Your Brent Winter 2019

Winter 2019/2020 www.brent.gov.uk/yourbrent The magazine about life in Brent, published

by Brent Council

THIS IS THIS IS THE THE BOROUGH BOROUG OF CULTURES OF CULT

All RISE for 2020 The London Borough of Culture launches with spectacular RISE event

BRENT 2020 PROGRAMME FREE insert of events and activities through the year

MOBOS COMING HOME The world famous awards show returns to Wembley

CULTURE FUND ROUND 2 More cash awarded to promote creative projects

ATTENTION ALL LANDLORDS Extension of additional HMO licensing

Licensing laws for small Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) have been extended in Brent for a further five years.

Landlords remember…

Your property is an HMO and needs a licence if you rent to three or more people who are not all related, even if they are on a single tenancy

DON’T GET PROSECUTED! Get your application in now to avoid unlimited fines and a criminal record.

Visit: www.brent.gov.uk/prslicensing

YOUR BRENT

IN THIS ISSUE...

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NEWS

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A round-up of the latest news in Brent

SKY HIGH AMBITION Kathan Dudhela, the UK’s youngest flight instructor

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CELEBRATING THE PRIDE OF BRENT Meet the winners of the 2019 Pride of Brent Awards

MAN ON A MISSION Stephen Graham helps young people in Brent

SKY HIGH AMBITION

COMMUNITY CASH

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COMMUNITY CASH SPLASH Local community regeneration projects

ROUND 2 CULTURE FUND ANNOUNCED The second Borough of Culture fund recipients

WORLD ON FIRE What does a climate emergency mean for you?

HEAVYWEIGHT PROBLEM TACKLED Discover four ways to improve your physical health

HEALTH AND FITNESS WORLD ON FIRE

GROWING GREEN Find out about Brent Council’s commitment to trees

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ERITREAN FOOD KENSAL STYLE Eden Bokrezion talks about her supper club

www.facebook.com/BrentCouncil twitter.com/Brent_Council

BUDGET BALANCING ACT

Brent Customer Services 020 8937 1234 www.brent.gov.uk

Have your say on Brent Council’s budget consultation

YOUR BRENT is available in large print. Please call 020 8937 1234

Holiday bin collection dates and useful local contacts

Issue No. 162 Winter 2019/2020 Distribution queries and editorial: yourbrent@brent.gov.uk

HOLIDAY COLLECTIONS + USEFUL CONTACTS

GROWING GREEN

ARTS AND CULTURE Theatre, music, events and more...

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EDITOR Sarah Whyte sarah.whyte@brent.gov.uk

WHAT’S ON

PRODUCTION EDITOR Middleton Mann middleton.mann@brent.gov.uk ADVERTISING SALES advertising@brent.gov.uk Published by Brent Council

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Brent Council does not accept responsibility for any goods or services offered by advertisers. Publication of an advertisement does not imply recommendation by the council of goods or services advertised.

Classes, fitness and opportunities near you

CLOSE KNIT COMMUNITY Meet the Kilburn Library Knitting and Crochet Club

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Printed on 100 per cent FSC paper. Please use your local paper bank when disposing of this magazine and other paper. 72326BDU09/15

ON A MISSION

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020

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Brent 2020 – celebrating the Borough of Cultures Christmas and New Year is often a time for reflection as we wind down from a busy year and enjoy some of the seasonal festivities. I hope you will be able to enjoy some well-earned time off with family and friends before the New Year starts and all the opportunities it brings.

Looking back on 2019, it was a pleasure to witness the switch-on of the capital’s largest ever LED Christmas tree in Wembley Park as part of their Winterfest celebrations. See some of the pictures from the night on page 12.

2019 also saw Brent join more than 100 other councils in declaring a climate emergency. You can find out more about what this means, how we are striving for carbon neutrality by 2030, and how you can help the planet on page 26.

One way to help the environment and take care of your health is to reduce the time you spend in the car. In this issue, we look at some of the best ways to keep fit during these cold winter months and share some tips on incorporating this into your life (see page 28).

2020 is the year Brent becomes the London Borough of Culture. On page 24, we introduce you to some more of the creative projects we are supporting through our Culture Fund. If you have a creative idea and want to host your own event, get your application in to us by February 2020.

This edition of YourBrent also includes a special 16-page insert which highlights some of the amazing events and activities we have planned. The year starts with our spectacular launch event RISE on 18 January in Wembley Park, which will be a stunning display of music and dance telling the story of Brent.

Brent 2020 will help put our fantastic borough on the map, and tell everyone what kind of borough we are. From Kenton to Kilburn, Wembley to Willesden there will be something for everyone to get involved in.

Remember, as London’s most diverse borough, we are not just the London Borough of Culture – we are the London Borough of CULTURES! Now that really is something to celebrate!!

Cllr Muhammed Butt Leader of Brent Council

Brent: London’s Borough of Culture 2020

The RISE event will launch the year’s programme

School photos form massive art project Seven year olds from 53 Brent Primary Schools are featuring in Turner Prize-winning artist and Oscar-winning filmmaker Steve McQueen’s #Year3Project currently on display at the Tate Britain.

The ambitious project, created by Steve McQueen in partnership with Tate Britain, Artangel and A New Direction, was launched in November as a major outdoor

exhibition on over 600 billboards across London.

53 Brent primary schools were photographed and three of these schools were featured in the outdoor billboard exhibition between the 4 and 18 November.

The exhibition at the Tate Britain, which features thousands of Year Three classes, is free to visit and is open until May.

NEWS WILLESDEN HUB NOW OPEN Brent Hubs Willesden is now open and ready to support local residents.

The Willesden venue is the latest hub combining services from Brent Council with those from other local organisations. The Willesden Hub is open on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays at The Library at Willesden Green.

APOLOGY In the last issue of Your Brent, we incorrectly stated in a headline that the “Soul of Shaolin” was at the Kiln Theatre, Kilburn. The premier of the action packed experience was actually at the new Troubadour Theatre in Wembley Park. We apologise for this error.

GENERAL ELECTION RESULTS Artists and young people from across the borough joined Brent Council representatives and community groups at the Kiln Theatre in Kilburn to unveil the programme for Brent 2020: ‘This is the Borough of Cultures’.

Brent 2020 will explore the spirit and creativity of Brent, with hundreds of local residents taking a leading role in shaping the programme. Taking place against a backdrop of the UEFA European Football Championship at Wembley Stadium, Brent 2020 will present high profile cultural events throughout the year and across the whole borough.

The year officially starts on Saturday, 18 January 2020 – with the ‘RISE’ opening celebration on Olympic Way, Wembley. A cast of hundreds will take part in a giant dance performance, with large-scale projections lighting up the walkway from Wembley Stadium to kick-start Brent’s year as London Borough of Culture.

Other highlights of the year are set to include internationally acclaimed Brent writer, Zadie Smith, premiering new work at the Kiln Theatre, the MOBO Awards’ coming home to the SSE Arena and Kilburn High Road transformed for a mile-long summer street party.

Carolyn Downs, Brent Council’s Chief Executive, introduced the programme by highlighting some of the people and themes, in London’s most diverse borough, that will take centre stage in 2020. “Brent is the home of Zadie Smith, reggae and English football,” she said.

“Brent has London’s oldest road, the biggest

Hindu Temple in Europe, the Kiln Theatre, the new Troubadour Theatre and Mahogany Carnival Design. We are Jayaben Desai, George Michael, Cyrille Regis, Keith Moon, Rachel Yankey, Janet Kay, Twiggy, Bob Marley, Michael Meaney and Trojan Records. Diversity is our strength and our greatest asset.”

Lois Stonock, Artistic Director of Brent 2020, said: “Our year as London Borough of Culture will show London what Brent is all about.

Everything you will see, hear, feel and watch will have its origins in Brent and will be developed by and with Brent’s young community, the people who make this not just the London Borough of Culture but the London Borough of Cultures.”

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “I’m delighted that Brent has set out such a bold plan for its year as London Borough of Culture, from huge street celebrations to support for aspiring artists. Culture has the power to bring communities together and transform lives, so I’m particularly pleased that young people will be at the Council Chief Executive heart of Carloyn Downs everything that introduces Brent 2020 happens.”

In December, residents across Brent voted in the General Election for the three Parliamentary constituencies of Brent Central, Brent North and Hampstead and Kilburn.

If you haven’t already checked, you can find out the result of the election where you live by visiting www.brent.gov.uk/ elections2019.

JUSTICE FOR JOSH In the spring issue of Your Brent we spoke to Tracey and Brooke Hanson who were still fighting for justice for the murder of their son and brother Josh. We can confirm that Shane O’Brien, who had spent three years on the run and was on Interpol’s most-wanted list, was sentenced to life imprisonment after being found guilty of murder in October.

BRENT WINTER FESTIVAL Come along to the Brent Winter Festival from 11am to 5pm in the Grand Hall of the Brent Civic Centre on 25 January. The festival will feature music, dance and art from the borough’s Eastern European and Latin American Communities.

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020

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NEWS

Citizens Assembly to fuel Brent’s response to the climate emergency 50 residents from all backgrounds have formed a new Climate Assembly to make sure local voices are heard as Brent responds to the climate emergency.

Assembly members, from 16 year olds upwards, are taking part in workshops to crowdsource ideas for cutting carbon emissions locally.

Recommendations from the Climate Assembly will be considered before a new plan to help tackle the climate emergency is revealed in early 2020.

Cllr Krupa Sheth, Cabinet Member for Environment at Brent Council, said: “In declaring a climate emergency, we acknowledged that there is much more we can and must do, both as a council and as a community. The journey to carbon neutrality won’t be

Wembley’s LED arch goes green in support easy but we’re excited that local people, and especially our young people, are helping

Black blood donors needed urgently

The Mayor with Professor Dame Elizabeth Anionwu, Patron of The Sickle Cell Society.

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us to shape Brent’s response.”

Brent Youth Parliament also held their own Climate

Summit in October.

Find out more about the Climate Emergency on p26.

The Mayor of Brent, Cllr Ezeajughi, donated blood to support The Sickle Cell Society’s campaign to encourage more black people to become blood donors.

Sickle cell is the most common and fastest growing genetic disorder in the UK and mainly affects people from African and Caribbean backgrounds.

Sickle cell can cause extreme pain as well as lifethreatening infections and complications. People from black African, black Caribbean and black mixed heritage backgrounds are more likely to have the rare Ro blood subtype that is vital for sickle cell patients. The NHS needs 40,000 more black blood donors for the thousands of people with sickle cell who need regular transfusions.

The Mayor of Brent said: “I am asking all residents in Brent, which is the most diverse in London, and especially those with African or Caribbean heritage to do something amazing by registering to give blood.”

To find out more visit: www.sicklecellsociety.org

NEWS School children enjoy special War Horse performance The acclaimed National Theatre Production War Horse came to Brent for a six week run at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre.

The new theatre hosted over 2,500 young people at two specially dedicated performances for school pupils from Brent. These performances were introduced by author Michael Morpurgo.

Poverty tackled by new councilled commission A new commission to tackle poverty in Brent has been unveiled by Brent Council.

Made up of experts on the subject, councillors and anti-poverty advisors, the commission will address issues such as child and food poverty and identify evidence-based solutions.

Cllr Eleanor Southwood (below), Cabinet Member for Housing and Welfare Reform, said: “Many Brent residents are really struggling. The combined impact of welfare changes, insecure employment and rocketing housing costs is creating real hardship. We need to do more, working with our partners so that everyone has a good quality of life in Brent.”

Promoting a new approach to adoption

Save a life with free online suicide prevention training

A new regional adoption agency for the whole of west London is asking residents if they will consider opening their homes to children who need a family.

Brent is joining forces with Ealing, Hounslow and Hammersmith & Fulham councils, to create Adopt London West to pull together the resources and experiences of all four boroughs Children in West London in one place. need a loving home “This new regional way of working will enable us to work more closely with our neighbouring boroughs to help find suitable homes for children and young people who need them,” says Cllr Mili Patel, Brent Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Safeguarding, Early Help and Social Care.

“Having a stable family environment is very important for children’s development and adoption is just one of the ways for children to be welcomed into a loving and caring home.”

To find out more about adoption go to www.adoptlondon.org.uk

Would you know what to do if you or someone you know is feeling suicidal?

Around 12 people take their own life every week in London and knowing how to spot the signs could make a huge difference to someone in need.

Brent Council is supporting the Zero Suicide Alliance’s online suicide prevention course. The free training is designed to help people identify warning signs and feel comfortable having conversations about suicide.

“Every suicide is a tragedy and can be prevented if people are given the right help,” says Brent Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health Cllr Krupesh Hirani. “This free training is key to helping people recognise when someone may be feeling this way, and it equips people with the tools to know what to do to support them.”

Visit www.zerosuicidealliance.com.

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020

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NEWS

£700k to help youths to reject gangs Young people at risk of getting caught up in crime will soon have better access to local support and advice, writes Tara Benham.

Brent Council is investing £700k to pay for more outreach workers trained to spot the signs of young people struggling with mental health issues who may be vulnerable to gang exploitation. Criminal networks often prey on young women too, so extra cash will go to 1-2-1 support for young women who need help.

The move follows research, which shows more effort needs to go into spotting young people who are struggling and help them to make better choices to prevent them from turning to crime. While police play an important part, enforcement is not the only solution to tackle street violence – an idea that was popular with residents who came to the recent Time To Talk event at Roundwood Youth Centre.

There is also evidence to show that helping young offenders can cut reoffending. One programme in Brent cut reoffending by 52%, so a slice of the £700k will go towards extending this service, which is run by run by St Giles.

Cllr Tom Miller, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said: “Serious youth violence is falling in Brent, but we can’t afford to be complacent. This new programme will build on the good work that is already getting results across the borough.

By putting outreach and prevention first, we can show young people alternatives to criminality and gangs.”

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More cash for St Giles to help young offenders

Dodgy tobacco burns a hole in the pocket FINED Two traders have been ordered to pay £6,000 between them by Willesden Magistrates after trading standards officers swooped in a raid on illegal tobacco products.

Mr Karson Mepani, owner of Mepani News in Kingsbury, and Mr Iulian Frasinescu, of Carpathina Limited on the Harrow Road, both pleaded guilty to similar charges.

The law requires tobacco products to carry health warnings and use standard packaging.

Cllr Tom Miller, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said: “The sale of illicit tobacco not only undercuts legitimate traders but it also undermines efforts to reduce the uptake of smoking and to help smokers quit. Businesses should never put profits before safety.”

Report a rogue landlord anonymously at www.brent.gov.uk.

THE DRUM WEMBLEY

Get married in style AT THE DRUM WEMBLEY Whether you are looking to host a small, intimate wedding or a grand celebration, The Drum Wembley offers an array of amazing possibilities • Situated in the heart of vibrant Wembley Park • Modern and versatile spaces with capacity for up to 850 guests • Stunningly beautiful and unique, circular Grand Hall • Excellent transport links

@drumwembley thedrumwembley.com

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020

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NEWS

Eight new family hubs to provide broader support Families in Brent will soon be able to access a wider range of support services in centres around the borough.

Eight new family hubs will be developed from existing children’s centre venues and expand on the existing services offered. A broad range of public health services, including community midwifery, will be delivered from the hubs while youth mentoring and peer support will also be added. There are also plans for evening and weekend activities with the centres also open for longer during the week.

Cllr Mili Patel (left), Cabinet Member for Children’s Safeguarding, Early Help and Social Care, said: “The family hubs model transforms the way Brent provides support to local families.

“This will see us move on from a children’s centre model – which provides excellent support, but only between 0-5 years – to family Cllr Mili Patel centres which will provide support

up to 18 years, and 25 years in the case of those with disabilities.

“This will ensure comprehensive support for families and young people at all stages on the journey to adulthood, and will be a big change to the way these services are delivered in Brent.”

The children’s centre sites that are not planned for development will continue to be used in alternative ways for the benefit of children and their families in the borough.

Shop and save in Brent

A dynamic new business events programme for 2020 including:

Major construction companies in Brent will meet with potential suppliers from the local business community

Hairitage in Willesden Green is one of the shops in the scheme Large-scale B2B event with seminars, networking and a range of exhibiting companies.

A new programme celebrating Brent’s thriving and dynamic business community

Register your interest events@wlcreative.org.uk or call 0208 726 7968 for more information

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You can now get even more for your money when you shop locally.

Brent Council has teamed up with dozens of great businesses in Brent to offer discounts and rewards to shoppers who use the Shop Local scheme.

All you need to do is scroll through the list of participating businesses, download the relevant voucher and show it when you make a purchase.

With restaurants, hotels, bars and spas there is sure to be something for everyone.

Find out more online, www.brent.gov.uk/shoplocal

NEWS

Do you Movember?

Banging The Drum in Wembley Park Wembley Park’s leading conference and events venue, The Drum, has relaunched with a new customerfocused approach which reflects the venue’s modern and flexible facilities, writes Sophie Leer.

Based just yards from the iconic Wembley Stadium and SSE Arena, The Drum is located in one of the most environmentally-friendly public sector buildings in the country.

For more than six years, The Drum team has successfully helped thousands of clients and businesses deliver inspirational events from conferences and meetings to weddings and major product launches. During this time, the surrounding Wembley Park area has seen significant transformation and is

quickly becoming a thriving London destination thanks to 1,000s of new homes and new facilities such as Boxpark, The London Designer Outlet and new Troubadour Theatre.

Cllr McLennan, Deputy Leader of the council, said: “The Drum Wembley is a fantastic asset to the borough and this rebrand will really help to put the venue on the map and showcase our modern and professional approach to potential customers.

“I’m so proud of everything that the team have and continue to achieve for their customers and I’d like to encourage anyone who hasn’t already to come and visit!”

For more information, go to: www.thedrumwembley.com

Men growing out their moustaches and beards to raise money for a men’s health campaign enjoyed a free ‘shave off’ in November.

Residents were invited to new Wembley Park hairdressers Chop Chop to get their facial hair removed for free and start the month with a blank canvas. Brent Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health Councillor Krupesh Hirani (above) is one of many who got involved to raise money for ‘Movember’.

Iconic Ace Cafe scoops top transport award Stonebridge’s iconic Ace Café has scooped a prestigious ‘red wheel’ award to recognise the café’s contribution to the history of transport.

The Transport Trust awards red wheels to sites that have special value, bringing the places to the attention of a wider audience. The Ace Cafe is one of just 116 sites to receive one of these plaques across the whole UK. YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020 YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2019

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NEWS London’s tallest LED Christmas tree unveiled in Wembley Park The countdown to Christmas has officially started following the unveiling of the capital’s largest ever LED Christmas tree as part of Wembley Park’s Winterfest.

Visitors can walk through the 25-meter high LED tree and view it from the inside as well as admiring it from a distance. Crowds gathered in late November for the switch on which is part of the free winter light festival and includes a sonic runway along Olympic Way and a heart sculpture adorned with mistletoe.

Cllr Muhammed Butt, Brent Council Leader, said: “The free winter playground in Wembley Park provides festive cheer to families from across Brent as we look ahead to our London Borough of Culture activities throughout 2020.”

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Wembley Park’s Winterfest installations

Brent’s amazing small businesses awarded

Diamond Jubilee’s are forever for Dame Shirley

The third Small Business Saturday Awards took place this autumn and showcased some of the best independent retailers, restaurants, cafes and local businesses Brent has to offer.

Over 70 businesses applied this year so competition was fierce and standards extremely high.

Winners included Mind the Game for ‘Best Shop Front’ and La Bottega di Anna for ‘Best Business Interior’. Kiln Theatre won two categories this year for ‘Best Cultural Event/ Activity’ and ‘Friendliest Business’. Anjanaas Restaurant won ‘Best Online Presence’ and In Your Face alternatives were recognised for ‘Best contribution to the environment and community’. Finally, Wembley Traders Association were awarded for ‘Best Business Partnership Initiative’.

Small Business Saturday, a national campaign aimed at encouraging people to shop locally, took place on Saturday 7 December 2019.

Dame Shirley Bassey unveiled a bronze plaque of her handprints at Wembley Park’s Square of Fame to mark 60 years after she first performed at the SSE Arena.

The Diamonds Are Forever singer, 82, said she felt “honoured” as she returned to the venue which she first performed at in 1959. Others immortalised in the Square of Fame include Madonna, Kylie Minogue, Lionel Richie and George Michael.

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020

The Kiln Theatre won two awards

La Bottega di Anna won BestBusiness Interior

Advertorial

Candlewood House Care Home: designed with your needs in mind Candlewood House is the latest care home to be opened by award-winning TLC Care.

Sybil Wright, the home manager, extends a warm welcome to everyone interested in coming and visiting the care home. Sybil says: “we are able to welcome visitors during the day, at weekends as well as in the evenings.

If you make an appointment we will make sure to have VIP parking and some delicious refreshments prepared”.

Many of which will be open to friends, family and the local community. Whilst focusing on well-being, Candlewood House will offer a ‘spectrum of care services’ designed to meet a low to high level of care needs.

We are dedicated to delivering the highest quality of care and service to every resident, the purpose-built home in Cricklewood is designed using discreet state-of-the-art technology and facilities while ensuring comfortable and luxurious surroundings.

Sybil says: “we are still recruiting, although, we are delighted to have found many wonderful individuals who share our culture of Truth, Love and Compassion”. Our experienced and highly trained nurses, care workers and hotel services teams offer long-term care arrangements for residents in the home, or convalescence care for those who need a bit of extra support to help them recover following an injury or an accident. This includes nursing care and care for people living with memory loss.

Our well-being team will offer a rich and social programme of meaningful activities every day – benefiting mind, body and soul – from various clubs and trips out, to crafts, yoga and the celebration of various spiritual festivals.

Candlewood House will be open to residents’ admissions from February 2020. For more information visit tlccare.co.uk/candlewood-house or call 020 8108 9615 to book a viewing and receive an early booking discount.

Candlewood House Care Home is open to admissions February 2020.

Candlewood House Care Home, Bentley Drive, 175-185 Cricklewood Lane, London, NW2 2TD

Follow our social events on Facebook.

Visit our website for our news blog: tlccare.co.uk/candlewood-house

NEWS

MOBOs coming home to Brent The biggest global celebration of black music and culture, the MOBO Awards, is coming home to Brent in the same year the borough becomes London Borough of Culture.

2020 will see the MOBOs back in Brent after a two-year break. Huge British stars including Stormzy, Amy Winehouse and Sade have all taken to the MOBO stage previously as well as international icons such as Jay-Z and Beyonce.

Making the announcement at the Brent 2020 programme launch at The Kiln Theatre in November MOBO CEO and former Brent resident Kanya King said: “We felt empowered to bring MOBO back to Brent to coincide with the borough’s Year of Culture because this is where our fight to challenge the status quo to create a level playing field started.

Kanya King at the Brent 2020 launch We are returning with even more determination and energy to support and boost our culture wherever we can.”

The awards ceremony will take place on 12 November 2020 at The SSE Arena, Wembley. Tickets are available now at www.mobo.com/tickets

Good causes in Brent hit the jackpot Thinking of what to buy for a Christmas gift? Look no further as tickets for the Brent Community Lottery are on sale from December.

Your friends and family will thank you as anyone who buys a ticket will be in with the chance to win up to £25,000 while raising money for a local good cause of their choosing.

60% of cash raised goes straight to local good causes with the other 40% providing the prize fund, and covering VAT and the running of the scheme.

The community lottery will provide a cash boost for Brent’s Voluntary and Community Sector.

If you would like to register as a ‘good cause’ or would like to buy a ticket, visit: www.brentcommunitylottery.co.uk

South Kilburn estate residents say YES to new homes plans Residents in South Kilburn have overwhelmingly backed council plans to rebuild their neighbourhood, following the biggest ever resident ballot of its kind in London.

Residents in South Kilburn have overwhelmingly backed council plans to rebuild their neighbourhood, following the biggest ever resident ballot of its kind in London.

84% of eligible residents living in blocks that are planned to be demolished voted ‘Yes’ with 72% of residents taking part in the autumn ballot.

The ballot was the first in Brent, and largest in the capital, since a new initiative from the Mayor of London made funding for council home building programmes dependent on approval from residents. The new guidelines make sure local people have the final say on the future of their neighbourhoods.

The regeneration of South Kilburn is already halfway through. Following the Yes vote, 1,400 homes for existing council tenants and households in temporary accommodation will be rebuilt. Meanwhile, other improvements to the neighbourhood including parks, roads and open spaces will now also go ahead as planned.

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“The community has always been at the heart of plans to improve South Kilburn, so it is only right that local people had the final say on the future of their neighbourhood,” said Councillor Shama Tatler, Brent Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Property & Planning. “Over the past 10 years we have carried out a tremendous amount of work alongside residents, listening to their views and ensuring these are prioritised. That will continue to be the case as the award-winning regeneration programme moves forward.”

NEWS

Community support ‘gateway’ opens Older or disabled people who need help accessing community activities or advocacy, and carers who need support, can now get help from various locations across Brent thanks to the Brent Gateway Partnership which launched on 2 December 2019.

Providing Care Act Advocacy; Mental Health Act Advocacy; Mental Capacity Act Advocacy; Carers support services and Social Isolation Prevention, the new ‘Gateway to Support Services’ will provide a more joined up service by enabling users to have a single point of access to a range of services.

Brent Gateway Partnership is a new

partnership led by Age UK Brent, Harrow and Hillingdon with support from Harrow Mencap and Capable Communities.

Cllr Harbi Farah, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care said: “This new gateway partnership will allow us to enhance the levels of service we offer to residents.

“As the services will be delivered from hubs around Brent, it will be easier for some of the more vulnerable residents to access them. The new model will also mean users only need to speak to one provider who will assess their needs.

This will allow for a more seamless and joined up service.”

Tee-rific achievement for Wembley teenager Rafiah Banday from Wembley joined some of the biggest names in golf in November when she took part in the 2019 Justin Rose Telegraph Junior Golf Championship final in Portugal.

England Girls international Rafiah, 16, was one of 24 young people aiming for victory at the event which is regarded as junior golf’s ‘unofficial Major’. The Royal Mid Surrey Golf Club member, who plays off scratch, finished seventh in the tournament.

The civic centre flag at half mast

Tribute to victims of the London Bridge attack The flag over Brent Civic Centre flew at half mast on Saturday 30 November to honor the victims of the terrorist attack which took place in London Bridge on Friday 29 November.

Our thoughts are with the innocent people who tragically lost their lives or were injured, their friends, family, and anyone else affected by this incident.

We would also like to extend our thanks to the emergency services and ordinary Londoners who showed incredible bravery.

True grit to keep main roads moving

With all five gritters serviced and 326 grit bins filled with more than 1,000 tonnes of salt, Brent is ready for a cold snap this winter.

Main roads will be prioritised for gritting so that emergency vehicles and public transport can keep moving. Residents on smaller side streets can use the on street grit bins and please remember to look out for older or more vulnerable neighbours in bad weather. For the latest updates visit www.brent.gov.uk/gritting YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020

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MY COMMUNITY

Sky high ambition 19-year-old Kathan Dudhela from Wembley is the UK’s youngest flight instructor.

Sarah Whyte spoke to him about his passion for the skies

I

’ve always been interested in flying. When I was younger I used to go to Heathrow airport to watch planes,” says Kathan.

Kathan was so passionate about flying that he would take public transport to the airport and spend the whole day plane spotting, taking pictures of planes and speaking to pilots.

“I’d stop pilots while they were shopping and ask them if they had any advice about how they started and how I should go about my training. I’ve spoken to around 50 or 60 pilots in the past few years.”

The guidance Kathan received helped him make a key decision about his future. After completing his A Levels, Kathan was unable to go to University due to visa issues. Instead, he decided that it was the right time for him to get his private pilot’s licence.

“Learning to fly is expensive so I saved money from my part-time job to pay for the training and my family helped as well. I trained for around a year to get my pilot’s licence.

“After that, I was lucky enough to get a two-month work experience programme at a flight school in Elstree. I completed 300 hours of flying and then did the course to become an instructor. Now I work teaching people how to fly. Many of the people I teach are twice my age.

“When I’m not teaching, I’m studying for my commercial exams. I have to pass 15 tests so I need to focus hard. After that I can do my commercial flight test and get my commercial licence.”

Kathan hopes that his experience will help change the way people

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think about careers. “When people are young they are moulded to follow a specific path. GCSEs, A Levels, Uni then go and find a career. Hopefully I can get the message across that you don’t have to go to university to be a pilot.

“People think that I am really smart, but I’m not. I got average grades at GCSE. You don’t need to be smart, you just need motivation and to research which option is the best one for you to complete your goals.”

This high flier isn’t going to stop after he gets his commercial licence. One of Kathan’s other aims is to compete against other pilots in aerobatics competitions.

“I’ve been told by other pilots that commercial flying can sometimes get boring. I hope I’ll be able to enjoy the freedom of the sky rather than sticking to just one role.”

Kathan Dudhela, the UK’s youngest flight instructor

Highflyer: Kathan Dudhela with some of the aircraft he has seen or flown

MY COMMUNITY

Celebrating the

Pride of Brent Pride of Brent Awards Winners 2019

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Community heroes from across Brent were celebrated at a glittering awards ceremony which took place at the Brent Civic Centre last month

he Pride of Brent Awards recognises selfless individuals, community groups, local businesses and council workers who go that extra mile to make Brent a better place to live and work.

Community group of the year Fly Girls Wellness Services

Good neighbour of the year Fryent – Cathryn Walsh

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Dollis Hill – Pratima Patalia

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020

All of the Pride of Brent winners were invited to receive their award by members of the judging panel including Councillor Ernest Ezeajughi, the Mayor of Brent and Councillor Muhammed Butt, Leader of Brent Council.

Volunteer of the year Cross Locality

Harlesden

Willesden

Charles Morris

Amalia Manuela Moisoiu

Claudette Campbell

Wembley – Mansoor Akram Mansoor is a wonderful ambassador for ICC Wembley. For 15 years he has been instrumental in assisting the youth to divert their energy and enthusiasm into positive sports activities such as pool, table tennis and cricket.

Mr Akram also visits the elderly, keeping check on those who have no emotional or family support and serves as a volunteer neighbourhood coordinator. In this role he facilitated the development of Brent Multi Faith Forum peace walk in 2018 which was a massive hit.

Young Volunteer of the year

Inspirational young person of the year

Riya Gir Within school, Riya is a well-liked, personable character who is trusted by her peers and teachers alike. She supports events in school, such as Open days and Parents Evenings with a positive attitude and fulfils the role of School ambassador perfectly.

Deeva Karnani Shah Deeva is an award-winning author and published her first book aged only eight. She constantly travels to schools, libraries and events to inspire other children to fall in love with words and stories.

Community champion of the year Cross localities

Cross localities

Harlesden

Kilburn

Wembley

Willesden

Natalie Bourne-Moses

Usha Sharma

Janelle Victory Pamphile

Nadia Penn

Susan Howlett (on behalf of Geoffrey Howlett)

Elsie Staple

The Mayor’s Award

SME of the Year

The Leaders Award

Lamabuild LTD

Daniels Estate Agents

Queens Park Harriers

Daniels Estate Agents opened in 1992 in Wembley and now there are five locations in Brent.

Francis Henry is a man who leads by example and Daniels was the first business in Wembley to go plastic free. Daniel championed #plasticfree Wembley and LED lights were installed in 2014, improving Daniels BREAAM ratings.

Responsible business of the year

Community project of the year

Apprentice of the Year

BANG Edutainment

BAPS Healthcare Team: Cardiovascular Screening Project

Shakira Moses

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020

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Man on a MISSION Stephen wrote I’m A Gun in 2012

Stephen works as a personal trainer

Harlesden resident Stephen Graham is a man on a mission to help local young people, writes Petula Hippolyte

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s a qualified personal trainer, author, filmmaker and recording artist, Stephen took his passion for helping young people and families to develop Stephen Graham Projects – a series of workshops that aim to help young people be the best that they can be.

Brought up on the old South Kilburn Estate, Stephen had run ins with the law due to his anti-social behaviour, triggered by his own childhood trauma. This bad behaviour resulted in Stephen being locked up in Jamaica, where he served eight years behind bars.

Stephen said: “I had a bit of a hard time growing up and it affected the way I acted and carried myself. It wasn’t long before I was getting in trouble a lot.”

In 2006 Stephen came out of prison and was determined to turn his life around. “I rehabilitated myself in prison and I knew that I didn’t want to live that life anymore. I wanted to change my life and lead by example. So I started studying again, I mentored people and when I felt that I had enough experience I decided to start my business.”

The Stephen Graham Project was founded in 2014. Stephen works with young people and their families to address issues such as knife and gun crime as well as working with community groups to deliver real change.

Stephen highlights the connection between psychological trauma and anti-social behaviour and recognises that some young people struggle to cope with situations because of traumatising experiences that can result in young people finding themselves in gangs and getting involved in knife and gun crime.

His interactive sessions help to build trust, confidence, self-esteem

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SAFER BRENT

‘I work with young people because I have been there and have come out the other side. I want to inspire young people in Brent to achieve their goals and aim higher with their dreams. I often say to the people I work with, look at my background and look where I came from. If I can do it, then so can you.’ and motivation for life. Reflecting on your own actions and working on positive resolutions, are key components.

Stephen said: “Trauma can manifest in many different ways and it can have a huge effect on the way people behave. I work with young people and their families to try and help people to get through their existing trauma and work on ways to reduce future trauma as well.”

Stephen’s inclusive approach makes him keen to involve parents in his programme, where support is offered to reduce parental stress.

This happens in a confidential setting and can help improve relationships between parents and their children by encouraging positive interactions.

Recently, Stephen screened his 3D animated film on knife and gun crime titled I Am based around his book I’m A Gun which he wrote in 2012. Stephen aims to use this film as a tool in his seven session programme, also titled ‘I Am’, which addresses factors such as trauma, neglect, family breakdown and violent crime which can lead to anti-social behaviour.

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REGENERATION

Community cash splash Money paid by developers who are building in Brent is funding new community projects and activities The Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is a charge that local authorities can set on new development to raise cash to help pay for infrastructure,

Cricklewood Boxing Club

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facilities and services including neighbourhood projects run by local people.

Thanks to the money received from

developers, the council has been able to award around £7.7million to more than 160 projects to improve local neighbourhoods.

£65,000

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In only its third year of existence, Cricklewood Boxing Club has demonstrated both its ambition and potential by producing national and regional champions.

In 2018 it was looking for a new home and took over the disused basement of the Cricklewood Railway Club – but it needed a lot of work.

“We went as far as we could with funding and that’s when the council stepped into help us,” said Rob Buick, Senior Coach at Cricklewood Boxing Club.

The club received over £65,000 from Brent Council. This paid for new toilets, showers, changing rooms, air conditioning, electrical work and some building work. New floors were put in, new bags were bought and they also purchased a new boxing ring.

“The funding enabled us to bring it up to the standard we needed”.

“A lot of the kids that come in here have very low self-esteem and no confidence, they can’t even look you in the eye. They may be from a broken family, they come from all backgrounds”.

“First thing we do in here is encourage them. After four to six weeks, you can see the difference in their personality, their confidence, their self-esteem, that’s what boxing gives you.”

REGENERATION Phoenix Rising

£34,000

Local charity Phoenix Rising provides free music lessons for children and young people through the ‘Steel Pan in the Community Initiative.’

“We get them on track, we keep them on track, so that they become the high achievers wherever they go and whatever they do”.

Phoenix Rising received £34,000 to assist them with purchasing musical instruments for their organisation. This will allow them to double the number of people they teach.

“This means at last we can start to focus on some of the serious things. Our young people need support in education and in simply growing up. The equipment will allow us to hold them in one place and to actually do proper developmental work with them. www.phoenixrisingnw10.org/

‘The purpose of our project is to raise the self-esteem and the self-worth of young people’ Patrick McKay, Trustee at Phoenix Rising.

Harlesden Town Centre Club House

£40,000

Harlesden families celebrated the official opening of Harlesden Town Garden’s new Community Hub in the Autumn.

The Harlesden Town Garden chef prepared the food for the event and there were arts, crafts and musical activities for the whole family.

Since 2013 the Harlesden Town Garden has brought together local people with a shared interest for gardening and healthy living.

Friends of Harlesden Town Garden applied to Brent Council in 2017 for funding to complete the final part of the town garden’s infrastructure.

WE’RE SEEKING LOCAL VIEWS ON NCIL. Find out more at www.brent.gov.uk/NCIL YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020

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ARTS & CULTURE

Round two: 2020 Culture Fund projects announced The 2020 Culture Fund is a grant scheme which enables local people and groups in Brent to lead their own cultural projects as part of Brent’s year as London Borough of Culture In the second round, 23 brilliant projects were chosen to receive funding by a community panel.

The 2020 Culture Fund offers grants of up to £3,000 for individuals and grants of up to £10,000 for organisations.

The 2020 Culture Fund supports cultural activities of all shapes and sizes and across all art forms. Artists, creatives, community groups and cultural organisations based or working in Brent are invited to apply for funding.

The third and final round launched on Wednesday 4 December 2019 with a deadline of 4 February 2020.

For more information, visit www.brent2020.co.uk.

AiR Artists in Residence (AiR) will support Brent schools in deprived areas, enhancing their cultural curriculum by creating opportunities for them to work with high calibre artists and cultural organisations.

AQ ARTS YOUTH COMPANY This project will give birth to the AQ Arts Youth Company: for talented singers, dancers and spoken word poets who want to excel in the arts; their debut public performance will be as part of The Kilburn High street party.

BACK TO FRONT Produced by the Jason Roberts Foundation, The Back To Front project takes place in Stonebridge and will showcase sound systems from the golden age of reggae and rare groove.

BRENT: THE BOROUGH OF US A digital media project for local young people to gain the skills they need to tell their stories, led by Brent charity Sport at the Heart.

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BRENT CULTURE SWITCH ActionSpace invites Brent residents with learning disabilities to celebrate what it means to live in the borough through a series of art workshops and a community festival at Barham Park in July 2020.

BRENT ENSEMBLE EXPLOSION Brent Ensemble Explosion is a collaboration between the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Brent Music Service, allowing over 10,000 young people across Brent to create their own anthem for 2020.

THE CULTURE CLASH COLLECTIVE An exciting and original collaboration between dancers of different styles and cultural backgrounds, produced by local student Samara Roach-Keiler.

CULTURE MOVE (SAMPLED HISTORY) Spanning art, music and performance, Culture Move (Sampled History) is a dynamic exhibition from artist and curator Jon Kehoe, tracing the diverse cultural heritage of Brent and exploring the history of sampled music in the borough since the advent of hip-hop in the 1980s.

#GETHEARD Girls I Rate’s #GETHEARD will showcase the next generation of female artists, songwriters, poets, producers, rappers and DJs and create opportunities for young people in Brent to learn and network with top music and entertainment industry professionals.

JOIN THE PARTY An inclusive theatre project for adults with learning disabilities and/or autism, run by RootPrints Theatre.

ARTS & CULTURE Participants will explore their diverse and vibrant roles as part of Brent’s community.

GIRLS I RATE

THE KILBURN TAPESTRIES

THE NO BASS LIKE HOME FILM PROJECT The contribution of black British filmmakers, from Horace Ove to Menelik Shabazz onwards, is a vital part of British film history and a proud cultural legacy of our borough; Bass culture plays a huge role in every film in this season, presented at The Lexi Cinema in partnership with We Are Parable and Black History Studies.

ROSE ROUSE

ELECTRONIC SHEEP

© CHRISTIAN PALEN

From Electronic Sheep, The Kilburn Tapestries is a knitted tapestry wall-hanging, based on the untold stories of the Irish community in Brent.

THE OCTOBER ANTHROPOLOGIST Anthropological research into the lives of southern and eastern European immigrants from Brent who work as baristas in London cafés. The research findings will be analysed and interpreted by local artists and exhibited in Willesden Green.

THE OTHER YOUTHS From Kilburn design company To The T, The Other Youths is a film created to evoke more empathy and compassion towards young people who become involved in violent crime.

OUR JOURNEYS Our Journeys is a live cinema performance by Addictive TV collaborating with blind musicians, involving Brent residents sharing their stories of how they came to live in the borough.

QUEEN’S PARK BOOK FESTIVAL Queen’s Park Book Festival is a celebration of the literary arts and in 2020 the themes of recent festivals - immigrant identities, childhood memories and local history - will be explored even further.

THE REGGAE HERITAGE PROJECT A reggae parade taking inspiration from the achievements of key local heroes, Mahogany Carnival Design will produce an imaginative collection of costumes that chart the rise of reggae in the borough, presented by children from Brent schools, in an amazing carnival street performance in Harlesden town centre on 3 October 2020.

ADDICTIVE TV

THE REGGAE TICKET From Tomorrow’s Warriors, this project celebrates the iconic Brent record label Trojan Records and will bring together jazz, orchestral instruments, rhythm sections and vocalists into a new ensemble.

THE VOICE OF WOMEN IN REGGAE Real Talk Productions UK will bring together the women of the Windrush generation to talk about the role reggae played in their transition from Caribbean to UK life in an event marking International Women’s Day at the BBMC Music Complex in Willesden.

20/20 THIS IS NOW A curated photography exhibition and book from local designer and fashion lecturer Lucy Fine, documenting the style of Brent’s vibrant residents. A copy of the book will be gifted to each of the ten libraries in the borough.

WORD UP LONDON A series of six spoken word workshops in Harlesden, led by a selection of nationally and internationally renowned poets, rappers and wordsmiths.

THE REGGAE TAXI

WILLESDEN JUNCTION POETS IN RESIDENCE

Carpool karaoke reggae performances with local musicians and artists, to be captured by Brent filmmaker Carole Joie Thompson and shared online and at events throughout the year, along with participant interviews.

During this project, Rose Rouse will gather eight fellow Brent poets to celebrate - in the form of new poems, a book and a launch - the importance, the beauty and the industrial bleakness of Willesden Junction station.

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020

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ENVIRONMENT

World on fire A climate emergency has been declared by Brent Council. Tara Benham explores what this means for Brent residents and discovers some actions we can all take to help slow down global warming

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want you to act as if the house is on fire, because it is.”

Those were the words of Greta Thunberg at a meeting of world leaders in January 2019.

The 16-year-old has become famous for her campaign to encourage countries to take urgent action on global heating.

Nations, including the UK, Austria, Canada and Argentina, have declared a climate emergency because changing weather patterns make extreme events, such as heatwaves, droughts and floods, much more likely. To limit the effects of global heating, scientists say that we need to make big changes now.

Brent Council has declared a climate and ecological emergency. It pledged to do everything reasonable in its ability to strive for carbon neutrality by 2030.

That means that the council will be using its influence at a local level to make Brent greener. A new plan, which will be informed by a new Climate Assembly made up of residents (read more on p6), will be unveiled in 2020.

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YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP? Going green isn’t just good for the environment. Other benefits include cleaner air, healthier travel, greener spaces and warmer homes! Here are a few simple things to get you started...

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2.

3.

4.

5.

BUY LESS AND REUSE. Save your pocket and the planet by buying less and trying to reuse what you have. This applies to food, clothes, furniture... the list goes on. Love Food Hate Waste’s website has great recipes for using up leftovers.

AVOID PLASTIC. Lots of shops now sell loose fruit and veg, shampoo bars in reusable tins, and beeswax wraps which can be used instead of cling film.

CUT THE CAR. Walk shorter journeys, use public transport, or hop on a bike.

SWITCH OFF. Save energy and cut your fuel bill by switching off lights and appliances when not in use. Check the Energy Saving Trust’s website for more tips.

IF YOU OWN YOUR OWN HOME...

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Check your loft and cavity walls are properly insulated

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Look into installing solar panels

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Consider replacing gas boilers and hobs with greener alternatives

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Install a water butt. Use the rain you collect to water your plants, clean your car and wash your windows

ENVIRONMENT IT’S NOT ALL DOOM AND GLOOM

Here’s how Brent Council is creating a greener Brent in numbers

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More than

More than

1,000

new trees planted over the next two years

wildflower meadows making up Brent’s bee corridor

16%

21,000

drop in the most polluting cars after changes to parking permits

LED street lights installed, reducing carbon emissions by 62%

DID YOU KNOW? ions Carbon emiss y 35% in Brent fell b 5 between 200 and 2017.

766 solar panels installed through council-supported scheme Solar Together, saving 49 tonnes of carbon each year

150 tonnes of plastic saved by the Plastic Free Wembley campaign

115 charging points for electric vehicles installed across the borough with 60 more planned by March 2020

DID YOU KNOW? Just 37% of household w aste is reused, recyc led, or composted.

“I want you to act as if the house is on fire, because it is.”

Greta Thunberg

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HEALTHY LIVING

Heavyweight With obesity rates continuing to grow in the UK, Sophie Leer looks at how the council is tackling the issue and suggests four ways to help improve your physical health

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ne in three children are obese by the time they leave primary school in Brent. By 2034, an estimated 70% of adults will be overweight or obese.

Brent Council is spending £200,000 from the nation-wide Sugar Tax to improve facilities and encourage healthy eating in 23 schools. Initiatives include healthy cookery projects, balance bikes and new PE equipment.

The council also supports more than 3,000 Year 6 children to become Junior Citizens each year which involves the students finding out about the large amounts of sugar ‘hidden’ in some of their favourite foods. The council’s Healthy Weight Management Team also works with families of children who are overweight offering support, advice and training for parents on healthy eating.

Restaurants are also being encouraged to sign up to the Healthier Catering Commitment which recognises businesses that are actively promoting healthier cooking practices. So far, 18 fast food outlets have been awarded this status.

So what can you do to lead a healthier lifestyle this winter?

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YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020

EXERCISE DAILY Daily exercise doesn’t need to be hard work. Even small amounts of activity can be beneficial. Brent Council encourages children to walk, cycle and scoot to school and have also introduced the Daily Mile into 31 schools to encourage children to walk, run or jog for at least 15 minutes every day.

GO FOR A HEALTHY WALK The Healthy Walks Programme runs at a number of Brent parks and is free for all residents. It’s a great way to have fun and meet new people whilst improving your fitness.

For more information visit www.brent.gov.uk/sports.

WRAP UP WARM AND VISIT AN OUTDOOR GYM There are 19 outdoor gyms in local parks across the borough with a variety of equipment to help you manage your weight, tone, strength and generally help you get fitter. If you need help, you can sign up to induction sessions with qualified gym instructors to help you get the most from your workout. Visit www.brent.gov.uk/ outdoorgyms.

SLASH SUGAR Cut sugar out of your diet for one day a week to reduce calories, and why not make it your new year’s resolution to do it every week? Share your progress on Twitter and tag @Brent_Council

HEALTHY LIVING

problem

You can excercise for free in the outdoor gyms

Join one of the many healthy walks in the borough

Cut down on sugar and eat more veg

‘We all need to do more to make sure we lead healthy lives, and there’s lots going on across the borough throughout the winter that residents can get involved with alongside enjoying the festivities.’

Cllr Krupesh Hirani, Cabinet Member for Public Health YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020

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For more information please email: brentccg.engagement@nhs.net or call 020 8795 6107/6122

Attention all landlords

Properties wanted Since 1968 Shepherds Bush Housing Association has been a trusted part of the local community, now managing more than 5,000 homes. For 25 years, we’ve been managing, maintaining and guaranteeing rents for landlords.

Contact us to discuss your options and to arrange a no obligation visit

We are looking for properties in all areas on GUARANTEED or PRIVATE rent. Cash incentives offered.

GUARANTEED RENT SCHEME

PRIVATE RENT SCHEME

• Advance monthly rent • No management fee or commission – we pay what we quote • • Grants funding advice • No void works if the property becomes empty within lease (exceptions apply)

• Yearly contracts • Guaranteed Rent* • Tenant referencing for your chosen tenant • Free photo inventory • 24/7 repairs service** and furniture supply • Full Management or Rent Collection

Landlords hotline: 020 8996 4271 psateam.sbha@sbhg.co.uk www.sbhg.co.uk/landlords

* exceptions apply ** charges apply

The home of guaranteed rents

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Stand Together

THE BRENT MAGAZINE

AUTUMN 2014

7135_TBM141_ P28 Brent CCG SBhousing.indd 2

Genocidal regimes throughout history have deliberately fractured societies by marginalising certain groups. Now, more than ever, we need to stand together with others in our communities in order to stop division and the spread of hatred in our society.

In the years leading up to the Holocaust, Nazi policies and propaganda deliberately encouraged divisions within German society – urging ‘Aryan’ Germans to keep themselves separate from their Jewish neighbours. The Holocaust, Nazi Persecution of other groups and each subsequent genocide, was enabled by ordinary citizens not standing with their targeted neighbours.

Today there is increasing division in communities across the UK and the world. Now more than ever, we need to stand together with others in our communities in order to stop division and the spread of identity-based hostility in our society.

Holocaust Memorial Day | 7-9pm Tuesday 21 January Brent Civic Centre, Engineers Way, London HA9 0FJ 30

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020

9/9/14 15:06:26

HAPPY & HEALTHY

Growing green Trees mark the seasons. They clean up our air and, according to research, they can even reduce stress, writes Tara Benham

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here are over 43,000 trees in Brent, brightening up our streets and green spaces, and the council is committed to planting at least 520 new trees each year.

That target was smashed this year thanks to cash from a Mayor of London community project. 400 extra saplings were planted in the borough’s parks in 2019.

In recent weeks, residents have raised concerns about trees that have been identified as needing to be removed. Inspectors give Brent’s trees regular check-ups to make sure they are healthy and thriving. They try to catch any problems, like decay or a list, early on and take action to keep them in tip-top condition.

Removing a tree is always a last resort, and the council will often plant a new tree in the same spot or close by. However, trees have a natural life cycle. When they die or decay, they can become unstable and often need to be taken away in case they fall on someone.

Sometimes a tree is removed because it has grown in such a way that it has made the pavement unsafe and poses a risk for disabled, vulnerable or elderly residents.

In the colder months, you might also notice that the upper branches of some specimens are trimmed.

Pruning plays an important part in keeping them healthy, as well as encouraging them to grow in a safe way.

Cllr Krupa Sheth, Lead Member for Environment at Brent Council, said “Trees have a kind of natural superpower – the ability to hoover up carbon and clean up our air. Around the world, they will play an important part of helping us tackle the climate emergency. That’s why we are committed to planting more trees each year in Brent.”

xxxxxx 400 extra saplings were planted in 2019 in Brent’s parks

Speaking of trees, did you know that the council organises Christmas tree recycling drop-off points?

For more details, go to www.brent.gov.uk/christmastree.

Forestry England have a tool on their website that lets you search for sustainable Christmas trees near you that have been grown here in the UK. Or, better still, rent a living Christmas tree this year!

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ADVERTORIAL

A community of Independent, Ethical and Sustainable Merchants, Makers and Doers

TUE-SAT 11-7PM | SUN 11-5PM 27-29 OLYMPIC WAY, HA9 0FR www.wembleyparkmarket.com 32

YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020

lifestyle fashion food arts crafts wellness gifts BARBERSHOP HOMEWARES PLANTS music workshops pop-ups VINTAGE

FARE

PATOKA

Wembley Park Market isn’t your typical market, as visitors to the original Wembley Market will remember. As part of the ongoing regeneration of Wembley Park, the recently launched Wembley Park Market is a retail market emporium unlike any other. Combining lifestyle, fashion, food, arts and crafts, health and wellness, and bringing together world class unique brands, products and people, WPM offers customers the opportunity to buy handmade, ethical and sustainable products from independent merchants whose craft, skill, love and dedication is demonstrated in each and every item. Wembley Park Market is situated on Olympic Way, close to Boxpark, the London Designer Outlet Centre, Wembley SSE Arena and the famous Wembley Stadium.

Duck Pond Market is run by a planet-friendly mother, market maker and photo taker. It brings together local, sustainable and ethical artisan marketers where everything comes from a ‘good place’. Locally made by independent small businesses, ethically made by fair trade companies and sustainably made by eco-friendly ventures.

A welcome antidote to the massproduction of goods found on the high street.

The new food hub at the heart of the market offers an exciting selection of independent and family-run grocery brands, made up of delicious frozen meals, healthy living, sweet treats and speciality foods to take away. Curated to offer something to suit every taste, Fare is a feast for the eyes as well as the tastebuds.

LONDON BEARD COMPANY

duck pond market

Patoka is North-West London’s first zero-waste, packaging-free store, stocking dried food products, sustainable toiletries, cleaning products and accessories for the environmentally conscientious consumer.

Think everything from plastic wraps and bamboo toothbrushes to natural deodorants and metal straws!

Specialist barbers, London Beard Company, cater for all types of beard growers, from the stubbly geeks to the full flowing beardsmen. More a community and a movement than an enterprise, their aim is to help the fellow man take pride in his appearance, using the best products and services available.

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FOOD & DRINK

Eritrean Food Kensal Eden Bokrezion, founder of Kensal Rise based supper club Amaresh + Zefan, talks to Jessica Alves about overcoming the fear of failure to find her purpose

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any graduates face postuniversity blues when they finish studying. Finding your feet in the world of work can leave many former students feeling uncertain and rejected job applications can make them question their passions and purpose.

“I graduated with no intention of becoming a chef,” explains Eden. “I was a History and Film Studies graduate and I set my ambitions high. I felt confident that my degree and experience would get me a great junior role. However, that didn’t happen.

“Instead I decided to register as a cooking volunteer for Food Cycle Cricklewood - a charity which provides meals for people living in difficult circumstances. All volunteers have an input into what is cooked on the day, and because Brent is so diverse, that was reflected in our kitchen and our menu was very creative.”

“Working at Food Cycle was a massive turning point for me. It was the first time that I cooked for over 40 people and it was very fulfilling to see how much they enjoyed the food. It was the first time I could see myself cooking in a professional environment and it was there I gained the experience I needed to land a job at Minkie’s Deli, Kensal Rise as a kitchen chef.”

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YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020

After building professional culinary skills at Minkie’s Deli, Eden spent a year working in a renowned restaurant in Soho, eventually working up to a senior role where she ran the kitchen. It was through this, that she gained the confidence to start a new venture.

“Minkie’s kindly offered me space to host monthly Eritrean supper clubs, to show my love for my upbringing and community,” says Eden.” You don’t tend to see Eritrean food in the high end Western culinary scene. I want to celebrate it and see where I can take it, while keeping its tradition of being unapologetically African.

“I named my supper club after my grandmothers Amaresh Woldu and Zefan Bokrezion as I want to remind people whenever they eat at Amaresh + Zefan that what they’re eating was learnt from my mum, who learnt that from her mother, and then her mother.”

“Looking back, the great thing about not finding a job straight after university, was that it gave me time to discover what made me happy. It helped me to figure out my purpose and build a career off that, as opposed to doing what I felt like I had to do just because of my degree. Some things can only be learnt during periods of uncertainty.”

‘Minkie’s kindly offered me space to host monthly Eritrean supper clubs, to show my love for my upbringing and community’

FOOD & DRINK

style

EDEN’S DOBA ZIGNI RECIPE SERVES 6-8

INGREDIENTS

100ml Sunflower oil 3 Large onions, finely chopped 3 Garlic cloves, minced 120g Berbere powder 200ml Hot water 1 Butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1.5-inch cubes ½ Tin of chopped tomatoes, blended until smooth

METHOD 1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over a low heat. Add the onions and fry until golden brown. Then, mix in the garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes 2. Add the berbere powder, followed by 100ml of hot water. Stir, before covering with a lid, and simmer for 10 minutes until the liquid has reduced into a thick sauce.

3. Add the remaining water to the pan and stir until it thickens again. This process is key in mellowing the spice level.

4. Once the sauce has thickened, add the tomatoes and leave to simmer on a low heat for 30 minutes.

5. Then, add the butternut squash to the pot, and cook for a further 10 minutes.

To make sure that the squash is cooked, pierce it with a fork. It should be tender, but slightly firm 6. Serve with injera, or pitta bread. Top with feta cheese, if desired.

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Every ticket supports your local community • Tickets from £1 a week • 60% cash goes directly to local good causes • Prizes up to £25,000

WIN CASH and give back!

O G BIN

To buy a ticket, please visit www.brentcommunitylottery.co.uk

BIN

GO

MY COUNCIL

BUDGET BALANCING ACT With Brent Council’s budget consultation closing on 31 January, there is still time to have your say on the proposals

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ocal government has been under significant financial pressure in recent years due to funding cuts and increasing demand for key services. This has meant that councils across the country, including Brent, have needed to make tough choices about how to spend their money.

Over the past nine years, the council has found innovative ways to maintain and improve services but this has required some substantial savings to be made along the way.

If this budget is agreed, Brent Council will need to make £7.4 million of savings in 2020/21 and £6.1million of savings between 2021/22 and 2022/23.

Cllr Muhammed Butt, Leader of the

Council, said: “It’s important that residents get involved in this consultation so they can let us know what they think and help us make sure we get this right.

“The savings we are proposing do not include the wholesale cuts to services that many councils are considering, but instead focus on areas we can make our money go further, apply service transformation and generate more income.

“Although, like many other councils, we are also consulting on increasing council tax to help balance the budget and continue to deliver key services that residents rely on which is our absolute priority.”

The full report outlining the council’s budget proposals are available at: www.brent.gov.uk/budgetconsultation

‘It’s important that residents get involved in this consultation so they can let us know what they think and help us make sure we get this right’ Cllr Muhammed Butt, Leader of Brent Council YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020

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MY COUNCIL

Keep Brent sparkling during the holidays With three bank holidays over Christmas and New Year, there will be some changes to the days your bins are collected IF YOUR BIN IS DUE TO BE COLLECTED ON…

IT WILL NOW BE COLLECTED ON…

Wednesday 25 December

Friday 27 December

Thursday 26 December

Saturday 28 December

Friday 27 December

Sunday 29 December

Wednesday 1 January

Thursday 2 January

Thursday 2 January

Friday 3 January

Friday 3 January

Saturday 4 January

GARDEN WASTE

Garden waste collections take place once a month during December, January and February and calendars and collection dates are also available using the ‘Find Your Collection Day’ search facility.

From the beginning of January you can renew or sign up to receive the garden waste service. The service costs £60 for the entire year. Visit www.brent.gov.uk/gardenwaste

JINGLE ALL THE WAY…

TO YOUR RECYCLING BIN Find out which bin to use when all of your food has been eaten and presents are unwrapped by visiting www.brent.gov.uk/recycleopedia

WHAT DO I DO WITH MY REAL CHRISTMAS TREE? Getting rid of your Christmas tree after the festive season has ended can be a headache, but there are a few ways that it can be done: • Take it to a drop off point in a local park or green space from the 4 – 11 January. Visit www.brent.gov.uk/christmastrees for exact locations and dates.

• Cut your tree into pieces and put in your green garden waste bin • Take it to the Reuse and Recycling Centre on Abbey Road, NW10 7TJ, but keep in mind that it will be closed on 25 and 26 December and 1 January • Arrange for it to be taken as part of our bulky waste service which costs £35 for up to five items.

Visit www.brent.gov.uk/specialcollections to book a collection

Go online and use the ‘Find Your Collection Day’ search at www.brent.gov.uk/recycling if you’re unsure what dates apply to you.

The Reuse and Recycling Centre will be closed on 25 December, 26 December and 1 January.

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MY COUNCIL

USEFUL CONTACTS Need to contact the council or want to find out about other services? We’ve made a handy list of all their contact details for you to cut out and keep. It’s also easy to visit www.brent.gov.uk/services-for-residents for a full list of all services offered by the council

WASTE AND RECYCLING

Bin collection times and recycling waste www.brent.gov.uk/recycling Garden waste service www.brent.gov.uk/gardenwaste Pest control treatment www.brent.gov.uk/pests EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS

ACCESS SERVICES ONLINE

Pay for council tax online www.brent.gov.uk/counciltax Make a claim for housing benefit www.brent.gov.uk/housingbenefit Apply for a parking permit www.brent.gov.uk/parking

COUNCIL MEETINGS

Council meetings open to all residents (such as Full Council and Planning) www.brent.gov.uk/meetings Raise community issues at Brent Connects www.brent.gov.uk/brentconnects Find your ward councillor www.brent.gov.uk/councillors

WINTER TREATS

Events and what’s on in Brent this winter www.brent.gov.uk/events For young people www.brentyouthzone.org.uk Check event day parking www.brent.gov.uk/eventday Find a library in Brent www.brent.gov.uk/libraries Look for childcare providers www.brent.gov.uk/childcare

Call 999 for the Police, Fire Brigade or Ambulance services.

Call 101 to report a crime that is not an emergency.

Contact your local safer neighbourhood team www.met.police. uk/a/your-area

Call 111 if you have a medical problem that is not an emergency.

THAMES WATER Customer Service 08459 200 800 AFFINITY WATER Emergency hotline 0345 357 2407

OTHER LOCAL SERVICES

Find your Brent MP and how to contact them www.brent.gov.uk/mps Find your local GP using the NHS search tool www.nhs.uk/Service-Search/GP/ LocationSearch/4 If you want to help someone sleeping rough, go to www.streetlink.org.uk If you are concerned about a child call Brent Family Front Door on: 020 8937 4300 OTHER LOCAL SERVICES

Harlesden and Kilburn Community Hubs www.brent.gov.uk/brenthubs Community grants and funding www.brent.gov.uk/funding Customer Services 020 8937 1234 YOUR BRENT | WINTER 2019/2020

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Arts & Culture

>> Theatre >> Music >> Dance >> Comedy >> Exhibitions >> Cinema >> Talks >> Tours

we’re living in the best or worst of times. Kiln Theatre, 269 Kilburn High Road, London, 7.30pm. £10-£32.50.

Snowflake

HOUSE OF LIFE EXHIBITION

An exhibition introducing the House of Life at Willesden Jewish Cemetery. Willesden Library, 95 High Road, Willesden, London.

Various times to 12am.

NOW UNTIL FRIDAY 31 JANUARY HEROES – THE EXHIBITION Mahogany Carnival

WEDNESDAY 1 JANUARY MAHOGANY CARNIVAL

London’s New Year’s Day Parade 2020. Harlesden-based Mahogany Carnival will be representing Brent at London’s New Year’s Day Parade on 1 January 2020. Mahogany Carnival is known for costume crafting and is sure to put on a show that will impress and get Londoners talking about Brent.

FREE. Central London. For more details: https://lnydp.com

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NOW UNTIL WEDNESDAY 15 JANUARY 20:20 STORIES OF MOVING LINEAGE

The Library at Willesden Green.

Various times to 12am.

NOW UNTIL SATURDAY 25 JANUARY SNOWFLAKE

Snowflake is an epic story about generational conflict, fathers and daughters, and whether

NOW UNTIL SUNDAY 16 FEBRUARY

Sourced from the worldrenowned Getty Images’ archival and contemporary libraries, it will feature over 100 photographs of artists at London’s iconic music and live entertainment venue. Getty Images Gallery, Wembley Park, HA9 0GU.

THURSDAY 19 DECEMBER TO THURSDAY 2 JANUARY STAR WARS: THE RISE OF SKYWALKER

The surviving Resistance faces the First Order once more as Rey (Daisy Ridley), Finn (John Boyega) and Poe Dameron’s (Oscar Isaac) journey continues. The Lexi Cinema 194b Chamberlayne Road, Kensal Rise, London NW10 3JU, Various Heroes – The Exhibition screenings. £11.50.

ARTS & CULTURE

SATURDAY 21 DECEMBER TO SUNDAY 26 JANUARY

VENUES Ace Cafe Ace Corner, North Circular road, Stonebridge, London NW10 7UD 020 8961 1000, www.london.acecafe.com

FAME THE MUSICAL

The critically acclaimed 30th Anniversary production of Fame the Musical will play at the newly opened Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre.

Troubadour, Wembley Park Theatre, 1 Fulton Road, London, HA9 8TS. 7.30pm, from £10.

FRIDAY 27 DECEMBER TO THURSDAY 2 JANUARY FROZEN 2

The kingdom of Arendelle is at peace. Kristoff is planning a proposal to Anna, snowman Olaf is loving life in the sun, and Elsa is content in her role as queen – until she hears a mysterious song calling her out into the wilderness.

The Lexi Cinema, 194b Chamberlayne Road, Kensal Rise, London NW10 3JU. 10.30am from £5.

Arena Square Engineers Way, Wembley HA9 0FJ

Brent Civic Centre Engineers Way, Wembley HA9 0FJ

Harlesden Library Plus Craven Park Road, Harlesden NW10 8SE

Kingsbury Library 522-524 Kingsbury Road, Kingsbury NW9 9HE

Kilburn Library 42 Salusbury Road, Kilburn NW6 6NN

Kiln Theatre 269 Kilburn High Rd, London NW6 7JR 020 7328 1000, www.tricycle.co.uk

Lexi Cinema

TUESDAY 7 JANUARY TO MONDAY 17 FEBRUARY

194B Chamberlayne Rd, London NW10 3JU 020 3011 5523, www. thelexicinema.co.uk

The Library at Willesden Green 95 High Road, Willesden, London NW10 2SF. 020 8937 3400, www.brent.gov.uk/lwg

WINGS AND ORANGES

Wallis Eates is a comics artist and storyteller who takes inspiration from real life narratives, promoting voices rarely heard. The Lexi Cinema, 194b Chamberlayne Road, Kensal Rise, London NW10 3JU. 11am-6.30pm.

Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre 3 Fulton Rd, Wembley HA9 0SP, www.troubadourtheatres.com

Wembley Library Wings and Oranges

Brent Civic Centre, Engineers Way, Wembley HA9 0FJ

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RISE - Brent 2020’s RISE is the opening event for Brent’s year as the London Borough of Culture in 2020. It is an outdoor spectacular telling the story of Brent through dance, film and an amazing soundtrack with a community cast of hundreds. We caught up with Robby Graham, the director and choreographer of RISE …

What is the vision behind RISE? I was struck by how unique the borough was with the waves of migration and cultural offerings. I see my job as a facilitator; it’s about trying to make something that people can be happy about and feel involved and included. It’s an amazing production on the power of community and a celebration of everything within Brent.

Were there any specific inspirations that helped you choreograph RISE? Many scenes in the production are inspired by stories in the borough and are linked to different communities in the borough. Historically, there are so many different things to explore – amazing people, poets, athletes, thinkers from Brent.

Opening Event of Brent 2020 RISE

How does RISE fit in with the Brent 2020 programme?

It’s going to be a spectacular year; we’re only one small part of that. We just want to make

Met Opera: Wozzeck

SATURDAY 11 JANUARY TO SUNDAY 12 JANUARY JIMMY CARR - TERRIBLY FUNNY

One of the best-loved comedians in the world, Jimmy Carr will perform his new show ‘Terribly Funny’ at the newly opened Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre. Troubadour, Wembley Park Theatre, 1 Fulton Road, London, HA9 8TS. 7.30pm. £30.

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SUNDAY 12 JANUARY

WEDNESDAY 22 JANUARY

MET OPERA: WOZZECK

VISIONS OF LIGHT

After wowing audiences with his astounding production of Lulu in 2015, South African artist William Kentridge now focuses his extraordinary visual imagination on Alban Berg’s other operatic masterpiece.

The Lexi Cinema, 194b Chamberlayne Road, Kensal Rise, London NW10 3JU. 2pm. £30.

Cinema, 194b Chamberlayne Road. Kensal Rise, London, NW10 3JU. 2pm. £30.

An art exhibition by Stanislas Slavomir Blatton and Protoklis Nicola. The Library at Willesden Green 7pm-12am.

SUNDAY 2 FEBRUARY MET OPERA: PORGY AND BESS

One of America’s favorite operas returns to the Met for the first time in nearly 30 years. The Lexi

Met Opera: Porgy and Bess

ARTS & CULTURE

spectacular opener the community feel that it’s their year. The message is to give it a go and take part.

What has it been like to work with a community cast?

Every session I meet someone new and every conversation I have with them inform all these different elements in our show. We’re reacting to these community conversations to help grow and build the script.

What feeling are you hoping that audiences will take away from watching RISE? Empathy and empowerment. One thing I’ve learnt about the borough is that people have always stood up for what they believe in. I want people to connect with others and see the similarities and embrace the differences.

There’s a really important message that culture is essential and vital within society.

RISE is on the 18th January 2020. For more information on RISE, please visit brent2020.co.uk.

Hundreds of dancers will take over Olympic Way

TUESDAY 18 FEBRUARY TO MARCH IDOLS TO ICONS: AN ART EXPLORATION THROUGH THE LOVE OF CINEMA

This group show features work from artists George Katralis, Adam Stothard, Ben Turner, Bernie Jezowski, Freya Betts, James Hobson, Mat Roff, Sam Mayle and Si Heard. The Lexi Cinema 194b Chamberlayne Road, Kensal Rise, London, NW10 3JU. 11am-6.30pm.

Carol

THURSDAY 6 FEBRUARY CAROL

“Taps into universal anxieties about love and relationships without ever letting go of the sense of imprisonment that came with being gay in the 1950s.”

Atlantic. The Lexi Cinema, 194b Chamberlayne Road, Kensal Rise, London, NW10 3JU. 3pm.

THURSDAY 13 FEBRUARY TO SATURDAY 21 MARCH PASS OVER

A lamppost. Night. Two friends are passing time. Stuck. Waiting for change. Kiln Theatre, 269 Kilburn High Road, London, UK. 7.30pm. £15.

SUNDAY 1 MARCH MET OPERA: AGRIPPINA

Handel’s tale of intrigue and impropriety in ancient Rome receives its first Met performances, with star mezzosoprano Joyce DiDonato as the controlling, power-hungry Agrippina and Harry Bicket conducting. The Lexi Cinema.

194b Chamberlayne Road Kensal Rise, London NW10 3JU. 2pm. £30.

THURSDAY 27 FEBRUARY BHS: MALCOLM X

An enlightening look at Malcolm’s early life and at the legacy of his powerful work in the historic struggles of freedom, justice and equality for Black people in America.

The Lexi Cinema, 194b Chamberlayne Road, Kensal Rise, London NW10 3JU. 6.30pm. £10.50.

BHS: Malcom X

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ARTS & CULTURE

What’s On CHILDREN’S BOOKSTART STORY AND RHYME TIME FOR 18 MONTHS+

Join us for story and rhyme time on Fridays at the Library at Willesden Green. Other locations. 95 High Road, Willesden NW10 2SF. Fridays, December 2019. 9.30-10.15am (term time only).

HOMEWORK CLUB AT THE LIBRARY AT WILLESDEN GREEN

Need some help with homework? Join us at the Library at Willesden Green, 95 High Road, Willesden NW10 2SF. Thursdays, December 2019. 3.305.30pm (term time only).

SALOME WHITE DANCE COMPANY

Dance classes for boys and girls ages 7 to 18. Willesden Green Library.

Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, December 2019 - February 2020.

4.30-6.30pm. lights-camera-dance. ueniweb.com/tats.salome@gmail.com

UNIFORMED YOUTH ACTIVITIES

Sea Cadetting for youngsters from age 7. Uniformed youth group based on the traditions of the Royal Navy.

T.S. Broadsword, Cool Oak Lane, NW9 7ND. Mondays, Thursday 19 and Friday 20 December 2019. 12am. gearaldandjean@seacadet.org.

ART CLUBS AND PRIVATE LESSONS FOR KIDS AND ADULTS

Art clubs and private lessons for kids and adults by a certified art teacher and contemporary artist. Manus

ArtASC StudiosVenice House243 Ealing Road, Alperton, London HA0 1RQ, UK. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, December 2019 - February 2020. 4-7pm.

INCREDIBLES PARENT AND TODDLER GROUP

Parent and Toddler group for babies and toddlers with special needs. St. Marks Church hall, corner of All Souls Avenue and Bathurst Gardens. Friday 20 December 2019. 9.15-11.30am. suebush2001@yahoo.com 07974 923348.

COMMUNITY BRIDGE CLUB AT KILBURN LIBRARY

Join us for Bridge Club at Kilburn library every Wednesday! 42 Salusbury Road, Kilburn NW6 6NN. Wednesdays, December 2019. 2-4pm.

CITIZENS ADVICE BRENT

Help to Claim: The Universal Credit Support Service from Citizens Advice Brent.Brent Civic Centre mezzanine floor. Thursdays, December 2019 February 2020. 9am-4pm. www.citizensadvicebrent.org.uk sophia.johnson@cabrent.org.uk

CITIZENS ADVICE BRENT - INFO AND ADVICE SERVICE

Charity that offers free confidential advice to whoever you are, whatever the problem. Brent Civic Centre, Engineers Way, Wembley HA9 0FJ. Mondays, December - February 2019.

9am-4pm.

>> Your guide to what’s

www.citizensadvicebrent.org.uk sophia.johnson@cabrent.org.uk

CROCHET AND KNITTING CLUB AT KILBURN LIBRARY

Feeling creative? Join us for our Crochet and Knitting Club at Kilburn library. 42 Salusbury Road, Kilburn NW6 6NN. Tuesdays, December 2019 February 2020. 10.30am-12.30pm.

FOSTERING INFORMATION EVENING

An open evening where you can find out more about fostering for Brent.

Brent Civic Centre, Engineers Way, Wembley, 1st floor, Training Centre, room 1T002. First Thursday of the month. 6-8pm. www.brent.gov.uk/ fostering, fostering@brent.gov.uk

HARLESDEN COMMUNITY HUB AT HARLESDEN LIBRARY PLUS

Visit us for the Harlesden Community Hubs at Harlesden Library Plus.Craven Park Road, Harlesden NW10 8SE. Wednesdays and Thursdays, December 2019 - February 2020. 10am-5pm.

KNITTING CLUB AT WEMBLEY LIBRARY

Feeling creative? Join us for our Crochet and Knitting Club at Wembley library. Brent Civic Centre, Engineers Way, Wembley HA9 0FJ. Thursdays, September - November 2019.

10.30am-1pm.

PLACE OF WELCOME

The Place of Welcome at Brent Hub provides the community with a place to interact with one another, enjoy games and have engaging conversations. Brent Hub Community Enterprise Centre, 6 Hillside, London. Wednesdays, December 2019 - February 2020. 10am-12pm. enquiries@brenthub.co.uk

RAD INFORMATION, ADVICE AND GUIDANCE EVENT FOR DEAF PEOPLE LIVING IN BRENT

Welcome to the Royal Association for Deaf people (RAD) Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) service.

Desk 30 Customer Services, Brent Civic Centre, Engineers Way, Wembley HA9 0FJ on Tuesdays. Brent CAB, 270 - 272 High Road, London NW10 2EY on Thursdays. Tuesdays and Thursdays, December 2019.

10am-4pm.

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READING GROUP AT KILBURN LIBRARY

Fancy a book tip? Join us for our reading group at Kilburn library. 42 Salusbury Road, Kilburn NW6 6NN. Thursdays, December 2019. 6.45-7.45pm.

SCRABBLE AT WEMBLEY LIBRARY

Fancy a game of Scrabble? Join us at Wembley Library every month for a fun game! Other locations..Brent Civic Centre, Engineers Way, Wembley HA9 0FJ. Wednesday 18 December 2019.

1.30-4pm.

TAMIL READING GROUP

Get reading and join our Tamil Reading Group at Ealing Road library.Coronet Parade, Ealing Road, Wembley HA0 4BA. Saturday 28 December 2019.

1-4.30pm.

UNIVERSITY OF THE THIRD AGE: PAINTING FOR THE OVER 50S

Get creative and join our University of the Third Age: Painting for the Over 50s at Ealing Road library. Coronet Parade, Ealing Road, Wembley HA0 4BA. Tuesdays, December 2019 - February 2020. 10.30am-12.30pm.

ZUMBA GOLD AT HARLESDEN LIBRARY PLUS

Let’s dance! Join us for Zumba Gold at Harlesden Library Plus. Other locations. Craven Park Road, Harlesden, NW10 8SE. Fridays, December 2019 February 2020. 11.45am-12.45pm.

PROUD COFFEE LGBT OLDER PEOPLE COFFEE AFTERNOON

Proud Coffee is a free afternoon for older LGBT people in Brent. Elders Voice, 181 Mortimer Road, Kensal Green, London. Wednesdays, December 2019 - February 2020. 2.30-4pm.

QUIZ AND GAMES AFTERNOON FOR OLDER PEOPLE

A Quiz & Games Afternoon for older people in Brent.Elders Voice, 181 Mortimer Road, Kensal Green, London.

Wednesdays, December 2019 February 2020. 2-4pm.

SONGS UNEARTHED: MUSIC FROM WILLESDEN JEWISH CEMETERY

Songs Unearthed: Music from Willesden Jewish Cemetery. The Library at Willesden Green, High Road, London NW10 2SF. Wednesday 22 January 2020. 7pm-12am.

ARTS & CULTURE If you would like your event included in these pages, submit the details at www.brent.gov.uk/events

on in Brent during Winter 2019 HEALTH AND FITNESS

COMMUNITY YOGA CLASS

BOOTCAMP AT QUEENS PARK

Get fit for free with OurParks. Other locations. Queen’s Park Kilburn, London, NW6 6SG. Thursdays, December 2019 - February 2020.

10-11am.

BRENT DOLPHINS SWIMMING CLUB

Brent Dolphins Swimming Club aims to promote the teaching and coaching of all aspects of swimming, including teacher training and lifesaving for those aged 5 and over. Vale Farm and Willesden Sports Centres. Every day except Saturdays, December 2019 February 2020. 7-10pm. www.brentdolphins.org.uk info@brentdolphins.org.uk

Yoga classes at Preston Community Library. All abilities welcome!.

Preston Community Library, Carlton Avenue East, Wembley HA9 8PL. Wednesdays and Sundays, December 2019 - February 2020. 7.30-9pm. brentlibraries.wordpress.com/ samantha.warrington.yoga@gmail.com.

DEMENTIA CAFE AT CITY MISSION HUB

Dementia Cafe at City Mission Hub is held weekly on a Monday, providing space for those with memory loss and dementia and their carers to socialise, get involved in activities and receive support. Pentecostal City Mission Church, 2 Scrubs Lane, London.

Mondays, December 2019 - February 2020. 10.30am-3.30pm. dementiaproject.cmh@outlook.com.

MEMORY CAFE

A memory cafe in Kingsbury for people living with memory loss, and their carers and supporters. Holy Innocents Church, Kingsbury Road (Opposite Kingsbury Mandir). Fridays, December 2019. 2-3.30pm. www.holyinnocentskingsbury.org.uk kingsbury.holy.innocents@gmail.com

PILATES IN BARHAM PARK

Get fit for free with OurParks..Barham Park. Wednesdays, December 2019 February 2020. 6.30-7.30pm.

FLY GIRLS WELLNESS: WALK AND RUN COMMUNITY

Fly Girls Wellness walk or run group meet 9am every Sunday morning at Wembley Stadium to start the week being active. Wembley Stadium.

Sundays, December 2019 - February 2020. 9-10am.

SELFDEVELOPMENT IT FOR BEGINNERS AT EALING ROAD LIBRARY

Learn the basics and join us for our IT for Beginners sessions. Other locations.

Coronet Parade, Ealing Road, Wembley HA0 4BA. Mondays, December 2019.

2-3.30pm.

BRENT START ADULT EDUCATION COURSES

If you are looking for work, wanting to progress in your career or learn new skills, we have a wide range of courses for you. 1 Morland GardensStonebridge NW10 8DY. Mondays, December 2019 - February 2020. Various times to 12am.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Are you a Mum, Dad, Grandparent or carer?

Are you looking to gain experience for work or study?

Would you like to develop your existing skills to help a family who needs support?

We need people with experience to volunteer.

Can you give 3-4 hours a week to help make a difference to the lives of parents and young children?

Please contact your nearest Home-Start to talk to our friendly staff: Home-Start Camden and Islington: 020 7424 1603 info@homestart@camden.org www.homestartcamdenandislington.org.uk Home-Start Brent: 020 371 0674 CERTIFICATES AWARDED AND EXPENSES PAID

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HAPPY & HEALTHY

Close knit community While we all know what we need to do to take care of our physical health taking care of our mental health can be a bit trickier, writes Sarah Whyte

O

ne in four adults will be affected by a mental health issue at some stage in their life, so it is important that you find hobbies or activities you enjoy to encourage positive mental health and wellbeing.

Taking part in activities can help you to connect with new people and keep your mind active as you learn something new or improve a skill you already have.

Linda Charles, from South Kilburn, has been going to the knitting and crochet club at Kilburn Library for around seven years now. Linda first started attending because she wanted something to keep her busy, but after a near fatal heart attack in 2017, attending the weekly club became even more important to her.

“After my heart attack, I was recovering slowly,” said Linda. “My nerves in my hands weren’t as good as they used to be and I was told to start physiotherapy. I wondered if using my hands to knit and crochet would help improve my movement and it did.

“Since coming back to the knitting club, I’ve made new friends, I’ve gone to knitting shows, displayed my work and donated bits to charity. It’s been fantastic. Like me, some people come here when they are recovering from illness. For others, it’s just a way to spend time with others while making new things.”

As an experienced knitter and crocheter, Linda has helped people to make new items and understand patterns.

Linda added: “The club has a pretty wide age range and we can help people who have no experience.”

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Mary Boumaraf, from Kensal Rise, crocheted when she was at school but didn’t know how to knit before attending the club. Mary said: “I’ve been coming here for seven years and I really enjoy it. I often joke that it is like a therapy session as all we do is laugh.

“I’m learning how to knit at the moment and I’m currently working on a pair of socks. Last year, I managed to knit my dad a jumper.”

There are knitting and crochet clubs at three libraries around the borough. If you are interested in joining a club, meeting new people and learning a new skill search “knitting” on the Brent Council website.

Kingsbury Library knitting club Thursdays, 10.30am-12 noon Wembley Library knitting club Thursdays, 10.30am-1pm Kilburn Library knitting club Tuesdays, 10.30am-12.30pm

KILN THEATRE IS AN INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED, PROUDLY LOCAL THEATRE IN THE HEART OF KILBURN

“We are so proud to be part of Brent London Borough of Culture 2020. We recently celebrated our first anniversary as the new, improved version of ourselves following a major capital project. In the re-opening season I wanted to present stories we don’t usually hear and bring different voices to the London stage.

In our beautiful, brand-new auditorium we have produced seven world premieres, one UK premiere and a major musical revival. The stage demands immediacy and emotional relevance and, by showing the world through different lenses, I know we can uncover and share universal truths.”

Indhu Rubasingham, Kiln Theatre Artistic Director

COMING UP 10 DEC – 25 JAN

SNOWFLAKE by

Mike Bartlett

13 FEB – 21 MAR

PASS OVER by

Antoinette Nwandu

THE GLEE CLUB by

by

Richard Cameron

Hannah Khalil

22 APR – 23 MAY

KilnTheatre.com | @KilnTheatre Registed Charity No. 276892

269 Kilburn High Road | Kilburn | Brondesbury

4 – 27 JUNE

RISE AN OUTDOOR SPECTACLE TELLING THE STORY OF BRENT.

SAT 18 JAN. 7PM OLYMPIC WAY WEMBLEY PARK. BRENT2020.CO.UK

SUPPORTED BY