Summer 2020 www.brent.gov.uk/yourbrent The magazine about life in Brent, published by Brent Council
Locked down, but not locked out Special edition looking at all the COVID-19 news from across Brent and the help available to you
HERE FOR YOU Numbers to call if you need help - pages 10-11
BRENT 2020 UNLOCKED Arts & Culture to enjoy from home - pages 19-22
THANK YOU! To everyone involved in the community fight back
Thank you The past few months have been a huge test for us all. Our way of life has changed significantly but, despite the tough situation the world is in, the theme of this magazine is ‘thank you’. Thank you to the incredible people working in the NHS. Thank you to all the dedicated key workers. Thank you to the amazing community and voluntary groups and individuals who have come forward to help. Thank you to everyone who has stayed at home and stayed two metres apart from one another when you have gone out. To everyone who is supporting our collective fight back against coronavirus, the care workers, the supermarket staff, the van drivers that deliver the medicines to our pharmacies and the brilliant Brent Council workforce who are working round the clock to keep us going. Thank you. My heart goes out to all the people who have tragically lost loved ones to this deadly disease. If you need help and support, there is information and contact details you may find helpful on page 17. Despite the changes we’ve all had to make, one thing that hasn’t changed is the Brent community spirit. This is not the 2020 any of us had hoped for but it has been truly inspiring to see people from all walks of life come together to look after their friends, neighbours and people in need. We are still working hard to respond to the pandemic but eventually we will move into some form of recovery. However, when the Government’s restrictions on how we live start changing, one thing is for sure – we cannot just go back to how we were. There will be a new normal. We may have to get used to ‘social distancing’ for some time yet. We should also think about the way we want the world to be when we start our recovery from this and – despite the huge price we are having to pay – I for one hope we can focus on coming out of this a more equal, supportive and fairer society. Cllr Muhammed Butt Leader of Brent Council
Council transforms Bridge Park into distribution hub
Bridge Park Community Leisure Centre in Stonebridge Park is now a fully operational food delivery hub, delivering much-needed supplies to the most vulnerable. Drawn from across the council, the team has worked tirelessly to set up stations in the sports hall for picking and packing boxes of essential food including pasta, cereal, fruit, tea bags and toilet rolls. The hub supports those who need additional support with food and other essential items such as sanitary towels, nappies and toothbrushes. www.facebook.com/BrentCouncil twitter.com/Brent_Council
Brent Customer Services 020 8937 1234 www.brent.gov.uk
YOUR BRENT is available in large print. Please call 020 8937 1234
Stations have been set up so that social distancing can be observed at all times.
Food boxes (top) and essentials, like toilet roll, leaving the hub
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. Printed on 100 per cent FSC paper. Please use your local paper bank when disposing of this magazine and other paper. 8540BDU0420 Issue No. 164 SUMMER 2020 Distribution queries and editorial: yourbrent@brent.gov.uk EDITOR Sarah Whyte sarah.whyte@brent.gov.uk PRODUCTION EDITOR Middleton Mann middleton.mann@brent.gov.uk ADVERTISING SALES advertising@brent.gov.uk Published by Brent Council
Front cover image – Amanda Rose
NEWS
Supporting our shielded residents In Brent we have over 6,000 people on the Government “shielded” list. People on this list are considered to be most at risk if they contract coronavirus, and so they have been instructed to stay home. Council employees from various departments have been calling residents to find out if they need any additional support or help getting supplies like food, medicine or other essentials. Many
residents have found the calls from Brent Council to be a much-needed lifeline during a very difficult time. Especially those who live on their own or who don’t have close family or friends to support them. Nilesh Kalyan usually works behind the scenes sorting things like broadband issues and digital software systems, but now he’s telephoning shielded residents to make sure they’re ok. He said: “You’re
Nilesh calling shielded residents dealing with a lot of very stressed people. It’s a real eye opener and makes you realise how much support our vulnerable people actually need.”
School’s not out The vast majority of Brent schools have stayed open for children of key workers and other children who need extra support. Brent Council has been holding weekly virtual meetings with Brent headteachers to provide support and assistance and ensure schools can access essential personal protective equipment. Brent schools are also providing accessible resources for parents supporting their children’s learning at home.
A big thanks to Nigel, Mawuli and Ricardo for helping deliver boxes of personal protective equipment for schools across Brent!
Social distancing could be needed for months Britons will likely need to maintain some form of social distancing for several months and maybe longer, according to the Government’s Chief Medical Officer. Professor Chris Whitty said it was ‘wholly unrealistic’ to expect all social distancing measures to be lifted until either a vaccine for Covid-19 or ‘highly effective’ drugs to treat the virus become available. Professor Whitty made it clear that a full return to normal life needs a medical breakthrough. But he warned
that the chance of having a vaccine within the next calendar year was ‘incredibly small’. “This disease is not going to be eradicated. It is not going to disappear,” he said. “So we have to accept we are working with a disease
that is going to be with us globally – this is a global problem – for the foreseeable future.”
Professor Chris Whitty
YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2020
3
NEWS
Vulnerable people and care staff protected with PPE Critical carers working on the front-line for social care providers in Brent have been issued with personal protection equipment (PPE) by Brent Council to help slow the spread of Covid-19. We’ve delivered 3.5 million gloves, 700,000 aprons, 300,000 face masks and 4,000 bottles of hand sanitiser to over 140 care providers and Direct Payments recipients across the borough which will help protect more than 2,250 vulnerable people and 5,000 care staff from coronavirus The council has been supplying care providers since the start of the Covid-19 outbreak and will continue to do so to ensure vulnerable residents are protected when receiving care.
Council staff getting ready to deliver more PPE
Celebrating #BrentTogether Brilliant people who are supporting our communities through the pandemic are being recognised and thanked through a new social media campaign: #BrentTogether Perhaps you’ve created free online information for people to use? Or maybe you’ve created a mutual aid group for your area? However you’re helping, we want to hear from you. To get involved, tweet a video, photo, or just a line or two, using the hashtag #BrentTogether. This will help Brent Council share all the good work you’re doing on its social media platforms and pass on our thanks.
Welcome home Alicia A&E nurse Alicia Borja is cheered out of Northwick Park Hospital by her colleagues after a month long fight with Covid-19. She said: “I just want to thank my
4
YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2020
colleagues. I’ve got so much love for them. They are such a fantastic team. I haven’t been able to see my daughters for a month so I can’t wait to get home.”
NEWS
Thank you key workers
Patrolling our parks A huge ‘thank you’ goes to the vast majority of residents who have followed the ‘stay home’ message in spite of the good weather we’ve had recently. Special surveillance teams are enforcing ‘hot spots’ such as Gladstone, Roundwood, King Edward VII and Eaton Grove Parks. Working closely with the Police, Brent Council officers are speaking to residents who do not follow
the national guidance around the 2-metre social distancing rules. Nearly all the parks in Brent are open but playgrounds, tennis courts and outside gyms have been closed to reduce the spread of Covid-19. If you see a large group of people gathering, report them by calling our Community Safety team on 0208 937 1058 or email community.safety@brent.gov.uk
Tasty food for TfL Volunteers from Neasden Temple have been providing cooked meals and snacks for key workers, as well as supporting those who are delivering food to the most vulnerable residents of the community.
Brent Civic Centre is going blue every Thursday evening during the lockdown to show solidarity with the NHS and all the other key workers supporting the community at this time.
Council clamps down on nonessential businesses Brent council has issued its first wave of prohibition notices to non-essential businesses who have flouted the rules and put lives at risk. Residents, including councillors and officers, have become the council’s eyes and ears and are alerting enforcement officers to report businesses if they believe they are ignoring the Government’s Covid-19 trading restrictions. The council is warning all businesses that are not exempt from the list of essential services that they may face legal proceedings if they breach a prohibition notice. If you are aware of any Brent business flouting Government guidelines, please report it immediately by emailing trading.standards@brent.gov.uk YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2020
5
NEWS
Cash support for local businesses The council has made £34.5 million in grant payments to 2,237 local businesses in under a month so far, and many more forms are still being submitted daily. The one-off £10,000 and £25,000 grants, along with the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, help employers keep their staff on. The schemes are there to bridge the gap to help ensure business recovery, when it comes, can kick in as quickly as possible. Cllr Muhammed Butt, Brent Council Leader, said the financial support was to keep businesses on active standby prior to any Government announcement
on the easing of restrictions. He said: “Small and medium sized businesses are the thriving heart of Brent’s local economy so we understand their value in terms of jobs and wealth creation. “It’s vitally important we help business during these tough times so that they can get back on their feet fast when the lockdown ends.” Just a few details are needed (bank details and your latest business rates bill) for eligible businesses to get the payment, so go to www. brent.gov.uk/businessgrants to complete the grant form and find further details.
Volunteers from the Pakistan Community Centre have provided food to local residents
Catering for the community All across Brent we have seen volunteers step up to make and deliver food to residents in need. In Wembley, a team lead by Daksha Varsani and Paresh Jethwa, are working their socks off to make sure delicious healthy food reaches more than 2,000 people every day. Meanwhile, chefs from Zafferano
Catering in Kingsbury have been preparing hearty hot meals for homeless people. The company have been working with local food bank Sufra to make make tasty meals like lentil curry. Willesden based, Pakistan Community Centre have also worked closely with Ashford Place to feed vulnerable and elderly residents in Brent.
An NHS Serenade Gastroenterologist and classical violinist Maxton Pitcher serenades patient Jean Pearson. Maxton said: “Amazing staff, camaraderie and commitment to caring for our patients in the face of adversity.”
6
YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2020
£500 GRANTS FOR AID GROUPS Mutual aid groups can now apply for a £500 grant for their chosen project. Visit brent.gov.uk/funding to find out more and apply.
FOSTER CARERS ARE NEEDED TO HELP VULNERABLE CHILDREN To find out more, call 0800 001 4041 or visit www.brent.gov.uk/fostering
CLEAN ACT OF KINDNESS Thanks for all the donations of soap we’ve received already. Please keep them coming! We still urgently need donations of soap and other hygiene essentials such as nappies, wipes, shampoo (up to 250ml), shower gels, toothbrushes, toothpaste and toilet roll to help hard-hit families keep clean and stop the spread of the coronavirus. Donations must be new and unopened. Call 07795 637193 or email: shirley. holmes@brent.gov.uk.
THANK YOU LOCAL PARTNERS Thank you our local partners who have all donated generously to help support local residents. Network Housing donated £10,000 and both Old Oak and Park Royal Development Corporation, and the Edward Harvist Trust Fund donated £60,000. These donations will go to Brent foodbanks who are helping local residents and will support Brent’s voluntary and community sector to respond to the Covid-19 outbreak.
MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS WEEK Mental Health Awareness Week takes place between Monday 18 May – Sunday 24 May 2020. This year, the theme is “kindness” and we want you to get involved! Share your stories about random acts of kindness with us on social media with the hashtag #BeKindBrent
MY COUNCIL
OUR COVID-19 RESPONSE IN NUMBERS 1.5m bin collections WITH NO DISRUPTION
£££
7,453
18,828
VULNERABLE PEOPLE PERSONALLY CONTACTED
2,115
FOOD PARCELS DISPATCHED
11,606
RESIDENTS LIVING IN PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION WILL RECEIVE INCREASED HOUSING BENEFITS
92%
REPAIRS SATISFACTION RATE DESPITE THE CRISIS
24,891 phone calls AND 678 emails
PIECES OF PPE
BOTTLES AND OF HAND SANITISER DELIVERED TO PROTECT
VULNERABLE PEOPLE AND
CARE STAFF
£
ANSWERED
42 rough sleepers AND
51 people at risk
£34.5m
GRANTED THROUGH BUSINESS SUPPORT SCHEMES
PROVIDED SAFE HOMES
165
SCHOOLS AND EARLY YEARS SETTINGS OPEN FOR
465
20% 502 28,209
INCREASE IN LIBRARY MEMBERSHIP
CHILDREN OF KEY WORKERS AND VULNERABLE CHILDREN
772
4.5m 4,000 2,250 5,000
WILL RECEIVE COUNCIL TAX SUPPORT
NEW MEMBERS
CONTACTS WITH YOUNG PEOPLE AND FAMILIES NEEDING EARLY HELP EACH WEEK
E-BOOKS AND AUDIO ACCESSED
642 volunteers
HAVE SIGNED UP
YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2020
7
MY COMMUNITY
ALL PULLING TOGETHER We have an incredible network of community groups, voluntary organisations and mutual aid groups in Brent. To support vulnerable residents and to reinforce the safety provided locally, Brent Council has been working with local organisations in seven key areas Supporting older people - Age UK and Elders Voice When residents over the age of 70 years-old were advised to stay home mid-March, Age UK Brent sprung to action to help older people with shopping, food parcels and medication, supported by resources from the council and Sufra. Age UK’s CEO for the area, Julian Lloyd, said the charity’s partners (Elders Voice, Ashford Place, Sudbury Neighbourhood Centre and Brent BIAS) threw a safety net around older residents to keep them safe. Supporting homeless people - Crisis As well as running drop-in advice sessions by phone, Crisis Skylight Brent offers 1:1 art sessions to upskill people who find themselves without a fixed address. With the help of Crisis, Aweys (right) has recently been housed and thanks to these sessions is going on to study an Art BTEC and ESOL. Supporting people who use foodbanks - Sufra Local food bank Sufra has been delivering both emergency food parcels and freshly cooked food to people who would otherwise go hungry in Brent. Demand for food parcels increased by more than 250% in March when compared to the previous year. 200 freshly cooked meals are being delivered daily mainly to homeless people in temporary accommodation. 8
YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2020
Crisis dropped off food and art supplies to Aweys so he can keep practising
MY COMMUNITY Supporting young people - Young Brent Foundation
Young Brent Foundation
Youth workers have been out and about chatting to teenagers and young adults on the streets to understand why they were outside. Hundreds of young people have been directed to fun activities to do online – things like music studios, quizzes, fitness classes – and persuaded to return home without getting into trouble with the police. Supporting people wIth specific cultural needs - Step Up Hub Brent’s Step Up Hub supports BAME and marginalised communities. They’ve been supporting individuals and families understand the changes and implications of Covid-19 and social isolation. CEO, Tebussum Rashid, explained: “It’s normally a very busy and social time for Muslims with Ramadan but, of course, this year the religious practices will be very different. We’re talking to families virtually and helping them deal with a lot of the anxiety in relation all the government restrictions.” Supporting people who need extra advice and support - Brent Citizens Advice Bureau This pandemic has hit people’s livelihoods and many have had to fall back on the state to support them financially. That’s where the team at Citizens Advice Brent have been able to help. They guide new applicants through the process of applying for Universal Credit – especially important for those who don’t have access to the internet. Supporting people with Disabilities, Long Term Health Conditions and Family Carers – Brent Mencap and Brent Carers Centre
Brent Carers Centre
Brent Carers Centre offers a lifeline to carers and there are around 6,500 young carers registered in Brent. CEO Anne-Marie Morris, said “Many carers may not be on the shielded list, but they don’t want to put themselves and their loved-ones at risk so it’s very difficult for them to manage. “We’ve been supporting them with our new Carers Emergency Card which allows them priority shopping slots in supermarkets. We’ve set up Circles of Support so that carers can give and receive support on a virtual forum so they don’t feel so utterly isolated.”
If you are an individual or an organisation and would like to volunteer, call CVS Brent on 020 3011 1690 YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2020
9
MY COMMUNITY
Supporting you through coronavirus Thank you to everyone who is staying at home and listening to the Government advice. Coronavirus affects all households in different ways and the council and other local services are here to help you if you need us. All phone lines are open MondayFriday, 9am-5pm unless stated otherwise
SUPPORT FOR YOU Are you struggling and urgently need help getting food, medicine or other essentials? Call 020 8937 1234 or email coronavirus@brent.gov.uk
Do you need help to pay council tax? If your income has changed, call 020 8937 1790
Do you feel unsafe at home because of domestic abuse? In an emergency, always call 999. Get support from Advance in Brent on 07398 454898 (Monday to Friday, 10am-6pm) or call the 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247
Are you worried about someone who is vulnerable? Call Adult Social Care on 020 8937 6589
Do you run a business and need help? You can get help with ongoing costs. Visit www.brent.gov.uk/business
Are you homeless or threatened with homelessness? Call 020 8937 2000, choosing option 3
10
Concerned about a child being harmed? Call Brent Family Front Door on 020 8937 4300
YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2020
MY COMMUNITY CHANGES TO SERVICES We are all working in different ways, going the extra mile to help one another. Please support our front line staff as they continue to deliver your services across the borough.
BIRTHS, DEATHS AND MARRIAGES
TRANSPORT AND STREETS
We are prioritising registering deaths at the moment and you can do this over the phone by appointment. To register a death, call 020 8937 1010. Other registration services are not available until further notice, in line with the government’s latest advice.
Only emergency repairs to keep roads and pavements safe are taking place.
WASTE AND RECYCLING PARKING
LATEST UPDATES
✃
We’re taking a common sense approach, focusing on more serious rule breaking and giving key workers the extra support they need.
Waste collections, including bulky waste, are running as normal.
PARKS Our parks are open, but you must keep yourself and others safe by following the social distancing rules.
For the latest information on support for you, and changes to council services because of coronavirus, visit www.brent.gov.uk/coronavirus or sign up for e-newsletter updates at www.brent.gov.uk/stayconnected
YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2020
11
MY COMMUNITY
From NHS staff, care workers and pharmacists to social workers, delivery drivers and many other jobs behind the scenes, key workers are ‘keeping the show on the road’ and we thank you for all that you are doing
12
YAGNESH RANA usually works for Serco as a Civil Enforcement Officer, but during the pandemic, Yagnesh and his colleagues have been redeployed to help deliver food and supplies to vulnerable residents. Yagnesh said: “I am so honoured and humbled to be part of this essential work.”
Cyber security manager, BHARAT KERAI’S, normal working duties are on hold. The dad of two is now working from home checking on vulnerable people in need. He explained: “I’m juggling the kids while my wife works at Northwick Park Hospital, so it isn’t easy, but for both of us it’s so rewarding.”
team that was quickly created to support residents in need. Zaid said: “So many residents have called us asking for help with things like emergency food supplies, emergency care and support. It really is fantastic we’ve been able to meet the demand.”
ZSUZSANNA KOSAN is usually busy setting up events at The Drum, Wembley, but has recently been talking to residents on the Government’s ‘shielded’ list. Having worked at Brent Council for seven years, Zsuzsanna admits she finds the temporary role emotional. She explained: “Some of the people I talk to are incredibly lonely and they’re very frightened about the future.”
TRISH MUKHERJEE is Head of Nursing for Critical Care at London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust. Trish said: “My team is incredible and doing their utmost best, trying to ensure they provide the care that is needed.”
PURNA GHALE, a cleaner for Medirest at Northwick Park Hospital, was in Nepal when travel restrictions were suddenly brought in. He spent another three weeks in Kathmandu before the Government repatriated nearly 300 British citizens. Purna went back to work and is one of hundreds of non-clinical staff who keep the hospital running behind the scenes. He said: “I’m just doing my bit like everyone else.”
YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2020
ZAID IZYAN, a Brent social worker, is working in the new emergency wellbeing
MY COMMUNITY
YAGNESH RANA
TRISH MUKHERJEE
PURNA GHALE
ZSUZSANNA KOSAN ZAID IZYAN BHARAT KERAI
YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2020
13
HEALTHY LIVING
Stay home, stay active, stay well Staying at home doesn’t mean your fitness has to take a hit. Here are a few ideas for how you and your family can stay home, stay active and stay well
14
YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2020
JUMP-START YOUR DAY THE RIGHT WAY There are plenty of ways you can work out while at home or outside once a day, so why not factor in one of these into your daily routine? TURN YOUR HOME INTO A FITNESS STUDIO Pick your perfect workout at www.nhs.uk/conditions/ nhs-fitness-studio.
GET YOUR DAILY FIX WITH JOE WICKS Search ‘Body Coach TV’ on Youtube to take part in fun PE sessions suitable for the whole family.
SET YOURSELF A NEW CHALLENGE Download the ‘Couch to 5K’ app to work your way up from walking to running in just nine weeks.
WALK YOUR WAY TO HEALTH Try to go for a walk every day and if you want to build up your brisk walking levels, download the ‘Active 10’ app.
BETTER FOOD, BETTER MOOD While at home, try to make sure you eat healthy meals that include fruit and vegetables, starchy foods like potatoes or pasta, and protein, as this will help boost your immune system and strengthen your mood. To find out more about eating well, go to www.brent.gov.uk/healthyeating.
YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2020
15
HAPPY & HEALTHY
Protect yourself and others Covid-19 is threatening lives in the biggest global pandemic for a generation. Dr Melanie Smith, Director of Public Health at Brent Council, gives her advice on how to stay well
I
t is very important that we all do our part in stopping the spread of the virus and stay indoors,” says Dr Smith. “If you do feel unwell, please follow the latest NHS public health advice. “Going out less can affect our health, which is why we should focus more on our physical and mental wellbeing at this time. Although Government advice is to stay at home to help stop the spread of coronavirus, we can still go out for one form of exercise a day. “Parks and open spaces remain open, but we are urging everyone to follow the latest public health advice which is keeping two metres away from others, not touching your face and washing your hands thoroughly as soon as you get home. “Keeping our connection with others, although from a safe distance or through technology, is also very important at this time. “If you are feeling anxious, stressed or experiencing a low mood, you can get focused support from Brent Talking Therapies.” See pages 14-15 for the best ways to help maintain good physical health and page 23 for tips on mental wellbeing. For Brent Talking Therapies call 020 8206 3924 or visit www.brent.gov.uk/coronavirus for more information.
16
YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2020
COVID-19 CORONAVIRUS VIRUS SPREADS FROM CLOSE PERSON TO PERSON CONTACT TROUGH DROPLETS
ANYONE CAN GET IT AND ANYONE CAN SPREAD IT
SYMPTOMS MAY DEVELOP WITHIN 14 DAYS OF EXPOSURE TO THE ILLNESS
THE SYMPTOMS OF COVID-19
COUGH
FEVER
SHORT OF BREATH
PREVENTION FROM COVID-19 2M APART
AVOID TOUCHING FACE AVOID CLOSE CONTACT FREQUENTLY WASH FROM PEOPLE WITH SYMPTOMS YOUR HANDS WITH SOAP WITH UNWASHED HANDS
MY COMMUNITY
Coping with loss The death of a loved one can, at any time, feel overpowering but especially at a time when the world around us is anything but normal. If you have lost a loved one recently, we answer some of the questions you may have here REGISTERING THE DEATH There is currently no need to visit the register office in person when registering a death. Usually, the doctor who certified the death will send the details through to the registrar who will contact you by telephone to arrange the registration and to send a certificate to you by post. If the doctor has provided you with the ‘Medical Certificate - Cause of Death’ please call the register office straight away on 020 8937 1010. PLANNING A FUNERAL After a death has been certified by a doctor, you will need to call an undertaker who will advise on funeral arrangements. The Your Funeral Choice website provides a list of funeral directors operating in the local area and, to help avoid funeral debt, also offers a comparison on the costs involved. Visit www.yourfuneralchoice.com. Currently, guidelines state that attendees at a funeral are to be limited to immediate family only. CEMETERIES Cemeteries remain open and can be visited as part of your daily walk so you can visit the grave of a loved one. BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT Many organisations can support you and your family during this distressing time. Cruse Bereavement Care, have a free helpline number at 0808 808 1677 or visit www.cruse.org.uk. The Compassionate Friends offer support to families after the death of a child of any age and from any cause. Visit www.tcf.org.uk or call 0345 123 2304.
YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2020
17
HAPPY & HEALTHY
Homeward bound
Every job is different but, for many, working from home is a new challenge. Here are five top tips to help keep you going >> KEEP YOUR DAILY ROUTINE
>> > GET UP AND OUT FOR SOME FRESH AIR
Showering, having breakfast and getting suitably dressed will help you prepare for the day and get you into a work frame of mind. Make sure you have a lunch break and log off your computer at the end of the day to keep a healthy work-life balance.
Don’t skip the daily commute. Make a point of breaking up the day by getting some exercise, fresh air and sunshine – but do maintain your distance if you go out, staying two metres away from people who do not live in the same home as you.
>> CREATE A SPACE TO WORK
>> PREPARE FOR DISTRACTIONS AND DISRUPTION
Find a place in your home where you can work, ideally at a desk in a separate room or at the dinner table. Doing this will again help create a work mind-set and help you maintain good posture.
It’s easy to become distracted by household tasks on the ‘to-do list’ or having the TV on in the background but to stay as productive as possible avoid doing anything you wouldn’t usually do during your working day.
>> IF YOU HAVE CHILDREN Every parent working from home will tell you that all of this is all easier said than done. >> Explain to your children why you can’t play all the time. >> Talk to your manager and colleagues and manage expectations. >> M anage expectations of yourself, too. Don’t feel guilty. These are exceptional times and it’s exhausting. Keep doing your best. You are still a wonderful parent.
18
YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2020
ARTS & CULTURE
Arts &Culture
>> Online
READ ME FROM YOUR FRONT ROOM There are thousands of e-books and audiobooks for keen readers to enjoy while Brent’s libraries are closed due to the coronavirus pandemic, visit www.brent.gov.uk/elibrary. Brent’s e-library includes hundreds of magazines and newspapers in different languages, reference and study materials including Britannica, driving theory test and Citizenship Life in the UK test as well as more than a 1,000 free courses to choose from.
Download the “MY LIBRARY APP’ on iOS from Apple App Store and Android from Google Play Store. Not a member? Sign up online to start using the library today: www.brent.gov.uk/libraries Already have a book on loan? There will be no fines while the libraries are closed with all loans extended until 30 June.
Willesden Gallery Instagram Artist Takeover The Library at Willesden Green is supporting the artistic community during these extraordinary times with an #InstagramTakeover, offering you the chance to take over the Willesden Gallery account for a week and get your work seen. Interested? Send an email to curator nadia.nervo@brent.gov.uk with the following details for more info: • Artist name • Location • Brief biography • Brief statement about your work • Website and Instagram details
Artist and Brent librarian Jagruti Modi took part in the Instagram Takeover in April and dedicates this painting to the NHS workers
A blast from the past Brent Museum and Archives have been working hard to create online resources to help pupils learn about the history of Brent while schools are closed. So far they have identified more than 80 locations all over Brent making ‘then and now’ images so children can see how a place they are familiar with used to look in the past. Families will be able to download these images from their school’s website and they will also be available from the Brent Council website in the near future. To support this learning, Museum and Archives have also produced brief histories for each of the areas in Brent. YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2020
19
THE METROLAND CULTURES FUND OFFERS UP TO £1,000 TO ARTISTS AND CREATIVES LIVING IN BRENT WHO HAVE BEEN IMPACTED DURING LOCKDOWN.
DEADLINE TO APPLY: MON 18 MAY, 2020 SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS NOTIFIED WEEK COMMENCING MON 1 JUNE, 2020 FIND OUT MORE: BRENT2020.CO.UK
SUPPORTING BRENT’S ARTISTS AND COMMUNITIES DURING LOCKDOWN BRENT 2020 UNLOCKED responds to the new challenges faced by artists and creatives during this uncertain time. Brent 2020 takes the Brent Artist Network online, VICE and young people from Brent find out the truth about Covid-19 conspiracy theories in a weekly podcast, and a new video interview series showcases the legendary musicians, artists, athletes and activists who have shaped and been shaped by Brent. As part of No Bass Like Home, DJs, musicians, shop owners, promoters and music lovers share their stories of Brent’s contribution to music in Britain. VICE PODCAST: COVID-19 FACT CHECKERS Young people from Brent’s Blueprint Collective have joined forces with VICE to present a new weekly podcast. They will be debating and revealing the truth behind many conspiracy theories and questions around Covid-19. Each of the 10 episodes will feature a different guest expert who will join the discussion with VICE’s podcast host and a Blueprint Collective member.
BRENT ARTIST NETWORK The Brent Artist Network has a membership of nearly 400 local artists, creatives, venues and organisations. It supports connection, collaboration, and resilience in the local cultural sector. The Brent Artist Network is going online with a weekly offering of free skills workshops, themed talks from artists and funders, Q&As, artist spotlights and regular sharing of artist opportunities. Follow @brentartistnetwork on Instagram and Brent Artist Network on Facebook to stay up to date with opportunities. The Blueprint Collective have also programmed free online creative workshops for young people across Brent.
NO BASS LIKE HOME: DIGITAL MAP AND ARCHIVE Reggae exploded in Brent during the 1970s: the first festival of Caribbean music took place in Wembley, Bob Marley lived in Metroland, Janet Kay became the first British
born black female artist to score a UK number one, and the iconic Willesden label Trojan Records introduced the world to reggae. Brent 2020 is celebrating Brent’s vital place in reggae history by asking the local community – DJs, musicians, shop owners, promoters and music lovers – to share their stories to create a new digital archive of interviews, images and resources documenting Brent’s music history for a new generation.
BRENT LOCKED IN: A NEW VIDEO SERIES EXPLORING HOW BRENT HAS SHAPED ITS ICONS Watch this new series of video interviews with legendary musicians, artists, athletes and activists who have shaped and been shaped by Brent. Hear guests talk about how Brent has influenced them, listen to their stories, and find out their tips for what to watch, read and listen to during isolation. Each interview will be published once a week at www.brent2020.co.uk.
TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE BRENT 2020 UNLOCKED PROGRAMME, VISIT WWW.BRENT2020.CO.UK MESSAGE FROM LOIS STONOCK, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, BRENT 2020, LONDON BOROUGH OF CULTURE "We can confirm that we intend to deliver our full programme. However, we will need to change the timetable in view of all of our concerns to protect the health and wellbeing of our audiences, artists and the team delivering the year. Certain events will need to be rescheduled. The Kilburn High, a mile-long street party on the Kilburn High Road planned to coincide with the Euro 2020 competition, will now take place in Summer 2021. The Museum of All Brent Life planned to take place in May will now be postponed. Many of the projects delivered by our 2020 Culture Fund partners are being assessed on an individual basis. “We remain as committed as ever to the values that underpin Brent 2020 and all the people, artists and organisations who are involved in the programme. Art and music, in all their forms, have always been a part of this borough in good times and bad. We are determined to ensure that we continue to tell the story of the many cultures of Brent in the coming months." YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2020
21
ARTS & CULTURE
Arts &Culture TUESDAYS MUAY THAI ONLINE To keep you fit and active, The Yellow brings their weekly Muay Thai lessons online. The home training teaches you a series of exercises and techniques that can be done inside your house and in your garden. Go to www. wembleypark.com for more
DAILY BREAD AHEAD COOKING CLASS Bring joy and baked treats to your home with Bread Ahead's free baking classes with simple ingredients and delicious recipes. Workshops are held every day at 2pm on their Instagram. @BreadAheadBakery. DANIEL'S DEN FUN SESSIONS Under 5's and family. Join Daniel's Den for 15 minutes of non-stop fun every morning at 10.45am. Expect crafts, singing and so much more, all underfives and family are welcome. Search “Daniel’s Den” on Facebook.
MONDAYS LEXI O’CLOCK Every Monday evening at 6.30pm is ‘Lexi O’Clock’. Share a communal viewing experience with others from the comfort of your home. The Virtual Lexi programme is all free to view classics, world cinema, docs, short films, archive curiosities and new releases. www.thelexicinema. co.uk and then The Lexi Cinema facebook page.
22
YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2020
information. 5.30-6pm. WELLBEING FOR WOMEN A safe, intimate and empowering place for women to come together and share whatever is on their mind – relationships, work, family, health, stress, addictions etc. Be heard, be supported. Find out more at www.wembleypark. com. 7.30-9pm. SCRIPT WRITING Join Brent Youth Theatre for their weekly online script-writing sessions, focusing specifically on developing a narrative based
>> Online
on the themes of language, communication and immigration. Email to join - nataliya.kharina@ MUSICAL MEDITATION uniquecommunity.org. Ages 7-11, In this new Musical 2-3pm/ages 11-16, 3.15-4.15pm. Meditation Livestream, multiinstrumentalist musician Alex Akal will transform any worries into calm and clarity, with guided BEGINNERS GUITAR LESSONS meditations accompanied by Be a guitar hero with real time online group guitar lessons with musical instruments. a top professional instructor. For Register on eventbrite over 18’s, the classes are perfect http://musicalmeditation. eventbrite.co.uk. 4-5pm. for beginners and to support CREATIVE STORYTELLING those already taking part in Ages 5-8. Join Brent Youth practice. Find out more at Theatre for interactive www.wembleypark.com. Under storytelling sessions. Based 18s, 4-5pm/Over 18s, 5-6pm. on a different children’s book DRAMA ONLINE Brent Youth Theatre are running each week, the sessions will also involve drama activities their Drama Online workshops and drawing exercises based for ages 11 to 16. With the aim to create an online production and on the themes and characters. Email to join nataliya.kharina@ eventual screening, they aim to use drama as a tool to calm and uniquecommunity.org. 12-1pm. distract. Email to join - nataliya. kharina@uniquecommunity. org. Ages 7-11, 3-4pm/ages 11-16, 4.15-5.15pm.
FRIDAYS
WEDNESDAYS
THURSDAYS THE MAN DOWN PROJECT Join The Man Down Project as they focus on reducing social isolation and providing practical solutions to anxiety through an online community. They’re inviting men to join the conversation from their home. Email themandownproject@gmail. com to join. 6-8pm. WORLD MUSIC JOURNEY Explore the world with games and rhythms. Join Alex as we discover new tribes and their musical instruments and songs. Didgeridoos in Australia, Djembes in Africa, Spanish Guitar and songs, and many more! Register on eventbrite - www. worldmusicjourney.eventbrite. co.uk. 4-5pm.
SATURDAYS SOCIALFIT (BESMARTGETFIT) Join The Yellow veteran and personal trainer Rey for BeSmartGetFit online. His 40 minute home workouts on Instagram live include bodyweight exercises with minimal equipment, perfect to train you and your family. Instagram Live @BeSmartGetFit on instagram. 10-10.40am.
FOR MORE INFORMATION about improving your mental health and wellbeing go to: www.nhs.uk/oneyou/everymind-matters
In uncertain times like this, looking after your mental health is very important. The government guidance to stay at home has meant many people cannot do the activities they enjoy the most. Here are some of the things you can do to help improve your mental health and wellbeing while keeping to the government rules and staying at home
Use social media or the phone to keep in touch with friends and family
123 or go to www.samaritans.org • Young MINDS, call the Parents helpline on 0808 802 5544 or go to www.youngminds.org.uk
• Call the Samaritans free on 116
Here are some numbers to call if it feels like it is getting too much:
Cook or bake something new with your children or family, start and finish a puzzle, draw, take pictures, write a poem or a song
Take on a dance challenge with the family, learn a language, new skill or an instrument. Check out the council’s library app to see all of the e-learning and fun things to read online (see page 19).
Have quiet reflection time or write down your thoughts in a journal. Pay attention to your local surroundings and see what new things you can find when you go outside
IT IS NORMAL TO FEEL A BIT ANXIOUS AT A TIME LIKE THIS
Do some workouts at home or go outside for one form of exercise a day, for example a run, walk, or cycle in your local area
Volunteer to help a neighbour, donate to a local charity or put some household products in the food bank bin next time you go shopping
Looking after your mental wellbeing
5 + 1 WAYS OF WELLBEING
THANK YOU, KEY WORKER
#BrentTogether
Brent
Show your appreciation for key workers and all the community volunteers going the extra mile by colouring in the poster or designing your own and putting it in your front window. Share
a photo of your masterpiece on social media using the hashtag #BrentTogether, by 31 May 2020, to be in with a chance of winning prizes from The London Designer Outlet and Wembley Park Market.