that however, it might be worthwhile to check SPJARA's Community Volunteer Scheme which might be enough to address your needs. 
Contact number - 01452 583519

My Lockdown Garden - Linc Charity

My Lockdown Garden During lockdown, many of us have enjoyed being able to spend time in our gardens. Whatever size your garden is, we would love you to share your beautiful spaces with us. Enter our lockdown competition by simply sending us a photo of your garden with a few words about how your garden has been a special place especially during these challenging times.

Cheltenham Mayor Foodbank Fund 

Latest news

Cheltenham Mayor's Food Bank Fund is launched to raise vital funds, ensuring local food bank services continue. This week the Mayor of Cheltenham Councillor Roger Whyborn has launched the 'Mayor's Food Bank Fund' which aims to raise funds for local food banks who are struggling to cope amidst a fall in donations and limited supplies.

You can donate in any of the following ways:
  • Make an online donation to www.cheltenham.gov.uk/payments and choose ‘Mayor’s Food Bank Fund’. It is a great way to support people while staying safe.
  • Buy Cheltenham Lottery tickets at www.cheltenhamlottery.co.uk and search for Foodbank or at 01242 396124. 50% of ticket sales go to The Mayor’s Food Bank Fund, and you could win up to £25,000.
  • Send a cheque payable to Cheltenham Borough Council and send it to Mayor’s Parlour, PO Box 12, Promenade, GL50 1PP. Please write ‘Mayor’s Food Bank Fund’ on the back and your address.

 Government Guidelines on Covid-19 

Read the latest Government Coronavirus advice and guidelines about social distancing etc. here

Who or what is SPJARA?

​SPJARA* is the Residents' Association that covers the roads and streets of Cheltenham shown on the map below. The name SPJARA comes from St. Philip and James Church which lies at the centre of our area. However, we have no formal link to the church.

Why not join SPJARA? It's just £5.  
We look forward to meeting you soon

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* SPJARA started life as 'St Philip and St James Area Residents' Association', but a name change to its initials SPJARA was agreed in 2018. Hence the rather awkward name!
THE SPJARA AREA
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With thanks and acknowledgment to Diana Winsor, 2018