19 minute read
NEWS A round- up of the latest news in Brent
Christmas and New Year is a special time for families, friends and loved ones to come together to spend time and have fun. However, the holiday season can also be a lonely time for anyone without friends or family nearby so please remember to look out for anyone who may need a kind word or helping hand this winter.
With fears over the rising cost of living across the country and the ongoing COVID 19 pandemic, many families are facing a difficult time. As the council recognises that many hardworking people are struggling to make ends meet, we have put in place a special package of support called the Residents’ Support Fund. Do not be afraid to ask for help if you have money worries, as you may be eligible for interest free loans or a grant. More details are available on page12. The council is also providing free school meals to children, who would otherwise face holiday hunger, during the Christmas holidays.
The council’s ‘winter preparedness’ plan is also in place with our fleet of electric hybrid gritters on standby ready to grit the roads and keep the borough moving if another cold snap hits. You can read more on page 37 – including the number to call if you see someone sleeping rough in freezing weather.
In this edition you will also find details of Brent’s first ever Climate Festival which took place as world leaders met in Glasgow at COP26. The council is committed to doing everything we can locally to tackle the climate emergency and make Brent a carbon neutral borough by 2030.
Finally, women’s safety and, more specifically, ending male violence against women is rightly a major focus for the council and the Police. We are working hard to end all forms of violence and abuse as part of our tackling Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) initiative, which you can read more about on page 14. I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a safe, happy and peaceful New Year!
‘Protect yourself from COVID this winter’ warns doctor
As a new variant of COVID 19 ‘Omicron’ spreads, Brent’s Director of Public Health is advising residents to follow some practical steps to keep the virus at bay this winter.
Wearing a face covering in shops and on public transport is now mandatory, unless you are exempt. Masks block up to 80% of the virus spreading into the air from infected people and protects wearers from breathing in up to 50% of particles, according to research.
At the time of going to press, all contacts of suspected Omicron cases must self-isolate, regardless of their vaccination status or age.
“We’re still learning about this new variant but the best line of defence against COVID is to get vaccinated,” said Dr Melanie Smith. “Get all three jabs to ensure maximum protection for you and your loved ones.”
“Testing yourself for the virus is also vital – especially before you meet older or more vulnerable people or if you plan to mix with people you don’t live with. Tests are still free and can be ordered online or collected from pharmacies. Opening windows to let in fresh air, wearing a facemask and washing your hands, all help to stop you unwittingly passing the virus on if you are infected with the virus but don’t have symptoms.” The Government is set to review the current rules the week before Christmas. For the latest information visit:
www.brent.gov.uk/coronavirus
Dr Melanie Smith
Happy 100th birthday Bettina
Congratulations to Willesden resident, Mrs Bettina Brown who celebrated her 100th birthday on 12 October.
Bettina arrived from Jamaica in 1954 and made Brent her home. Originally, a dressmaker in Jamaica, she worked at Biro Swan in Park Royal, later moving to Drings sausage factory, near the old Wembley Stadium in 1965.
Her husband of 60 years, children, grandchildren and even great grandchildren helped her celebrate her special day.
Cllr Muhammed Butt Leader of Brent Council
Winterfest makes spectacular return to Wembley Park
The packed event featured live bands, choirs, circus acts, Panto performers including spectacular lights throughout the evening. Guest of honour, Strictly Come Dancing superstar Neil Jones, (bottom right), took to the stage to switch on the hugely popular super-tall, walk through Christmas tree, still the largest LED Christmas tree in London.
Everything’s coming up roses
The Brent in Bloom competition 2022, which gives local people the chance to show off their green fingers and gardening skills, is now open for entry.
The competition is free and winners will receive up to £100 worth of vouchers! www.brent.gov.uk Deadline for entry is 29 August 2022.
Blooming marvellous wins for Brent parks
Six of Brent’s parks won Gold at the prestigious London in Bloom awards.
Harlesden Town Garden, a community garden not only won Gold in the Small Park of the Year category, but also rated Outstanding in the ‘Your Neighbourhood’ category.
Roe Green Walled Garden was the overall category winner for Small Conservation Area of the Year, a fantastic achievement for the Barn Hill Conservation Group, for a second year.
Don’t leaf me this way
During the winter, you may see council leaf clearing teams out and about, clearing fallen leaves from paths in parks and high streets. Once collected, the leaves are sent to be recycled as compost.
NEWS
Small Business Saturday reaps big success
BRE N T
In 2020, a whopping £1.1 billion pounds was spent with small businesses across the UK on Small Business Saturday, which occurs on the first Saturday of December each year.
Across Brent, the day celebrates the small independent businesses that offer so much to our high streets and neighbourhoods.
If you missed it this year, don’t worry, you still have time to show your support for local traders by popping down to your local high street to explore what is on offer. Independent shops are full of unique gifts that are perfect as Christmas stocking fillers. To find out more about the Shop Local campaign in Brent visit www.brent.gov.uk/shopsafeshoplocal or to find out more about the exclusive offers available on the new BuyBrent app turn to page 31. brentworks.brent.gov.uk
Michael Roberts, Manager of Michael Styles in Willesden
Insight Day opens doors for young people
More than 300 young people attended a skills event focussing on building confidence, effective interview techniques and CV writing.
The Insight Day, which took place at Brent Civic Centre in October, is part of the Brent Black Community Action Plan (BCAP). One of the main priorities of the BCAP is to support employment, enterprise and early intervention for children, young people and families.
Employers from across Brent were on hand throughout the day to talk about the job opportunities available to young people in the borough.
Wembley resident Iyoni Bent, 17, said: “I found the day incredibly useful. I learnt about the different opportunities and pathways into the career I want. As well as being introduced to different job opportunities and sectors.”
The council worked with Newman Catholic College, Ultra Education, West Side Young Leaders, Young Brent Foundations and the Jason Roberts Foundation to organise the event. Find out more about employment, apprenticeships, and careers at:
https://brentworks.brent.gov.uk/
Hundreds of young people attended Insight Day
Residents tap into free digital skills training
A cutting-edge new training platform, with more than 220 free courses to choose from, is now available for Brent residents looking to boost their digital skills
Designed by global tech leader Infosys and launched in partnership with Brent Council, the platform aims to help residents looking to improve their digital skills and give their CV a boost.
From digital skills for beginners to coding and cyber-security training, the new Springboard website offers something for everyone.
“Having digital skills opens up a world of opportunities,” said Cllr Muhammed Butt, Leader of Brent Council. “Our borough is awash with opportunities and, as a council, we want to help local people develop the skills and the confidence they need to get out there and snap them up.
Mohit Joshi, President of Infosys, added: “Supporting local communities, such as Brent, to secure sustainable employment starts with equipping residents for the demands of a new and evolving workplace.”
The free courses can be completed anytime, anywhere on your computer, laptop or mobile device. To find out more visit: https://infyspringboard.uk.
onwingspan.com/en/login
Springboard launch
Follow the trail to Ealing Road
Art Trail Ealing Road
A new art trail along Ealing Road, celebrating the vibrant cultural heritage of the local community, is adding a splash of colour to the area. The colourful installations were devised by Artists in Residence, Alperton Community School and local residents, and funded from the council’s Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL).
Don’t lose your right to vote
With local borough elections set to take place in May 2022, Brent residents are being encouraged to check that they are registered to vote. Voting in elections can make a real difference both locally and nationally and getting your voice heard gives you the opportunity to decide who should represent the interests of your local area over the next four years. For further information, please visit www.
brent.gov.uk
A time to remember
Holocaust Memorial Day on 27 January is the day for everyone to remember the millions of people murdered in the Holocaust and other genocides such as Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia, Darfur and elsewhere in the world.
Brent Health Matters
Diabetes is a lifelong condition that causes a person’s blood sugar level to become too high which is largely preventable through healthy living such as adding more physical activity and a balanced diet into your lifestyle. Find more information at www.brent.gov.uk/diabetes
Green light for Europe’s largest Ultra Low Emission Zone
Southern parts of Brent are now inside London’s new Ultra-Low Emission Zone, which discourages the most polluting vehicles from entering. The new zone charges drivers of the most polluting vehicles at least £12.50 a day to enter. All of central London up to, but not including, the North Circular (A406) and South Circular (A205) roads are inside the zone, which is the largest zone of its kind in Europe. This means cleaner air for millions of Londoners. To check your vehicle visit: https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/
driving/low-emission-zone
Recycle your Christmas tree
Take your Christmas trees to be recycled at designated drop off points in a number of local parks, over a two-week period from Boxing Day, 26 December. There will also be a pickup service at some locations. Check for specific dates and times to recycle your Christmas tree at www.brent.gov.
uk/christmastree
NEWS
A palace fit for a community
Residents will soon benefit from a new community centre in the heart of Harlesden as the historic Picture Palace transformation continues.
Originally a cinema and most recently a pub, the iconic venue on Manor Park Road is undergoing a major makeover to transform it into a new hub for the local African and Caribbean community to call their own.
In its 1940’s heyday, the once beautiful art deco building premiered all the latest Hollywood movies.
Councillor Margaret McLennan, Deputy Leader of Brent Council, said: “This project is a cornerstone of the Black Community Action Plan, our ten year strategy to eradicate the multiple inequalities experienced by many residents. This is one of many joint ventures to realise that vision.”
A partnership between the council and the Assets for Brent Community (ABC), a consortium including Step Up Hub; CVS Brent; Young Brent Foundation; Westside Young Leaders Academy; BANG Edutainment and Connect Stars will complete the project.
Abdi Farah, Director of Connect Stars, said: “This centre will be world class, representing a prosperous future for African heritage and Caribbean communities. To be a part of ABC is a real honour, showing that, together, we are so much stronger.” A steering group from ABC is overseeing the first phase of the development, which is set to see the new community centre open in 2022. For more information visit www.brent.
gov.uk/bcap
Abdi Farah, Director of Connect Stars
Religion, climate change and me
12 religious leaders from the borough’s mosques, churches, synagogues and temples gathered together in November to launch a unique new
photo exhibition. Climate Change and My Religion explores the ways in which faith and our beliefs inform individual thinking and motivation to act on climate change. www.brent.gov.uk/climatechangeandmyreligion
Dr Raja Amjid Riaz – Treasurer and Trustee, Central Mosque of Brent “Islam teaches us to respect and protect the earth and promote conservation, using only what is required. These principles are core to the faith.
“The Central Mosque of Brent pledges to reduce plastic usage, promote recycling and use all means necessary to reduce energy wastage and increase the use of solar energy.” Reverend Ali Taylor – Anglican Vicar, St. James Church, Alperton “In Christianity, our tradition and holy book tell us that God made the world, and He asks us to look after it. As a Christian, I have a mandate to speak up for the environment. I honour God by looking after it. “I pledge to work with the Church to stop using single-use plastic.” Kirit Wadia – Interfaith Coordinator, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Neasden “Hinduism teaches that the whole of creation is infused with life and the presence of the Divine. Thus, looking after nature becomes both an ethical and sacred duty for all human beings. “I pledge to walk or use public transport rather than use my car.”
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BRENT’S LOCAL GRADUATE SCHEME IS NOW OPEN!
Brent Council appreciate the importance of investing in their residents and want to do more!
Brent’s local scheme is a unique opportunity for committed graduates to make a positive impact in Brent and provide experience in a dynamic, exciting and socially responsible council.
Benefits of the scheme include:
• Starting Pay of £27,483 • Support throughout the application process • Optional third year: Brent
Council guarantees a further 1-year fixed-term contract to those who complete the 2-year core programme satisfactorily. • Live and work in a diverse area you are familiar with • Exposure to senior leaders: All graduates are assigned a senior mentor and the opportunity to have informal lunches with the Chief Executive. • Strong support network: with 16 graduates currently on the programme, peer support will be provided throughout.
You can apply for the scheme if you obtained a 2:2 (or higher), regardless of when you graduated, and have the right to work in the UK.
Visit the Brent webpage www.brent.gov.uk/graduates to find out more and apply NOW!
Time to relax with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
Musicians from the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra performed a relaxed concert for adults and children with learning disabilities, movement disorders and autistic spectrum disorder in The Drum, at Brent Civic Centre, in October.
New website for SEND young people
A new website designed specifically for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) is providing helpful advice on independent living, education, employment and training. Find out
more at www.brentyouthzone. org.uk/pfa
Remembrance Sunday marked in Barham Park
Brent residents and leaders gathered to pay their respects to the fallen at the Borough Civic Remembrance Service in Barham Park on Sunday 14 November.
Headed by the Regent Brass Brand, the parade included groups across the community such as the Army, Navy and Air Force Cadets, Police Cadets, St John’s Ambulance, and Sea Cadets.
A free exhibition about The Royal West African Frontier Force in the Second World War will be available until 30 January 2022, at the Library, Willesden Green.
www.learningthroughthearts. co.uk/
Photo credit: Umi Nur
Preparing for Adulthood launch
Sterling idea to kick-start young people’s life chances
England football hero Raheem Sterling MBE launched his new foundation at his
former school in November. Speaking at the Ark Elvin Academy, on Cecil Avenue Wembley, the ‘Boy from Brent’ explained his aim to improve the life chances of young people in London, Manchester and Kingston, Jamaica. Raheem, who scored his first major tournament goal at the national stadium that is just yards away from his childhood home, said: “My journey to date has been well documented but nothing would have been achievable without belief, family, great mentors and the opportunities I have embraced. My foundation is built on my experiences, successes and the many challenges I overcame, I now want to help young people achieve and be the best they can be.”
Festival of Lights celebration
More than 3,500 people enjoyed traditional food, music and performances during a special Diwali festival of lights celebration held in Wembley at the end of October.
Councillor Muhammed Butt, Leader of Brent Council said, “Diwali is a special time for our local communities who celebrate it. I spoke to many people who attended and I’m pleased that so many families enjoyed themselves after we couldn’t hold the event last year due to COVID.”
NEWS
£1,000 grants up for grabs
Community groups across Brent can now apply for two grants, worth up to £1,000 each, from two separate funding pots.
The council has doubled its Love Where You Live grants from £500 to £1,000 for projects that improve local neighbourhoods. If you have an idea that could bring your local community together, such as supporting vulnerable neighbours to join a celebration, find out more at www.brent.gov.uk/ lovewhereyoulivegrant or by emailing
lovewhereyoulive@brent.gov.uk.
The new Together Towards Zero grant, also worth up to £1,000, is for projects that help tackle the climate crisis. If you have an idea that could have a positive environmental impact, for example by protecting and sustaining nature, cutting pollution, reducing waste or encouraging recycling email:
ecogrants @brent.gov.uk.
Vending machines offer free period products in trailblaizing London first Interest free loans or grants to help you through the winter
Residents facing money worries due to unforeseen circumstances could be eligible for extra financial support from the council this winter.
The Residents’ Support Fund (RSF) provides interest free loans, grants or both to help Brent residents struggling to make ends meet.
Stonebridge resident Felicia Asamoah, 46, said: “I applied for assistance to help with my increasing rent and council tax arrears. It was a very stressful time for me. I was unemployed and feeling extremely anxious about the pandemic and it was all having a real impact on my mental health. I was getting into serious debt and couldn’t see a way out.
“I got in touch with the council and explained my situation. Although the process meant I had to find supporting documents, I received just under £10,000 that helped me to clear my debts. I think Brent Council and the individuals who were involved in my case were extremely helpful.”
To make an application visit: www.brent.gov.uk/ResidentsSupportFund
Councillor Southwood
Free sanitary pads and tampons are now available in six public toilets across Brent as the council takes a lead in tackling period poverty.
Brent is the first London borough to introduce Flow Free vending machines with free period products in six public buildings.
Period poverty is a London-wide issue with 3 out of 10 girls struggling to afford or access sanitary wear, according to Research from Plan International UK. Shockingly, 54% of these girls said they used toilet paper as an alternative to period products.
Cllr Eleanor Southwood, responsible for Housing and Welfare Reform, said, “It is absolutely right that everyone has access to the essentials of daily life. That should include period products.
“By making these products freely available, we are fulfilling our commitment to creating a fairer and more equal Brent by reducing period poverty.”
Find out more: www.brent.gov.uk/flowfree
Freedom of the City of London honour
Congratulations to Councillor Parvez Ahmed, a former Mayor of Brent, who has been awarded the Freedom of the City of London in recognition of his services to the local community.
MEETINGS • CONFERENCES • EVENTS
HYBRID EVENTS AT THE DRUM
Our AV technicians can cater for all types of events - ranging from simple requests such as providing a laptop and presentation clicker for a meeting to providing a full hybrid event equipment package.
Accommodate your Hybrid event in one of our Spaces:
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CONTACT US:
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